Katra Travel Guide

Today in India: Guru Rabindranath Jayanti (8 May)

Trek Zone

Town

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the picturesque Jammu and Kashmir region of India, Katra is a charming town that serves as the base for pilgrims visiting the sacred Vaishno Devi Temple. The town is surrounded by stunning mountain ranges and boasts a serene and tranquil atmosphere, making it a popular destination for spiritual seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.

The main attraction in Katra is the Vaishno Devi Temple, which is dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Vaishno Devi. Situated atop the Trikuta Mountains, the temple is accessible via a steep 12-kilometer trek that winds through breathtaking landscapes. Many pilgrims embark on this journey to seek blessings from the goddess and experience a profound sense of spirituality.

Apart from its religious significance, Katra also offers outdoor enthusiasts a chance to explore the natural beauty of the region. The town is a gateway to the scenic Ardhkuwari and Banganga, where visitors can enjoy leisurely walks amidst lush greenery and cascading waterfalls. The nearby Trikuta Mountains provide opportunities for trekking and hiking, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the stunning vistas of the Himalayas.

For those interested in local culture and cuisine, Katra offers a vibrant marketplace where traditional handicrafts and local delicacies are on display. Visitors can sample authentic Kashmiri dishes and shop for souvenirs to take home as mementos of their trip.

Local name: कटड़ा Population: 9.1 thous.Elevation: 2799 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 32°59'21"N, 74°55'53"E

Location

Jammu and KashmirIndia

ContactAdd

Social media

Add

Katra Top Attractions

Katra Attractions - What to See and Explore

Katra offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi, Nau Devi Temple. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Universities and schools
Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University,श्री माता वैष्णो देवी विश्वविद्यालय commonly referred to as SMVD University or SMVDU, is a state university recognized by UGC under section 2 and 12 and is established on an 470-acre campus located near Katra, Jammu and Kashmir.
32°59'54"N • 74°56'31"E
Shri Mata Vaishno Devi
Temple
32°59'24"N • 74°55'42"E
Nau Devi Temple
Sacred and religious sites • Temple

Day trips

Katra – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Katra, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Amar Mahal Palace (Jammu), Vaishno Devi, Bahu Fort (Jammu).

17 milesS
Museum, History museum
Amar Mahal Palace, Jammu
The Amar Mahal Palace is a palace in Jammu, in the Indian erstwhile Kingdom of Jammu and Kashmir, India. The palace has now been converted into a museum. Commissioned by Maharaja Amar Singh, a Dogra king, the palace was built in the nineteenth century by a French architect on the lines of a French Chateau.
3 miN
Temple
Vaishno Devi
Nestled amidst the verdant folds of the Trikuta Mountains in Jammu and Kashmir, India, the sacred shrine of Vaishno Devi draws millions of devotees from across the globe. This revered temple is dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Mahalakshmi and is one of the most visited...
18 milesS
Forts and castles
Bahu Fort, Jammu
The Bahu Fort is a historic fort in the city of Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir. Constructed on the banks on Tawi River, the ancient fort is believed to be constructed by Rajput Raja Bahulochan around 3,000 years ago.
20 milesE
Tunnel
Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee Tunnel, Patnitop
Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee Tunnel, also known as Syama Tunnel, and formerly as Chenani-Nashri Tunnel, is a road tunnel in Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is located in the Lower Himalayas, on National Highway 44. Construction started in 2011 and was completed by 2017.
13 milesSW
Historical place, Forts and castles
Akhnoor Fort
Akhnoor Fort is on the right bank of Chenab River. Construction was started by Raja Tegh Singh in 1762 CE and completed by his successor Raja Alam Singh in 1802.