Vaishno Devi Yatraवैष्णो देवी यात्रा

About the Vaishno Devi Yatra

Mata Vaishno Devi's shrine is a cave on Trikuta hill in Jammu and Kashmir, reached by a well-made track of about 12–13 km from Katra. It is one of the most visited pilgrimages in India, managed by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board.

Pilgrims walk, ride ponies, use battery cars on part of the route, or take the helicopter service to Sanjhichhat. Many also visit the Bhairon temple above the shrine to complete the yatra.

The usual route

1. Jammu or Katra (base)
2. Banganga and Ardhkuwari on the way up
3. Bhawan — the holy cave
4. Bhairon temple (optional, above Bhawan)

Routes vary by operator and starting city. Opening dates, timings and rules change — confirm with the temple or the official portal before you travel.

Temple guides for this yatra

Timings, aarti, how to reach, dress code and tips for each temple.

• Vaishno Devi MandirKatra, Jammu and Kashmir

When to go

Open all year. Navratri and the summer holidays are the busiest; winter (December–January) can bring snow on the upper track.

Practical tips

• Yatra registration (RFID card) is required; register through the Shrine Board's official channels.
• Book helicopter and Bhawan accommodation only on the Shrine Board's official website.
• The climb is long; start early and carry warm clothes even in summer for the night at the top.

Read before you go

• Sharad Navratri 2027
• Chaitra Navratri 2027