Katra (Kashmir) FAQs In 2024

What is Katra famous for?

Katra, also known as Katra Vaishno Devi, is primarily famous as the base camp for pilgrims who visit the sacred shrine of Vaishno Devi. This shrine is one of the most revered places of worship in India, attracting millions of devotees annually. It's dedicated to Goddess Mahalakshmi and is nestled in the Trikuta Mountains in Jammu, a part of the Indian union territory of Jammu & Kashmir.

Tourists can reach Katra by air, train, and road. The nearest airport is the Jammu Airport, roughly 50 km from Katra. The town has its own railway station, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra railway station, where many important trains halt. By road, Katra is well-connected with a good network of buses and taxis available from Jammu and other major cities in north India.

The best time to visit Katra is between March and October when the weather is pleasant, making the journey to the Vaishno Devi shrine more comfortable. Summers are cool here, while monsoons can make the pilgrimage a bit challenging due to the possibility of landslides. Winters are cold, and the region might experience snowfall.

Yes, Katra hosts a range of accommodation options catering to all budgets, including budget hotels, mid-range hotels, guest houses, and luxurious properties. Many of these places are equipped to handle the needs of pilgrims, including facilities for groups and families.

Tourists should pack comfortable clothing suitable for walking and consider the season of their visit. In summer, light cotton clothes would be ideal, whereas in winter, warm clothing is necessary. Other essentials include walking shoes, a backpack for essentials, water bottles, snacks, a camera, and important medications.

Apart from the Vaishno Devi Temple, tourists can visit places like the Bhairon Temple, which is on the way to Vaishno Devi and considered part of the pilgrimage. The Ardh Kuwari Cave is another significant religious site. For those interested in exploring the region further, the Patnitop hill station and Shivkhori, a cave shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, are popular nearby attractions.

While there is no strict dress code, it is advisable to dress modestly while visiting the religious sites out of respect for local customs. Devotees often prefer traditional attire for the pilgrimage. Moreover, it's important to maintain the sanctity of the place and follow all the rules and guidelines issued by the shrine board.

Yes, the shrine board has made provisions for senior citizens and physically challenged visitors, including battery-operated vehicles, palanquins, and helicopter services from Katra to Sanjichhat, which is close to the shrine. Additionally, priority darshan is provided to them to ensure convenience and comfort during their visit to the holy shrine.

Yes, Katra has a variety of eateries that cater to diverse tastes, serving not only local Kashmiri food but also a wide range of Indian vegetarian cuisines due to the town's religious significance. Non-vegetarian food and alcohol are generally avoided in the town in respect for the sanctity of the place.