So, you’re already in Katra, probably after doing the Vaishno Devi yatra, and now you’re thinking, “Hmm, should I check out Shiv Khori too?” First of all—yes, you totally should. Shiv Khori is one of those underrated gems in Jammu. It’s peaceful, raw, and has this aura that just makes you feel closer to nature and Lord Shiva.
But then comes the big question: “How do I even get there from Katra?” Don’t worry, buddy—I’ve got you. Let me break it down step by step, like I would if we were sipping coffee and planning this trip together.
Why Shiv Khori Is Worth the Trip
Before we jump into routes and buses, let’s quickly talk about why this place matters.
- The cave: Shiv Khori literally means “Shiva’s cave.” It’s about 200 meters long, naturally formed, and has a stalagmite structure worshipped as a self-manifested Shiva Lingam. Pretty wild, right?
- The vibe: Unlike Vaishno Devi (which is super crowded most of the time), Shiv Khori feels calmer. It’s more rustic, less commercialized, and tucked away in the hills.
- The trek: There’s a 3 km trek from the base village (Ransoo) to the cave. It’s not too tough—think of it like a long walk with breaks to enjoy the views.
Basically, if Vaishno Devi is about energy and devotion, Shiv Khori is about peace and spirituality.
Distance Between Katra and Shiv Khori
The distance is around 85 km (by road). Doesn’t sound too bad, right? But remember, this is hill driving, so it takes about 2.5 to 3 hours to get there by road.
Routes to Reach Shiv Khori from Katra
There are a couple of ways you can make this trip. Let’s go through them.
1. By Road (Most Popular Option)
This is the easiest and most common way. Here’s the breakdown:
- From Katra, you take a road trip to Ransoo village, which is the base camp for Shiv Khori.
- Distance: ~85 km
- Travel time: 3 hours (give or take, depending on traffic and tea breaks).
- From Ransoo, you trek about 3 km to reach the cave.
👉 Fun fact: Ransoo is sometimes called the “gateway to Shiv Khori.” It’s got small shops, tea stalls, and places to rest before starting your trek.
Transport options by road:
- Taxi/Private Cab: Most comfortable. You can book from Katra taxi stand. Charges are usually ₹2500–₹3000 for a round trip (depending on bargaining skills).
- Shared Jeeps/Tempo Travellers: Cheaper option if you’re okay sharing with other travelers. Around ₹400–₹500 per person.
- Local Buses: JKSRTC and private buses operate between Katra and Ransoo. Ticket cost is ₹100–₹150, but buses can be slow and crowded.
2. Organized Tours
If you’re not in the mood to plan, you’ll find plenty of tour operators in Katra offering Vaishno Devi + Shiv Khori packages. They’ll take care of transport, darshan passes, and sometimes even food. Prices vary, but expect ₹1500–₹2500 per head for a group tour.
The Trek from Ransoo to Shiv Khori
Okay, so once you’ve reached Ransoo, your cab/bus will drop you there. Now the fun begins.
- Distance: 3 km trek
- Time: About 1 to 1.5 hours (depending on how fast you walk).
- Path: Well-paved, with railings on one side. It’s not hardcore trekking—it’s more like a steady climb.
Along the way, you’ll find:
- Shops selling water, prasad, and snacks.
- Resting points with benches.
- Scenic views of hills and valleys.
👉 If you don’t feel like walking, palkis and ponies are available too. Charges depend on demand, but usually ₹500–₹800 per person.
Best Time to Visit Shiv Khori
- Winter (Nov–Feb): Cold, but peaceful. Carry warm clothes.
- Summer (Mar–Jun): Pleasant weather, perfect for trekking.
- Monsoon (Jul–Sep): Avoid if you can. The trek path can get slippery.
- Shivratri Festival: The cave sees thousands of devotees during Shivratri (Feb/March). The vibe is amazing but be ready for crowds.
Quick Travel Itinerary (Katra to Shiv Khori)
Here’s how your day might look:
- Start early from Katra (say around 7 AM).
- Drive to Ransoo (reach by 10 AM).
- Start trek (1.5 hours).
- Darshan at Shiv Khori cave (spend about an hour).
- Trek back to Ransoo (1 hour).
- Lunch at Ransoo, then head back to Katra.
- Back in Katra by evening (around 6–7 PM).
So yes, it’s totally doable as a one-day trip.
Tips for the Trip
- Start early from Katra – Roads are easier in the morning and you’ll avoid late return after dark.
- Carry water and snacks – The trek has shops, but it’s good to keep some with you.
- Wear comfy shoes – Trust me, flip-flops will make you regret every step.
- Keep cash – Digital payments may not always work in Ransoo or on the trek.
- Respect the cave rules – Photography isn’t allowed inside the Shiv Khori cave.
- Stay hydrated – The trek can feel longer if the sun is out.
FAQs About Reaching Shiv Khori from Katra
Q1. How far is Shiv Khori from Katra?
It’s about 85 km by road (around 3 hours), plus a 3 km trek from Ransoo.
Q2. Can I do Katra to Shiv Khori in one day?
Yes, absolutely. Leave in the morning and you’ll be back by evening.
Q3. Are there hotels near Shiv Khori?
Yes, Ransoo has basic guesthouses and Dharamshalas. But most people stay in Katra and do a day trip.
Q4. Is the trek tough?
Not really. It’s a gradual climb, doable for kids and elders with short breaks.
Q5. Which is the cheapest way to reach Shiv Khori from Katra?
Local buses/shared jeeps are the cheapest. Taxis are more comfortable but costlier.
Wrapping It Up – My Friendly Advice
So here’s the deal: Reaching Shiv Khori from Katra is actually pretty simple. A 3-hour drive, a short trek, and you’re standing inside a mystical cave that feels like stepping back in time.
If you’re already in Katra for Vaishno Devi, don’t skip Shiv Khori. Think of it like dessert after a good meal—it completes the spiritual journey.
Just remember:
- Start early.
- Wear good shoes.
- Carry some cash and water.
- And keep your camera ready (for outside the cave, of course).
Once you’re inside the cave, the feeling is something you’ll remember long after the trip is over. It’s raw, powerful, and somehow humbling.
So, buddy—pack your bag, plan that day trip, and go say hello to Lord Shiva at Shiv Khori. You’ll thank yourself later. 🙏
