3-Day Family Friendly Itinerary to Shree Maa Vaishno Devi Katra

Day 1: Arrival & Exploration

Katra, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Prem Vaishno Dhaba

Start your day with a hearty breakfast of aloo paratha and chai at this popular Dhaba frequented by travelers.
Located on the Jammu-Katra Highway, it's a short 15-minute drive from Katra town center.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Ardh Kuwari Cave

Discover the sacred Ardh Kuwari cave, where pilgrims rest as they approach the shrine, adding a spiritual aspect to your day.
Take a shared auto rickshaw from Katra to the starting point of the pilgrimage trail.
INR 50, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Bhole di Hatti

Savor delicious thalis and local specialties that provide a taste of the region’s culinary delights.
Return to Katra by auto rickshaw before heading to the restaurant, which is central and easy to find.
INR 500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Vaishno Devi Temple

Start your pilgrimage to the sacred Vaishno Devi Temple, which is a beautiful and spiritual journey that takes about 6-8 hours round trip.
It's a well-marked path from Katra; use the electric vehicles available for convenience with kids.
Free, 6 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Shree Vaishno Bhojanalya

Enjoy a family dinner featuring traditional North Indian cuisine, including paneer dishes and naans.
Situated just a 5-minute walk from your last stop, it's the perfect place to regroup after a long day.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural and Sightseeing Day

Katra, India

8:30AM

Breakfast at Sagar Ratna

Enjoy a light breakfast of idli and dosa, popular South Indian options at this well-loved chain.
It's located in Katra town, just about 10 minutes from your accommodation.
INR 400, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Bhairo Mandir

After an energizing meal, take a 2.5 km trek to Bhairo Mandir, believed to be the final destination of the pilgrimage.
Trek or utilize the pony services available for a fun experience with the kids.
Free, pony rides vary, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Amritsari Kulcha Junction

Relish delicious Amritsari kulchas served with delectable chutneys; a must-try in Katra.
Located in the heart of Katra, it's convenient for a quick pit stop.
INR 450, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Katra Market

Spend the afternoon shopping for local handicrafts, religious souvenirs, and delicious snacks.
The market is a short walk from the lunch stop, making it accessible.
Free (shopping at personal discretion), 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit Kalika Dham

Take some time to explore Kalika Dham, a beautiful temple complex nearby that’s quite serene.
Reachable by auto-rickshaw in about 15 minutes from the market.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Coffee House

Enjoy a family-friendly ambiance with a variety of cuisines that cater to everyone’s taste.
Located centrally in Katra, just a short walk from Kalika Dham.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Spiritual Reconnect & Departure

Katra, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Shree Vaishno Devi Chat Bhandar

Start the last day with light, delicious chaat and sweet, refreshing lassi for a local experience.
Conveniently located in Katra town, an easy walk from many hotels.
INR 250, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Shree Katra Nagar, Yoga Center

Spend your morning taking part in a family-friendly yoga session that rejuvenates the body and soul.
The center is well-marked and within walking distance from the breakfast stop.
INR 200, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Relaxation & Kids’ Play

Enjoy some leisure time in the integrated gardens or parks to let the kids play and unwind.
Explore local parks around Katra that allow outdoor fun; specific parks can be found via Google Maps.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Vaishno Devi Restaurant

Indulge in a last taste of Katra's flavors with their famed Rajma Chawal and seasonal vegetables.
Just a 10-minute walk from the parks, allowing you to enjoy the fresh air.
INR 450, 1 hour

2:00PM

Last-minute shopping & Departure

Take a quick stroll through Katra's markets to pick up final souvenirs before your journey ends.
Return to the earlier-mentioned shopping area for anything you missed.
Varies, 2 hours

4:00PM

Departure from Katra

Complete the family adventure in Katra, ensuring wonderful memories as you head to the next destination.
Arrange transport back to your preferred railway station or airport.
Varies, Variable
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