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Read More on Vaishno Devi
History
This Hindu temple is dedicated to Goddess Vaishnav Devi and is the most popular religious site in Jammu state for Hindu pilgrims.
It is believed that the holy cave of Mata Vaishno Devi in Katra was discovered by Pandit Sridhar, a Hindu priest. The Goddess is said to have appeared in the dream of the priest. It is said that the Goddess showed the priest the directions to find her abode on Trikuta Hills. The priest religiously followed her instructions and found the cave. Mata Vaishno Devi appeared to him and blessed him with four sons, and gave him the boon of being the custodian of the cave. Today, Pandit Shridhar’s descendants abide by the commitment.
Architecture
The temple has tunnels and caves, and devotees need to crawl through the narrow man-made tunnel to pay offerings to Maa Vaishno Devi. There has been a construction of two new tunnels to help in the swift movement of pilgrims who come in queues here.
Activities
- Crawl through the man-made caves - You can undertake a journey around the rock caves leading up to the temple.
- Trek - You can trek the 13 km road leading to the shrine, however, those unable to walk can take ponies on hire.
- Ropeway - A ropeway is constructed between Cave and Bhairon Ghati, and one can take a ride in the ropeway.
Tips for visiting
- Cameras are prohibited on the trek. So, one should leave them in their hotels.
- Alcohol is strictly banned in Katra.
- Visitors can only get vegetarian food in the town.
- Devotees must maintain complete silence and also respect the traditions at the temple.
- Wear comfortable pair of shoes if you wish to trek.
Best time to visit
Katra is an all-around year destination. However, the best time to visit is between March and October. The temperature during this period is pleasant and it is easier to trek the way up to the shrine.
Nearby Atractions
- Shalimar Park
- Banganga Temple
- Chintamani Dharamshala
- Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Spiritual Growth Center
Nearby market/ shopping places
- Ardh Kuwari Market- This is a popular market where you will find religious souvenirs, ethnic cane baskets, picnic and fruit baskets, jewelry, etc.
- Lavanya Shopping Complex- This shopping complex houses a range of items from traditional Kashmiri artifacts and handicrafts to walnut wood carvings and alluring Kashmiri Chilies.
- Katra Main Bazaar- This marketplace has a range of items from, clothes to food items, to dry fruits like almonds, walnuts, berries, and dried apples.
Nearby Hotels
- WelcomeHotel by ITC
- Lemon Tree Hotel
- The White Hotel
- Hotel The Royal Krishna
Interesting Facts About Vaishno Devi
- The Katra Temple Vaishno Devi history has a religious significance, for it is believed that the Goddess Vaishnavi appeared in the dream of the priest named Pandit Sridhar, and instructed him on how to find her abode on Trikuta Hills.
- The temple is maintained by Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB), which was established under the Jammu and Kashmir state government Act.
