Katra is an amazing spot in the Jammu and Kashmir highlands that is known for pilgrims who journey through these challenging routes on their way to show honour at the Vaishno Devi temple. People come not only for spiritual reasons, but also to enjoy the amazing views and interesting activities. The gorgeous region of Jammu & Kashmir is located to the base Camp Katra, from where Vaishno Devi pilgrims’ journey. It is a popular tourist destination at 754 meters above sea level. If you are looking for blessings or simply enjoy nature, Katra has something for everyone.

Best time to visit Katra

Katra has a good climate all year, with typical temperatures ranging from 23 to 24 degrees Celsius. It’s a wonderful area with pleasant temps that could help you relax. The best time to visit Vaishno Devi temple, however, is between March and October.  The temperature is extremely comfortable and mild at that time, ideal for viewing the temple. Many visitors come during Navratri’s, a period of pilgrimage.

How to Reach Katra

Here’s how to get to Katra, a popular pilgrimage destination in Jammu and Kashmir:

By Air: Jammu is the closest airport to Katra. It has direct flights to major cities including as Kolkata, Delhi, Chandigarh, Amritsar, Mumbai, and Chennai. When you arrive in Jammu, take a taxi or bus to Katra.

By Train: Another option for getting to Katra is to take the train. Trains arrive in Jammu from Pathankot, Kolkata, Delhi, Chandigarh, and Amritsar. There is even a train from Delhi to the recently built Katra Railway Station.

By Road: Katra is well connected in North India by state and national highways. From anywhere in the country, you can take a bus to Katra.

Places to Visit in Katra

Nearby Religious Sites: Religious sites in Katra include Bhairavnath Temple, Ardh Kuwari Cave, and Baba Dhansar Temple. Before going for Jammu, stop by Raghunath Temple or Ranbireshwar Temple, then in Udhampur, stop at Shiv Khori Cave Temple, and finally in Srinagar, stop by Krimchi Temples.

Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine: This popular Hindu pilgrimage spot on Trikuta Mountain attracts pilgrims every year. The cave shrine, with its four Char Dham walls, is a place where people may achieve power, courage, and success. There are holy literature, prayer halls, Aarti singing, and tasty prasad inside. Trikuta mountain provides an outstanding view of Katra.

Raghunath Temple Complex: A collection of seven Hindu temples in a nearby area of Katra, all that includes Mughal-style wood lattices and Rajasthani figures. Kathakali dance and mridangam music are among the art forms included during the annual Raghunath festival.

Ban Ganga Ghat: The start of the journey to Vaishno Devi Temple, which is located at the base of the Trikuta Mountains. Goddess Vaishno Devi built the ghat, and there is a healing Ban Ganga River nearby. There are several temples dedicated to Hindu deities.

Things to Do in Katra

Trekking: Katra is a hiker’s heaven, with challenging walks through pine forests, verdant hills, and gorgeous fields. Enjoy the Pilgrimage Trek to Katra’s most important temples. Mountaineering and skiing are among the adventure activities available.

Shopping: There are numerous handicraft shops in Katra that sell Kashmiri Shawls, wall hangings, and other local delicacies. The finest discounts on local spices, natural cures, and other items can be found at Aapni Dukan Local Market.

White Water River Rafting: Take a joyride down the high-energy rapids in Katra’s Cliff Mountain Range. Trained guides will assure your safety while you enjoy the incredible view from the Katra hills.

Local Cuisine: Café Coffee Day, Dana Pani Restaurant, and Vaishno Punjabi Dhaba in Katra serve delicious savories. Chaat, samosas, and chaole bhature are popular street foods in the surrounding area.

In Katra, these activities and locations offer a blend of adventure, spirituality, and local experiences.