Destination Katra

Destination Katra, India

Katra, also known as Katra Vaishno Devi, is a small town situated in the Reasi district of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It serves as the base camp for pilgrims visiting the famous Vaishno Devi Temple, which is located 13 kilometers uphill from the town.

Katra

Surrounding Cities

  • Jammu: Approximately 50 kilometers south of Katra, Jammu is known for its temples and scenic beauty. Key attractions include Raghunath Temple, Bahu Fort, and Amar Mahal Palace.
  • Udhampur: About 40 kilometers from Katra, Udhampur is known for its picturesque landscapes and historical significance, with attractions like Patnitop and the Krimchi Temples.
  • Reasi: Located around 30 kilometers away, Reasi offers attractions such as the Bhimgarh Fort and Siar Baba Waterfall.

Katra

Top Hotels in Katra

  1. The White Hotels: A luxury hotel offering stunning views of the Trikuta Mountains and excellent amenities for pilgrims.
  2. Hotel Asia Vaishno Devi: Known for its comfortable stay and proximity to the Katra railway station.
  3. KC Residency: Offers modern amenities, a spa, and a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views.
  4. Country Resort By AHRPL: Located on the Jammu-Katra Road, this resort provides luxury accommodations and a serene environment.
  5. Lemon Tree Hotel: A mid-range hotel offering comfortable accommodations and a variety of dining options.

Nearest College

  • Government Degree College, Katra: This college offers undergraduate programs in arts, science, and commerce. It is affiliated with the University of Jammu and serves the educational needs of the local population.

Shopping Areas

  • Main Bazaar: The primary shopping area in Katra, offering a variety of items such as dry fruits, traditional clothing, religious souvenirs, and more.
  • Banganga Market: Known for its collection of shops selling puja items, local handicrafts, and snacks.

Local Foods

  • Rajma-Chawal: A popular local dish consisting of red kidney beans in a rich, spicy gravy served with rice.
  • Kaladi Kulcha: A traditional Dogra snack made from local cheese (kaladi) and served with kulcha (a type of bread).
  • Aloo Paratha: Stuffed flatbread with a spicy potato filling, often served with yogurt or pickle.
  • Chole Bhature: A classic North Indian dish featuring spicy chickpeas served with deep-fried bread.

Celebrations

  • Navratri Festival: One of the most significant festivals celebrated in Katra, attracting thousands of pilgrims to the Vaishno Devi Temple. The town is adorned with lights, and various cultural programs are organized.
  • Diwali: The Festival of Lights is celebrated with great enthusiasm, with homes and shops decorated with lights and candles.
  • Holi: The festival of colors is celebrated with much joy, with people applying colors to each other and enjoying festive foods.

Population and Ranking

  • Population: As of the latest census, Katra has a population of approximately 9,000 residents.
  • Ranking in India: Katra is renowned primarily for its religious significance rather than its size or economic status. It is one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in India, drawing millions of visitors annually.

Hindi Information and Symbols

  • Katra (कटरा): A small town in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir, serving as the base camp for Vaishno Devi Temple.
  • Jammu (जम्मू): A city known for its temples and scenic beauty.
  • Udhampur (उधमपुर): A city known for its picturesque landscapes and historical sites.
  • Reasi (रियासी): A city known for Bhimgarh Fort and Siar Baba Waterfall.
  • राजमा-चावल (Rajma-Chawal): Red kidney beans in a rich, spicy gravy served with rice.
  • कलाड़ी कुलचा (Kaladi Kulcha): A traditional Dogra snack made from local cheese served with bread.
  • नवरात्रि (Navratri): A major festival attracting pilgrims to the Vaishno Devi Temple.
  • दीवाली (Diwali): The Festival of Lights.
  • होली (Holi): The festival of colors.