Delhi to Vaishno Devi Trip – A Complete Travel Guide
The Vaishno Devi Temple, located in the Trikuta Mountains of Jammu and Kashmir, is one of India’s most sacred and visited pilgrimage destinations. Each year, millions of devotees undertake the spiritual journey to seek the blessings of Goddess Vaishno Devi. If you’re planning a Delhi to Vaishno Devi trip, you’ll be glad to know there are multiple convenient travel options—trains, flights, and buses—making the pilgrimage accessible for all types of travelers.
This complete guide is designed to help you plan your journey smoothly, covering everything from travel distances and ticket prices to transport modes and tour packages. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, prepare for a divine experience.
How to Reach Vaishno Devi from Delhi
Delhi to Vaishno Devi Distance
The distance from Delhi to Vaishno Devi (Katra) is approximately 650 km. Depending on the mode of transport, travel time varies from 8 to 12 hours by train, 12-14 hours by bus, and 1.5 hours by flight (excluding road travel from Jammu to Katra).
Delhi to Vaishno Devi by Train
Trains are the most preferred way to reach Vaishno Devi from Delhi, with direct trains available to Katra. Popular options include Shri Shakti Express, Jammu Mail, and the Vande Bharat Express, offering comfortable and budget-friendly travel.
Delhi to Vaishno Devi Train Distance and Travel Time
- Distance: Approximately 650 km
- Duration: 8 to 12 hours, depending on the train
- Popular Trains:
- Shri Shakti Express
- Vande Bharat Express
- Jammu Mail
Delhi to Vaishno Devi Train Ticket Price
Train ticket prices from Delhi to Katra vary based on the class of travel. Sleeper class costs ₹400-₹600, AC 3-tier ₹900-₹1,200, AC 2-tier ₹1,300-₹1,800, and Vande Bharat Express ₹1,600-₹3,000, offering multiple options for travelers.
The ticket price varies based on the class of travel:
- Sleeper Class: ₹400 – ₹600
- AC 3-Tier: ₹900 – ₹1,200
- AC 2-Tier: ₹1,300 – ₹1,800
- Vande Bharat Express: ₹1,600 – ₹3,000 (depending on class)
Delhi to Vaishno Devi Train Vande Bharat
The Vande Bharat Express is the fastest train to Vaishno Devi, covering the Delhi to Katra journey in around 8 hours. It offers modern amenities, comfortable seating, and onboard catering for a smooth travel experience.
Vande Bharat Express is one of the fastest and most comfortable trains on this route.
- Travel Time: Around 8 hours
- Features: Modern coaches, catering services, and faster connectivity
How to Travel from Delhi to Vaishno Devi by Flight
Travelers can take a direct flight from Delhi to Jammu, the nearest airport to Vaishno Devi, in just 1.5 hours. From Jammu, Katra is 50 km away, and can be reached by taxi or bus in about 1.5 hours.
For a quicker journey, travelers can opt for a flight from Delhi to Jammu, the nearest airport to Vaishno Devi.
- Flight Duration: 1.5 hours
- Nearest Airport: Jammu Airport (IXJ)
- Approximate Ticket Price: ₹3,000 – ₹7,000 (one-way)
- From Jammu, Katra is 50 km away, and can be reached by taxi or bus in about 1.5 hours.
Delhi to Vaishno Devi by Bus
Several government and private buses operate between Delhi and Katra, offering Volvo, AC, and sleeper bus options. The journey takes around 12-14 hours, making it an affordable yet slightly longer travel option.
For budget-conscious travelers, Delhi to Katra buses are a good option. Various private and government buses operate on this route.
- Travel Time: Around 12-14 hours
- Bus Types: AC, Non-AC, Volvo
- Ticket Price: ₹700 – ₹1,500, depending on the bus type
Best Delhi to Vaishno Devi Trip Packages in 2025
Travel agencies offer customized pilgrimage packages, including transport, accommodation, meals, and helicopter bookings. Packages range from budget-friendly trips to luxury tours, catering to different travel preferences.
Popular Tour Packages
- Budget Packages: Starting from ₹5,000 per person (includes train/bus tickets and hotel stay)
- Luxury Packages: Starting from ₹10,000 per person (includes flight, deluxe hotel, and meals)
- Helicopter Packages: Available from Katra for a quicker Mata Vaishno Devi darshan
Customizable Tour Packages
- One-Day Trip: Flight + Helicopter ride for quick darshan
- 2-Day Pilgrimage: Train/bus journey with hotel stay in Katra
- Extended Stay: Includes sightseeing of nearby attractions like Patnitop and Shiv Khori
Accommodation in Vaishno Devi
Katra offers a range of accommodation options for all budgets.
- Budget Hotels: ₹800 – ₹1,500 per night
- Mid-Range Hotels: ₹2,000 – ₹4,000 per night
- Luxury Hotels: ₹5,000+ per night
- Dharamshalas & Guesthouses: Available for budget pilgrims
Things to Do in Vaishno Devi
Apart from seeking blessings at the shrine, visitors can explore:
- Bhairavnath Temple: A must-visit after Vaishno Devi darshan
- Ardhkuwari Cave: A sacred site on the trekking route
- Banganga & Charan Paduka: Historical spots on the trail
Travel Tips for Delhi to Vaishno Devi Trip
- Best Time to Visit: March to October (pleasant weather), Navratri (high rush)
- Booking: Reserve train/flight tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons
- What to Pack: Comfortable walking shoes, warm clothes, and ID proofs
- Helicopter Booking: Book in advance for a hassle-free journey
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I go to Vaishno Devi from Delhi?
You can travel by train, flight (Delhi to Jammu), or bus. Trains and flights are the most preferred options.
2. How far is Vaishno Devi from Delhi by train?
The train distance from Delhi to Katra is approximately 650 km, with a travel time of 8 to 12 hours.
3. What is the ticket price of Delhi to Katra train?
Ticket prices range from ₹400 (sleeper class) to ₹3,000 (Vande Bharat AC class).
4. Can we go to Vaishno Devi by flight?
Yes, you can take a flight from Delhi to Jammu and then travel 50 km by taxi or bus to Katra.
5. Which train is best for Vaishno Devi from Delhi?
The Vande Bharat Express is the fastest, while Shri Shakti Express and Jammu Mail are good overnight options.
6. How much time does it take to reach Vaishno Devi from Katra?
It takes around 4 to 6 hours to trek from Katra to the Vaishno Devi Bhawan.
7. Are helicopter services available for Vaishno Devi darshan?
Yes, helicopter services operate between Katra and Sanjichhat, reducing the travel time to just 10 minutes.
8. What is the best time to visit Vaishno Devi?
The best time is from March to October for pleasant weather. Avoid extreme winters unless you enjoy snowfall.
Conclusion
A Delhi to Vaishno Devi trip is a spiritually enriching experience that blends devotion with scenic beauty. Whether you prefer the comfort of a flight, the affordability of a train, or the adventure of a bus journey, reaching the sacred shrine is now more convenient than ever. With multiple travel options, reasonable ticket prices, and various accommodation choices in Katra, planning your pilgrimage has never been easier. Make sure to check train or flight schedules in advance and register for yatra passes online.
Embark on your Delhi to Vaishno Devi trip with faith in your heart and blessings awaiting you at the holy Bhawan in the Trikuta Mountains.
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