Pony, Pithoo & Palki at Vaishno Devi
Pithoo, Pony, and Palki are traditional pilgrimage assistance services available on the Vaishno Devi Yatra route from Banganga. All service providers are registered with the local municipal committee and carry identity cards. Fares are fixed by the Shrine Board and Katra municipal authorities — never pay more than the official rate.
Only Offline Bookings are applicable and non-refundable. You must pay at the booking counter and take the receipt. Keep the receipt safe and hand it over to the Pithoo/Palki/Pony Person, upon reaching the destination.
Senior citizens or pilgrims who find the trek physically challenging
Pilgrims needing a Pithoo to carry their luggage on the trail
Devotees with medical conditions who cannot walk long distances
Families with young children needing trail assistance
Charges and Prepaid Bookings
Rates are fixed by shrine board and Katra municipal authorities and should be paid only at official counters.
Pithoo Charges
All charges are including GST. Only Offline Bookings are applicable and non-refundable.
The Pony, Porter, and Palanquin services are managed by the local authorities under a municipal committee that organizes local municipal affairs.
All these porters, pony owners, and palanquin (palki) owners are registered with the municipal committee and carry an identity card/token number.
Ban Ganga Booking counter is available after crossing the checkpost.
You must pay at the booking counter and take the receipt. Keep the receipt safe and hand it over to the Pithoo/Palki/Pony Person, upon reaching the destination.
Ban Ganga to Bhawan Via Himkoti
₹650Ban Ganga to Adhkuwari
₹450Adhkuwari to Bhawan via Sanjhi Chhat
₹340Adhkuwari to Ban Ganga
₹350Adhkuwari to Bhawan via Himkoti
₹240Sanjhi Chhat to Bhawan
₹250Bhawan to Sanjhi Chhat
₹250Bhawan to Bhairo Mandir
₹350Bhairo Mandir to Bhawan
₹350Bhairo Mandir to Ban Ganga
₹650Bhawan to Ban Ganga
₹650Pony / Horse / Mule Charges
All charges are excluding GST. Only Offline Bookings are applicable and non-refundable.
Ban Ganga Booking counter is available after crossing the checkpost.
You must pay at the booking counter and take the receipt. Keep the receipt safe and hand it over to the Pithoo/Palki/Pony Person, upon reaching the destination.
Palki Charges
All charges are excluding GST. Fares vary by route and pilgrim weight (up to 100 kg or above 100 kg).
Ban Ganga Booking counter is available after crossing the checkpost.
You must pay at the booking counter and take the receipt. Keep the receipt safe and hand it over to the Pithoo/Palki/Pony Person, upon reaching the destination.
Cancellation Policy
No Refund Policy
Pony, Pithu, and Palki services are booked offline at counters. Once booked, cancellation or refund is generally not allowed. Please confirm your plan before making payment.
Pay at Counter Only
Rates are fixed by shrine board and Katra municipal authorities and should be paid only at official counters.
Medical Advisory
Elderly and medically unfit pilgrims should consult a doctor before using these services.
Always Hire Registered Service Providers
Always hire only registered Pony, Pithu, or Palki service providers with valid ID cards. Keep your payment receipt safe until you reach your destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Pony, Pithoo, and Palki services before starting your Yatra.
Other Booking Options for Vaishno Devi Yatra
If your preferred service is not available, you can choose one of these official alternatives.
💡 During peak season, checking these options in advance can save you a lot of waiting time.