Vaishno Devi, located near Katra in Jammu and Kashmir, is one of the most sacred pilgrimage destinations in India. Every year, millions of devotees visit the holy shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi to seek blessings. The temple is nestled in the Trikuta Mountains, and reaching it requires a trek through scenic yet challenging terrain. If you’re planning your first visit, one of the most common questions is: How much time does it take to climb Vaishno Devi? Let’s break it down in detail.
Total Distance from Katra to Vaishno Devi
The journey to the Vaishno Devi temple begins from Katra, the base camp. The main shrine, located inside a holy cave at Bhawan, is approximately 13 kilometers from Katra. The path is well-paved and maintained, but the climb is steep in some stretches.
Average Time to Climb on Foot
The time it takes to climb Vaishno Devi on foot depends on your walking speed, fitness level, and rest intervals. On average:
- Normal Walkers: 5 to 7 hours (one way)
- Fast Walkers: 4 to 5 hours (one way)
- Elderly or with children: 7 to 9 hours (one way)
If you take short breaks for tea or snacks along the way, it might stretch to 8–9 hours total. The return journey is generally faster, taking around 4–5 hours downhill.
Different Routes and Their Duration
There are two main routes to reach the Bhawan:
- Traditional Route (via Banganga – Adhkuwari – Sanjichhat – Bhawan):
This is the original 13 km route, which most pilgrims take. It offers several rest points, food stalls, and viewpoints. The climb through Adhkuwari Cave is considered spiritually important and adds about 30–45 minutes to the journey. - New Route (via Himkoti):
This alternate path is smoother, shorter, and less crowded. It bypasses Adhkuwari and is around 12 km long. Many devotees prefer this route as it’s easier for walking and pony rides.
Alternate Options to Save Time
If you don’t wish to walk the entire distance, there are several options to make the journey quicker:
- Ponies: Available from Katra and Adhkuwari; the ride takes around 3–4 hours to reach Bhawan.
- Palkis (Palanquins): Suitable for elderly or those unable to walk; takes about 4–5 hours.
- Battery Cars: Available between Adhkuwari and Bhawan; take around 20–30 minutes.
- Helicopter Service: The fastest option. Helicopters run from Katra to Sanjichhat (takes about 8 minutes). From Sanjichhat, it’s just a 2.5 km walk or 30–45 minutes trek to the Bhawan.
Total Duration of the Trip
Including time for darshan and rest, most devotees complete the round trip in:
- On Foot: 10–12 hours (round trip)
- By Pony or Palki: 6–8 hours
- By Helicopter: 3–4 hours total
Many pilgrims also choose to rest overnight at Bhawan and return the next morning.
Final Thoughts
Climbing Vaishno Devi is not just a physical journey but a deeply spiritual experience. Whether you walk the entire path or take a helicopter, the devotion and peace you feel upon reaching the holy cave make every minute worthwhile. With good preparation, comfortable footwear, and faith in your heart, the climb to Vaishno Devi becomes a memorable and divine journey of a lifetime.
