The yatra’s base town is Katra, reached by rail direct to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra station (SVDK) or by the 50 km Jammu–Katra road — a distance the shrine board’s FAQ itself states — from Jammu Tawi, the region’s main junction. Katra holds the registration centre, hotels and the Banganga trackhead. Checked 01 October 2026.
The access picture
| Mode | Gateway | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rail (direct) | Katra (SVDK) | Direct trains from major northern cities; verify on IRCTC |
| Rail (via Jammu) | Jammu Tawi | More options; then the 50 km road (official figure) |
| Air | Jammu airport | Then the road to Katra |
| Road | Jammu–Katra highway | Buses and taxis throughout the day |
On arrival in Katra
The sequence: registration (online beforehand, or the YRC near the bus stand 6 AM–10 PM), hotel, then the Banganga trackhead. Katra’s hotel belt serves every budget — the named-and-priced listing pass comes with the full city build.
Frequently asked questions
Which station?
Katra (SVDK) direct; Jammu Tawi as the larger alternative, 50 km out (official figure).
Airport?
Jammu, then the road to Katra.