Q 1: How long is the trek to Vaishno Devi?
Ans: The trek to Vaishno Devi is around 13 kilometers long and takes around four to six hours to complete the journey, depending on your stamina and pace. The trek is spiritually enriching and challenging so you must have a good fitness level and endurance to undertake it. If you’re not comfortable walking you can opt for palanquin or pony services as per your preference.
Q 2: What are the top sightseeing spots in Srinagar?
Ans: In Srinagar, you can visit many popular attractions such as the Mughal Gardens, including Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh which are known for their serene landscapes adorned with intricate water features and vibrant flowers. You can also visit the Dal Lake and enjoy a serene Shikara ride. The Shankaracharya Temple is another popular attraction atop a hill offering splendid views of the city. You can also explore Srinagar’s markets, such as the Floating Vegetable Market and old city bazaars.
Q 3: Why should you visit the Wagah Border?
Ans: Wagah Border is situated at a distance of around 27 kilometers from Amritsar. It is known to be the only border crossing between Pakistan and India that is open to foreign tourists. The border guards perform a colorful daily border ceremony before lowering the flags and closing the gates. The guards salute and exchange handshakes before closing the gates and lowering the flags.
Q 4: What are the famous temples in Srinagar?
Ans: Srinagar houses many famous temples such as the Shankaracharya Temple, situated atop Shankaracharya Hill and dedicated to Lord Shiva. Kheer Bhawani Temple is another popular temple situated in Tula Mula village. The Martand Sun Temple which now stands in a ruined condition testifies to Kashmir's ancient Hindu culture and rich architectural heritage. Additionally, you can visit the Sharika Devi Temple and Hanuman Mandir for spiritual solace.
Q 5: What is so special about the Vaishno Devi Temple?
Ans: The Vaishno Devi Temple, situated in Jammu & Kashmir’s Trikuta Mountains holds lots of prominence in Hindu mythology. The temple is dedicated to Vaishno Devi and attracts pilgrims from all around the world to seek the blessings of the goddess. The pilgrimage to Vaishno Devi grants spiritual enlightenment and fulfills devotees' wishes. The cave shrine, where Mata Vaishno Devi resides offers a profound spiritual experience to the devotees.
Q 6: Is it possible to go without registering for Yatra?
Ans: No, without registration, you cannot participate.
Q 7: Who is Baba Barfani, Lord Amarnathji's other name?
Ans: Due to the ice stalagmite that resembles the Shiva Linga in the holy cave, Lord Amarnath ji is also known as Baba Barfani.The meaning of Barfani in Hindi is made of ice. This is the reason Lord Amarnathji is also known as Baba Barfani.
Q 8: What is the story behind Lord Amarnath ji ?
Ans: According to the legend, Lord Shiva wanted to share the secret of immortality (Amar Katha) with his beloved wife, Maa Parvati. He chose the remote cave in the Himalayas, now known as the Amarnath cave, as the location to reveal this secret.
As the story goes, Lord Shiva left behind all his possessions and material attachments at different places before entering the cave. He left his vehicle, Nandi, at Pahalgam, his moon on his head at Chandanwari, his snakes at Sheshnag, his son Lord Ganesha at Mahagunas Pass, and the five elements of earth, water, fire, air, and sky at Panjtarni. After leaving everything behind, Lord Shiva entered the Amarnath cave with Maa Parvati and revealed the secret of immortality to her.
It is said that a pair of pigeons overheard the secret and became immortal. To this day, pilgrims visiting the Amarnath cave look for the pair of pigeons as a symbol of immortality.