This was my very first redemption from credit card reward points, and I couldn’t have been more excited. Over time, I had accumulated a good number of points through my regular spends, and finally, I used them to book a stay at WelcomHotel Katra by ITC. For someone like me, who had until then only stayed in hotels costing just over a thousand rupees a night, the thought of staying in a grand ITC property with my family felt surreal. At the same time, I was nervous—people who come from affluent families may not understand this feeling, but for us, stepping into a 4 or 5-star hotel is nothing short of a milestone.
To add to the nerves, just as we set out on the journey, after barely a kilometer, one of my car tires went flat. At that moment, I wondered if it was a bad omen. Still, I decided not to let it dampen the spirit of the trip. After getting the issue sorted, we continued onward, reminding ourselves that sometimes the best experiences come after a few hiccups.
At most ITC properties, the standard check-in time is from 3:00 PM to 12:00 Noon the next day. Being first-time visitors, we wanted to maximize every bit of time we could spend there. So, we left our residence around 1:00 PM, hoping to strike the right balance between the drive and the stay. On the way, we stopped for lunch at Dutta Dhaba, which gave us a hearty break before the final stretch. With stomachs full and excitement back on track, we resumed the drive and eventually reached WelcomHotel Katra, our minds buzzing with anticipation of what awaited us inside.
And what awaited us was beyond expectation. The moment we stepped out of the car, we were given a grand welcome with chants of “Jai Mata Di”, a gesture that instantly connected us to the spiritual aura of Katra. It wasn’t just a check-in—it felt like a blessing, the perfect beginning to what was already turning into a memorable experience.
Our stay at ITC WelcomHotel Katra turned out to be an unforgettable experience. The hotel’s location is simply unmatched – nestled amidst the serene hills of Katra, with a direct view of the majestic Trikuta mountains where Maa Vaishno Devi resides. Waking up to such a divine backdrop was truly special and added a spiritual calmness to the entire stay.
The ambience of the property reflects the elegance and signature hospitality that ITC Hotels are known for. From the moment we entered, we could feel the warmth in the air, not just from the décor but also from the staff who welcomed us with genuine hospitality and chants of “Jai Mata Di.” It immediately set the tone for a blessed and comfortable stay.
The rooms were spacious, well-furnished, and offered breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The interiors were tastefully done, combining modern amenities with a touch of local charm, ensuring both comfort and character. Sitting by the window and soaking in the mountain view was in itself a rejuvenating experience.
One of the highlights of the stay was the grand breakfast spread. The variety and quality of food left us delighted. Since the entire town of Katra is strictly vegetarian, the hotel ensured that guests had plenty of fresh and delicious vegetarian options. From North Indian staples to South Indian delicacies, from fresh fruits to bakery items, everything was well-prepared and served with warmth. The spread was truly a feast to start the day on a high note.
Overall, ITC WelcomHotel Katra seamlessly blends spirituality, luxury, and comfort. Its prime location, exceptional service, warm ambience, and delicious food make it an ideal choice for families, pilgrims, and leisure travelers alike. For us, this redemption through credit card reward points made the stay even more special, turning it into a memory we will cherish for a lifetime.