Vaishno Devi Tour
The cave shrine of Vaishnodevi, is one of the most visited pilgrimage centers in India. It is located in the lap of Trikuta hills. Katra, that is base camp for shrine, is one of the prominent town of District Reasi and 63 kms from Jammu city. From Katra, it is a 13 Km trek to the shrine, known as Bhawan. Inside the cave temple, Maa Vaishno Devi is present in the form of three Pindis which represent three Goddesses- Maa Saraswati, Maa Lakshmi and Maa Kali. This religious place is considered the most important Shaktipeeth as it is believed, here the skull of the Goddess Sati fell. Everyone visiting Vaishno Devi travels further upwards and visits the Bhairon Temple to finish the holy journey. The trek up to the site of the Holy Cave is safe and comfortable for most to travel on. There are restrooms on the way, as well as freshwater and refreshments.
Visiting Vaishno Devi is a very memorable and enjoyable experience, especially when you do it on foot. The shrine board has made excellent facilities for the devotees, which makes it much easier for devotees to visit the place even on foot. Ponies and Carriers are also available for those who cannot make the trek on foot. Helicopter service is also available to reach the Bhawan. Though the journey may seem long, these pilgrimages are worth the blessings bestowed upon those who take them. Whether you are travelling to Vaishno Devi Temple as a pilgrim or simply a traveller, you will not regret your journey. Not only is it extremely beautiful, but it brings one closer to understanding and interacting with a part of the vast and deep culture and religion of India. When in Katra, it is worth to pay a visit to the bazaar. Here, you can shop for woolen garments, leather jackets, hosiery, dry fruits and souvenirs for those back home.
The Vaishno Devi Mata pilgrimage is visited all through the year, however, the best time to visit is between March and October. Devotees also like to plan their pilgrimage during the holy time of Navratras. It is better to avoid visiting this pilgrimage during severe winters as the path becomes very dangerous due to snowfall and sleet. It is managed by Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board since 1986. A yatra slip has to be obtained from Yatra Registration Counter near Bus Station in Katra. One is not allowed to visit Mata Vaishno Devi without the yatra slip. Alcohol is strictly ban in Katra and vegetarian food is available in the town. Cameras are not allowed on the trek, thus, one should leave them in their hotels. The temple does not allow photography and videography.