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.
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