Jammu, on the banks of the Tawi river, is the winter capital of Jammu & Kashmir and the main gateway to Vaishno Devi, with the region's main airport and railway junction. Known as the City of Temples, it is worth a few hours before or after your Yatra.
Top sights in Jammu
| Sight | Why visit |
|---|---|
| Raghunath Temple | A temple complex dedicated to Lord Rama, begun by Maharaja Gulab Singh in 1835 and completed by Maharaja Ranbir Singh in 1860 |
| Ranbireshwar Temple | A Shiva temple on Shalimar Road built by Maharaja Ranbir Singh in 1883, known for its 7.5 ft lingam and many crystal lingams |
| Bahu Fort | Hilltop fort on the left bank of the Tawi, about 5 km from the city, housing the temple of Bave Wali Mata and terraced gardens |
| Amar Mahal | Red sandstone palace turned museum overlooking the Tawi, known for Pahari paintings and a golden throne |
| Mahamaya Temple & city forest | On the bypass road behind Bahu Fort, with views over the river |
Further afield
- Mansar Lake: about 60 km from Jammu
- Surinsar Lake: Mansar's twin lake
- Patnitop: about 112 km from Jammu on the Srinagar highway
Jammu and your Yatra
- Arriving by air? Jammu Airport is the nearest airport to Katra.
- Breaking the journey? Shrine Board accommodation is available near Jammu railway station.
- Getting to Katra: about 50 km by train, bus or taxi. See Jammu 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.