Highlights
- Lords Inn Katra makes its debut in Katra, J&K.
- The 45-key hotel is near Vaishno Devi shrine.
- The region draws millions of pilgrims annually.
The property caters to both pilgrims and leisure travelers visiting the region, according to a release on Press Trust of India's website. The Yatra Parchi Counter is also nearby, with access to the pilgrimage starting point.
Spiritual tourism across India keeps growing and Katra stays one of the busiest pilgrimage spots in the country. The Vaishno Devi shrine attracted more than 9.5 million pilgrims in 2024, up from 9 million in 2023 and more than 6.9 million pilgrims have visited so far this year.
"Katra attracts millions of devotees and travelers every year and with Lords Inn Katra, we are pleased to strengthen our presence in the region," said Pushpendra Bansal, Lords’ chief operating officer. "We thank our partners for their trust and look forward to welcoming travelers to the heart of Katra."
Kumar Roushan, Lords’ senior general manager for development and pre-opening, said the launch marks a key step in building the group's presence in Jammu and Kashmir.
"We see significant growth potential in the region and remain committed to expanding our presence while creating quality hospitality experiences for travelers visiting these destinations," he added.
The National Highways Authority of India invited bids for a proposed four-lane highway linking Katra to Kulgam, passing through Reasi, Mahore, Gulabgarh and Nandimarg before joining NH-44 at Kulgam.
The highway would improve access for Vaishno Devi pilgrims and better connect remote mountain communities in the region. With pilgrim numbers climbing and new road infrastructure on the way, the hotel opens amid growing demand for accommodation.
In February, Lords Hotels and Resorts opened the 25-key Lords Swastik Studio in Kodinar, Gujarat, near the Somnath temple.
