How To Go Vaishno Devi From Delhi?

[Sia]

Hello everyone,

I am planning to visit Vaishno Devi and would appreciate some help in figuring out the best way to reach the shrine from Delhi. Could anyone kindly guide me with the following details?

1. By Air:
   
   • What is the nearest airport to Vaishno Devi?
   • Are there any direct flights from Delhi to Katra (the base town for Vaishno Devi)?
   • If not, what is the nearest airport and how do I travel from there to Katra?
2. By Train:
   
   • What is the best train route from New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) to Katra?
   • Are there any express trains or direct trains that I should look for?
   • How long does the journey take by train, and what is the cost range?
3. By Bus:
   
   • Are there any bus services from Delhi to Katra?
   • What are the major bus operators, and how long does the journey take?
   • How comfortable are these buses, and do they offer any overnight travel options?
4. By Road:
   
   • What is the best route to drive from Delhi to Katra?
   • How long is the drive and what are the road conditions like?
   • Are there any recommended stops along the way or safety tips for traveling by car?
5. On Reaching Katra:
   
   • Once I reach Katra, what is the best way to reach the Vaishno Devi shrine?
   • What are the available transport options (like taxis, pony rides, or walking)?
   • How long does it usually take to reach the shrine from Katra, and what is the physical difficulty level of the trek?
6. Other Tips:
   
   • Any tips for visiting Vaishno Devi, including things like weather, time to visit, or booking the darshan online?
   • Are there any important travel considerations (such as security checks or restrictions) to keep in mind when traveling to Vaishno Devi?

I would love to make the journey as smooth and comfortable as possible. Any advice or recommendations will be greatly appreciated!

Thanks in advance for your help!

 

[Dhruv]

Here’s a detailed guide to help you plan your trip to Vaishno Devi from Delhi:

By Air

1. Nearest Airport:
   • The nearest airport is Jammu Airport (IXJ), located about 50 km from Katra.
2. Flights from Delhi:
   • Direct flights from Delhi to Jammu are available with major airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet.
   • Flight duration: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.
3. From Jammu to Katra:
   • Taxis: Prepaid and private taxis are readily available; the journey takes 1.5 to 2 hours.
   • Buses: Regular state transport and private buses connect Jammu to Katra.

By Train

1. Best Train Route:
   
   • The railway station nearest to the shrine is Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Railway Station (SVDK).
   • Direct trains from New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) to Katra are available.
2. Recommended Trains:
   
   • Vande Bharat Express: Fastest option; takes about 8 hours.
   • Shri Shakti Express: Departs from New Delhi late evening, reaching Katra early morning (duration: 9–10 hours).
   • Jammu Mail and other express trains also operate.
3. Cost:
   
   • Sleeper class: ₹400–₹600.
   • AC Chair Car or 3AC: ₹1,000–₹1,500.

By Bus

1. Bus Services:
   • Direct buses from Delhi to Katra are available, operated by state-run services (e.g., J&K Roadways) and private operators.
2. Duration:
   • Approximately 10–12 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
3. Comfort Level:
   • Options include semi-sleeper, sleeper, and Volvo buses. Overnight buses are popular for convenience.
4. Major Operators:
   • RSRTC, Himachal Volvo, and private operators like VRL and Neeta Travels.
5. Cost:
   • ₹800–₹2,000, depending on the bus type.

By Road

1. Driving Route:
   • The best route is Delhi → Panipat → Ambala → Ludhiana → Jalandhar → Pathankot → Jammu → Katra (approx. 600 km).
2. Duration:
   • Around 10–12 hours by car, depending on traffic.
3. Road Conditions:
   • The highway is well-maintained, but be cautious of hilly terrain near Katra.
4. Recommended Stops:
   • Murthal: Famous for dhabas (try parathas).
   • Pathankot: Ideal for a meal break.

On Reaching Katra

1. Options to Reach the Shrine:
   
   • Walking: The trek is 14 km long and takes 5–6 hours.
   • Ponies or Palanquins: Available for hire for those who prefer assistance.
   • Electric Vehicles: Operate for part of the route.
   • Helicopter Services: Operate from Katra to Sanjichhat (requires advance booking).
2. Trek Difficulty:
   
   • Moderate; suitable for most age groups. Covered pathways and rest stops make it manageable.
3. Time to Reach:
   
   • Walking: 5–6 hours.
   • Pony or Palanquin: 3–4 hours.
   • Helicopter: 8 minutes (plus a short walk from Sanjichhat).

Other Tips

1. Best Time to Visit:
   • March to October offers pleasant weather. Avoid monsoons and peak winters unless prepared for cold.
2. Darshan Booking:
   • Pre-book your Yatra Parchi (entry slip) and helicopter services on the official website: Vaishno Devi Shrine Board.
3. Weather Considerations:
   • Wear comfortable shoes and layered clothing. It can get chilly at higher altitudes.
4. Security Checks:
   • Expect multiple security checks; avoid carrying restricted items like sharp objects and plastics.
5. Hydration and Snacks:
   • Keep water and light snacks handy for the trek.