Katra

Katra Town lies at the foot of Trikuta Mountains. It is 48 kilometers away from Jammu. It caters to the people who come to visit the shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi. It is estimated that more than 4.5 million people visit this place annually.

Since the place is so important from tourist point of view, it has a large number of hotels, guest houses, restaurants, dhabas, fast-food joints, etc. Free accommodations are available for the poor. The main bazaar is the main attraction. You can take home souvenirs, dry fruits, woolen garments, hosiery, leather jackets, etc.

Yatra Parchi: The pilgrims need a yatra permit from the permit counter of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board. The bus and taxi stands are nearby. You can get the ticket from the counter everyday between 6 am to 10 pm. It is estimated that 18000 pilgrims are permitted everyday to take the yatra.

For tourists coming in groups, a separate counter is opened at the erstwhile Mulberry Nursery. It follows the first come first serve basis. Nine people can be permitted using one slip. Children below 5 years of age are not counted.

A) From Yatra Parchi Counter to Darshani Darwaza

B) From Darshani Darwaza to Banganga

C) Banganga To Charan Paduka

D) Charan Paduka to Adhkawari

E) Adhkawari to Sanji Chhat

F) Sanji Chhat to Bhawan

By air: Jammu is the nearest airport which is 48 kilometers away. 

By rail: Jammu Tawi is the nearest railhead. It is connected to the rest of the country via trains.

By road: Taxis and buses are available too.