Vaishno Devi is one of the holiest pilgrimage sites for Hindus in India. Each year, millions of Hindus from around India and the world travel to the shrine to ask for the Goddess’s blessings. A trip to Vaishno Devi is not a one–day affair. The shrine is located on a hill at a distance of about 16km from a town named Katra. Katra itself is about 45km from Jammu, the closest airport to the shrine. Vaishno Devi sits in a cave at a height of about 5,200 feet above sea level. For pilgrims looking for hotels in Vaishno Devi, Katra is the best place to stay(click here).
A Place for Everyone
People from all walks of life visit the Vasihno Devi shrine. Thus, accommodation arrangements are available for all budgets and lifestyle preferences. Simple, free accommodation in halls and sheds is available in Katra for all yatris on a first-come first serve basis. Toilet facilities and blankets are also available at these halls. For pilgrims looking for a more comfortable option, there are plenty of budget hotels and homestays to choose from. These hotels offer a variety of services ranging from help with registering for the yatra to porter services. There are also a number of luxury hotels in Katra. These hotels have restaurants on the premises and may also offer room service. If you are travelling with children or elderly people, these hotels are a good place to stay.
Getting To and From the Hotels
There are two ways pilgrims may travel to Vaishno Devi. If you choose to fly, Jammu has the closest airport. From Jammu, pilgrims can either travel by road or by train to Katra. For pilgrims traveling by road, buses and private taxis are quite easily available. Alternatively, pilgrims may travel straight to Katra by train. When you book accommodation in hotels in Vaishno Devi, it is a good idea to tell the reception staff how you are planning to get there. In case travel arrangements need to be made between Jammu and Katra, the hotel staff may be able to help.
Food Arrangements
Given its proximity to the Vaishno Devi shrine, Katra is considered a holy town. Thus, non-vegetarian food is not available or permitted here. However, there are a number of vegetarian options one may choose to explore. Hotels that offer room service or those that have an in-house restaurant are the most convenient. Alternatively, you can eat at any of the cafes and dhabas in Katra. These small restaurants offer fresh food cooked in a typically Jammu or north-Indian style. Do try the rajma-chawal in Katra.
In short, there are plenty of hotels in Vaishno Devi that will cater to your needs. To get the best deals, it is advisable to confirm bookings as early as possible. This will help you get a good deal on the room rates and if you are travelling as part of a large group will help ensure that all your rooms are in the same place.