Top places to visit in Katra

All you need to know about the popular tourist places to visit in Katra.
Insta Personal Loan for travel
3 min
19-May-2024
Planning a trip to Katra? Nestled at the foothills of the Trikuta Mountains, this charming town is not just a gateway to the revered Vaishno Devi temple but also a peaceful destination. Whether you're travelling with family or taking a spiritual solo break, Katra has plenty to offer — from scenic trails to cultural hotspots.

And here’s the best part — you don’t need to delay your trip while you save up. With a Bajaj Finserv Insta Personal Loan, you can travel now and pay later in easy EMIs.

Check your offer in Katra with phone number and OTP → Apply online in 5 minutes*→ Receive funds within 30 minutes**.

Why Katra should be on your travel list?

Katra is more than just a stopover for pilgrims heading to Vaishno Devi. It’s a scenic blend of spirituality and serenity that makes for a rejuvenating getaway. From the peaceful views of the Trikuta Hills to the lively local bazaars, this destination offers something for everyone.

Whether you're on a spiritual quest or a nature lover seeking calm, Katra’s clean air, modest budget, and deeply rooted culture make it an ideal weekend or long holiday option. And if costs feel overwhelming upfront, you can always check your offer and split your expenses smartly with an Insta Personal Loan.

10 best famous places in Katra

Here are ten must-visit spots that make Katra an unforgettable experience:

  • Vaishno Devi Temple: One of India’s most visited pilgrimage sites, this sacred cave temple is nestled 13 km uphill from Katra. The scenic trek is dotted with rest stops and refreshment stalls. Pro tip: Opt for helicopter rides during busy seasons to skip long treks. Planning ahead helps reduce cost surges during festivals — or simply take an instant travel loan to manage expenses smoothly.
  • Ardh Kuwari Cave: Halfway on the Vaishno Devi route, this ancient cave is a spiritual pitstop where the goddess is believed to have meditated. It's a perfect place to rest and soak in the divine vibes without much crowd. Don't forget to carry a small torch and stay hydrated.
  • Bhairavnath Temple: Located just beyond the main shrine, the Bhairavnath Temple offers panoramic views of the valley. The climb is a bit steep, but it’s worth it. Allocate a few hours post darshan to visit, and keep extra water and snacks handy.
  • Sanjichhat: This is the highest point on the Vaishno Devi route and the spot where helicopters land. If you're flying in or trekking, enjoy the scenic photo ops. It's a good spot for quick refreshments and souvenir shopping.
  • Baba Dhansar: Located 15 km from Katra, this hidden gem offers natural caves, waterfalls, and a peaceful temple. Ideal for day picnics and photos, it gives you a breather from the spiritual crowd.
  • Nau Devi Cave Temple: This lesser-known temple features narrow cave pathways and offers a tranquil and thrilling spiritual experience. It’s not as crowded, making it ideal for peaceful meditation or quiet exploration.
  • Himkoti Viewpoint: Perfect for photography lovers, this viewpoint offers panoramic views of the hills. The small café nearby is great for tea breaks. If you're travelling during shoulder season, you’ll likely find fewer tourists and better room rates.
  • Jhajjar Kotli: This scenic picnic spot on the banks of the Jhajjar stream is about 15 km away. It’s ideal for a family lunch or lazy afternoon dip in clear waters.
  • Raghunath Temple: A short drive away, this temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and is a cultural landmark in the Jammu region. The architecture and local legends add depth to your spiritual journey.
  • Shiv Khori: Located a couple of hours away from Katra, Shiv Khori is a natural cave shrine of Lord Shiva. The winding road trip is worth the views and experience. It’s best to book in advance during winter months.

Things to do on Katra trip

Beyond temples, Katra offers many enjoyable activities:

  • Trekking to Vaishno Devi: An iconic journey — make sure to start early and wear sturdy shoes.
  • Try local Rajma-Chawal: Served at most dhabas, it’s wholesome, flavourful, and easy on the wallet.
  • Shop at Main Bazaar: Grab souvenirs, dry fruits, and winterwear. Bargaining helps!
  • Relax with a hot spring dip at nearby places like Baba Dhansar.
  • Catch sunrise views at Himkoti or Sanjichhat.
Planning all this can get overwhelming — but with a simple Insta Personal Loan offer, you can relax and sort your finances in advance.

Best time to visit Katra

  • Summer (March to June): Perfect for pilgrims — weather is pleasant, and the trek is easier. However, this is also peak season, so booking in advance is smart.
  • Monsoon (July to September): Less crowded but with occasional landslides. If you enjoy solitude and cool weather, this could be your time.
  • Autumn (October to November): Beautiful landscapes, cool weather, and festive vibes. This is shoulder season — great for saving on stays.
  • Winter (December to February): Snowy trails and chilly air. Great if you're up for an adventure, but dress warmly and prepare for travel delays.

How much budget is required to travel to Katra

A 3–4-day trip to Katra typically costs:

CategoryEstimated Cost (Rs.)
Travel (train/flights)1,500 – 5,000
Accommodation1,000 – 3,000/day
Food & Shopping500 – 1,000/day
Temple Visits/Travel300 – 1,000
Total (approx)6,000 – 15,000


Flights and stays can account for over 60% of your overall trip cost. If arranging this upfront is tough, you can check your eligibility in just 2 steps and convert your costs into small EMIs.

How Bajaj Finance can help you make your Katra trip a reality

If you're excited about this spiritual escape but worried about the upfront expense, Bajaj Finserv has you covered. You can:

Pro tip: Budgeting with fixed EMIs means no compromise on trip plan

Make your trip a reality with Bajaj Finserv Insta Personal Loan

Whether it’s travel costs, booking flights, or shopping for your trip, the Bajaj Finserv Insta Personal Loan makes everything easier. You don’t need to put your travel dreams on hold. Get instant funds, quick approvals, and flexible EMIs – so you can explore Katra stress-free.

Conclusion

Katra offers a wholesome mix of devotion, nature, and peace — perfect for a short spiritual getaway. And now, with flexible financing, you can explore without delay. Don’t wait for the perfect time — simply check your pre-approved loan offer and plan your Katra adventure.

*Terms and conditions apply.

Frequently asked questions

Where to go after Vaishno Devi?
After visiting Vaishno Devi, you can explore nearby spots like Shiv Khori, Patnitop, and Bhairavnath Temple. For smooth travel plans, check your offer and manage your trip with ease.

What to see near Katra?
Explore scenic places like Baba Dhansar, Nau Devi Cave, Himkoti Viewpoint, and Jhajjar Kotli near Katra. These peaceful spots add charm to your spiritual journey.

Is 1 day enough for Vaishno Devi?
One day is possible for Vaishno Devi darshan if you start early and opt for helicopter rides. For a stress-free trip, check your eligibility in minutes.

Which hill station is near to Katra?
Patnitop is a beautiful hill station around 80 km from Katra, known for its cool weather, pine forests, and adventure activities — ideal for a short scenic break.

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