India is known as a religious nation, where every state houses numerous religious spots and destinations that attract devotees and worshippers from all parts of the world. Whether we are talking about the Tirupati Balaji Temple in Andhra Pradesh or the shrine of Saint Sai in the holy town of Shirdi, there are numerous destinations where people can offer their prayers.
However, none of these places is as famous as the holy Vaishno Devi Temple, which is one of the oldest places of worship in India. Situated in the Trikuta Mountains, this heavenly place attracts millions and millions of worshippers not only from India but all parts of the world, as people come here to seek blessings. The temple worships the three forms of the goddess, namely Maha Kali, Maha Sarawsti and Maha Lakshmi, and can only be reached after completing a trek of 13 km.
Now, if you are interested in visiting this religious shrine with your family members, then there are certain things that you need to know about. Take a look at the important details that we are sharing in the blog before deciding on a Katra tour package
Ways to Do the Vaishno Devi Yatra: On Foot, by Pony, or Helicopter
It is no surprise that the temple can only be reached after concluding a trek of 13 km, and while many people prefer trekking, it is not possible for everyone to walk the entire way. Children and elders have the option to choose other ways that will allow them to complete the trek.
Trekking -
The most preferred method of people is simply walking the entire way and reaching the Bhawan, from where they can once again walk to Ardhkuwari.
Helicopter Ride -
For people who are not comfortable walking all the way to the Bhawan, can also opt for the Helicopter ride, which should be booked 2 months and advance. Once you reach the Sanjhichhat, you can get on a palki to reach the temple.
Ponies and Palanquines -
While a helicopter ride is the fastest way to reach the bhawan, it is not the cheapest. The pones and palanquins available on the way are a cheap option for people who do not want to spend handsomely on a helicopter ride.
These are the three different ways available to you through which you can complete your journey from Katra to the Bhawan, which is the resting point near the Vaishno Devi Temple. Make sure to book a reputed hotel in Katra as they provide you with shuttle or cab services to reach the starting point of your trek from where you will start your journey.
Sacred Stops on Your Vaishno Devi Yatra
Once you have reached Katra after exploring Jammu tawi to Katra taxi fare, you need to know that the Vaishno Devi Temple is not the only place where you can offer your prayers and seek blessings. There are many other prominent temples that you will find on the way.
Mata Vaishno Devi Temple
The main highlight of your trip is the temple of Mata Vaishno Devi, which is situated amidst the caves on the mountains. The temple is also prominent as one of the major Shakti Peethas out of 108 that are pious in the Hindu religion and dedicated to Goddess Durga.
Ardh Kuwari Temple
Ardh Kuwari is said to be the mid-point of your journey from Katra to the main Bhawan, and while you are only on your way to Vaishno Devi Temple, you should also offer your prayers at the Ardh Kuwari Temple. The term literally translates to eternal virgin and is one of the holiest temples on the way.
Charan Paduka
The Charan Paduka is imprinted and is said to be left by the Goddess, and this is why they have major significance in the Vaishno Devi Yatra. People move forward towards the temple only after seeking blessings at the Charam Paduka.
Additionally, people also visit the Bhairon Nath Temple during their Vaishno Devi Yatra to have a complete religious journey.