Vaishno Devi · Verified guide
Vaishno Devi Yatra: Complete Guide
The shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi is a holy cave on the Trikuta hills above Katra in Jammu and Kashmir, at about 1,585 m. Over 9.5 million pilgrims made the yatra in 2023.
Changing information reviewed · Official sources separated from planning guidance
Quick answer
Register for the yatra and collect an RFID Yatra Access Card, online on maavaishnodevi.org or at Katra. Then trek about 12–13 km from Katra to the Bhawan, or fly by helicopter from Katra to Sanjichhat (about ₹2,000–2,500 one way) and cover the last 2.5 km on foot or by battery car. The nearest station is Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra; Jammu airport is about 50 km away.
Key facts
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Trikuta hills, Katra, Reasi district, Jammu and Kashmir |
| Altitude | About 1,585 m (5,200 ft) |
| Trek from Katra | About 12–13 km on a paved path; 5–8 hours one way for fit walkers |
| Managed by | Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, since 1986 |
| Nearest station | Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra |
| Nearest airport | Jammu, about 50 km from Katra |
| Helpline | Toll-free 1800-180-7212, 9906019494 |
Ways to reach the Bhawan
Walk
The traditional 12–13 km trek from Katra.
Read guideHelicopter
Katra to Sanjichhat in about 6 minutes, then 2.5 km to the Bhawan.
Read guidePony or palki
Available on the track; agree the rate before you start.
Read guideBattery car
Runs on part of the route; check counters for current routes.
Read guideAfter darshan
A visit is traditionally completed at the Bhairon temple. The ropeway from the Bhawan to Bhairon ji runs from 9 am to 5 pm.
Book travel to Katra
Fix your darshan first, then book the journey with buffer on both sides.
Frequently asked questions
Is registration compulsory for Vaishno Devi?
Yes. Every pilgrim must register and collect an RFID Yatra Access Card.
How far is Vaishno Devi from Katra?
About 12–13 km by the trekking path.
How much is the Vaishno Devi helicopter ticket?
About ₹2,000–2,500 per person one way between Katra and Sanjichhat, as reported in 2026. Book only on maavaishnodevi.org.
Sources
- Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (official)
- Vaishno Devi Temple (Wikipedia)
- Vaishno Devi helicopter and Jammu airport guide, Jul 2026 (Happyfares)
Checked 6 Oct 2026. Rules can change; confirm with the official source before you travel.