Katra, also known as Katra Vaishno Devi, is a small town in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. Nestled in the foothills of the Trikuta Mountains, Katra is the base town for the famous Vaishno Devi Shrine, a revered pilgrimage site dedicated to Goddess Vaishno Devi. Located approximately 42 kilometers from the city of Jammu, Katra serves as the starting point for the trek to the temple, which attracts millions of devotees each year. The town is surrounded by scenic landscapes and offers a peaceful environment, making it a popular spot for spiritual and nature enthusiasts alike.
top places to visit in Katra
Vaishno Devi
Vaishno Devi, also known as Mata Rani, Trikuta, and Vaishnavi, represents the Hindu Mother Goddess, embodying the powers of Maha Kali, Maha Saraswati, and Maha Lakshmi. The shrine dedicated to her is one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in India, located on the Trikuta Mountains.
Nau Devi Temple
The Nau Devi Temple is a revered site known for its serene surroundings and spiritual significance. It features a holy cave where the “pind” of the nine ‘devis’—incarnations of Goddess Durga—are enshrined. Visitors must climb around a hundred steps to reach the temple and pay respects to the goddesses: Shailaputri, Bharmachirini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skanda Mata, Katyayani, Maha Kali, Maha Gauri, and Siddhidatri.
Bhairon Temple
Located 1.42 km from the main Vaishno Devi Bhawan, Bhairon Temple holds a special place in the pilgrimage. It is believed that the journey to Vaishno Devi is incomplete without visiting Bhairon Temple. Devotees visit this temple to complete their spiritual pilgrimage.
Sanji Chhat
Sanji Chhat is a scenic plateau located 2.5 km before the Vaishno Devi Shrine. It marks the end of the upward trek, and a helipad has been constructed here for helicopter services between Katra and Sanji Chhat, making it accessible for those seeking convenience in their journey.
Himkoti
Himkoti is a spot known for its natural beauty rather than religious significance. Visitors are drawn here for its breathtaking views of the valley and the serene environment. A new route to the Vaishno Devi Shrine has been developed via Himkoti, providing another scenic path for pilgrims.
Darshani Darwaza
The Darshani Darwaza is the entry point to the Vaishno Devi track, located about 1 km from the bus stand. It is historically significant as it is said to be the spot where Mata Vaishno Devi met Pandit Shridhar in the form of a child. From here, visitors get a full view of the Trikuta Parbat.
Jhajjar Kotli
Jhajjar Kotli is a peaceful picnic spot situated around 15 km from Katra, along the NH 1A highway. It’s known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful surroundings, offering a perfect place for relaxation after a long journey.
Dera Baba Band
Dera Baba Band is a historic Gurdwara located in the Reasi district of Katra. It was built over 300 years ago and is dedicated to Baba Banda Bahadur, a prominent follower of Guru Gobind Singh. The Gurdwara attracts many devotees and holds significant religious importance.
Best Time To Visit Katra
The best time to visit Katra is from March to October, as the weather is most favorable during this period, with the natural beauty of the region at its peak. Summer, from March to July, offers cool and pleasant weather, making it ideal for pilgrimage. Monsoon season, from August to September, brings heavy rainfall and the risk of mudslides, making it less advisable to visit, although the landscape is stunning. Winter, from October to February, is characterized by sub-zero temperatures and snowfall, which can make the pilgrimage challenging, but the shrine still attracts devotees despite the harsh conditions.
