Driving to Katra
- From Jammu city: follow the highway towards Udhampur. About 35 km from Jammu, at Domel, the road splits: one branch continues to Srinagar, the other leads to Katra.
- Bypassing Jammu: if you are driving from Punjab or Delhi and don't want to enter Jammu city, take the bypass from Kunjwani, about 10 km short of Jammu, and head straight for Katra.
- The total distance from Jammu to Katra is about 50 km on a hilly, winding road. Some passengers feel travel-sick, so take it slowly.
Buses
The Shrine Board notes that buses run between Jammu and Katra every 10–15 minutes:
- Ordinary buses from the State Road Transport bus stand, about 1 km from Jammu railway station.
- Luxury buses from just outside Jammu railway station.
- The journey takes around 2 hours by bus.
Taxis
Private taxis are available from Jammu railway station and Jammu Airport, and many operators offer shared taxis by the seat. A taxi normally takes 70–80 minutes. Ask for the officially approved rate (revised from time to time) and agree the fare before you set off. Browse our taxi directory.
Parking in Katra
Hotels in Katra may offer limited parking. Check when you book. Vehicles cannot go up the Yatra track.
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.