Ultimate Vaishno Devi Pilgrimage Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Preparation

Katra, India on March 20, 2025

12:00PM

Check into Hotel

Arrive in Katra and settle into your hotel, refreshing yourself for the journey ahead. Katra is the base town for the Vaishno Devi Yatra.
INR1000, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Punjab Grill

Enjoy a delicious Punjabi meal at Punjab Grill, known for its rich flavors and variety of options. Opt for the butter chicken and naan for an authentic experience.
INR800, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Local Market

Explore Katra's vibrant local market, where you can buy religious items, souvenirs, and local handicrafts. Immerse yourself in the local culture.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Evening Aarti at Katra Temple

Attend the evening Aarti (prayer) at the local temple to seek blessings before your pilgrimage. This ritual will enrich your spiritual experience.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Thakur Da Dhaba

Savor traditional Indian cuisine at this popular dhaba. The dal makhani and roti are must-tries!
INR600, 1 hour

8:30PM

Rest and Prepare for the Trek

Spend the evening at your hotel resting and packing for the trek to Vaishno Devi, ensuring you have everything you need for the pilgrimage.
Free, Rest of the evening

Day 2: Pilgrimage Trek

Vaishno Devi Temple, India on March 21, 2025

5:00AM

Start the Trek

Begin your early morning trek to Vaishno Devi Temple, approximately 13 km away from Katra. The fresh morning air and spiritual ambiance add to the experience.
Free, 4-5 hours

10:00AM

Darshan at Vaishno Devi Temple

Experience the spiritual awakening during your darshan (viewing) at the holy temple. The temple is dedicated to the Goddess Durga and holds immense significance.
Free, 1 hour

11:30AM

Breakfast at Bhawan

Relish some basic but filling food at the langar (community kitchen) in the temple premises. Options typically include halwa, roti, and tea.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Explore the Bhawan Complex

Walk around the Bhawan complex, soaking in the divine atmosphere. Visit nearby shrines and capture the scenic views.
Free, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at Bhawan

Enjoy local vegetarian meals offered at the temple canteen. The chole bhature is a favorite among devotees.
INR200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Rest or Continue to Sanjichhat

You can either rest and explore more of the temple grounds or trek further to Sanjichhat for panoramic views of the hills.
Free, 2-3 hours

6:00PM

Return to Katra

Start your trek back to Katra, reflecting on the experiences of the day. It's advisable to return before dark.
Free, 3-4 hours

9:30PM

Dinner at Your Hotel

Enjoy a restful dinner at your hotel, relaxing after a long yet fulfilling day. Opt for local delicacies like aloo gobi and rice.
INR700, 1 hour

Day 3: Rest and Explore

Katra, India on March 22, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel, featuring parathas and chai to fuel your energy levels.
INR300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Ardh Kuwari Cave

Explore the Ardh Kuwari Cave, a significant stop on the pilgrimage. It is believed that Goddess Vaishno Devi meditated here. The trek to the cave requires an additional 2 km hike.
Free, 2-3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Shankar Das Chat Bhandar

Try out authentic Indian snacks like chaat and samosas, well-known dishes in Katra, at this beloved eatery.
INR250, 1 hour

1:30PM

Relax at your Hotel

Take this time to relax and recharge, perhaps indulging in some leisure time with a good book or a quick nap.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit Baba Dhansar Shrine

Travel to Baba Dhansar Shrine, known for its natural beauty and the sacred spring. Engage in meditation and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Evening Walk in Katra

Enjoy a leisurely evening walk around Katra, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere as the sun sets.
Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Restaurant Shree Krishana

Dine at this local favorite known for its thali meals; try the mixed thali to get a taste of various Indian dishes.
INR500, 1 hour

Day 4: Departure

Katra, India on March 23, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel, fueling up with a mix of local delicacies to conclude your stay.
INR300, 1 hour

9:00AM

Check-Out and Departure

Check out of the hotel, making sure to gather all your belongings and memories of the beautiful trip before heading back home.
Free, 1 hour