Description

Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar – Hotel Transfer & Pre-Trek Preparation

• Arrival & Welcome:
  Upon reaching Srinagar (by airport or city arrival), our friendly representative will meet you and transfer you in a comfortable air‑conditioned vehicle to your hotel.
• Important Note for Early Arrivals:
  If you arrive before 10 AM and have pending registration or medical formalities, our team will assist you promptly.
• Evening Briefing & Relaxation:
  After settling in, enjoy some leisure time to freshen up. In the evening, attend a briefing session where essential details of your upcoming Yatra are shared and your documentation is verified.
• Dinner & Overnight:
  Enjoy a delicious dinner at the hotel and rest well for your spiritual journey.

Day 2: Full-Day Acclimatization & Final Preparations

• Morning:
  Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel.
• Documentation & Preparation:
  Complete any pending registration or paperwork with our dedicated assistance, and finalize your medical fitness form if not already done.
• Acclimatization Trek:
  Embark on a short, guided trek designed to help your body adjust to the high altitude—a vital step to reduce the risk of altitude sickness and ensure a safe pilgrimage.
• Afternoon & Evening:
  Relax and acclimatize amidst the serene surroundings, using this time to mentally prepare for the sacred trek ahead.

Day 3: Journey from Srinagar to Baltal & Campsite Check-In

• Morning Transfer:
  After breakfast, double-check your documents (and make any necessary copies) before departing on a scenic 95‑km drive from Srinagar to Baltal (approximately 2–3 hours).
• Campsite Check-In:
  Upon arrival in Baltal, check in at your designated campsite. Your tent will be equipped with a mattress, pillow, blanket, and cot. (Note: Camps are on a multi‑sharing basis; you will have your own bed within a shared space of 8–10 people.)
• Meals & Relaxation:
  All meals at the campsite are served at the Langars, offering nourishing and hygienic food options.
• User Note:
  Please inform us in advance of any special dietary requirements or preferences so we can make suitable arrangements.

Day 4: The Sacred Trek – Baltal to Holy Cave & Return

• Early Start:
  Rise early and depart the campsite around 5 AM. (If you have luggage, please store it safely in the base camp cloakroom or your tent at your own risk.)
• Optional Pony/Palki Hire:
  If you wish to hire a pony or palki for assistance during the trek, please arrange it one day in advance. Avoid paying any advance to ensure reliable service.
• Trekking to the Holy Cave:
  Begin your 16‑km trek to the Holy Cave. The journey typically takes about 6 hours one way.
• Sustenance on the Trail:
  Enjoy replenishing Langar meals served along the trekking route.
• Divine Darshan:
  Upon reaching the Holy Cave, experience a peaceful darshan, take time for quiet contemplation, and offer your prayers.
• Return Trek & Overnight Stay:
  In the evening, trek back to Baltal and return to your campsite for a well‑deserved rest.
• User Tip:
  Carry essentials such as water, snacks, rain gear, and any personal medications. Pace yourself and take breaks as needed.

Day 5: Return to Srinagar & Optional Sightseeing

• Morning Transfer:
  After breakfast at the Langar, bid farewell to Baltal and enjoy a scenic drive back to Srinagar.
• Srinagar Sightseeing (Subject to Time Availability):
  If time permits, explore the charms of Srinagar by visiting:
  • Mughal Gardens: Stroll through Shalimar Bagh, Nishat Bagh, and Chashma Shahi.
  • Pari Mahal: Enjoy panoramic views from this historic hilltop monument.
  • Shankaracharya Temple: Visit this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, overlooking the city and Dal Lake.
  • Dal Lake: Experience a serene shikara ride amidst houseboats and floating gardens.
    (Note: Most gardens close by 4–5 PM.)
• Evening:
  Return to your hotel in Srinagar for a delightful dinner and an overnight stay.
• User Value:
  Let us know if you have any specific sightseeing preferences so that we can tailor your tour accordingly.

Day 6: Transfer from Srinagar to Katra – Road Journey

• Morning Departure:
  After breakfast, check out from your Srinagar hotel and begin a scenic road journey from Srinagar to Katra (approximately 265 km, about 10 hours).
• En Route:
  Enjoy views of the valley and, if time permits, glimpse some scenic spots along the way.
• Arrival in Katra:
  Upon reaching Katra, meet our friendly representative and check in at your pre‑booked hotel.
• Evening:
  Settle into your hotel, enjoy dinner, and relax as you prepare for the upcoming Maa Vaishno Devi trek.

Day 7: Maa Vaishno Devi Trek – Katra to Shrine & Return

• Morning Departure:
  After a hearty breakfast, commence your pilgrimage on foot from Katra towards Maa Vaishno Devi.
• The Trek:
  Trek approximately 12 km on well‑marked trails to reach the sacred Maa Vaishno Devi Shrine (approximately 4 hours each way).
  (For those seeking a shorter route, a 2‑km alternative from Sanjhichat exists; however, this itinerary emphasizes the complete trekking experience.)
• Darshan & Reflection:
  Upon reaching the shrine, spend time in prayer and reflection, absorbing the divine atmosphere.
• Return Trek:
  Trek back to Katra in the late afternoon or early evening.
• Evening:
  Arrive in Katra, enjoy a delicious dinner, and spend the night at your hotel.

Day 8: Departure from Katra – Farewells & Onward Journey

• Morning Check-Out:
  After breakfast, check out from your hotel in Katra (please note the check-out time is 12 noon).
• Transfer to Departure Point:
  Our representative will assist you with your luggage and transfer you to your chosen departure point in Jammu (Airport or Railway Station), approximately 50 km away.
• Farewell:
  Conclude your combined Amarnath & Maa Vaishno Devi trek with cherished memories of your spiritual journey.
• User Reminders:
  Secure your travel documents and keep your feedback and cherished memories as you embark on your onward journey.

Package Inclusions

1. Accommodations:
   • Srinagar: 4‑star hotel for 3 nights with modern amenities and convenient access to key locations.
   • Katra: 2 nights in a comfortable hotel near the Maa Vaishno Devi base camp.
   • Camping: 2 nights in well‑equipped, waterproof camping pods at Baltal, designed for warmth and comfort.
2. Transportation:
   • Road Transfers: Comfortable air‑conditioned transfers from Srinagar (City/Airport) to Baltal and non‑AC transfers from Srinagar to Katra, as well as from Katra to Jammu.
   • Driver Services: A knowledgeable and courteous driver will accompany you throughout the journey (tipping is not required).
3. Meals:
   • Camping Meals: Buffet‑style Langar meals (self‑service) during your camping nights at Sheshnag, Panchtarni, and Baltal, prepared under strict hygiene standards.
   • Hotel Meals:
     • Dinners on Nights 1, 2, 3, 7, and 8.
     • Breakfasts on Days 2, 3, 4, 7, and 8.
4. Yatra Assistance:
   • Priority assistance in securing your mandatory Yatra Pass for both the Amarnath and Maa Vaishno Devi treks.
   • Support in completing your medical fitness form and guidance on obtaining your essential RFID card and registration.
5. Optional Add-ons & Upgrades:
   • Package duration extensions and additional services (e.g., hot water access during camping) are available at a nominal charge.
6. Inclusive Pricing:
   • All applicable taxes, parking charges, and toll taxes are included.

Package Exclusions

• Trekking Assistance Charges:
  • Pony, dolly, or mule hire charges for trekking are not included. (You may arrange these independently via ponypalki.com if needed.)
• Additional Taxes:
  • GST at 5% on the total package cost.
• Travel & Entry Expenses:
  • Train/air tickets, monument/entry fees, shikara rides, and other expenses not explicitly mentioned.
• Personal Expenses:
  • Tips, laundry, phone calls, and any other personal expenditures.
• Contingency Costs:
  • Expenses related to weather disruptions, landslides, or other unforeseen events beyond our control.
• Any Unlisted Expenses:
  • Costs not explicitly mentioned in the “Inclusions” section.

User Values & Customization Options

• Special Dietary Requirements:
  Please inform us in advance if you have any dietary restrictions or preferences.
• Sightseeing Preferences:
  Let us know if there are specific attractions in Srinagar you wish to visit so we can tailor your itinerary accordingly.
• Optional Services:
  Decide if you require additional trekking assistance (e.g., pony or palki hire) or other add-ons.
• Comfort & Safety:
  Our services are designed to ensure your comfort and safety throughout your trek. We provide professional guidance and support to help you fully enjoy your pilgrimage.
• Flexible Package Upgrades:
  If you wish to extend your stay or add extra activities, flexible upgrade options are available at a nominal additional cost.

Additional Tips & Reminders

• Important Dates for the 2025 Yatras:
  • Full Shivling Darshan: Starting 10th July
  • Medium Shivling Darshan: July 11–20
  • Holy Cave Darshan: July 21–August 09
  • Note: It is advisable to plan your trek outside periods of heavy cloud cover.
• Travel Preparations:
  • Book your package well in advance (peak season: 1st–20th July).
  • Pack light, comfortable clothing, sturdy trekking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
  • Stay hydrated and carry snacks for the journey.
• Documentation:
  • Carry your Aadhaar card (for Indians) or passport (for foreigners) and all required travel documents.
• Physical Fitness:
  • Ensure you are in good physical condition before embarking on the trek.

May your Amarnath & Maa Vaishno Devi trek be a safe, spiritually enriching, and unforgettable experience! For any further questions or customization requests, please feel free to contact us.