About Vaishno Devi Temple
One of the most important and sacred temples in India, the Vaishno Devi Temple holds a significant place as a Shaktipeeth, deeply revered by devotees. Pilgrimage to Mata Vaishno Devi is so profound that it often results in month-long waiting periods and crowded accommodations.
Journey to the Bhawan, the main temple, involves a 13 km trek from Katra, which splits into two distinct paths. First route passes through the Adhkuwari Temple, marking the halfway point to the Bhawan. Path is characterized by its ancient construction, featuring steep and narrow passageways. Second, more modern route, goes via Himkoti and offers a wider path with a gentler gradient, making the ascent more manageable.
Pilgrims must register for the Yatra at the Yatri Registration counter near the Katra Bus Stand or online. Booking for helicopter rides, Battery Car rides, and accommodation should be done at least two months in advance.
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Inside Vaishno Devi Temple
Inside the Vaishno Devi Temple, one of the holiest shrines in India, devotees can witness several sacred sites:
- Holy Cave (Garbha Joon): Main sanctum where the three natural rock formations (Pindis) representing Goddess Vaishno Devi in her three forms – Mahakali, Mahalakshmi, and Mahasaraswati – are located.
- Bhawan: Central temple complex where the cave is situated. Devotees offer prayers and seek blessings here.
- Charan Paduka: Located near the temple, it’s believed to bear the footprints of Goddess Vaishno Devi, marking the spot where she rested.
- Ardhkuwari Cave: Halfway up the trek to the main temple, this cave marks the site where the goddess meditated for nine months.
- Bhairavnath Temple: Although not inside the main Vaishno Devi temple, this temple is part of the pilgrimage. It’s believed that the yatra is incomplete without visiting Bhairavnath’s shrine.
- Akhanda Jyoti and Sacred Offerings: Within the temple, you can also see the eternal flame (Akhanda Jyoti) that burns perpetually, symbolizing divine energy. Devotees often offer flowers, coconuts, and other sacred items.
Vaishno Devi Temple History
Mata Vaishno Devi Temple is rich in history and heritage. To folklore, the cave is where Goddess Sati’s skull fell, and the goddess resides here as a five and a half feet tall rock with three heads, known as the Pindies.
Exact date of the beginning of worship in these caves is unknown, but it is believed to be connected to the Mahabharata. Pandavas are thought to be the original worshipers of the Goddess in this holy cave.
Cave was first discovered by Pandit Sridhar, a Hindu priest, who saw the Goddess in his dreams and was guided to find the temple. Upon finding the cave, Mata Vaishno Devi appeared to him, blessed him with four sons, and made him the custodian of the cave, a role his descendants are believed to continue to this day.
Nearby is the Bhairon Nath Temple, located just 2 km from the main Bhawan. Temple is dedicated to Bhairon Nath, who, according to legend, was beheaded by the Goddess at this spot.
Vaishno Devi Temple Height
Shrine is located at a height of 5,300 feet, requiring a steep climb. The entry gate, Darshani Darwaza, is 2 km from Katra Railway Station. Pilgrims trek 13 km uphill from Katra to reach the shrine. For the elderly and weak, horse and palanquin services are available. Battery Car rides are offered between Ardhkuwari and Bhavan, and helicopter rides are available to Sanjichhat, from where it’s a 2.5 km walk to the shrine.
Vaishno Devi Temple Photos / Image
Vaishno Devi Temple Timings
Vaishno Devi temple is open to all devotees the whole year round. Vaishno Devi temple Kashmir timings, along with Aarti, Prasad, Charan Paduka darshan, etc.
| Days | Opening Time | Closing Time | Break Timings |
| Monday to Sunday | 5:00 AM | 9:00 PM | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM |
Aarti Timings at Vaishno Devi
‘Aarti’ at Vaishno Devi Temple is a sacred and lengthy ritual performed twice daily: once in the morning before sunrise and again in the evening after sunset. It is believed that during the Aarti, the Goddesses visit the Holy cave to pay their respects to Mata Rani. Major festivals celebrated here include Navratri, a nine-night festival celebrating the Goddess’s victory over demons, and Diwali, the festival of lights symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.
| Aarti | Timings |
| Morning Aarti | 6:20 am – 8:00 am |
| Bhog Aarti | 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm |
| Evening Aarti | 7:20 pm – 8:30 pm |
Vaishno Devi Ticket Prices
Visiting Vaishno Devi is free! Yes, there’s no entry fee to enter the temple, Other optional charges, like VIP entry that you need to know about
- Rs. 1900 for Helicopter Ride (one way)
- Rs. 350 for Battery Car (one way)
| VIP Ticket Prices | ₹599/person |
| Atka Aarti Darshn | ₹999/person |
| Individual Poojan (the devotee needs to be physically present) | ₹2000/person |
| Individual Poojan (the devotees don’t need to be physically present) | ₹2100/person |
Visiting Tips Vaishno Devi Mandir
- Plan Ahead: Book your tickets, accommodation, and other services well in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
- Registration: Ensure you register for the Yatra at the Yatri Registration counter near the Katra Bus Stand or online. Mandatory for all pilgrims.
- Best Time to Visit: Ideal time to visit is during the cooler months, from March to October, to avoid extreme weather conditions.
- What to Pack: Carry comfortable walking shoes, warm clothing (especially if visiting in winter), a raincoat, and essential medications. A small backpack with water and snacks is also advisable.
- Physical Preparation: Trek is 13 km uphill, so be prepared for a physically demanding journey. Regular walking or light exercise before the trip can help build stamina.
- Travel Options: For those unable to walk, horse and palanquin services are available. Battery Car rides are offered between Ardhkuwari and Bhavan, and helicopter rides are available to Sanjichhat, from where it’s a 2.5 km walk to the shrine.
- Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Drink plenty of water and eat light, nutritious food to maintain energy levels during the trek.
- Respect the Rituals: Participate in the Aarti and other rituals with respect and devotion. Aarti is performed twice daily, in the morning before sunrise and in the evening after sunset.
- Safety First: Follow all safety guidelines and instructions provided by the Shrine Board. Avoid carrying valuables and keep your belongings secure.
- Local Customs: Be respectful of local customs and traditions. Dress modestly and maintain cleanliness in and around the temple premises.
Main Attractions at Vaishno Devi Temple
Trek to Vaishno Devi Temple is challenging, but if you have the energy and drive to explore the surroundings, here are some main attractions you shouldn’t miss:
Bhairo Baba Temple
Temple is dedicated to Bhairo Nath, an accomplished tantrik who fell in love with Vaishno Devi and followed her to Jammu. He was ultimately killed by the goddess for his harassment, but she later blessed him, stating that devotees must visit his temple after hers to complete their pilgrimage.
Raghunath Bazar
Raghunath Bazar is a fantastic place to shop for local items, dry fruits, and souvenirs for your family and friends. Also enjoy local food at the various shops and stalls.
Ardh Kuwari Cave
Also known as Garbajoon Cave, this 52-foot-long religious site is located just 11.2 km from Katra. It is a significant stop for pilgrims on their way to the main temple.
Sanjichhat
Sanjichhat offers breathtaking views and is a resting point for pilgrims. It is also the helipad location for those taking helicopter rides to the temple.
Shiv Khori
Located about 89 km from Vaishno Devi, Shiv Khori is a holy cave dedicated to Lord Shiva. Cave is shaped like a damroo (a small two-headed drum) and features a self-manifested lingam.
Patnitop
Beautiful hill station located about 85 km from Katra, Patnitop is known for its scenic beauty, meadows, and adventure activities like paragliding and skiing.
Jhajjar Kotli
Popular picnic spot located about 15 km from Katra. It is known for its clear, cool water and lush surroundings, making it a great place to relax.
Best Time to Visit Mata Vaishno Devi
Best time to visit Mata Vaishno Devi, located in the Trikuta Mountains of Jammu and Kashmir, largely depends on weather conditions and personal preferences. Here’s a breakdown:
Best Months to Visit:
- March to June (Spring to Early Summer):
- Climate: Pleasant weather, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 30°C.
- Advantages: Ideal for trekking and outdoor activities. The scenic beauty is at its peak with blooming flowers and lush greenery.
- September to November (Post-Monsoon to Autumn):
- Climate: Mild temperatures, generally ranging from 15°C to 25°C.
- Advantages: Less crowded than the summer months and the weather is comfortable for pilgrims.
Best Season to Go Vaishno Devi:
- Spring and Autumn: Seasons are considered the best for visiting Mata Vaishno Devi. Spring offers beautiful landscapes and pleasant weather, while autumn provides a serene environment with clear skies.
Best Time to Visit Vaishno Devi Less Crowded
To visit Vaishno Devi when it’s less crowded, consider the following times:
1. Off-Peak Months:
- July to August: While this is the monsoon season and can bring heavy rainfall, it tends to be less crowded. Be cautious of the weather conditions.
- December to February: Winter, and while temperatures can drop significantly, the number of visitors is generally lower compared to the peak season. Snow can also create a serene and beautiful atmosphere.
2. Weekdays:
- Visiting on weekdays (Monday to Thursday) rather than weekends can help you avoid the larger crowds that typically gather during weekends.
3. Avoiding Festivals:
- Navratri: Festival attracts a large number of pilgrims to the temple. Avoid visiting during these days if you want a quieter experience.
- Holidays and Long Weekends: Plan your visit outside of public holidays and long weekends when many people tend to travel.
4. Early Morning or Late Evening:
- Starting your trek early in the morning or later in the evening can help you avoid the bulk of the crowds that typically gather during the day.
Contact Details of Vaishno Devi Temple
For Inquiry & Current Reservations 24 * 7 Hours:
- Phone – 01991-234053
- Email – dm_enquiry@maavaishnodevi.net
For inquiries regarding Online Services during office hours 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM:
- Phone – 01991-232887, 232820.
- Email – online@maavaishnodevi.net
How to Reach Vaishno Devi Mandir?
Reaching the Vaishno Devi Mandir involves several options depending on your starting point. Detailed guide on how to get there:
1. By Air:
- Nearest Airport: Jammu Airport (Jammu is the closest major city).
- From Airport to Katra:
- Distance: Approximately 50 km.
- Options: Taxis and buses are available from the airport to Katra, the base camp for the trek to Vaishno Devi.
2. By Train:
- Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi Railway Station.
- From Jammu to Katra:
- Distance: About 50 km.
- Options: Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and buses are available from the railway station to Katra.
3. By Road:
- From Jammu: Katra is well-connected by road.
- Distance: Approximately 50 km.
- Options: Buses and taxis are available from Jammu to Katra. You can also drive if you have a vehicle.
4. From Katra to Vaishno Devi Mandir:
- Trek: The trek from Katra to the Vaishno Devi Mandir is about 13 km.
- On Foot: The most common way is to trek on foot, which takes around 4-6 hours depending on your pace.
- Ponies and Palanquins: For those who prefer not to walk, ponies and palanquins (palkis) are available for hire.
- Helicopter Service: There is a helicopter service from Katra to Sanjichhat, which reduces the trek distance significantly. From Sanjichhat, it’s a short trek to the temple.
5. Important Tips:
- Weather Considerations: Check the weather before your trip, especially during monsoon and winter.
- Permits: No special permits are required for the trek, but you must register at the base camp in Katra.
- Health and Fitness: Ensure you are physically fit for the trek, as it can be challenging for some.
Vaishno Devi Temple Near Me
- Bhairo Baba Temple: 2 km from Vaishno Devi Temple
- Raghunath Bazar: Located in Katra
- Ardh Kuwari Cave: 11.2 km from Katra
- Sanjichhat: 9.5 km from Katra
- Shiv Khori: 89 km from Vaishno Devi
- Patnitop: 85 km from Katra
- Jhajjar Kotli: 15 km from Katra
- Jammu City: 59 km from Vaishno Devi
To Goddess Vaishno Devi, an incarnation of Goddess Durga or Shakti, this cave temple holds immense significance in Hindu mythology. It is a focal point for major Hindu festivals, especially Navratri, celebrated with great fervor and devotion. When visiting this extraordinary region, including a pilgrimage to the Vaishno Devi Temple in your Jammu and Kashmir tour packages is highly recommended for a truly divine experience.
