How to Plan a Trip to Vaishno Devi From Delhi: By Train, Flight, Bus

Vaishno Devi, a popular pilgrimage destination in India, attracts millions of devotees every year. Nestled in the Trikuta Mountains of Jammu and Kashmir, this holy shrine is revered for its spiritual significance. Planning a trip to Vaishno Devi from Delhi involves choosing the right mode of transport—train, flight, or bus/road—based on your preferences for time, budget, and convenience. Consider booking a  Vaishno Devi Yatra Package to simplify your travel arrangements. Here’s a detailed guide to help you plan your trip to Vaishno Devi from Delhi efficiently.

1. How to Reach Vaishno Devi by Train

Traveling to Vaishno Devi by train is one of the most popular and cost-effective options. The nearest railway station to Vaishno Devi is Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Railway Station (SVDK), which is directly connected to Delhi and other major cities.

Train Routes From Delhi to Katra

Several trains operate from Delhi to Katra, providing comfortable and affordable travel. Here are a few popular options:

• Shri Shakti Express (22461): Departs from New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) at 7:05 PM and reaches Katra early the next morning around 5:10 AM.
• Jammu Mail (14033): Leaves Old Delhi Railway Station (DLI) and arrives at Katra.
• Vande Bharat Express (22439): A semi-high-speed train, this is the fastest train on this route, taking just around 8 hours from Delhi to Katra.

Duration and Cost

• Duration: Train journeys take between 8 to 12 hours depending on the train.
• Cost: Prices range from INR 500 to INR 2,500 depending on the class (sleeper, 3AC, 2AC).

Tips for Train Travel

• Book your tickets early, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons.
• Opt for an overnight train for a comfortable and time-efficient journey.
• Pre-book your Vaishno Devi yatra slip online or at the station in Katra to save time.

Also read - How to Reach Kashmir, By Train, By Flight, By Road?

2. How to Reach Vaishno Devi by Flight

If you prefer a faster mode of transport, traveling to Vaishno Devi by flight is a convenient option. While Katra does not have its own airport, the nearest airport is Jammu Airport (IXJ), located about 50 kilometers from Katra.

Flights From Delhi to Jammu

Several airlines operate daily flights between Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) and Jammu:

• IndiGo
• Air India
• SpiceJet
• Go First

The flight duration is around 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, making it the fastest way to reach the region.

Post-Flight Transfer to Katra

• By Taxi: After landing in Jammu, you can hire a taxi or cab to Katra, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Taxi fare ranges from INR 1,500 to INR 2,500.
• By Bus: Local and state-run buses are available from Jammu to Katra, offering a budget-friendly option with fares starting at INR 100.

Duration and Cost

• Duration: Flight time is 1.5 hours from Delhi, plus the 2-hour road journey to Katra.
• Cost: Flight tickets typically range from INR 3,000 to INR 8,000 depending on the season and booking time.

Tips for Air Travel

• Book tickets well in advance for cheaper fares, especially if you're planning the trip during peak pilgrimage or holiday seasons.
• Confirm your transportation from Jammu to Katra in advance to avoid delays.

3. How to Reach Vaishno Devi by Bus/Road

For those who prefer a scenic journey or enjoy road trips, traveling by bus or car from Delhi to Vaishno Devi can be an exciting experience. The total road distance between Delhi and Katra is around 650 kilometers, and there are several options for making the journey by road.

Bus Services from Delhi to Katra

• State-Run Buses: Jammu and Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation (JKSRTC) offers direct buses from Delhi to Katra. These buses typically depart from ISBT Kashmiri Gate and take around 12 to 14 hours.
• Private Bus Services: Many private operators also provide Volvo and deluxe buses, offering a more comfortable experience. Buses usually run overnight, allowing you to sleep during the journey.
• Bus Fares: Ticket prices range from INR 800 to INR 2,500 depending on the bus type (semi-sleeper, sleeper, or luxury).

Driving From Delhi to Katra

If you’re up for a road trip, driving from Delhi to Katra is an option. The journey takes about 12 to 14 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. The route passes through cities like Ludhiana, Jalandhar, and Pathankot, offering multiple rest stops.

• Route: Delhi – Karnal – Ambala – Ludhiana – Jalandhar – Pathankot – Katra.
• Best Time to Drive: Start early in the morning to avoid traffic and cover maximum distance during daylight.
• Cost: If you’re driving, fuel costs for a round trip would be around INR 5,000 to INR 7,000 depending on your vehicle.

Duration and Cost

• Duration: A road journey can take between 12 to 14 hours.
• Cost: Bus tickets range from INR 800 to INR 2,500, while driving would include fuel and toll expenses.

Tips for Road Travel

• Choose an overnight bus for convenience, or plan your stops carefully if driving to ensure a comfortable journey.
• Make sure your vehicle is in good condition if driving and check the weather before starting the trip as the roads can be tricky during the rainy season.