Q 1: Why should you visit Mata Vaishno Devi Temple?
Ans: Mata Vaishno Devi is the most revered Hindu shrine in India situated in the Trikuta Mountains. Every year, devotees make the challenging journey to Mata Vaishno Devi to seek the blessings of Vaishno Devi, who is believed to grant the devotees' wishes. The temple is situated inside a natural cave with three rock formations that represent the Goddess’s three forms: Saraswati, Kali, and Lakshmi. Through a narrow opening, you can enter the cave and crawl through a tunnel to reach the sanctum. You can offer your offerings and prayers to the Goddess and seek her blessings.
Q 2: Do you need to register for Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra?
Ans: Before starting your pilgrimage to Mata Vaishno Devi you should register for the Yatra at the counter in Katra. Once the registration process is complete you will get a Yatra Slip that will help you navigate all the checkpoints along the way. The validity of the Yatra slip is around six hours from the time it has been issued to ensure you reach Ban Ganga, the first milestone within this period. For added convenience, secure your Yatra Slip through the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board’s official website.
Q 3: What are the ways to reach Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra?
Ans: There are various ways to reach Mata Vaishno Devi catering to various requirements and preferences. The common route involves traveling to Jammu Airport by air, followed by a hassle-free transfer to Katra, the Yatra’s base camp. From Katra, you can embark on an approximately 13-kilometer trek to reach the holy shrine. Alternatively, you can avail of helicopter services to Sanjichhat from Katra, reducing travel time. Additionally, Palki and Pony services offer fuss-free transportation options for those looking for a comfortable journey. It is important to plan the travel logistics and choose the transportation mode that best suits physical capabilities and individual preferences.
Q 4: What are the places to visit near Mata Vaishno Devi?
Ans: There are many places to visit near Mata Vaishno Devi including Patnitop, a beautiful hill station surrounded by Kail (Blue Pine) trees and dense Deodar(Cedar). Bhaderwah is an unspoiled and unexplored destination where you can enjoy nature’s beauty. Dudu Basantgarh is another popular destination comprising thick dense forest covers, mountains, water flows and vegetation. Devi Pindi is a Hindu temple and one of the closest treks near Katra. Jungle Gali is a beautiful unexplored destination that carries immense potential for tourists. This place is close to Katra and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains from all sides.
Q 5: How can you reach Vaishno Devi by road?
Ans: Reaching Vaishno Devi by road is an accessible option for devotees. The sacred journey usually starts as you reach Katra, the Yatra’s base camp, which is well-connected from nearby cities by road networks. From major cities like Chandigarh, Jammu, and Pathankot you can easily reach Katra by private vehicle or bus. Once in Katra, you can either opt for local transport services or trek on foot to cover the remaining distance to the shrine, which is around 13 kilometers away. The road journey to Katra is dotted with Himalayan landscape picturesque views.