Katra (in Reasi district, Jammu & Kashmir) is where the Yatra begins. It sits at about 2,500 ft, roughly 50 km from Jammu.
Your options at a glance
| Mode | Best for | How |
|---|---|---|
| Train | Most pilgrims | Direct trains to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK) station from Delhi and many other cities |
| Air | Saving time over long distances | Fly to Jammu Airport, then about 50 km by road. Srinagar is another option, linked to Katra by train since 2025. |
| Road | Driving, or buses from North India | Via Jammu, or bypass Jammu city at Kunjwani |
Coming via Jammu
Jammu is the main gateway. From Jammu you can reach Katra by:
- Train from Jammu Tawi station (the line runs via Udhampur)
- Bus, with frequent ordinary and luxury buses
- Taxi, private or shared, from the railway station and airport
See Jammu to Katra for details.
From Delhi
Delhi is about 650 km from Katra by road. Most pilgrims take the train — including the Vande Bharat Express, which runs between New Delhi and Katra. See Delhi to Katra.
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.