Vaishno Devi Tour by Car: A Spiritual Road Trip With Driver

Posted by Simran Saluja
Vaishno Devi Tour by Car

Posted on July 29th, 2024

Vaishno Devi is a famous holy place in India. Many people from around the globe come here to get the blessings of Mata Vaishno Devi. The hike to the temple offers beautiful views. If you are planning to go on a Vaishno Devi Tour by Car, then you are at the right place. Keep reading to know more about this amazing trip. 

Vaishno Devi Tour by Car Itinerary

Here’s a detailed itinerary for a Vaishno Devi tour by car from Delhi:

Day 1: Delhi to Katra

  • Departure from Delhi: Start early in the morning, around 5 AM, to avoid city traffic. The distance from Delhi to Katra is approximately 650 km, which takes around 11-12 hours by car.
  • En Route Stops: Take breaks at regular intervals for meals and refreshments. Recommended stops include Murthal (for breakfast at the famous dhabas), Ludhiana (for lunch), and Pathankot (for evening tea).
  • Arrival in Katra: Reach Katra by evening. Check into your pre-booked hotel. Spend the night resting and preparing for the trek to Vaishno Devi.

2 Day: Katra to Vaishno Devi Bhawan

  • Early Morning Start: Begin your trek early in the morning. The trek is around 13 km from Katra to Vaishno Devi Bhawan.
  • En Route Darshan: En route, visit Banganga, Charan Paduka, and Adkuwari Temple.
  • Arrival at Bhawan: Upon reaching the Bhawan, freshen up and prepare for the darshan of Mata Vaishno Devi.
  • Darshan and Overnight Stay: After the darshan, if time and energy permit, visit Bhairon Ghati. Spend the night at one of the accommodation facilities near the Bhawan. Enjoy your Vaishno Devi tour by car.

Day 3: Return to Katra

  • Early Morning Descent: Start your descent back to Katra early in the morning to avoid the afternoon sun.
  • Rest and Refresh: Reach Katra by the afternoon. Rest and refresh at your hotel. Spend the evening exploring the local market and enjoy local cuisine.
  • Overnight Stay: Stay overnight in Katra to rest after the long trek.

Day 4: Katra to Delhi

  • Return Journey: Begin your return journey to Delhi after breakfast. The drive will take around 11-12 hours.
  • En Route Stops: Similar to the journey to Katra, take breaks for meals and refreshments.
  • Arrival in Delhi: Reach Delhi by late evening or night, concluding your Vaishno Devi tour by car.

Places to See During Your Vaishno Devi Tour by Car

Let’s look into the places to visit during your Vaishno Devi tour by car:

  • Holy Cave Shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi
  • Bhairav Ghati
  • Ardh Kuwari Cave
  • Baba Dhansar
  • Siar Baba Waterfall

1. Holy Cave Shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi

Vaishno Devi Temple

The holy cave of Mata Vaishno Devi is one of Hindus’ most significant pilgrimage sites. It is stated that Arjuna, the Pandava, sought Mata Vaishno Devi’s blessing for their triumph over the Kauravas. Following their triumph in Kurukshetra, the Pandavas built the Mata Vaishno Devi Temple to express their appreciation to the Goddess.

2. Bhairav Ghati

Bhairav Ghati

According to legend, Mata Vaishno Devi said that a pilgrimage was incomplete without a visit to this Ghati. This location represents the site where the almighty Mata Vaishno Devi killed Kaal Bhairav. The route to Bhairav Ghati is arduous, but the tranquil vista makes the effort worthwhile. It is one of the best places to see on your Vaishno Devi tour by car.

3. Ardh Kuwari Cave

Ardh Kuwari Cave

This place has a rich mythological past. Mata Vaishno Devi is said to have spent nearly nine months resting in this sacred cave before settling at the shrine. Nowadays, this holy grotto is a must-see for pilgrims on their trek.

4. Baba Dhansar

Baba Dhansar

The sacred shrine of Lord Shiva is located 14-15 kilometres from Katra to Salal Dam. A massive fount bursts from the rocks in the thick bark of trees, forming a series of tiny waterfalls before flowing into the Holy Brook, which joins the Chenab River. You should surely visit this place on your Vaishno Devi tour by car.

5. Siar Baba Waterfall

Siar Baba Waterfall

Siar Baba Waterfall, also known as Seher Baba Waterfall, is one of the area’s key attractions. This waterfall, located on the Chenab River, is one of India’s largest, cascading from a height of 100 feet. Visitors should come here to take in the breathtaking views. The Vaishno Devi tour by car package can also be modified to your specifications.

Route Map and Distance of Vaishno Devi Tour by Car

The Vaishno Devi tour from Delhi covers a distance of approximately 662 kilometres. You can book a Tempo Traveller for Rent in Delhi. Here’s a detailed route map and an estimated distance for each leg of the journey:

1. Delhi to Panipat:

Distance: 90 km

Route: Start from Delhi and head towards NH44.

2. Panipat to Karnal:

Distance: 35 km

Route: Continue on NH44.

3. Karnal to Ambala:

Distance: 80 km

Route: Follow NH44.

4. Ambala to Ludhiana:

Distance: 110 km

Route: Continue on NH44.

5. Ludhiana to Jalandhar:

Distance: 60 km

Route: Follow NH44.

6. Jalandhar to Pathankot:

Distance: 100 km

Route: Continue on NH44.

7. Pathankot to Jammu:

Distance: 100 km

Route: Follow NH44 and then NH144A.

8. Jammu to Katra (Vaishno Devi base camp):

Distance: 50 km

Route: Follow NH144.

Vaishno Devi Tour Taxi Fare

Let’s look at the Tempo Traveller Hire Rates:

One-way fare:

CAR/TEMPO TRAVELLER TYPESEATERFUELAC/NON-ACFARE (RS)
9-Seater Luxury Tempo Traveller9+2DieselAC On Request
12-Seater Deluxe Tempo Traveller12DieselAC On Request
Toyota Innova6+1DieselAC On Request
Swift Dzire4+1DieselAC On Request
8-Seater Tempo Traveller8+1DieselAC On Request
Suzuki Ertiga6DieselAC On Request

Round-trip fare:

CAR/TEMPO TRAVELLER TYPESEATERFUELAC/NON-ACDAYSFARE (RS)
6-Seater Toyota Innova Crysta+6DieselAC2 On Request
9+1 Luxury Tempo Traveller+9DieselAC2 On Request
11+1 Luxury Tempo Traveller+11DieselAC2 On Request
12+1 Deluxe Tempo Traveller+12DieselAC2 On Request
15-Seater Tempo Traveller+15DieselAC2 On Request
9-Seater Semi Sleeper Tempo Traveller9+2DieselAC2 On Request
Swift Dzire+3DieselAC2 On Request
8-Seater Luxury Tempo Traveller+8DieselAC2 On Request
9-Seater Premium Tempo Traveller+9DieselAC2 On Request
Suzuki Ertiga+6DieselAC2 On Request

Best Time to Go on a Vaishno Devi Tour by Car

Although Vaishno Devi is open year-round, the best time to go on a Vaishno Devi tour by car is when the weather is favourable and the crowds are thin. Read on to find out which season is ideal for you.

1. Summer

Katra has a summer season that lasts from March to June with favourable weather conditions and a few religious events like the onset of Chaitra and Navratri. This is the best time for global tourists to Vaishno Devi tour by car but be ready for the masses.

2. Winter

The winter season in Vaishno Devi begins in October and lasts until February. It is also one of the busiest seasons of the year. Festivals like Navratri are also held during this period, boosting the number of devotees who come here. This is an excellent time to go on a Vaishno Devi tour by car since you can combine your religious journey with a gorgeous sightseeing excursion by incorporating destinations like Patnitop into your itinerary.

3. Monsoon

Between July and September, the Vaishno Devi experiences its rainy season. It is not advisable to visit during this time. The Yatra is always interrupted by the persistent rains whether it is on foot, horseback or electric car. In addition, some landslides make things like waterfalls and nature walks either inaccessible or dangerous. Budget travellers however enjoy the period since it comes with massive discounts for them.

Travel Tips for Vaishno Devi Tour by Car

Here are ten essential travel tips for a smooth and enjoyable Vaishno Devi tour by car:

  1. Ensure your car is in top condition before the trip. Check the engine, brakes, tyres, and fluids. Carry a spare tyre, jack, and toolkit.
  2. Start your journey early in the morning to avoid heavy traffic and to have ample time for breaks and unexpected delays.
  3. Use a reliable GPS or navigation app to stay on track. Familiarize yourself with the route, major towns, and potential rest stops.
  4. Book your accommodation in Katra in advance, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons, to avoid last-minute hassles.
  5. Fill up your fuel tank before leaving and identify fuel stations along the route for refuelling if needed.
  6. Carry sufficient water, snacks, and non-perishable food items for the journey. Staying hydrated is crucial.
  7. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for long drives. Keep a light jacket or shawl, as temperatures can vary.
  8. Pack an emergency kit with first aid supplies, essential medications, a flashlight, and basic tools.
  9. Carry enough cash for tolls, parking, and small purchases. Also, have your debit/credit cards handy for larger transactions.
  10. For the trek to Vaishno Devi, carry a small backpack with water, energy snacks, a torch, and other essentials. Dress in layers, wear comfortable walking shoes and consider renting a walking stick for support.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. How can I plan a vacation to Vaishno Devi with my family?

You can organize your Vaishno Devi family tour with three to four days in advance. 3 to 4 days is adequate for a relaxed holiday; you may easily spend one night in Katra, one night at the Bhawan, and then return to Katra.

Q2. How much does a Vaishno Devi trip cost?

The cost will vary greatly depending on how many days you opt to spend on the trip, the type of lodging you choose, and extra amenities such as breakfast and transfers. The trip will cost you approximately Rs.10,950 for single occupancy and Rs. 7,850 for double occupancy, which includes a one-night stay in Katra and transport from and to Jammu. This does not include the cost of darshan.

Q3. Which month is ideal for the Vaishno Devi trip?

The months of April to October are considered best for visiting Vaishno Devi because of the beautiful weather and easy access to the pilgrimage destination.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve learned everything there is to know about the Vaishno Devi tour by car, you may plan your vacation accordingly. Our comprehensive guide, as indicated above, will make your Vaishno Devi journey with your family more convenient. Plan a journey to Vaishno Devi, which is regarded as a spiritual centre and a sacred spot for Hindus. Schedule your vacation during the summer months, when the hills provide a pleasant atmosphere.

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