Complete information On Vaishno Devi
Vaishno Devi, nestled in the
Trikuta Mountains of Jammu and Kashmir, is one of the most revered pilgrimage
destinations in India. Dedicated to Mata Vaishno Devi, this holy shrine
attracts millions of devotees each year. Embarking on the Vaishno Devi yatra is
not just a religious journey, but a spiritual experience that imbues one with
faith, hope, and divine blessings.
According to Hindu
mythology, Vaishno Devi was born as a human form of Shakti to protect the world
from evil forces. She was an ardent devotee of Lord Vishnu and took an oath of
celibacy. Bhairavnath, a tantric, tried to capture her, but she fled to the
Trikuta Mountains. After a fierce battle, she beheaded Bhairavnath. His soul
sought forgiveness, and the benevolent goddess granted him salvation. His
shrine now stands near Vaishno Devi’s, and devotees visit it to complete their
pilgrimage.
Starting Point: Katra
Katra, a small town in
Jammu, is the base camp for the pilgrimage. Pilgrims need to register
themselves before starting their journey. The yatra slip is essential for entry
into the temple.
The trek to the Vaishno Devi
shrine is approximately 13 kilometers from Katra. The path is well-paved, and
facilities like water points, rest areas, and medical aid are available
throughout the journey. For those unable to trek, options like ponies,
palanquins, and helicopter services are available.
After visiting the main shrine, pilgrims often proceed to the Bhairavnath Temple, which is 2.5 kilometers from Vaishno Devi. It is believed that the pilgrimage is incomplete without visiting this temple.
The Sacred Shrine
The main shrine is located
in a cave, where the goddess is manifested in the form of three rock formations
or 'Pindis,' representing Maha Kali, Maha Lakshmi, and Maha Saraswati. The
divine aura of the cave leaves the devotees spellbound.
Aarti and Darshan
The aarti is performed twice
a day, early in the morning and in the evening. Witnessing the aarti is a
profound experience as the chants and prayers create a divine atmosphere. The
darshan (viewing of the deity) can be done throughout the day and night, except
during the aarti times.
Festivals and Celebrations
Vaishno Devi is particularly
crowded during Navratri, a nine-day festival dedicated to the goddess. Special
prayers and festivities mark the occasion, and the whole area is adorned with
lights and decorations.
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit: Although Vaishno Devi can
be visited throughout the year, the period from March to October is considered
ideal due to pleasant weather conditions.
Accommodation: Various accommodations
ranging from budget lodges to luxury hotels are available in Katra. Shrine
Board accommodations can also be booked.
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