Since time immemorial, Maa Vaishno Devi Yatra has been one of the
sacred pilgrimages in India. Millions of pilgrims eagerly await ‘Mata ka
bulawa’ to embark on a holy sojourn every year. It is believed that
until the Goddess doesn’t invite, you can’t pay homage at the Vaishno
Devi Shrine.
Nestled beautifully amidst Trikuta
Hills, the temple is the holy abode of Mata Rani who resides here in ‘Pindi
form’ within a cave. Considered as a manifestation of the Hindu Goddess Mata
Adi Shakti, the presiding deity fulfills the wishes of anyone who comes here
with a pure heart.
So, if you, your parents or family are wishing since long to plan
this Yatra, here’s a complete Vaishno Devi travel guide for you. Whether
you are a first-timer or have already been to the sacred Bhawan of Maa
Vaishno, this blog may help you a lot.
From new routes, Yatra registration process to accommodations, you
can find detailed Vaishno Devi information here. Plan a trip soon, as
only a few lucky ones get a chance to cherish this heavenly experience. Book 4 Days Vaishno Devi tour with Patnitop
How to reach Vaishno Devi in Katra?
Regarded as one of the most visited temples in India, the Vaishno
Devi Shrine is located in Katra. The beautiful town is a part of an
attractive state Jammu and Kashmir which is strongly connected to the
rest of India. So, you can easily reach here by various means of
transportation mentioned below.
By Air
Jammu Airport is nearest to
Katra and lies at a distance of 49.0 km. From the airport, you can easily get a
bus or taxi to the town. One-way flight ticket to Jammu from Delhi costs
something around INR 3,000 or more.
By train
To reach here by train, deboard at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra
Station which is just 1.4 km away. In fact, visitors often prefer
traveling aboard New Delhi to Vaishno Devi Trains to make their journey
comfortable. A Vaishno Devi train passes through several tunnels and
helps you delight in awe-inspiring vistas. Fares of a Vaishno Devi train
ticket range between INR 385 to INR 2415 depending upon the train and
class you choose.
By Road
Tourists traveling by road, either through private or public
transport enjoy a delightful journey from Jammu to Katra. The unwinding
roads, panoramic views and many other interesting features take away all
the weariness easily. However, the distance between Jammu and Katra is
44.5 km. From Katra station, you can easily get an auto rickshaw to
reach Fountain Chowk and further proceed for your Yatra.
Once you make your way to Katra, a number of private and budget
hotels, dharamshalas and government accommodation are available here. In
addition, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) also offers
three types of accommodations for the ease of the pilgrims. These are
free accommodation, rented dormitories and rented rooms. Rented
dormitories/rooms are available to the devotees against advance
reservation. You can choose any of them to stay and unwind yourself
before the Yatra. The reservation of a bed in a dormitory at Katra costs
INR 100 and INR 120 at Bhawan and Adhkuwari.
Yatra Registration counter
The first and most important thing you have to do is to get yourself
registered for the Vaishno Devi Yatra. Head to the Yatri Registration
counter near bus stand or railway station at Katra. This service is free
and easy. You have to stand in a queue and wait for your turn. You may
get lucky enough to find no queue at all. Tell your name and hometown.
Get yourself photographed. Next, they will give you a printed entry pass
also known as ‘parchi’ with your name on it. Keep it with you safely
and show it at different checkpoints when asked for the same.
Many remarkable efforts have been made to make the process a lot easier. Now, devotees can choose Vaishno Devi online booking
for the same process according to their convenience. Do the deed
sitting at your home. But, make sure that you carry a printout of the
slip along with you.
Earlier, there was only one route from Katra to Bhawan which
commanded an arduous trek of around 13 km. However, with the passage of
time, new routes have been opened up. These routes do not only cut short
the distance but also make the sojourn hassle-free. Moreover, the
challenging trek becomes easy with people chanting Jai Maa Vaishno Devi
Jayakaras from time to time.
Choose any, as each of the routes to reach Vaishno Devi Cave has something special for you.
Route 1: Old Track (Holy Track)
In the olden days, the only route to Maa Vaishno Devi Cave was
unpaved and consisted of a few flights of stairs. Hailed as the original
route, it was filled with dirt and had sharp turns. But, after some
time, it got a makeover and now you get to see paved and wide road
covered with tiles. Now, it is covered with shed and has loudspeakers
that play hymns of the Goddess at a subtle voice level.
As a matter of fact, you get carried away with the positive vibes in
the air. Additionally, proper lighting facilities, water coolers,
toilets throughout the track make it easy for you to trek. Apart from
all these, what makes the original track retain its authenticity are the
various points testifying the visit of Maa Vaishno.
Route 2: New Track (Short cut)
Comparatively easier than the
previous one, the new route from Katra to Bhawan is 500 m shorter. Unlike the original
track, no ponies are allowed here. Starting from Indraprastha Point just below
Adhkuwari, the route ends just prior to Bhawan. Another key point to note about
the alternative track is that electric vehicles run on it. Additionally, there
are refreshment point, water coolers, a dosa point at Himkoti, toilets and much
more en route.
Route 3: Tarakote Marg (Latest)
Your detailed Vaishno Devi tour guide makes you aware of a new route
as well. Introduced recently, the latest route has cut short the 13 km
trek to only 7 km. Passing atop a hillock overlooking Katra, the new
route consists of medical units, eateries and no steps at all. Featuring
non-skid tiles, the way allows pedestrian pilgrims to marvel at scenic
views. Water ATMs across the route make the journey bereft of any
hassle.
Choose any of the routes and you
will get the first glimpse of Bhawan a few kilometers before you actually reach
there. The first sight causes a sudden upsurge of energy and all the tiredness
of the strenuous climb evaporates immediately. The fact that the last 1.5 km of
the Yatra is either level or gently sloping downwards brings a big relief to
those tired muscles.
Attractions en route to Vaishno Devi Gufa
There are various attractions en
route from Katra to Vaishno Devi Bhawan which present a sight to behold. These
points are often briefly introduced to the pilgrims traveling by pony or
palkis. However, those who chose to travel by foot out of devotion get a nice
reward for this.
Darshani Darwaza – This iconic gate marks the
starting point of your Yatra. According to folklore, Maa Vaishno in the
form of a girl met her ardent devotee Pandit Shridhar here. From this
point, pilgrims can savor the panoramic view of the Trikuta Hills.
Ban Ganga – A small flowing rivulet reminds you
to keep going with high spirits. Another reason for the presence of
this small stream here is associated with miracles of the Goddess. At
this spot, the divine power quenched the thirst of Lord Hanuman by
creating this rivulet with her arrow. She further appointed Veer
Bajrangi to stay here and prevent Bhairon Nath from following her. Also,
it is said that Maa washed her hair before proceeding to the cave.
Since then, followers of Devi, take a dip here before continuing their
Yatra.
Charan Paduka – Nearly after 1.5 km from Ban
Ganga, their stands a beautiful temple with footprints of the Goddess.
The ancient temple echoes legends of Mata Rani who stood here for a
while to look back. She wanted to ensure whether Bhairon Nath was still
chasing her or not. Meanwhile, the imprints of her foot got engraved on a
rock. Thus, pilgrims pay obeisance here with full devotion.
Ardhkuwari Darshan – Translating to an eternal
virgin, Ardhkuwari is the place where Maa meditated and worshiped Lord
Shiva for 9 months. She resided in a cave just as a child does in his
mother’s womb for 9 months. Thus, the cave got the name as ‘Garbh Joon’.
It was after then that Bharion came to know about the Devi who then
made an opening in the cave with her trident. She further proceeded
towards the Bhawan instantly. Despite that the cave here is very narrow,
many followers still pay homage by traversing through it. Moreover, the
place also marks the completion of half of the journey.
Hathi Matha – The trek after Adhkuwari is very
steep upwards to move for about two and a half kilometers. The hill
resembles the head of an elephant due to which the point is known as
Hathi Matha. You may feel like panting here but instead of counting the
hardships, counting the blessings will keep you going.
Himkoti – This place lies on the new track. Offering awe-inspiring views of the valley, Himkoti exudes a mysterious and ethereal charm.
Sanji Chhat
– The highest point of the Vaishno Devi trek, Sanji Chhat is a
beautiful small plateau. The holy Bhawan is just 2.5 km away. The walk
is really comfortable from here. Passengers undertaking Vaishno Devi
Yatra by helicopter have to disembark at the helipad here. Besides, one
can find shops, resting place, eatery and a charitable dispensary at
this place.
Bhairon Ghati – Usually Vaishno
Devi Yatra is considered incomplete without visiting the Bhairav Baba
temple. But from the original route, the shrine falls en route to
Bhawan. It is the site where the head of Bhairon Nath fell after the
Goddess Vaishnavi beheaded him. Legends state it that due to the genuine
apologies of the Bhairon Nath, Mata Rani gave him a blessing that he
too will be worshipped by her devotees. Otherwise, the Yatra of the
devotees will be considered incomplete. Also, Maa not only forgave him
but also helped him attain salvation. Thus, visiting Bhairav Baba Mandir
after having Darshan of Vaishno Devi is a must.
Bhawan – The ultimate destination of the
Vaishno Devi Yatra is the holy bhawan or the cave of the Goddess. The
sanctum sanctorum welcomes the devotees full of unparalleled zeal and
enthusiasm. There dwells the Goddess beautifully adorned waiting for her
children to meet them and fulfill their wishes.
How to reach Vaishno Devi (Bhawan) from Katra
Katra to Vaishno Devi helicopter service
Not only the introduction of new small routes has made trekking easy
but also Vaishno Devi helicopter service has made it a child’s play. A
boon for senior citizens, specially-abled people and devotees with time
constraints, the service help you fly to the shrine within no time. You
can board the helicopter from the helipad at Katra which takes you to
Sanji Chhat and vice-versa. A short trek from Sanji Chhat leads you to
Bhawan. To get early Darshan, show your return ticket when asked.
How to Get Ticket Vaishno Devi helicopter
Pilgrims who wish to choose Vaishno Devi helicopter Yatra
can book the ticket online in advance. Vaishno Devi helicopter charges
are decided by the trust. Booking can be done at the official website of
the shrine.
Fares for one-way Mata Vaishno devi helicopter service from Katra to
Sanji Chhat or vice versa is INR 1045. However, if you’re looking for
prices for helicopter tickets from Katra – Sanji Chhat – Katra, then
you’ve to spare INR 2,090. Also, children below 2 years of age can
travel free of cost. However, they shall be carried in the lap of an
accompanying adult.
Palkis
Obviously, there are devotees who whole-heartedly yearn to go to
Vaishno Devi but are not able to undertake the challenging trek. Keeping
this mind, palki service was started to enable the pilgrims to reach
the holy abode of Mata Rani easily. The charges of palki during Vaishno
devi darshan are fixed and are written on the walls at Ban Ganga.
However, you can still bargain with the palanquin bearers.
Hitherto, the doli prices for a Yatri up to 100 kg range between INR
1250 and INR 4500. Whereas for a pilgrim above 100 kg, Vaishno Devi
palki charges are between INR 1400 and INR 5000 depending upon the
distance to be covered.
Don’t feel comfortable while walking for long? Or are you carrying a
baby or luggage with you? Worry not! Ponies and Pithoos are always at
your help. The exhaustion of the trek can be easily overcome by hiring
Ponies & Pithoos available from Katra to Vaishno devi Bhawan. While
Ponies are suitable for people having breathing issues, Pithoos can be
sought after to carry luggage or a baby.
Again, the rates for the same are fixed. As for now, the cost of pony
service from Banganga to Bhawan is Rs. 1250 for adult & Rs. 1450
for an extra child. In general, Pithoo charges from Katrafor
one way is Rs. 350 and for a round trip is Rs. 700. Apart from this,
fares from Bhawan to Katra via Bhairon is INR 400. However, the rates
keep on changing. so, you must check them written on the walls at
Banganga and follow the further process.
Horse
Pilgrims can also hire a horse to make the journey easy. Fare of a
horse carrying a person from Ban Ganga to Mata Bhawan costs around Rs.
760. You can find the actual price at
Auto
Another easiest
and safest mode of traveling is via Auto or electric vehicles. Unlike ponies,
pithoos and palkis, auto rickshaws ply from Adhkuwari to Bhawan. Subject to
availability, the battery car facility is available for sick, infirm and
handicap devotees. Reservation for a maximum of 3 battery car seats can be made
by a person online.
The devotees have
to pay Rs. 300 per person as charges for the car service from Adhkuwari to the
Bhawan. While the return fare to Adhkuwari is Rs. 200.
Checkpoints
There are two checkpoints en
route Vaishno Devi trek. Out of the two, the first is at Ban Ganga. Yatris have
to show their ‘Parchi’ here. They have to get this slip checked and stamped at
this place. After this, they have to undergo a security check.
Next, checkpoint is near the
Bhawan. Once, you reach, get your luggage checked again. Show the Yatra slip once
more at the checking point in close proximity and obtain a group number. This
decides your place in the Darshan queue.
Bhaint (Offering) Shop
Although pilgrims can bring the
offerings from their home, yet they can buy it from many shops en route. Also,
after obtaining the group number, one can reach the Bhaint Shop run by the
government and private owners. You can buy Parsad from here which usually
consist of coconut, chunni, sacred thread and parsad in a jute bag. Yatris can
buy empty bottles from here to carry ‘charnamrit’ to their home.
Vaishno Devi Darshan Tips
The most important thing for which you have undertaken the
enthralling trek and reached here is to have Darshan of the goddess. The
Vaishno Devi Darshan timings is not fixed. The temple remains open
24*7. Thus, devotees can get Darshan anytime soon they reach the shrine.
But, it is during the Aarti that the pilgrims have to wait for two
hours to perform pooja. The Vaishno Devi Attka Aarti is performed twice
daily at 6:20 am – 8:00 am and 7:20 pm – 8:30 pm. Read on to know more
about the Darshan.
Take a bath before proceeding for the
Darshan. Separate bathing ghats, toilets and bathrooms are available for
men and women nearby Bhawan. Efforts have been made to maneuver the
water from the sacred cave to these bathrooms.
Thereafter, avail a locker facility and deposit all your belongings including your mobile phones, cameras and shoes there.
Subsequently,
reach gate number 1. Wait for the announcement of your group number.
Once it is called, proceed for the much awaited moment. Meanwhile, you
can enjoy Vaishno Devi live Darshan at many of the televisions installed
on the way.
Usually, it takes no time to have Darshan. But,
during peak season or Navratri, pilgrims have to wait for at least 8-9
hours in the queue to get the Darshan. But, the wait during that time is
surely worth it.
Once you reach in the waiting hall, you will
find a designated area where you have to give your coconut. In return,
you will get a token. Keep it safe with you.
Next, you proceed
towards the entry point to the shrine. You will see two caves here. Out
of the two, one is ancient and original. In the bygone era, yatris used
to travel through this only. Even today, this cave is open for the
public for a few days. Obtaining darshan through this gave is a
matchless experience. Since the old cave remains closed majority of the
year, two new tunnels are created for the convenience. One is used to
take the pilgrims to the holy pindies while the other is designated for
the exit purpose.
Also, at the opening of the original cave, the
torso of the Bhairon Baba is located in the form of rock. Pilgrims have
to step on it before entering the Purani Gufa at Vaishno Devi.
At
the end of the tunnel, Mother Goddess keeps on waiting for her
followers. There are no statues, idols or images. Rather, three pindies
representing Maa Lakshmi, Maa Saraswati and Maa Kali collectively
represent Maa Vaishno, an incarnation of the three Supreme Energies.
Once you reach there, concentrate only on the pindies and the
description given by the priests. Bow down, make a wish and move further
quickly in order to let other pilgrims have the darshan.
What to do after having Darshan of Maa Vaishno Devi?
After cherishing the Darshan of Maa Vaishno Devi
till your heart’s content, move out of the tunnel. Adjacent to the gate, you
will find Amrit Kund and Charan Ganga. Fill the water flowing from the tap in a
bottle or just drink it as Parsad. This water comes from the holy cave and is
said to have healing and purifying properties.
As you move a little further from the Amrit
Kund, you will see Parsad counter. Devotees get a parshad in the form of a
small pouch containing Mishri and a coin, also known as Khazaana (treasure). You
can keep this coin in your wallet or locker where you keep your cash. It is
supposed to bring good luck and prosperity.
Remember the token you received in the waiting
hall upon giving your coconut? It’s the time to use it now! Show the token and
get your coconut back as parshad.
Later on, devotees have to do ‘Kanya Pujan’. They
can either do it at the shrine itself or after coming back to their home.
Facilities available during the Vaishno Devi Yatra
To cater to the needs of the pilgrims,
various facilities are available during the course of the trek. Here’s a list
of services one can benefit from.
Bhojanalyas
There are five
Bhojanalayas en route to satiate the hunger of the travelers. These eateries
are run at the no-profit basis. For this reason, you can savor hygienic food
here at cheap and affordable prices. Apart from these, there are many privately
owned food joints all along the way.
Shelter
Sheds
Braving the step
climb is indeed difficult. So, taking rest for a while is quite obvious. Furthermore,
the weather also sometimes become unpredictable during the trek. Under those
circumstances, yatris can halt at the shelter shed covering much of the trekking
trail.
Medical Facilities
Vaishno Devi
Yatra involves strenuous trekking and the shrine is nestled at a high altitude.
For this reason, a medical checkup and consulting your doctor before proceeding
is always advisable. Patients prone to asthma, cardiac and orthopedic problems
are prevented from using stairs. Having said that, emergencies can occur
anytime. So, a block hospital is available Katra. In addition, one can find charitable
dispensary which works round the clock at Banganga, Adkuwari, Sanjichhat and
Bhawan.
Refreshment
Points
At a few
handpicked locations, visitors can easily find refreshment points. Besides
offering light snacks and drinks, these units provide mind-blowing views of the
nearby surroundings. Sip on freshly brewed coffee or tea. Or else, you can buy
milk or cold drinks. Biscuits, popcorns, mineral water along with other
refreshments are also available here.
Blanket
Stores
Usually, yatris feel
the need of blankets at night. Provision of the same is accessible at the blanket
stores at various locations. Although the service is free of cost, yet a nominal
and refundable security deposit fee has to be paid. Visitors get entire amount
refunded once they return the blankets.
Cloakrooms
Cloakroom
facility is at one’s disposal any time of the day or night. Tourists can now
leave behind all their excess of luggage in the cloakroom available at the hotel,
lodges, guest houses, etc. As a matter of fact, video cameras, mobile phones
and other electronic equipment are not allowed. So, yatris can either make appropriate
arrangements for the safekeeping of such items or keep them in the cloakrooms.
Souvenir
Shops
If you want to
carry a memento of the sacred pilgrimage, you can head to any souvenir shop at Jammu,
Katra bus stand, Adhkuwari, Sanjichat and Bhawan. Gold coins, silver coins,
chunri, chura, cholas, CDs, etc. are available here at less prices.
Banks
Branches of many
private and nationalized banks are at Katra. Additionally, ATM facilities in
the town also enable tourists to avail benefits anytime. Bank branches are also
available at Adhkuwari and Bhawan complex.
Place to rest at Bhawan
Private hotels near Vaishno Devi Bhawan are available to provide
neat, adequate and clean resting places to the pilgrims. Also, there are
many other resting spots like Manokamana Bhawan, Saraswati Bhawan where
tourists can spend a night. Waiting Halls are constructed for the
comforts of the devotees. One can make an online booking or reserve the
space on the first-come-first-serve basis.
Travel from Vaishno Devi Bhawan to Bhairon Ghati By Ropeway
One of the latest advancements made is the introduction of the Vaishno Devi Ropeway.
The cable cars in the ropeway take devotees from Bhairon Ghati to
Vaishno Devi Bhawan in just 5 minutes. So, now there is one more option
available making the holy pilgrimage easier than ever before. Ropeway
ticket to Vaishno Devi temple costs only 100 Rs.
Furthermore, tickets are available on the spot at Bhawan. The ropeway
can carry 800 people every hour and is operational now. Because of the
extreme ascent from Bhawan to Bhairav Baba Mandir, the hike turns to be a
tiring one. But, as now Vaishno Devi gets the ropeway service, reaching
the shrine will be a fun full of unparalleled adventure.
Best Time to visit Vaishno Devi
Maa Vaishno Devi Shrine remains open for the pilgrims throughout the year. But, thebest
time to plan Vaishno Devi Yatra is between the months of March and
October. One of the reason is that the climate is cool and pleasant
during these months. Also, the shrine receives a huge footfall during
the Navratras, May-July and New Year vacations. So until and unless
you’re an ardent devotee or are ready to face a huge crowd, you can
avoid your visit during this time.
There is another reason for
planning your Vaishno Devi trip during off-peak season. You may become lucky to
have Darshan through the original cave. Planning a trip during winter months is
also considered as the best option to witness snowfall.
Places to visit
Besides the holy cave, there are other places to visit in and around Vaishno Devi Shrine. Read on to know more.
Temple of
Lord Shiva: Just after coming out from the coconut reclaiming
counter, you will find a few steps descending downwards. These steps take you
to the temple of Lord Shiva where a Jyotirlingam of the Lord is nestled in a
cave.
Other
temples: A few other temples of Mata Durga, Shri Ram with Sita and
Lakshman, Lord Hanuman, etc. are situated at the different points of the Bhawan
complex. Signboards have been put up at Bhawan to guide the yatries as to the
location of these temples.
Dera Baba
Banda – The 300 years old Gurudwara which is dedicated to Baba Banda
Bahadur lies in close proximity to Katra.
Nau Devi
Temple – A cave temple which houses 9 deities believed to be incarnations
of Goddess Durga. The shrine is also located near Katra.
Kol
Kandoli – Situated in Jammu, Kol Kandoli is said to be the first milestone
of the Vaishno Devi Yatra. Maa Vaishno spent her childhood here. She appeared
here as a girl of age 5 and did penance for 12 years.
Raghunath
Temple – Another one of the top tourist attractions in Jammu is Raghunath
Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama.
Shiv
Khori – Most of the people visiting Vaishno Devi also extended their
pilgrimage to Shiv Khori. The holy cave enshrines the sacred lingam of Lord
Shiva. Also, folklores connect the holy site to Amarnath Cave which is another
highly revered shrine for Hindus. The holy abode of supreme almighty is located
70 km away from Katra.
Patni Top
– Treat yourself to the astounding views at Patni Top. A famous picnic spot is thronged
by visitors who love to play with the snow and enjoy fun-filled moments.
Mansar
Lake – A scenic lake surrounded by forest-covered hills.
Bahu Fort
– Perhaps the oldest edifice and fort in the city.
Dos & Don’ts During Vaishno Devi Yatra
Embarking on a pilgrimage requires some instructions to be followed.
Vaishno Devi trip planning is no exception. Pilgrims should adhere to
some rules and follow the instructions provided.
Dos
Be a responsible pilgrim and try to help the
fellow yatris.
Use dustbins to throw your garbage.
Motivate other pilgrims en route.
Dress appropriately.
Prepaid SIM cards do not work in Jammu and
Kashmir. But you can always use postpaid or local SIM Cards.
In case anyone gets lost, simply inform at the
shrine offices or security guards.
Maintain the sanctity of the place.
Be aware of the monkeys. They instantly jump out
of nowhere and usually attack on your mobile phones, parsad and other eatables.
Keep them at bay but don’t throw stones on them.
If travelling in monsoon season, pack a raincoat
and in case of winter months, keep woolens with you.
Deposit your offerings only in the donation
boxes.
Don’ts
Except for cash and selected offerings, nothing
is allowed inside the Holy Cave. So, don’t carry any extra items with you.
Don’t carry articles of general use like belts,
wrist watches with leather belts, combs, pen, pencil, purses, handbags, etc.
Don’t shout slogans of praises around the
sanctum sanctorum and inside the tunnel.
Don’t litter here and there.
Don’t stand for too long near the landslide-prone
areas.
Don’t harm the ponies, porters, pithoos or palki
owners.
Don’t use the stairs if you are a heart patient
or are prone to blood pressure issues.
Using shampoo, soap, oil, etc. at the Bathing
Ghats is strictly prohibited.
Avoid offensive language or vulgar gestures en route.
Smoking, drinking liquor, eating non-vegetarian
food or betel leaves and chewing tobacco is strictly prohibited.
Don’t encourage begging.
Don’t take anything from strangers.
The Yatra to Vaishno Devi spiritually awakens you from within.If still in doubt, do book any of the Vaishno Devi Yatra packages and travel with ease. Hope you discover a divine within you. Jai Mata Di!
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