Vaishno
Devi, another of very holy pilgrimage places in India,
famous place for spiritual travel in India for senior travellers,
attracts millions of devotees to this mountain shrine dedicated
to Mother Goddess. She's known by many names - Maa, Mata,
Sherawali. Located amidst the high peaks of Himalayas, this
pilgrimage destination holds a very special significance to
those who believe in the powers of the Mother. They come here
to pray for their wishes to be fulfilled. Forget the arduous
climb, the beauty of the land and the fervour of devotees
will inspire you to keep going till you reach your destination.
Mata's
cave
shrine is nestled in snow-capped mountains and forests of
Trikuta mountain forming a part of the lower Himalayas and
61 kilometers north of Jammu at a height of 5,200 feet above
the sea level in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. There is
a 13km mountain hike on foot from Katra to the holy shrine
of Mata Vaishno Devi. On reaching 'bhavan', token of prashad
can be bought and 'sanan' can be done before entering the
cave for 'darshan'.
It is believed that a supernatural power takes over every
soul to terrain the distance with ease.
Remember keep chanting 'Jai Mata Di'!
Bhairav Temple - It is believed that 'darshan' is
not complete until Bhairav temple is visited on one's way
back. The origin of this temple has a story behind. It is
said that Mata Sheravaali in disguise of a girl goddess went
inside the cave and left a guard outside and asked no one
to follow her and enter inside the cave. But, Bhairav followed
and tried to enter the cave, this made Mata very angry and
she took the form of Mata Chandi and killed Bhairav. The head
flew to a place, presently called Bhairav Ghati. This temple
has been constructed at the same spot. The body of Bhairav
remained near the cave and the huge stone, outside the cave
is the symbol of Bhairav's body. Thereafter Bhairav prayed
for mercy to pardon him so the world does not remember him
with hatred. On hearing this Mata took pity and said, "My
devotees will visit your place after having my 'Darshan' to
fulfil their wishes."
Light
winter-wear is required at night during the summer months.
During the remaining part of the year, carry heavy winter
wear. During winter months, the path may be blocked due to
snowfall.
Getting There
-
ROAD: Jammu-Katra
48 km (by road) and Katra-Vaishno Devi 14 km (on foot).
Route from Katra to Vaishno Devi: Katra - Ban Ganga (1.5
km) Ban Ganga - Charan Paduka (1.5 km) Charan Paduka -
Adhkunwari (3 km) Adhkunwari - Bhavan (8 km) The 14 km
track from Katra to the shrine has been re-laid and tiled.
Railings have also been installed for protection. The
100 feet cave is very narrow with an average height of
5.5 feet only and has ankle deep water. The pilgrims are
allowed in batches through the cave. A newly constructed
exit makes the process of going out of the shrine easier.
Buses leave for Katra from the General Bus Stand (Jammu),
throughout the day. During peak season buses are also
available from Jammu-Tawi railway station. Journey time
2 hours. Taxis are also available from Jammu.
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