The Union Territory (UT) of Jammu and Kashmir is known for its lush greenery, alpine lakes, and pilgrimage sites. Visitors can take a boat ride on Dal Lake, marvel at the valley below from a cable car in Gulmarg, and stroll through the beautiful Shalimar Bagh.
One of the most famous attractions in the UT is the Vaishno Devi temple, which attracts around nine million pilgrims annually. Built on the slopes of the Trikuta Hills, it is one of the most prominent Hindu temples in India. It is also one of the main temples dedicated to a goddess. The main shrine is located within a small cave, where devotees pray to three natural rock formations known as pindis. The temple lies near the town of Katra and can only be accessed via a trekking route or by helicopter.
If you’re looking for a spiritual break, continue reading to learn more about Vaishno Devi and plan a trip to this pilgrimage site!
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Understanding Vaishno Devi
The Vaishno Devi shrine is one of the most revered temples dedicated to a Hindu goddess. It is located near the town of Katra and until recently could only be reached via a trek. Since 2002, a helicopter service has made it easier to visit this holy shrine.
Who is Vaishno Devi?
It is believed that Vaishno Devi is a manifestation of Goddess Durga, the supreme Hindu goddess, and was created at a time when Goddess Durga was busy fighting the asuras or demons. The human avatar that was created combined the spiritual energies of Mata Maha Kali (goddess of time and death), Mata Maha Lakshmi (goddess of wealth), and Mata Maha Saraswati (goddess of education, creativity, and music). All goddesses are referred to as mata (mother) since they are all forms of the main mother goddess, Durga.
Vaishno Devi was asked to be born in a particular household in southern India and tasked with evolving her own spirituality. She was to eventually merge with Lord Vishnu, the god of creation. She was called Vaishnavi by her parents and from a young age displayed an unexplainable divinity. Vaishnavi took a vow of celibacy and started meditating from an early age to become one with Lord Vishnu. She eventually found her way to the base of the Trikuta Hills near present-day Katra and built an ashram (a place of teaching and a spiritual retreat).
While meditating, she was continuously pestered by Bhairon Nath, a sage who was enamored by her and wanted to marry her. Vaishnavi decided to leave her ashram behind and run away. She eventually settled in a cave high up in the mountains. When Bhairon Nath continued to follow her, Vaishnavi was left with no choice but to kill him in order to continue with her meditation. As he was dying, Bhairon Nath realized his mistake and asked for forgiveness. After forgiving him, Vaishnavi continued with her meditation and eventually shed her human form to turn into a rock and merge with the ground.
About the Vaishno Devi temple
Within the main sanctum of the Vaishno Devi temple is the holy cave, where pilgrims pray to the three pindis. These rocks represent the spiritual energies of the three goddesses who helped create Vaishno Devi. The main body of the rock is submerged in water, with only the heads visible. A unique feature of this structure is that each of these heads has a different texture and color despite being part of the same rock.
The entire temple complex is known as the Vaishno Devi Bhawan, and in addition to the cave shrine, it includes several other smaller temples. It also provides free dorm-style rooms to rest, as well as paid accommodations for overnight stays.
What makes the temple so popular?
With more than 20,000 devotees visiting the shrine daily, this temple records some of the highest footfalls in India. The devotees hold the belief that all wishes made at the temple are fulfilled. It is also part of the 108 most significant temples dedicated to Goddess Durga in the world.
Reverence aside, the availability of facilities and services along the route, as well as at the temple complex, have also helped maintain its popularity. The route to the shrine has constantly been upgraded and is dotted with not-for-profit restaurants and snack centers. Despite the remote location of the temple and the 13 km (8.08 mi) uphill trek that most devotees have to undertake, visitors have only increased over the years.
Rituals at the Vaishno Devi Temple
A day at the Vaishno Devi Temple begins with the head priest performing the Aatam Puja (self-purification ritual) of the pindis, after which the goddess is draped in a saree (an unstitched fabric wrapped around the body) and jewelry. This is followed by the morning aarti (a light-offering ritual with oil lamps) first inside the cave, and then outside, where the devotees are waiting. The inner sanctum is only opened to the public after the completion of the morning aarti.
The temple is open between 5 am and 12 pm and 4 pm and 9 pm. It is possible to book a spot to witness the aarti, as well as have one performed on your behalf.
Within the complex, visitors can also pay their respects at several other temples dedicated to prominent Hindu gods and goddesses.
What is the best way to reach Vaishno Devi?
The Vaishno Devi temple complex is built around the holy cave shrine, which was the goddess’s final meditation point. The motorable road ends in the town of Katra, from where it is a 13 km (8.08 mi) trek to the temple.
By air
If you are thinking of taking a flight, Jammu Airport is the closest, at a distance of 49.2 km (30.57 mi) from Katra. Buses and taxis are also readily available here.
By rail
Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra railway station is located in Katra and receives trains from most major cities in India. There is also a daily train service from Delhi.
By road
State and private buses to Katra are fairly common from Jammu and other northern Indian cities such as Delhi and Amritsar. Pilgrims can also drive until Katra and park their vehicles at hotel or public parking lots.
From Katra, visitors can either follow the trek route on foot or hop into battery-operated cars. Alternatively, hire a palanquin or a pony to carry you up to the shrine. Porters are also available for carrying luggage and goods uphill. The trek route is open all day, and several even begin their trek in the evening and walk through the night.
A helicopter service is also available and regularly departs from Katra to transport devotees to Sanjichhat, just about 2 km (1.24 mi) away from the temple. From here, the last stretch can be completed on foot.
Pilgrimage circuit of Vaishno Devi
It is often said that only those whom Vaishno Devi seeks are able to complete the trek. And if you get a calling it is imperative that you undertake the yatra (journey) and seek her blessings. She is known by various names such as Sherawali (one having a lion or a tiger) and Mate (mother). Chants of these names can often be heard along the route.
Before commencing the trek
The 13 km (7.46 mi) trek begins from the town of Katra at the foothills of the Trikuta Hills and ends at the holy cave. In order to commence the trek, all visitors need to register and are issued an individual Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) card with their photograph. These can be obtained from Yatra Registration Counter (YRC) near Katra bus stop, Katra railway station, Serli Helipad, and Jammu Airport. The RFID helps to ensure that the shrine does not cross its daily capacity of 30,000-35,000 visitors. Once the card has been issued, visitors need to cross the first checkpoint within six hours or the card is automatically canceled.
Trek details
The trek route is a clean and well-maintained paved road with street lights and several covered rest points. It is monitored by CCTV cameras and is regularly patrolled by local police. Bangaga is 1 km (0.62 mi) away from Katra and is the first stop and main checkpoint of the trek. After Banganga, the next stop is at Charan Paduka, 1.5 km (0.93 mi) away. This is followed by Adkuwari, 3.5 km (2.17 mi) away, which marks the midpoint of the trek. Next, you will reach Himkoti, 2.5 km (1.55 mi) away, then Sanjichhat, 1 km (0.62 mi) away, and finally the Vaishno Devi Bhawan, 3.5 km (2.17 mi) away.
The trek however does not end here. For the pilgrimage to be complete, devotees must also visit Bhairon Temple. It is built where Bhairon Nath breathed his last after seeking forgiveness for having chased Vaishno Devi over the years. She forgave him with the blessing that no journey to the goddess would be complete until they also worshipped him afterward. A cable car is available to take visitors to Bhairon Temple.
Best time to visit
The Vaishno Devi Temple is open throughout the year but witnesses a surge in pilgrims during the months of May to July, October to November, and over the New Year. During this time visitors can expect to wait anywhere between 12-20 hours for their turn to enter the inner sanctum. The original tunnel to access the cave remains closed for most of the year but is kept open during the winter months.
Everything you need to know to prepare yourself
The Vaishno Devi yatra is a long uphill trek and requires a basic level of fitness. You will cross devotees walking barefoot or even on their knees to reach the shrine!
What is the weather like?
Summers in Katra can get hot, with a minimum temperature of 20°C and a maximum of 41°C. As you climb towards the temple, the temperature drops with the maximum daytime temperature hovering at around 30°C. Winters are cold, with the temple receiving snowfall from December to February.
How long is the route?
The route is 13 km (8.08 mi) long along a paved pathway. There are restaurants and snack counters along the way as well as rest stops where pilgrims can stop for a few minutes or a few hours.
Is it safe for solo travelers?
Yes, it is safe for solo travelers to plan a trip to Vaishno Devi. Due to its popularity, you are not likely to find an empty stretch along the path, even during the night. The pathways are wide and well-lit to ensure a hassle-free climb at all times of the day. The trek route is under CCTV surveillance and is regularly patrolled by local security forces. Police stations are also available at Banganga, Adkuwari, Sanjichatt, and Vaishno Devi Bhawan.
If you feel uncomfortable trekking alone, you can opt for the helicopter service or the battery-operated car. Both of these are quick and efficient means to reach the temple.
What if I experience altitude sickness?
Due to the altitude, it is possible to feel shortness of breath as you climb uphill. In case of an emergency, make your way to the closest Medical Aid Centres, which are available at all the checkpoints. There is a block hospital at Katra, too, if you need medical attention. It is also recommended that you carry some basic medicines with you. Make sure to keep yourself hydrated over the course of the trek.
Who can undertake this pilgrimage?
Everyone, including the elderly, can partake in the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage. There are rest stops along the way as well as palanquins and helicopter service to make it easier for everyone to travel. However, it is recommended that everyone undergoes a physical exam before planning their trip.
What should I wear to the temple?
While there is no dress code mentioned by the temple board, it is recommended that visitors dress modestly as they are visiting a holy place. Clothes with exposed shoulders and knees should be avoided by both men and women.
Where to stay in Katra?
Top hotels in Katra (from USD 35)
The Fern Residency Katra
Address: Near Asia Chowk Jammu Road Katra., Katra, Katra (Jammu and Kashmir), India, 182301
Fortune Park Katra - Member ITC'S Hotel Group
Address: Railway Station Road,, Katra, Katra (Jammu and Kashmir), India, 182301
Top homestays in Katra (from USD 16)
Saatvik Homestay
Address: House 39A, Ward 13, Katra, Katra, Katra (Jammu and Kashmir), India, 182301
POP Pinki Homestay
Address: 55, Kothar Partly, Jhajhar Kotli
Vidya Guest House
Address: Ward No.4 Bhimani Gali Near Shiv Mandir Kashmir Road
Top vacation rentals near Katra (from USD 27)
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Seek divine blessings at Vaishno Devi
While Vaishno Devi has always been a prominent pilgrimage site, it has become more accessible over the years. Combine that with technological advancements along the route, as well as excellent amenities, and visitors are guaranteed a truly fulfilling experience. Use this detailed guide if you plan on visiting the holy Vaishno Devi in Katra and find the best places to stay nearby!
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