Family-Friendly Itinerary for Vaishno Devi in June 2023
Day 1: Vaishno Devi Yatra
0 minutes (0 miles) from Katra
Morning: Start the Vaishno Devi Yatra early at the Banganga Checkpoint. The main cave of the shrine is open from 5:00 am to 12:00 pm. Enjoy the scenic views on the way and make sure to carry enough water and food.
Afternoon: Reach the temple by noon and seek blessings from the goddess. Take a rest and have lunch at the Bhojanalayas (community kitchens) that offer free meals to the devotees.
Evening: Return to Katra after darshan. Explore the local market for souvenirs and visit the Aghaar Baba Jitto shrine, dedicated to a local deity.
Day 2: Bhairavnath Temple and Ardh Kuwari Cave
20 minutes (5 miles) from Katra
Morning: Start early to visit the Bhairavnath Temple, located halfway to the Vaishno Devi shrine. The temple opens at 8:00 am and is dedicated to the demon Bhairav who was defeated by the goddess in the legend.
Afternoon: After returning to Katra, take a break and have lunch. Head to the Ardh Kuwari Cave, which is located at a distance of 6 km from Katra. It is believed that Mata Vaishno Devi meditated in this cave for nine months.
Evening: Return to Katra for dinner and enjoy a light and sound show at the Vaishno Devi Shrine Board that showcases the story of the legend and the history of the shrine.
Day 3: Baba Dhansar and Shivkhori
1 hour 20 minutes (32 miles) from Katra
Morning: Start early to visit Baba Dhansar temple, which is located near the Karua Jheel. It is famous for its beautiful waterfall and natural rock formations.
Afternoon: After returning to Katra, have lunch and head to the Shivkhori temple, which is known for its naturally formed Shivling. The temple is located in a cave that is 150 metres long and takes about an hour to explore.
Evening: Return to Katra for dinner and relax at the hotel or explore the local market.
Recommendations
If you have more time, you can visit the Vaishno Devi temple during the night as well. You can also explore the nearby town of Jammu, which is famous for its temples and forts. Another nearby attraction is Patnitop, which is a hill station located at a distance of 80 km from Katra. You can also take a helicopter ride to the Vaishno Devi shrine to save time and enjoy the aerial view of the region. Make sure to carry comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a hat during the trip.