Mata Vaishno Devi Temple in Katra, Jammu

Mata Vaishno Devi is an incarnation of Durga Maa. In Hindu religion Goddesses are called ‘Ma’ or ‘Mata’ due to love, faith and affection for God. ‘Mata’ and ‘Ma’ is used for mothers in India. Hindus consider their Goddesses as their mother hence they apply Mata with the name of the goddess. India is the only country which has wide variety of culture and traditions. The large portion of the population consists of Hindus. Therefore number of Hindu temples you can see in India is countless. But out of all other shrines and temples, Ma Vaishno Devi Temple is the most popular temple.

Located in the small, beautiful and culturally rich town of Katra, Jammu & Kashmir, is Vaishno Devi (elevation 5,200ft.) one of the holiest temples in India. It is also one of the oldest temples of India. This shrine of Vaishno Mata lies on the laps of Mounts Trikuta. Devotees in large amount visit this shrine for Darshan of Mata Vaishno Devi. You can never see the temple empty or with few people worshiping. This temple is always gushed with crowd of devotees and pilgrims.

Vaishno Devi Temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Vaishno Ma. She is also the manifestation of the three goddesses’ Mata Lakshmi, Mata Parvati and Mata Saraswati.

Devotees have to trek for 13 kilometers to reach the shrine. On your way you will witness the mind-blowing views of the Himalayas. For people who cannot cover such a long distance by walking they can hire a horse to reach their destination. Except horses, option of ‘Paalki’ is also available to reach the temple. But I would recommend people to reach the shrine by walking, it is great fun.

How to Reach Vaishno Devi Temple?
By Road: – If you are looking forward to traveling on the roads, then it is not an issue. Because buses to Jammu are available at every major bus station. And from Jammu, you can book a cab or local transport to reach Katra.

By Air: – If you plan to visit Vaishno Devi by airways, then it will also not be an issue either. The nearest airport to Katra is in Jammu. And the Jammu airport is connected to all the major airports of the country. After reaching Jammu Airport you will be driving for 50 kms to Katra in a local transport or cab.

By Rail: – Railways are also an option for you to reach your religious destination. The nearest railway station to Katra is Udhampur Railway Station. After arriving there you can reach Katra by taxi or a cab.