With Navratri 2026 beginning on October 11, devotees across the country are preparing for pilgrimages to temples and religious destinations. Among the most popular choices during the festival is the Vaishno Devi shrine in Jammu and Kashmir.
Set in the Trikuta Hills, the shrine is located at an altitude of around 5,200 feet. Pilgrims travelling to Vaishno Devi generally reach Katra, from where the shrine is accessed by a trek of approximately 13 km.
For travellers starting their journey in Delhi, there are several ways to reach Katra, including direct trains, rail connections via Jammu, flights to Jammu and long-distance buses.
Delhi to Katra by Train
For many pilgrims, the railway is one of the most convenient ways to travel from Delhi towards Vaishno Devi. Katra is the closest railway station to the shrine, with several train services connecting the town with the national capital and other major cities.
The Vande Bharat Express (22439 / 22477) is among the faster rail options mentioned for the route, with the journey taking roughly eight hours and 20 minutes.
Other trains that can be considered include:
- Malwa SF Express (12919)
- Swaraj Express (12471)
- Shalimar Malini Express (14661)
- Jammu Mail (20433)
Another option is the New Delhi–Jammu Tawi Rajdhani Express (12425). This service reaches Jammu in approximately eight hours and 20 minutes. Passengers can then continue from Jammu to Katra by road using a cab or bus.
Since train timings and services can change during the festive season, passengers should check the latest schedule and availability with Indian Railways before booking.
How Long Does It Take to Travel From Delhi to Vaishno Devi?
The overall journey time depends on the mode of transport and the service selected.
For rail travellers, the trip from Delhi to Katra can take around eight to 14 hours, depending on the train. Those travelling via Jammu will also need to account for the additional road journey to Katra.
The shrine itself is not located at the railway station. After reaching Katra, pilgrims have to continue towards the shrine, including the approximately 13-km trek.
Delhi to Jammu by Flight
Travellers looking to reduce the time spent on the initial journey can choose a flight from Delhi to Jammu.
The flight takes approximately one hour and 20 minutes. Jammu is the closest airport mentioned for travellers heading towards Vaishno Devi, but the journey does not end at the airport.
From Jammu, passengers need to arrange a taxi or other road transport to Katra, followed by the onward pilgrimage to the shrine.
Delhi to Katra by Bus
Long-distance buses provide another option for pilgrims who prefer travelling by road.
A bus journey from Delhi to Katra can take approximately 14 hours, although the actual duration may vary depending on traffic, stops and road conditions.
For travellers who do not want to complete the journey in one stretch, the trip can also be divided into two stages. One possibility is to stop in Ludhiana, allowing travellers to explore Punjab before continuing towards Katra by train.
Alternative Route Via Srinagar
Another option mentioned for reaching the region is to travel to Srinagar by flight or train and then continue towards Katra.
This route may appeal to travellers who want to combine their pilgrimage with a wider Jammu and Kashmir itinerary.
Plan Your Vaishno Devi Journey Ahead of Navratri
With Navratri starting on October 11, 2026, travellers planning a Vaishno Devi pilgrimage should consider arranging their transportation in advance.
The choice between train, flight and bus will depend on factors such as journey time, convenience and onward connectivity to Katra. Whatever the preferred option, checking the latest schedules and ticket availability before departure can help pilgrims plan their journey more smoothly.
