Vaishno Devi Yatra Guide: Best Time,Distance, Helicopter & Accommodation

Mata Vaishno Devi Trip Details

May 7th, 2024
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Mata Vaishno Devi Temple:

The Vaishno Devi Temple, situated in Katra at the Trikuta Mountains within the Indian Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, is one of the most revered pilgrimage destinations in India. The temple is dedicated to Mata Vaishno Devi, who is worshipped as a form of Durga, and is one of the 108 Shakti Peethas. Devotees from across the country and around the world embark on a spiritual journey to seek the blessings of Goddess Vaishno Devi. During festivals like Navaratri, the number of visitors increases even further, reaching up to one crore. Notably, Mata Vaishno Devi Temple is considered one of the wealthiest temples in India, with an annual income of approximately 16 billion, primarily from offerings made by devotees. It’s sacredness is acknowledged by devotees across the country, and it has been visited by renowned saints like Vivekananda.


 

Day wise itinerary for Vaishno Devi Yatra:

1. Day 1: Upon arrival at Jammu Airport or Railway Station, you will be greeted by our team and transferred to your hotel in Katra for an overnight stay.
2. Day 2: Begin your day early with a 14 km trek to Mata Vaishno Devi Temple or opt for a 10-minute helicopter ride. After darshan, visit Bhairo Baba Temple and return to Katra. Relax at the hotel in the evening.
3. Day 3: Check out from the hotel after breakfast and embark on a 7-8 hour drive to Pahalgam, known as the Valley of Shepherds. Check into your hotel upon arrival and spend the night in Pahalgam.
4. Day 4: Explore Chandanwari, Betaab Valley, and Baisaran meadows in Pahalgam before driving to Srinagar. Check in at a houseboat and enjoy shopping at local markets or a shikara ride in the evening.
5. Day 5: Visit the famous Mughal Gardens and Shankaracharaya Temple in Srinagar, followed by a relaxing shikara ride on the lake. Spend the night in a houseboat.
6. Day 6: Take a day trip to Sonamarg from Srinagar, covering a distance of 79.2 km. Enjoy the scenic beauty of Sonamarg before returning to Srinagar for the night.

Vaishno Devi Helicopter service:

Helicopter services for Vaishno Devi commences from Katra, situated at the foothills, and the flight will transport you to Sanjhichatt. This pilgrimage to the revered Shrine, surrounded by ethereal clouds, marks the commencement of an awe-inspiring heli-hop experience. 

The helicopter service for Vaishno Devi yatra can be accessed from Katra, the starting point of the pilgrimage, to Sanjhichatt. During each flight, around 5-6 passengers can be accommodated, and the journey typically takes approximately 8 minutes. The holy cave of Mata Vaishno Devi is situated at a distance of 2.5 km from Sanjichat Helipad. The time Required for on foot journey depends on your Health/Age. However, for a normal healthy person it takes about 30 to 40 minutes on foot. Additionally, there are options available such as ponies, palkis, and porter services to reach the Bhawan from Sanjhichatt. Both the official website of the Vaishno Devi Shrine Board and private companies offer helicopter facility for the pilgrimage.

Additional information & online helicopter ticket booking for Vaishno Devi can be accessed through this link. You will have to login with OTP to get details to get information & complete the booking.​​​​​​​ You will have two options for heli service- Global Vectra Helicorp & Himalayan Heli Services.

Vaishno Devi Helicopter Ticket Price: In 2024, The cost of a one-way helicopter ticket from Katra to Sanjhichhat or vice versa is INR 2100 per person, while a round-trip ticket from Katra to Sanjhichhat is priced at INR 4200 per person. Children below 2 years of age can travel for free but must be accompanied by an adult. There are no additional commission or processing fees, but applicable taxes may be charged at the respective locations. To book the helicopter for the Vaishno Devi yatra, you can visit the official website or use private websites and tour operators. It is important to carry a valid ID proof in case of any age-related disputes.

The helicopter services for the Vaishno Devi yatra start at 08:30 AM and take approximately 8 minutes to reach Sanjichhat from Katra. The services continue until around 07:00 PM, with helicopters departing every 20 minutes from both Katra and Sanjichhat. 

The darshan timings for Mata Vaishno Devi Temple are from 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM and from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM.


 

Katra to Vaishno Devi Distance

The distance between Katra and Vaishno Devi spans around 14 kilometers. Katra acts as the starting point for devotees desiring to make a pilgrimage to the sacred sanctuary. Positioned at the base of the Trikuta Mountains, Katra is the gateway to the Vaishno Devi shrine. Pilgrims are required to embark on a journey uphill, traversing a distance of 14 kilometers and ascending to an altitude of roughly 5200 feet in order to reach the shrine.


 

Best time to visit Vaishno Devi

The Vaishno Devi Temple, located in the Trikutta Hills in Katra, Jammu & Kashmir, is a destination that can be visited throughout the year. However, the winter season is considered the ideal time to experience the beauty of Vaishno Devi. Despite the cold weather, the temple offers breathtaking views that are truly magnificent. It is during the Navratri festival that the temple witnesses the highest influx of pilgrims from all corners of India, who come to seek the blessings of Mata Vaishno and also to admire the picturesque landscapes of Jammu and Kashmir. Whether it is the monsoon, summer, or winter, if you are planning a pilgrimage to Vaishno Devi, this guide will help you choose the best season to visit the temple.


 

Vaishno Devi Temperature throughout the year:

1. January:
Temperature: January is one of the coldest months in Vaishno Devi, with temperatures ranging from -2°C to 12°C.
Rainfall: Minimal rainfall is expected during this month.
Snowfall: There is a high probability of snowfall, transforming the surroundings into a winter wonderland.

2. February:
Temperature: Similar to January, temperatures remain cold, ranging from -1°C to 14°C.
Rainfall: Limited rainfall is anticipated.
Snowfall: Snowfall may continue, enhancing the scenic beauty of the region.

3. March:
Temperature: The weather begins to transition towards milder conditions, with temperatures between 4°C and 18°C.
Rainfall: The possibility of rainfall increases slightly.
Snowfall: Snow may still be present in higher altitudes.

4. April:
Temperature: April marks the onset of spring, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 24°C.
Rainfall: The region experiences light rainfall as the weather becomes more pleasant.
Snowfall: Snow starts melting, and lower altitudes may be snow-free.

5. May:
Temperature: Vaishno Devi experiences a moderate climate in May, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 30°C.
Rainfall: May brings more rainfall compared to the previous months.
Snowfall: Snow is usually limited to higher elevations.

6. June:
Temperature: Summer is in full swing, with temperatures between 18°C and 36°C.
Rainfall: June receives significant rainfall, contributing to lush green surroundings.
Snowfall: Minimal chances of snowfall.

7. July:
Temperature: The monsoon season brings cooler temperatures, ranging from 20°C to 34°C.
Rainfall: July experiences heavy rainfall, making it one of the wettest months.
Snowfall: No.

8. August:
Temperature: Similar to July, temperatures remain pleasant, ranging from 20°C to 32°C.
Rainfall: Heavy rainfall continues, maintaining the greenery of the region.
Snowfall: No.

9. September:
Temperature: Post-monsoon, temperatures range from 18°C to 30°C.
Rainfall: Rainfall decreases gradually.
Snowfall: No.

10. October:
Temperature: October brings autumn, with temperatures between 10°C and 26°C.
Rainfall: Minimal rainfall is expected.
Snowfall: No.

11. November:
Temperature: As winter approaches, temperatures drop to 4°C to 18°C.
Rainfall: November sees a decrease in rainfall.
Snowfall: Possibility of early snowfall in higher altitudes.

12. December:
Temperature: Winter sets in, with temperatures ranging from -1°C to 12°C.
Rainfall: Limited rainfall.
Snowfall: Snowfall is likely, blanketing the region in a serene white cover.

The weather at Vaishno Devi Temple varies significantly throughout the year, offering different experiences to pilgrims and visitors. Whether it’s the chilly winters with snow-covered landscapes or the lush greenery during the monsoon, each season adds a unique charm to the spiritual journey to this sacred destination.
 

Written by Karma Thutop Chechutharpa: Bridging Cultures Through Travel
Karma, a seasoned traveler with a deep love for Sikkim's rural charm, returned home in 2017. Co-founding OurGuest, he leverages his experiences across India, Nepal, and Bhutan to curate authentic travel journeys. Beyond adventure, Karma champions rural tourism. Through OurGuest's stories, he empowers local homestays and fulfills his childhood dream of becoming a writer, all while sharing the magic of Northeast India.

For a customized tour experience you can contact us at +91-7669503993 or email to contact@ourguest.in

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