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Morning: Arrive in Katra: Take an early morning train, bus, or drive to Katra, the base camp for the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage. Check-In: Arrive in Katra and check into your hotel. Drop off your luggage and freshen up. Late Morning/Early Afternoon: Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant or at your hotel in Katra. Afternoon: Rest and Preparation: Use this time to rest and prepare for the trek. Gather essentials like comfortable trekking shoes, warm clothing, and personal medications. Evening: Explore Katra: If time permits, explore Katra briefly. Visit local markets or attractions such as the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board office to collect any necessary yatra slips or permits. Overnight: Stay in Katra.
Early Morning: Begin Trek: Start your trek from Katra to the Vaishno Devi shrine early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds. The trek is approximately 13 kilometers (8 miles) and typically takes 6-8 hours. Midday: Lunch on the Way: Stop at one of the many refreshment points along the trek for a light meal or snacks. Afternoon: Arrive at Bhavan: Reach the Bhavan area near the shrine. Check into one of the government-run or private guesthouses for a short rest. Alternatively, you can explore the temple complex and attend the afternoon Aarti if available. Evening: Darshan and Aarti: Visit the Vaishno Devi shrine for darshan (worship). Participate in the evening Aarti (ritual) if it coincides with your visit. The atmosphere during this time is particularly serene and spiritually uplifting. Overnight: Stay near the shrine at the Bhavan or return to Katra depending on your preference and availability of accommodation.
Early Morning: Final Darshan: If you stayed at the Bhavan, complete any final darshan (worship) and have breakfast. Prepare to start your descent back to Katra. Morning: Descend to Katra: Begin your descent back to Katra. The return trek is generally faster, taking around 4-6 hours. Late Morning/Early Afternoon: Lunch in Katra: Arrive in Katra, have lunch, and freshen up at your hotel. Afternoon: Explore Katra: If you have time, explore Katra or do some local shopping. Evening: Departure: Check out from your hotel and proceed to your onward journey by train, bus, or road to your next destination.
There are no formal age restrictions, but the trek can be strenuous, and those with health issues, heart problems, or mobility challenges should consult a physician before undertaking it. For older adults, children, and those with physical constraints, using ponies or palanquins may be advisable.
The trek from Katra to Vaishno Devi shrine can be completed on foot. For convenience, you can hire ponies, palkis (palanquins), or opt for battery-operated vehicles that cover part of the trek. These options can help ease the physical strain of the journey.
There is no specific entry fee for visiting the Vaishno Devi shrine. However, there may be charges for additional services such as pony rides, palanquins, and special pujas or rituals.
es, you can carry food and water with you during the trek. There are also numerous refreshment stalls and eateries along the route where you can purchase snacks, meals, and beverages.
In case of inclement weather or road closures, it's important to stay updated with local weather forecasts and follow travel advisories. Check with local authorities or your travel guide for alternative arrangements and safety instructions.