Katra, India: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Katra, India? If you're planning to go to Katra, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Katra, India

Based on the climate and weather in Katra, India, the best time to go is November. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Katra, India

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Katra, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Katra, India by month

January

January in Katra is cool. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. There is frost about a third of the time. It rains sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Katra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be careful to pick the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters available are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

February

February in Katra is balmy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Katra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Make sure to find the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

March

March in Katra is a perfect temperature. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Katra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be careful to pick the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

April

If you visit Katra during April, you may find that it can be very hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (high 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Katra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Check that you find the right kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

May

May here is scorchingly hot and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the low 90s F (high 30s C) during the day. It rains sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Katra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Check that you find the necessary type. A lot of adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

June

If you are traveling to Katra in June, you will notice that it can be sizzling. Expect it to rain occasionally. Daytime temperatures are in the low 100s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Katra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be careful to find the right kind. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

July

In July, Katra is unbearably hot. Temperatures routinely are in the 90s F (mid 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Katra, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Katra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Ensure that you pick the correct type. The majority of adapters available are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

August

In August, Katra is sizzling. Temperatures routinely are in the low 90s F (mid 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Katra, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Katra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be careful to choose the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

September

If you visit Katra during September, you are likely to see that it is sizzling. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Katra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Ensure that you get the correct type. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

October

If you visit Katra during October, you will probably find that it can be sweltering and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Katra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be careful to choose the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

November

November in Katra is a perfect temperature and very dry with almost no rain. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Katra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Ensure that you pick the right type. Many adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

December

If you go to Katra in December, you will notice that it is mild and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (low 10s C). There is frost regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Katra. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Make sure to get the correct kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

What to do in Katra, India

Katra, a small town located in the northern Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, is famous for being the base camp for the holy pilgrimage to Vaishno Devi, a famous Hindu shrine dedicated to the goddess Vaishnavi. However, that is not the only reason why people visit Katra. The town is home to numerous other attractions that are worth exploring. Here is a list of the top tourist attractions in Katra.

1. Vaishno Devi Temple - The Vaishno Devi Temple, located on a hilltop in the trikuta mountains is the main attraction in Katra. It is a significant and revered site among Hindus and attracts millions of pilgrims each year. The temple is considered one of the holiest places in India.

2. Bhairavnath Temple - Another significant temple located near the Vaishno Devi temple is Bhairavnath temple. Dedicated to Lord Bhairav, it is believed that a visit to Vaishno Devi is incomplete without a visit to Bhairavnath temple.

3. Ardh Kuwari Cave - One of the most visited places in Katra, Ardh Kuwari cave is a narrow and dark tunnel that pilgrims must pass through on their way to Vaishno Devi. The cave is believed to have been the abode of goddess Vaishnavi for nine months when she was hiding from the demon Bhairav.

4. Baba Dhansar Temple - Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Baba Dhansar Temple is located amidst a beautiful and peaceful setting. The temple is famous for its natural waterfalls, and people come here to take a dip and seek blessings from Lord Shiva.

5. Himkoti Viewpoint- Situated at an altitude of over 5,000 feet above sea level, Himkoti viewpoint offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The viewpoint is accessible on foot or by pony ride.

6. Nau Devi Cave Temple - A must-visit attraction in Katra for those interested in history and mythology. The Nau Devi Cave Temple is believed to be the place where nine goddesses took refuge when Lord Vishnu destroyed the demon Mahishasur.

7. Shivkhori - Shivkhori is a cave shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in the Reasi district near Katra. The cave is famed to have a naturally formed lingam which is believed to be one of the most sacred shrines of Lord Shiva.

8. Patnitop - Patnitop is a beautiful hill station located around 90 km from Katra, known for its scenic beauty and adventure activities like paragliding, skiing, and trekking. The town is surrounded by dense cedar forests and has a cool and pleasant climate throughout the year.

In conclusion, Katra is not just a stopover destination for Vaishno Devi Pilgrimage, but an extremely interesting tourist spot with multiple places to explore. Each attraction on this list offers a unique and exciting experience that makes Katra a must-visit destination in India.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: George Bush Intercontinental Airport, Texas, United States of America, Ocracoke, North Carolina, United States of America, Cala Millor, Spain, Binche, Belgium, Bodalla, New South Wales, Australia, Buxton, England, United Kingdom, Mlawula Nature Reserve, Swaziland, Middlesex County, Jamaica, Cappadocia, Turkey, Layang Layang, Malaysia, and Le Claire, Illinois, United States of America.