Jammu Airport (IXJ)
Jammu Airport is the nearest airport to Katra, with direct flights from Delhi and several other Indian cities. From the airport:
| Onward option | Notes |
|---|---|
| Taxi | Private taxis from the airport. The Shrine Board notes a taxi normally takes 70–80 minutes from Jammu to Katra. Agree the fare before you set off and check the officially approved rate. |
| Bus | Take a taxi or auto to the bus stand or railway station in Jammu, then a bus to Katra. |
| Train | Go to Jammu Tawi railway station for a train to SVDK Katra. |
Srinagar Airport
Since 6 June 2025, Katra has been connected by rail to the Kashmir valley through the Katra–Banihal section, including the Chenab rail bridge. The Srinagar–Katra Vande Bharat Express takes about three hours. Pilgrims combining Vaishno Devi with Kashmir can fly into or out of Srinagar.
Helicopter from the airport?
No: the helicopter service runs between Katra and Sanjichhat on the Yatra route, not from the airport. In recent years the Shrine Board has also offered helicopter packages from Jammu. Check the official portal for current routes, and see Helicopter information.
Frequently asked questions
What is the nearest airport to Vaishno Devi?
Jammu Airport, about 50 km from Katra by road. Taxis take about 70–80 minutes according to the Shrine Board.
How do I get from Jammu to Katra?
By train from Jammu Tawi to SVDK Katra, by bus (every 10–15 minutes according to the Shrine Board, about 2 hours), or by taxi (about 70–80 minutes). See Jammu to Katra.
Can I combine Vaishno Devi with Kashmir by train?
Yes. Since June 2025 trains run from Katra to the Kashmir valley across the Chenab bridge, including the Srinagar–Katra Vande Bharat Express (about three hours).
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.