Located at around 5,200 feet in the Trikuta Mountains of Jammu and Kashmir, the Maa Vaishno Devi Temple is one of the best places to visit in Katra. This sacred cave temple, one of India's 108 sacred Shakti Peethas, is dedicated to Goddess Durga and draws millions of pilgrims annually.
This Sikh spiritual site in Kashmir houses Baba Banda's ashes and weapons, including an arrow and a sword gifted to him by his Guru. It draws devotees and history buffs alike and offers a glimpse into Baba Banda's valour and the spiritual legacy he carried forward with pride. It is one of the significant places to visit in Jammu & Kashmir for those interested in history and faith.
Located about 2-3 km uphill from the main Vaishno Devi Bhawan, the Bhairo Baba Temple is one of the must-visit tourist places in Katra Jammu. This temple is dedicated to Bhairavnath, who was granted forgiveness by the Goddess Vaishno Devi. According to mythology, Bhairavnath chased the Goddess but was ultimately forgiven and blessed after his defeat. As a result, many devotees believe their Vaishno Devi yatra will not be completed without a stop at the Bhairo Baba Temple. .
Situated halfway up the Vaishno Devi trail, Charan Paduka, or ‘holy footprints’, is a revered spot among the other Katra tourist places. Here, you can witness the divine foot imprints of Maa Vaishno Devi on a rock slab. It is believed that while being pursued by Bhairavnath, the saint-turned-demon, Mata Vaishno Devi paused at Charan Paduka to rest during her journey towards her divine abode in the cave. Surrounded by greenery and serenity, Charan Paduka is a great stopover and offers a spiritual experience with mythological significance.
The name 'Ban Ganga' derives from two words: 'Ban,' meaning arrow, and 'Ganga,' referring to the sacred Ganges River. According to mythology, while Mata Vaishno Devi journeyed to her abode in the Trikuta Hills, her companion, Hanuman, expressed thirst. So, the Goddess shot an arrow into the earth, causing a spring to emerge, thus forming the Ban Ganga River. This sacred site, visited by many, is especially serene for those exploring Kashmir in May, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for spiritual
Baba Dhansar is one of the oldest cave temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the best places to visit in Jammu, and to reach the temple, you’ll need to climb around 100 steps. Baba Dhansar is called Jagrit Devsthans (Awakened God's temple), as many pilgrims visit Baba Dhansar temple after visiting Mata Vaishno Devi Dham and Shiv Khori.
The Himkoti viewpoint offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and lush green valleys. To enhance the experience, the Shrine Board is now developing the area with landscaped gardens, an artificial lake, and a meditation center. Besides, amenities such as restaurants, dosa counters, cooked meal shops, cassette stalls, medical facilities, and oxygen cylinders are also available for visitors.
Surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, Mansar Lake is one of the best places to visit in Katra. Its origin traces back to the Mahabharata. Babar Vahan, son of Arjuna and the Naga princess Ulpi, unknowingly killed Arjuna during the Ashwamedha Yagna. To revive him, he retrieved the divine Mani from Sheshnag by creating a tunnel—Surangsar (now Surinsar Lake). Emerging at Mansar Lake with the Mani, he brought Arjuna back to life, giving both lakes deep mythological significance.
Located midway on the trek to Vaishno Devi, the Ardh Kuwari Cave is also known as the 52-ft-long Garbajoon Cave. It is a revered spiritual site in Kashmir that will add sacred charm to your journey. According to mythology, Maa Vaishno Devi took shelter and meditated here for nine months, making Ardh Kuwari Cave a significant stop for devotees.
Located around 20 km west of Patnitop, Sanasar lake is also called ‘Mini Gulmarg’. Named after two small lakes, Sana and Sar, it is one of the best places to visit in Katra for nature and adventure lovers alike. Nestled on the Shanta Ridge mountain range, it offers several activities in summer including paragliding, hot air ballooning, and horse riding. It is also one of the most scenic lakes in Jammu and Kashmir, attracting visitors with its tranquil beauty and thrilling experiences.
