The Yatra is open throughout the year. The best time for you depends on whether you want to avoid crowds, heat, rain or cold.
Peak seasons (expect crowds and possible waiting)
According to the Shrine Board, the busiest periods are:
- Summer holidays (May, June and July)
- Chaitra Navratras (spring) and Sharad (Ashwin) Navratras (autumn)
- New Year holidays and the second half of December
- Weekends and long weekends, especially during school holidays
At peak times the Shrine Board notes that waits for darshan can stretch to 12–20 hours, and registration may be paused when the daily limit is reached.
Quieter seasons
The Shrine Board suggests the monsoon and winter as good periods for a comfortable Yatra, with fewer pilgrims:
- Monsoon (July–September): green hills and waterfalls, but rain can trigger landslides. Check forecasts and official advisories every day and be ready to postpone.
- Winter (December–January, outside the holidays): crisp and clear, with snowfall possible. The Shrine Board notes that the original Holy Cave is also opened in winter. Not ideal for the very young or frail, as nights are below freezing at the Bhawan.
At a glance
| Months | Weather | Crowds |
|---|---|---|
| Jan–Feb | Cold; snow possible higher up | Low, except New Year |
| Mar–Apr | Pleasant | Rising; Chaitra Navratras busy |
| May–Jun | Hot in Katra, pleasant at the Bhawan | Very high |
| Jul–Sep | Monsoon rain; landslide risk | Moderate; check advisories |
| Oct | Pleasant | Sharad Navratras very busy |
| Nov | Cool and clear | Moderate to low |
| Dec | Cold | Low early in the month; very high in the second half |
Exact festival dates change every year. Check the calendar and the Shrine Board's announcements before you book.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Vaishno Devi trek take?
It varies with fitness, crowds and the route. Many walking pilgrims allow most of a day for the round trip, plus time in the darshan queue, which can be long at peak times. Plan for a full day and night.
Is darshan open at night?
Yes. According to the Shrine Board, darshan is open round the clock throughout the year. It pauses for about two hours during the morning and evening aarti.
What should I wear for the Yatra?
Comfortable flat-soled shoes with good grip, and layers. Even in summer the Bhawan is cool at night, and in winter heavy woollens are needed. Carry rain protection in the monsoon. See What to carry.
Can I carry my mobile phone?
Phones, cameras, belts, combs, shoes and other items not allowed in the Holy Cave must be deposited at the free cloak rooms at the Bhawan before darshan. Rules on electronic items along the track can change, so follow the instructions of security staff.
Is food available on the way?
Yes. The Shrine Board runs Bhojanalayas at Adhkuwari, Sanjichhat and the Bhawan (round the clock at the Bhawan) and refreshment units along both tracks. Food on the route is vegetarian.
Do I need to visit Bhairon Temple?
It is optional, but many devotees believe the Yatra is complete only after visiting Bhairon Temple, about 1.5 km above the Bhawan. A passenger ropeway connects the Bhawan and Bhairon Ghati.
Can I stay overnight at the Bhawan?
Yes. The Shrine Board offers rented rooms and dormitories (book on the official portal) and free rest halls on a first-come, first-served basis, with free blankets against a refundable deposit.
Timings, fares, rules and routes can change at short notice. Please confirm time-sensitive details with Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board or the relevant authority before you travel. Page last reviewed: 4 October 2026.