The Vaishno Devi Yatra is a sacred pilgrimage undertaken by millions of devotees every year. It is a journey to the holy shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi, located in the Trikuta Mountains of Katra, Jammu & Kashmir, India. This pilgrimage holds immense spiritual significance for Hindus, who believe that a visit to the shrine grants the fulfillment of wishes and blessings from the divine goddess.
Significance of Vaishno Devi Shrine
The Vaishno Devi shrine is dedicated to Mata Vaishno Devi, a manifestation of the Hindu goddess Durga (Shakti). It is believed that Mata Vaishno Devi is the union of the three supreme energies of Mata Mahalakshmi (wealth), Mata Mahasaraswati (wisdom), and Mata Mahakali (strength). The shrine is considered one of the 108 Shakti Peethas and is one of the most revered pilgrimage destinations in India.
Location and Altitude
- Location: Trikuta Mountains, Katra, Jammu & Kashmir, India.
- Altitude: The holy cave is located at an altitude of 5,200 feet (1,584 meters) above sea level.
- Distance: The total trek to the shrine from Katra is approximately 12 km.
How to Reach Vaishno Devi
- By Air:
- The nearest airport is Jammu Airport (also called Satwari Airport), about 50 km from Katra. From here, you can book taxis or buses to reach Katra.
- By Train:
- Katra Railway Station is well connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chandigarh. Direct trains like Shri Shakti Express operate between New Delhi and Katra.
- By Road:
- Katra is well connected by roads to Jammu and other major cities. Buses, taxis, and private vehicles are available from Jammu, Delhi, and neighboring states.
- On Foot (Trek from Katra to Bhawan):
- Distance: 12 km uphill trek from Katra to Bhawan (shrine).
- Path: Paved road with covered shelters, rest stops, food stalls, and drinking water facilities.
- Travel Time: 5-8 hours on foot, depending on the pilgrim’s fitness.
- Other Modes of Transport (from Katra to Bhawan):
- Ponies/Mules: Can be hired to carry luggage or pilgrims (cost varies).
- Palkis (Palanquins): Elderly and physically challenged pilgrims can opt for palkis (carried by 4 people).
- Battery Operated Vehicles: Battery cars are available for senior citizens and people with health issues (limited access).
- Helicopter Service: Helicopter rides are available from Katra to Sanjichhat Helipad (a 2.5 km trek from the main shrine). Bookings can be made online via the official website.
Vaishno Devi Yatra Route
- Katra: The base station where the yatra begins. Obtain a Yatra Slip from the Yatra Registration Counter.
- Ban Ganga: After 1.5 km, this is the first stop where devotees take a holy dip before starting the trek.
- Charan Paduka: Located 1.5 km from Ban Ganga, it is believed that Mata Vaishno Devi left her footprints here.
- Ardh Kuwari (Hathimatha): Located 6 km from Katra, this is the halfway point. The Ardh Kuwari Gufa (cave) is where Mata meditated for 9 months.
- Sanjichhat: After a steep climb of 3 km from Ardh Kuwari, this point offers a panoramic view of the Trikuta Mountains.
- Bhawan: The final destination where devotees have darshan of Mata Vaishno Devi in the holy cave.
Darshan at the Vaishno Devi Shrine
- Darshan Procedure: Upon reaching Bhawan, devotees deposit their belongings in cloakrooms and purchase prasad (offerings).
- Darshan of Pindis: The holy cave contains three natural rock formations (Pindis), which represent the three forms of the goddess — Maha Kali, Maha Lakshmi, and Maha Saraswati.
- Time for Darshan: Darshan may take 1-3 hours depending on the crowd. Early morning and late at night are less crowded.
- VIP Pass: Can be booked online for priority darshan.
Accommodation at Vaishno Devi
- Hotels in Katra: Various hotels, guesthouses, and lodges are available in Katra for budget, mid-range, and luxury travelers.
- Accommodation at Bhawan: Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) operates dormitories, rooms, and bhawans for pilgrims. These can be pre-booked online.
- Online Booking: Visit the official website of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board to book accommodation and helicopter tickets.
Overview
The Vaishno Devi shrine is dedicated to Mata Vaishno Devi, a manifestation of the Hindu goddess Durga (Shakti). It is believed that Mata Vaishno Devi is the union of the three supreme energies of Mata Mahalakshmi (wealth), Mata Mahasaraswati (wisdom), and Mata Mahakali (strength). The shrine is considered one of the 108 Shakti Peethas and is one of the most revered pilgrimage destinations in India.
Highlights
- Location: Trikuta Mountains, Katra, Jammu & Kashmir, India.
- Altitude: The holy cave is located at an altitude of 5,200 feet (1,584 meters) above sea level.
- Distance: The total trek to the shrine from Katra is approximately 12 km.
