- Distance from Katra
- 8.5 km
- Altitude
- 5,120 ft (about 1,561 m)
- Route
- Alternate (new) track
Distance and altitude as published by Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board.
Himkoti lies on the alternate track, which the Shrine Board opened in 1999 to ease crowding and avoid the sharp gradient at Hathi Matha on the old track.
The alternate track is about 500 m shorter than the old track, wider, and more evenly graded. No ponies are allowed, and zero-emission battery cars run along it. View points at Himkoti have refreshment outlets, drinking water and toilets, and much of the track is covered by shelters.
Facilities
- Refreshments / view point
- Drinking water
- Toilets
- Shelter sheds
- Battery car point
Getting here
On foot or by battery car along the alternate track from Adhkuwari.
Tips
- Stop for the views back over the valley.
- The alternate track is a good choice for families on foot.
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.