Vaishno Devi Darshan- The Holy Yatra

 The holy shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi is located in the foothills of the Trikuta Mountains in Jammu and Kashmir and is one of the most renowned pilgrim destinations in the world. The sanctum sanctorum, or holy cave, where the goddess manifested herself in the form of natural rock formations known as the three Holy Pindis, is housed here in the Bhawan. Every year, millions of pilgrim’s flocks to see the Mother Goddess, who is said to grant the wishes of her devotees.


The Holy Yatra

To get to the shrine, you must first get a Yatra Parchi from one of the registration counters and then set out on a 13-kilometer trek from Katra. Most devotees walk both directions; however, some prefer to ride a donkey, and palanquins are accessible for the sick and elderly. A helicopter service runs from Katra to Sanjhichatt, which is just 2.5 kilometres from the shrine.

The yatra to Mata Vaishno Devi's temple is a spiritual journey unlike any other, as pilgrims trek uphill to the holy cave amidst reverberating chants of "Jai Mata Di" and breath-taking views of the entire valley. After the long and arduous trek to the main shrine, the spirit of devotion and vibrant positivity that surrounds you is truly mesmerising, easing all the fatigue and exhaustion of the journey.

Things to Do

  • Stop by the Ardh Kuwari Cave, which is situated about halfway between the Bhawan and the old road. This small cave is well-known not only for its religious significance, but also as a rest stop for yatra pilgrims. To reach the main shrine dedicated to the goddesses on the other side, one must crawl on one's knees. Mata Vaishnodevi, legend has it, sought shelter here while fleeing from the devil.Mata Vaishnodevi is said to have sought refuge here for 9 months while fleeing Bhairav Nath.
  • After arriving at the Bhawan, a bath in the holy water of the bathing ghat is recommended as the best way to cleanse before receiving the holy darshan.
  • Attend the Bhawan's famous aarti, which takes place before sunrise and after sunset. Pujaris perform this sacred aarti in front of the holy deity before bringing it outside for the devotees. During this time, Darshan is halted. Individual hawan/poojan services are also available at the temple, but slots must be reserved in advance.
  • In addition to the darshan of the three Pindies in the holy cave, the original cave contains a host of other holy darshans, including the symbols of Lord Ganesh, Lord Hanuman, Bhairon Nath, the five Pandavs, and so on. Only during the lean season, when the original cave is used, are these darshans possible. Within the Bhawan complex, you can also visit temples dedicated to Mata Durga, Lord Shiv, and Lord Ram.

Where to Stay

The Vaishno Devi Shrine Board offers a variety of affordable lodging options in Jammu and Katra. However, due to the large number of pilgrims who visit during the year, these must be reserved well in advance. Choose from the budget-friendly Hotel Bhavini, Hotel Arya, or New Parkash Guest House, all of which are conveniently located near the Banganga Check Post, the yatra's starting point.

Places to See Around

Dera Baba Banda

This historic gurudwara is dedicated to Baba Banda Bahadur, one of Guru Gobind Singh's Sikh leaders, and is located 30 kilometres from Katra on the Chenab River. It draws a large number of Hindu and Sikh devotees, especially during Baisakhi's three-day fair.The gurudwara's interior depicts many important Sikh leaders and houses the great Baba Banda's ashes, arms, and other relics.

Bhairavnath Temple

This temple, dedicated to Bhairav Nath, is just 2 kilometres from the main shrine. The temple's beautiful views are well worth the hike, but if you're too tired to walk, ponies are also available. It is thought that a pilgrimage to Vaishno Devi is not complete without a stop at this temple.

Holy Cave of Shiv Khori

This 200-meter-long cave is known for its natural rock formations, including a 4-foot-high Shiva lingam and artefacts that resemble Goddess Parvati, Lord Ganesh, and Nandi. The carved snake formations on the roof, from which water cascades down on the lingam, add to its beauty.

Tips for Pilgrims

  • For a relaxed darshan, it is best to skip the peak season rush. During Navratras and the holiday season, waiting times will range from 12 to 24 hours. For information on the number of pilgrims visiting at any given time, visit the shrine board's official website.
  • All visitors must obtain a Yatra Access Slip, also known as a parchi, which is accessible at the Yatra Registration Counter in Katra. It also includes the assigned group number, which is declared when the time comes for that group to proceed for darshan in a systematic manner.
  • Carry thick woollens in the winter and light woollens in the summer, as well as comfortable walking shoes for the yatra.
  • Along the yatra path, there are information centres, refreshment kiosks, and public utilities.
  • Facilities such as blanket shops, medical assistance, banks, and postal services are available at the Bhawan for the convenience of visitors.

Yatra Parchi: Free

Helicopter Ticket: Rs.1,045/- per person* for a one-way trip

When to Go

The shrine is open all year, with Navratras being the busiest time. Visit Vaishno Devi between March and October, when the weather is cool and friendly, for a relaxing trek. Snowfall during the winter months adds to the appeal for those courageous enough to brave the cold.

Getting There

By Air: Jammu Airport is just 50 kilometres from Katra and is well connected to major Indian airports. From Jammu to Katra, regular taxis and cabs are readily accessible.

By Train: The nearest railway station is Udhampur, from which taxis to Katra are readily accessible.

By Bus: Several Jammu and Kashmir State Transport buses, as well as private air-conditioned buses, run between J&K and Delhi.

 

0 Comments