a complete guide to visiting vaishno devi temple in jammu

Located in the beautiful hill range of Trikuta in Jammu and Kashmir, Vaishno Devi Temple is a legendary shrine place in India. The shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi is one of the most revered sites of worship and is visited by millions of people every year for prayers and solace. This guide will help you plan a complete guide to visit Vaishno Devi Temple in Jammu and help in searching for the best stay option.

1. How to Reach Vaishno Devi Temple

The town nearest to the shrine of Vaishno Devi is Katra and is about 42 kilometres from Jammu.

• By Air: Jammu Airport, which is about 50 km away from Katra, has operational flights from most of the Indian cities.

• By Train: Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Railway Station has direct links with other cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chandigarh.

• By Road: Local transport, including regular and deluxe buses and taxis, is readily available to carry visitors from Jammu to Katra, the base point of pilgrimage.

2. Different ways of trekking to Shrine

The trek from Katra to the shrine of Vaishno Devi is usually about 13 kilometres.

• Traditional Trek: The shrines can be reached on foot through a well-maintained path, including refreshment shops and rest stops along the way.

• Pony and Palanquin Rides: For those who cannot walk the distance, horses and palanquins are available for hire.

• Helicopter Services: Helicopter rides are an option, offering breathtaking views and reducing travel time to a mere 8 minutes. Permission might only be granted in advance flight booking by clients.

3. Timings and Procedure of Darshan

• The temple is open round the clock, enabling devotees to have darshan at any time.

• It is compulsory that each devotee has one Yatra Registration Slip, which can be collected at the Katra Yatra Counter or online.

• The darshan typically involves visiting the cave where the goddess's manifestations, in the form of pindis, are worshipped.

4. Best Time to Visit

The best time to travel to Vaishno Devi is from March to October, although it is advised to avoid travelling during the winter season. Moreover, most pilgrims choose to visit during Navratri, when the temple looks at its best, brimming with festivities.

5. Essentials to Pack

• Loose/comfortable clothing and best walking shoes

• Light woollens (light woollens are preferred more or less for the year because the temperature decreases with the rise in altitude).

• Identity card or any other photo ID proof along with the Yatra Registration Slip

6. Nearby Attractions

Enhance your spiritual journey by visiting these attractions:

• Bhairon Temple: It’s situated 2 km upwards from Vaishno Devi Shrine and forms part of the pilgrimage tour.

• Ardh Kuwari Cave: It’s a sacre site where goddess Vaishno Devi used to meditate.

• Shiv Khori: A 200-meter-long cave dedicated to Lord Shiva, situated about 70 km from Katra.

Where to Stay in Katra

To get the best accommodation near Vaishno Devi, one should opt for Amritara Maa Katra. Well-situated, this comfortable and quiet facility provides comforts along with modern amenities, large rooms, and a friendly atmosphere that are suitable for pilgrims.

Plan your journey to Vaishno Devi for a spiritually uplifting and serene experience. Let Amritara Maa Katra enhance your stay with unmatched comfort and care.

FAQs for Vaishno Devi Temple In Jammu

1. What is the Vaishno Devi Temple?
   Vaishno Devi Temple is a sacred Hindu shrine dedicated to Goddess Vaishno Devi, located in the Trikuta Mountains in Jammu and Kashmir.
2. Where is the Vaishno Devi Temple located?
   It is situated near Katra in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir, approximately 61 kilometers from Jammu.
3. How can I reach the Vaishno Devi Temple?
   You can reach the temple by trekking from Katra, taking a pony or palanquin, or using the helicopter service from Katra to Sanjichhat, followed by a short walk.
4. What is the distance of the trek to Vaishno Devi Temple?
   The trek from Katra to the temple is about 13 kilometers.
5. Is there a ropeway service available to the temple?
   Yes, a ropeway connects Bhawan to Bhairon Temple for devotees who want to continue their journey beyond the main shrine.
6. What is the best time to visit Vaishno Devi Temple?
   The temple is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the cooler months between March and October.
7. What are the temple’s opening hours?
   The Vaishno Devi Temple is open 24 hours a day for darshan, though peak times may involve longer wait times.
8. Do I need to register for the yatra (pilgrimage)?
   Yes, registration is mandatory. You can register online through the official Vaishno Devi Shrine Board website or at the Yatra Registration Counter in Katra.
9. Are there accommodations available near the temple?
   Yes, there are numerous accommodations, including budget hotels, guesthouses, and lodges in Katra and near the Bhawan area.
10. What are the facilities available on the trek?
    The trek has facilities like food stalls, drinking water stations, toilets, medical aid, and resting spots.
11. Is the Vaishno Devi trek suitable for elderly people?
    Yes, elderly people can undertake the trek with the help of ponies, palkis (palanquins), or the helicopter service.
12. What is Bhairon Temple, and why is it important?
    Bhairon Temple, located 2 kilometers from Bhawan, is an important part of the pilgrimage. Devotees believe the yatra is incomplete without visiting this temple.
13. Are there lockers or cloakrooms available for storing belongings?
    Yes, lockers are available at various points for storing shoes, bags, and other belongings.
14. Is photography allowed inside the temple?
    Photography is not permitted inside the sanctum of the temple to maintain the sanctity of the shrine.
15. Are there any special pujas or rituals performed at Vaishno Devi Temple?
    Yes, special aartis and pujas are conducted daily. Devotees can also book offerings and pujas through the shrine board.