Vaishno Devi Yatra Parchi (RFID Slip) 2026
The free RFID Yatra Slip is mandatory for every pilgrim. Here is how to book it online, where to collect it offline, and the rules around the 50,000-per-day yatra cap.
What Is the Yatra Parchi?
The Yatra Parchi (or Yatra Slip) is a free, mandatory access pass issued by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) to every pilgrim before they start the trek from Banganga. Since January 2024 the slip is integrated with an RFID card which acts as your single ID through the yatra route — at Banganga, Adhkuwari, Sanjichhat and Bhawan turnstiles, as well as helipads.
How to Get the Yatra Parchi
Option 1 — Online (Recommended)
- Visit the official site maavaishnodevi.org → “Yatra Registration“.
- Create a free account with your mobile number and a valid email.
- Select your yatra date, number of pilgrims, age (children below 12 are free but must be registered).
- Upload an ID proof (Aadhaar / Passport / Voter ID) and a photograph.
- Submit. You will receive an email + SMS with a QR code.
- At Katra, collect the RFID card from any Yatra Registration Counter (YRC) by showing the QR code and ID — takes 2 minutes.
Option 2 — Offline at Katra YRC
Yatra Registration Counters operate 24×7 at:
- Katra bus stand
- Niharika Yatri Niwas, Katra
- Saraswati Dham & Vaishnavi Dham at Katra
- Tarakote Marg starting point
- Banganga foothills
Bring an original photo ID. The counter staff issues an RFID card instantly. Hold on to it through the yatra and return it at the Banganga exit gate on the way back (or in the RFID drop box at Tarakote on return). If you do not return the card a refundable deposit of ₹100 may be deducted in future.
RFID Card — How It Works
- Tap the card at each RFID gate — Banganga, Adhkuwari, Sanjichhat, Bhawan.
- The Shrine Board uses the data only for crowd management and emergencies.
- If you lose the card, report at the nearest help desk; a duplicate is issued on showing ID.
- The RFID also acts as your cloakroom token at Bhawan.
Daily Yatra Cap & Booking Window
The Shrine Board imposes a daily yatra cap (around 35,000 – 50,000 pilgrims, depending on season). Online registrations open 30 days in advance. During Navratri and long weekends, the slot fills within 24 hours — book early.
Yatra Slip for Children, Senior Citizens & Foreigners
| Pilgrim Type | Required? | ID Accepted |
|---|---|---|
| Children under 9 | Free, but must be registered on parent’s slip | Birth certificate / Aadhaar |
| Children 9 to 18 | Yes, separate slip | Aadhaar / school ID |
| Senior citizens | Yes, fast-track lane at YRC | Aadhaar / Voter ID |
| Foreign nationals | Yes | Passport (mandatory) |
| NRIs (OCI) | Yes | OCI card + passport |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Wrong date selected online: The slip is valid only on the date printed.
- Spelling mismatch with ID: Counter will refuse entry. Use the exact name on Aadhaar.
- Not carrying the original ID: Photocopy or DigiLocker copy is accepted but original is strongly preferred.
- Booking through unauthorised agents: The yatra slip is free — never pay anyone for it.
What About Helicopter Pilgrims?
Helicopter bookings via the SMVDSB / IRCTC portal already include an RFID slip for the day of flight; you only need to collect the card at the Katra helipad before boarding. See our helicopter booking page for details.