The Shrine Board's advice is simple: travel light. Food, water, blankets and most essentials are available along the route.
Essentials checklist
- RFID Yatra Access Card (one per person) and a photo ID
- Comfortable shoes with flat soles and good grip (canvas or sports shoes, not fancy footwear)
- Water bottle and light snacks
- Prescribed medicines and a copy of the prescription
- Rain protection — raincoat or poncho in the monsoon
- A small torch for night trekking
- Walking stick, which helps on the climbs and descents. You can hire one in Katra.
- Some cash in small notes for refreshments and services
Clothing by season
| Season | What to wear |
|---|---|
| Winter (Nov–Feb) | Heavy woollens, thermal layer, cap, gloves. Snow is possible at the higher stretches. |
| Summer (Apr–Jun) | Light cotton for Katra and the climb, plus a light woollen layer for the cooler Bhawan at night |
| Monsoon (Jul–Sep) | Quick-dry clothes, raincoat or poncho, a spare set of socks, a light woollen layer |
| Spring & autumn | Light woollens for the evenings |
What not to carry
- Bulky or heavy luggage: leave it in your hotel or at a Shrine Board cloak room in Katra.
- Prohibited or hazardous items, such as flammable substances or sharp objects.
- Valuables you don't need. Don't keep cash or jewellery in deposited luggage.
Things you can get on the way
- Blankets: free at Shrine Board blanket stores against a refundable deposit.
- Shoes, walking sticks, torches, umbrellas, rain covers can be hired or bought in Katra and along the route. Check the quality before you pay.
- Prasad: there is no need to carry it from home.
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.