10 Things to Know Before Visiting Vaishno Devi Temple

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One of the most important pilgrimage sites in India lies among the mountains and clouds. Located at Trikuta Mountains in Jammu, Vaishno Devi he most popular and widely visited Hindu temple dedicated to the Hindu Goddess. In 2017 itself, more than 81 lakh people have visited Vaishno Devi temple. These numbers do not lie and it has given a boost to Kashmir tourism. Being located in one of the most breath-taking locations, Vaishno Devi is among one of the best places to visit in Kashmir.

Be it your first pilgrimage to Vaishno Devi or the curiosity to see this famous place there are a few things you should keep in mind before you go there.

1. Best time to visit: Irrespective of the time, Vaishno Devi always has its share of visitors. The best time to visit is during summer when the weather is just perfect on the mountains. If you are visiting during the monsoons or winter, you need to keep in mind that weather conditions are prone to change. Special days like New Year’s eve, Navratras and summer vacation or festivals are very crowded. The waiting time is too long so it is best avoided to plan during this time.

2. Travel Smart: Depending on your time of visit, make sure you carry the right attire. If you are travelling during winters, carry gloves, scarves, woollens to keep you warm. Also, wear comfortable shoes even if you do not plan to trek.

3. Register: You will need to register yourself for the Yatra. This can be obtained from Yatra Registration Counter at Katra and you do not need to pay for the same. Once you have a registration slip, you will have to cross the first check post at Banganga within 6 hrs of issuance of the Yatra Slip.

4. Walk the roads: You have the option taking the 12 km trek from Katra. The temple lies at the altitude of 52000 feet. So you should be prepared for a long walk. The trek itself is smooth as the way is well paved. If you do not wish to walk on the slope, you have the option of climbing steep stairs as well. Start your trek at nightfall, as this will give you an amazing opportunity to catch the sight of the rising sun from the mountain beds, clasping the entire valley in its sunshine.

5. Pony or Doli Rides: If you are not keen on walking or are travelling with senior citizens, you have the option of taking a pony ride as well. They have a fixed rate and you can get all relevant information about the prices and availability on various signboards or at the Assistance Centres at Katra, Banganga and other places. Battery operated autos for senior citizens are available during the day.

6. Fly in the sky: You also have the option of choosing a helicopter service, which is available from Katra to Sanjhichatt helipad. The service needs to be pre-booked as there is high demand for the rides.

7.  Pray at ArdhKuwari Temple: In the middle of the journey to Holy Shrine, the ArdhKuwari Temple cave is a must visit. The pilgrimage to Vaishnodevi is considered incomplete till this temple is visited.

8. Stop at Sanjichhat: Sanjichhat is a beautiful spot located at a distance of 3.25 km from Ardhkunwari. The panoramic view of the valley and snow covered Himalayan peaks can be enjoyed from here.

9. Eateries: There are plenty of eateries and refreshment centres throughout the route maintained by the Shrine Board. The Bhojanalayas offer delicious rajma rice, purichole, dosa, kadipakoda and dahivada. Keep yourself nourished and hydrated on the journey

10. Bhawan: The main complex, known as the Bhawan, has free and rented accommodation facilities, vegetarian restaurants, a medical unit, blanket stores, cloakrooms, and shops selling religious offerings and souvenirs.

When you reach the cave, you can spot three pindis which symbolise Goddesses Kali, Lakshmi and Saraswati. Goddess Vaishnodevi symbolizes their union, having the power of all three. We at SOTC can help you plan a trip to Vaishno Devi so that you get there without any hassles. Browse through our Kashmir tour packages for a memorable trip to Vaishno Devi.

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