Vaishno Devi Yatra Guide
By Indian Pilgrim Yatra Desk · Updated 6 October 2026 · 6 min read
In short
The walk to Mata Vaishno Devi's holy cave is about 12 km from Katra on a paved, lit path open around the clock. Get your free RFID yatra card online or at Katra, start the yatra within the time allowed, and finish with darshan at the Bhairon temple. Helicopter and ropeway tickets are sold only through the Shrine Board.
Step 1: Get your RFID yatra card
Register online on the Shrine Board's website, or go to the registration counters in Katra with your photo ID. Each pilgrim gets an RFID card, which is scanned at Banganga. Wear it on a lanyard throughout the yatra and return it as instructed.
Step 2: Choose your route up
- Old route via Ardhkuwari: the traditional path, with darshan at the Garbh Joon cave at Ardhkuwari (tokens needed)
- New Tarakote route: gentler gradients, pony-free, with good facilities
- Battery car from Ardhkuwari: limited seats, booked on the day
- Helicopter from Katra to Sanjichhat: booked on the Shrine Board portal
Step 3: Darshan and Bhairon temple
Leave your phone, leather goods and bags in the lockers at the Bhawan before joining the darshan queue. After darshan, take the ropeway or walk about 1.5 km up to the Bhairon Nath temple. Tradition says the yatra is incomplete without it.
Best time and crowds
The yatra runs all year. Navratri (March–April and September–October), summer holidays and New Year are the most crowded. Winter is cold, but peaceful. See our Vaishno Devi packages.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Vaishno Devi RFID card free?
Yes. The RFID yatra card is issued free by the Shrine Board.
How long does the Vaishno Devi walk take?
Most people take 5 to 7 hours to walk up and 3 to 4 hours to come down, plus the time spent in the darshan queue.
Official sources
Rules and dates are set by these authorities and can change. Always check them before you travel.