Everything you wanted to know about visiting Vaishno Devi

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Situated in a cave in the Trikuta mountain in Jammu and Kashmir, the Vaishno Devi shrine is one of the most popular pilgrimages in India.

Everything you wanted to know about visiting Vaishno Devi

Situated in a cave in the Trikuta mountain in Jammu and Kashmir, the Vaishno Devi temple is one of the most popular pilgrimages in India. Perched at an altitude of 5200 feet, it involves a trek of nearly 12 km from the base camp at Katra. Despite this arduous journey, it is estimated that the shrine gets over one crore visitors annually, and more so during the Navratras.

The climb of Vishno Devi Yatra itself is on a well-paved path with a gentle slope. Its duration varies according to the weather, the crowds and your speed. The route is dotted with shops selling souvenirs and devotional music, with pleasant views all along. You also have the option of climbing up stairs, which are shorter but much steeper and hence, more physically demanding. Key landmarks include Darshani Deodhi, Banganga, Chara Paduka, Indraprastha, Adhkuari, Garbha Joon, Himkoti, Haathi Matha, Sanji Chhat Bhavan, Sher ka Panja and Bhairon Mandir. The mid-point is at Adhkuari, from where you continue to Sanji Chhat, a scenic plateau that has been developed as a helipad and resting point. From here, it is a comfortable two-and-a-half km walk to the shrine. A second, cleaner track (it doesn’t allow ponies) separates from the main one half-a-km before Adhkuari. For other ways to reach the shrine, refer to the how to reach section below.

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Once you reach the shrine, wait for your turn — the waiting period is much longer during the peak season. The registration slip decides your entry into the inner sanctum. Instead of idols and pictures, the cave itself comprises of three natural rock formations or pindies which are immersed in water. A marble platform has now been constructed for easy access. The main complex, known as the Bhawan, also has free and rented accommodation facilities, vegetarian restaurants, a medical unit, blanket stores, cloak rooms, and shops selling religious offerings and souvenirs.

How to reach Vaishno Devi

The small town of Katra serves as the base camp for Vaishno Devi. It is located 50 kms away from Jammu, the nearest airport and railway station. Buses (Rs 50) are available at the railway station and at the Jammu Bus Stand. Taxis cost around Rs 1500.

The 12 km climb from Katra to Vaishno Devi is on a well-paved road. If you’re running short of time or unable to do the climb, there are regular helicopter flights from Katra to Sanjhhi Chhat, followed by a 2.5 km walk. These can be booked from the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board’s official website. Ponies, porters and palanquins are also available for hire.

Best Time To Visit Vaishno devi :

While the walk can be done throughout the year although, the peak season is during the summer (May-June), the New Year and the Navratra months in March-April and September-October. It is advisable to avoid the walk in the monsoon (late July to early September) when the road becomes slippery. The route is very cold in December and January, so it is better to start the walk at dawn.

All visitors need to register at the Yatra Registration Centres in Katra before leaving, and carry a registration slip with them. Online registration can also be done on the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board’s official website. The trek begins at the Banganga check post, situated at the foothills. Video cameras and other electronic equipment are not allowed beyond this point, so leave them behind in Katra. It is advisable to travel as light as possible during the climb, since food, water and blankets are easily available on the way.

The maximum number of pilgrims is limited to 30000-35000 a day. During the peak season when the numbers exceed this limit, waiting slips are issued. To avoid inconvenience, register online and check your waiting status from the website before travelling.

What to pack for a Vaishno Devi trip?

The Vaishno Devi story always entices devotees and travellers, alike and for visiting this cave temple, you need to get a few things in place. Due to the difference in the altitudes of Katra (2500 ft) and Vaishno Devi (5200 ft), there is a considerable difference in the temperatures in these two spots. If you’re visiting during the monsoon, pack a raincoat and an umbrella in case of rains during the climbs. During winter, remember to bring heavy woollens, wind-cheaters, caps and gloves, although blankets are available for free during the climb. It is also recommended that you wear comfortable shoes during the climb.