Katra is a small town located in the Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is home to the famous Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, one of the most visited pilgrim sites in India and one of the holiest Hindu shrines in the world. Located at an altitude of 1,700 metres, Katra is surrounded by the majestic mountains of the Pir Panjal Range and the Himalayas.
The town is a popular destination for both pilgrims and tourists alike. It is well connected to other parts of the country by road, rail and air. The closest airport is the Jammu Airport, which is around 50 km away. Katra is also connected to other nearby cities via bus, and is well connected to other parts of the region through the railway network.
Katra offers a wide variety of attractions to suit all kinds of travellers. From the famous Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine to the picturesque forests and meadows, the town has something to offer everyone. Other attractions include the nearby Bhimgarh Fort, the Baba Dhansar Falls, the Nandini Wildlife Sanctuary, and the Aghar Jitto Shrine.
For those looking for a spiritual experience, Katra offers a number of ashrams and temples, where one can learn about the local culture and traditions. There are also a number of adventure activities available, such as trekking, rock climbing, camping, and white water rafting.
Katra is a great destination for anyone looking to explore the beauty and culture of Jammu and Kashmir. With its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and array of activities, Katra is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Vaishno Devi: Vaishno Devi is a popular pilgrimage destination located at the foothills of the Trikuta Mountains. It is situated around 12 km away from Katra and is home to the famous Vaishno Devi temple. The area offers a wide range of accommodation options, such as hotels, guesthouses, and camping sites.
2. Main Bazaar: Main Bazaar is a busy market in Katra, which is filled with shops, restaurants, and street food stalls. It is a great place to stay close to all the hustle and bustle of the city and it offers a variety of budget accommodation options.
3. Old Katra: Old Katra is a historic part of the city, which is filled with old temples and monuments. It is also known for its vibrant markets and street food. Accommodation options here include budget guesthouses and hotels.
4. Dhamma Nagri: Dhamma Nagri is a peaceful area located on the outskirts of Katra and is known for its lush green surroundings. It offers a range of accommodation options, such as villas, guesthouses, and hotels.
5. Bhimgarh Fort: Bhimgarh Fort is a popular tourist attraction located near Katra. It offers a range of accommodation options, such as homestays and bed and breakfasts. It is a great place to stay for those looking to explore the area’s history and culture.
1. Vaishno Devi: This is a famous Hindu pilgrimage site, located at the Trikuta Mountains. It is believed to be the abode of the goddess Durga. Thousands of devotees visit the temple every year to seek blessings from the deity.
2. Raghunath Temple: This is a beautiful temple complex, dedicated to Lord Rama and his consort Sita. It is an important religious site for the Hindus and is located in the heart of Jammu.
3. Ranbireshwar Temple: This is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed to be one of the largest Shiva temples in India and is a popular tourist spot.
4. Bagh-e-Bahu: This is a beautiful terraced garden located in the heart of Jammu city. It is a great place to relax and take in the scenic views of the city.
5. Mantalai: This is a popular pilgrimage site located near the Chenab river. It is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva and Parvati got married. The site is also home to a Shiva temple and a few other religious structures.
1. Kashmiri Wazwan: Kashmiri Wazwan is a traditional Kashmiri cuisine consisting of various meat dishes. It is often served on special occasions and is a must-have for any food lover visiting Katra. The dishes are cooked in a special manner and served with a variety of spices.
2. Rajma Chawal: Rajma Chawal is a popular dish in the region and is a delicious mix of rice and kidney beans. It is usually served with a side of yogurt and pickles.
3. Dum Aloo: Dum Aloo is a traditional Kashmiri dish made with potatoes cooked in a gravy. It is usually served with Naan bread and is a great accompaniment to any meal.
4. Goshtaba: Goshtaba is a Kashmiri delicacy made from mutton balls cooked in a yogurt-based gravy. It is usually served over steamed rice and is a favorite dish among locals.
5. Kashmiri Kahwa: Kahwa is a traditional Kashmiri tea, made with green tea leaves, saffron, cinnamon, and cardamom. It is usually served with some Kashmiri sweets and is a great way to end any meal.