How to reach Vaishno Devi by train
Reaching Vaishno Devi by train involves traveling to the nearest major railway station, Jammu Tawi, followed by further transportation to Katra, the base camp for the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage. Here’s a detailed guide on how to reach Vaishno Devi by train:
Journey to Jammu Tawi Railway Station
Book Train Tickets: Start by booking train tickets from your departure station to Jammu Tawi Railway Station. Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and other major cities have direct trains to Jammu.
Select a Suitable Train: Choose a train based on your location, budget, and preferred travel class. Consider factors such as travel time, departure/arrival timings, and availability.
Board the Train: Arrive at the departure station well in advance to board your train. Ensure you have your tickets, valid identification, and any necessary travel documents.
Train Journey to Jammu: The journey from major cities like Delhi to Jammu Tawi Railway Station typically takes around 10 to 16 hours, depending on the train and its route.
From Jammu to Katra
Arrival at Jammu Tawi: Disembark from the train at Jammu Tawi Railway Station, the main railway station serving the city.
Transport to Katra: Katra, the base camp for the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage, is located approximately 42 kilometers from Jammu. You have several options to reach Katra from Jammu Tawi Railway Station:
By Road: Taxis, cabs, and buses are readily available outside the railway station. Shared taxis and buses offer affordable transportation options.
By Train: Katra also has a small railway station, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Railway Station, which is well-connected to Jammu Tawi Railway Station. However, train frequency and availability may vary.
Travel Time to Katra: The road journey from Jammu to Katra typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the mode of transportation chosen.
Katra to Vaishno Devi Shrine
Arrival at Katra: Upon reaching Katra, you’ll find various accommodations, restaurants, and facilities catering to pilgrims. You can choose to stay overnight in Katra or proceed directly to the Vaishno Devi Shrine, depending on your preference and the time of arrival.
Trekking to the Shrine: The traditional and most popular way to reach the Vaishno Devi Shrine from Katra is by trekking. The trek is approximately 13 kilometers long and takes around 4 to 6 hours to complete, depending on your pace and fitness level. The trek route is well-marked and maintained, with resting points, refreshment stalls, and facilities along the way.
Helicopter Services: Alternatively, you can opt for helicopter services from Katra to Sanjichhat, a helipad located near the Vaishno Devi Shrine. Helicopter services offer a quicker and more convenient mode of transportation for pilgrims who prefer to avoid trekking or have mobility issues.
Reaching Vaishno Devi by train involves a journey to Jammu Tawi Railway Station, followed by further transportation to Katra, the base camp for the pilgrimage. From Katra, pilgrims can trek to the Vaishno Devi Shrine or opt for helicopter services to reach Sanjichhat. By planning your journey in advance, booking train tickets, and making necessary arrangements for transportation and accommodation, you can ensure a smooth and comfortable pilgrimage experience to the revered shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi.