Katra, a quaint spiritual town nestled in the foothills of the Trikuta Mountains in Jammu and Kashmir, is most popularly known as the base camp for the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage. But there’s more to Katra than just religious devotion. In 2024, the town continues to grow as a travel destination, offering a blend of divinity, adventure, nature, and new-age infrastructure developments.
Whether you’re planning a spiritual retreat, a family holiday, or a trip to Kashmir, this guide reveals the Best Things to Do in Katra and takes you on an exhilarating journey to one of India’s greatest engineering marvels — the Rail Service at the World’s Highest Bridge, the Chenab Bridge.
?️ Why Visit Katra in 2024?
- Easy connectivity via train, road, and now improved infrastructure.
- Spiritual aura of the Vaishno Devi Temple and peaceful vibes.
- Gateway to Kashmir — many travelers use Katra as the first leg of their trip to Kashmir.
- Nature, adventure, and culture in and around the town.
✨ Best Things to Do in Katra
Here’s a comprehensive list of must-do experiences when you’re in Katra:
1. Vaishno Devi Yatra – The Spiritual Epicenter
This sacred trek to the cave shrine of Goddess Vaishno Devi is the heartbeat of Katra.
- Distance: 13 km from base to Bhawan
- Modes of travel: Walking, pony, helicopter, palanquin
- Tip: Start early morning or late evening to avoid the crowd
2. Explore Bhairavnath Temple
Located 2 km above the Vaishno Devi shrine, it’s considered essential to complete the yatra by visiting Bhairavnath Temple.
- Scenic trek with panoramic views
- Ropeway option now available for elderly or tired pilgrims
3. Ardh Kuwari Cave – Midway Sanctuary
This small cave is located around halfway on the trek route. It is believed that Goddess Vaishno Devi meditated here for 9 months.
- A short detour that adds spiritual depth to your pilgrimage
4. Ban Ganga – Holy Dip Before the Ascent
This sacred stream marks the beginning of the Yatra. Devotees take a ceremonial dip before starting their journey.
- Peaceful, energizing start to your spiritual trek
5. Shopping at Katra Main Bazaar
For souvenirs, dry fruits, handicrafts, religious items, and Kashmiri shawls:
- Don’t miss local saffron and walnut wood carvings
- Bargain-friendly shops and helpful locals
6. Sanjichhat – Helicopter Landing Point
Even if you’re not using the helicopter, this area offers stunning aerial views of the valley.
- A perfect photography spot with stalls offering refreshments
7. Jhajjar Kotli – A Riverside Picnic
Located about 15 km from Katra, this is a beautiful picnic spot by a freshwater stream.
- Great for a half-day trip with family
- You can relax, dip your feet, or enjoy packed meals
8. Visit Nau Devi Temple
Just 10 km from Katra, this temple has 9 self-manifested (swayambhu) idols of Goddess Durga in one cave.
- Spiritual and less crowded compared to Vaishno Devi
- Ideal for peace seekers and quick blessings
9. Try Local Food
Katra is purely vegetarian, but the local food is rich in taste:
- Rajma Chawal, Kalari Cheese, Kachalu, Lassi, and Sund Panjiri
- Visit local dhabas or small eateries around the bazaar
10. Plan Excursions to Patnitop or Shiv Khori
Extend your journey beyond Katra:
- Patnitop: A hill station just 80 km away with snow (in winter), meadows, and pine forests
- Shiv Khori: A naturally formed Shiva cave, about 70 km from Katra
? New in 2024: Rail Service at the World’s Highest Bridge – Chenab
No article about Jammu and Kashmir in 2024 is complete without talking about the latest feather in India’s cap — the operational Rail Service at the World’s Highest Bridge, the Chenab Bridge.
? Location
- Located in Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir, between Bakkal and Kauri
- Spans the Chenab River and forms a key link in the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla rail line
? Why Is It So Special?
- World’s highest rail bridge at 359 meters (taller than Eiffel Tower)
- A marvel of modern engineering using blast-proof steel
- Can withstand high-velocity winds and earthquakes
- Reduces travel time drastically from Jammu to Srinagar
?️ Experience the Train Ride
- Scenic views of deep gorges, valleys, and mountain ranges
- The rail route passes through 38 tunnels and 900+ bridges
- Ideal for those who want to skip long road travel
- Perfect for senior citizens and tourists looking for comfort and safety
Note: The bridge became operational for passenger trains in late 2023 and is now a must-experience element of any trip to Kashmir.
? Photography & Sightseeing Near Chenab Bridge
- Special viewing points are being developed near Reasi
- Best time to visit is from March to November
- Ideal for drone shots, panoramas, and railway photography enthusiasts
? Where to Stay: Best Hotels Near Katra and Reasi
If you’re planning a mixed itinerary that covers both spiritual sites and engineering marvels, here are some hotel recommendations:
In Katra:
- The White Hotel Katra – 4-star with views and shuttle to Bhawan
- Hotel Asia Shripati – Budget-friendly, clean rooms, close to market
- Lemon Tree Katra – Modern amenities, ideal for families
- Rama Trident – Comfortable, near railway station
In Reasi:
- Hotel Anmol Reasi – Decent stay for travelers visiting the Chenab Bridge
- Mansar Lake Resort (a bit farther) – Good for nature lovers
? Travel Tips for Katra & Chenab Bridge Visitors
- Best Time to Visit Katra: March–May & September–November
- Carry ID proof for Yatra registration or train travel
- Stay hydrated during treks and carry energy snacks
- Avoid peak Yatra season (Navratri) if you dislike crowds
- Book train tickets early if you want to ride across the Chenab Bridge
- Keep some cash — ATMs are not always reliable in remote areas
?♀️ Combining Spirituality with Adventure
Your 2024 trip to Kashmir doesn’t need to be either only spiritual or only adventurous. In places like Katra and Reasi, you get both — the peace of temples and the thrill of witnessing one of the most stunning feats of engineering.
Whether you’re climbing up to Bhairavnath Temple or sitting inside a train crossing the Rail Service at the World’s Highest Bridge, this journey is bound to leave a lasting imprint on your soul.
? Final Thoughts
With developments like the Chenab Bridge and better tourism facilities in Katra, Jammu and Kashmir in 2024 is not just about mountains and monasteries — it’s about seamlessly blending heritage with modernity.
From spiritual awakening at Vaishno Devi to adrenaline-filled moments on the world’s tallest rail bridge, this region is full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
So go ahead and explore the Best Things to Do in Katra, and don’t forget to take the train ride across the Chenab – because not all tracks lead to stories, but this one surely does.
