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India has numerous pilgrimage destinations and the trek to Vaishno Devi is one of the most popular ones. Attracting millions of devotees annually, the 13 km trek to the cave temple in the Trikuta Mountains starts from Katra in Jammu. Vaishno Devi Temple trekking is a unique journey that tests both physical endurance and spiritual resilience, so having a solid plan for the trek comes in handy. The temple is dedicated to Maa Vaishno Devi, who is believed to be the manifestation of Shakti. Not only is the trek quite physically challenging, but it is a spiritual experience too.
About Vaishno Devi Temple
Photo: Dishant Thapa / Unsplash
The Vaishno Devi Temple is a pilgrimage site dedicated to Vaishno Devi, who is worshipped in the form of three natural rock formations or Pindis. Beyond the pilgrimage experience, the temple is also one of the 108 Shakti Peethas, adding to its significance. According to Hindu mythology, the goddess incarnated as Vaishnavi to end the tyranny of demons on Earth. The Vaishno Devi temple trekking is one of the most popular pilgrimages in India. With around 8 to 10 million pilgrims visiting the shrine annually, it is one of the busiest pilgrimage routes in the country.
Every year, pilgrims start this 13 km arduous trek experience from Katra, which ends in the sanctum of the Goddess. The Vaishno Devi trek is moderately challenging, but it is doable for people of all ages, including children and the elderly. Several amenities like resting areas, food stalls, and medical facilities are available throughout the trek. Additionally, you have the option to hire ponies, palkies and battery-operated cars too.
How To Reach Katra
Photo: Ravi Hooda / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The Vaishno Devi temple trek usually starts from Katra, which is the base for the trek and is well-connected to all the nearby cities.
By Air: Jammu Airport is the nearest to Katra, roughly 50 km away. There are regular flights available from nearby cities like Delhi and Mumbai. Once you land, you’d need to hire a taxi from the airport to reach Katra.
By Train: If you are taking the train, you’d need to get down at the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Railway Station from where you can take local transportation to reach the base camp of the trek to the temple.
By Road: If you are taking the road, Katra is accessible from nearby cities like Jammu, Delhi and Chandigarh. National Highway 44 is connected to the nearby cities.
How To Reach Vaishno Devi Temple
Photo: Raju hardoi / Wikimedia Commons
Once you reach the base, there are several ways to reach the temple based on your comfort and physical endurance. Some of the different modes of trekking to the temple include:
On foot: The most traditional way to complete the trek is on foot, which is the 13 km trek from Katra to Bhawan. The journey usually takes between 5-8 hours, depending on your pace. There are two major sections – Katra to Ardhkuwari and Ardhkuwari to Bhawan.
Ponies and palkies: If you aren’t able to walk, ponies and palkies are available for hire. For shorter distances, you can use ponies or palkies, which require four people to pull. This service is usually great for elderly and disabled people.
Battery-operated vehicles: Battery-operated vehicles are available from Ardhkuwari to Bhawan for pilgrims who prefer a comfortable ride. These vehicles are eco-friendly and provide a smooth ride, especially for elderly pilgrims.
Helicopter service: Pilgrims can also opt for helicopter services from Katra to Sanjichhat, which is just 2.5 kilometres away from Bhawan. From Sanjichhat, pilgrims can either walk or take ponies to reach the temple.
Factors That Affect Vaishno Devi Temple Trekking
Photo: Sheet Holidays / Wikimedia Commons
Before you embark on your trek to Vaishno Devi Temple, there are certain factors that you have to keep into consideration.
Weather: One of the main factors affecting the trek’s outcome is the weather in Katra. The winter months between December and February have cold temperatures with occasional snowfall, making the trek quite difficult.
Route: The main route from Katra to Bhawan is well-paved and illuminated, ensuring a safe trek even at night. Another alternative route is available via Himkoti, which is less crowded and you get to witness some amazing natural views of the surroundings.
Climbing on foot: If you are physically fit to embark on the journey, only then should you consider this trek. It is quite laborious and requires a lot of resilience.
Internet Connectivity: Mobile networks are usually available along the trek. However, the connectivity might be weak as you continue the ascent, especially near Bhawan. So, ensure that you keep your loved ones informed before starting the trek, just in case.
Things To Do Before And After The Trek
Photo: Harshit shivhare / Wikimedia Commons
You can follow these tips to ensure that your trekking adventure to Vaishno Devi is as enjoyable as possible.
Devi Darshan: The main purpose of the Vaishno Devi trek is to witness the idol of Maa Vaishno Devi and seek blessings. There, you can witness the holy Pindis, spend some time seeking blessings from the Goddess and even meditate in the area surrounding the temple.
Buy Prasad: After darshan, pilgrims can buy Prasad from the official counters near Bhawan. The Prasad, which includes dry fruits and sweets, is considered sacred and is distributed to family and friends upon returning home.
Trek to Bhairon Temple: If you are embarking on a trek to the Vaishno Devi Temple, your darshan is incomplete if you don’t seek blessings at the Bhairon Temple. The climb to this temple is quite steep, and since it is another 2 km trek, ensure that you are well-energised.
Shop for souvenirs: The trek route is lined with small shops selling religious souvenirs, handicrafts, and local products. Usually, purchasing these items is a great way to bring small gifts for people back home.
Interact with locals: Pilgrims can learn about the customs and culture of the area by interacting with the locals. The local people are warm and welcoming, often sharing stories about the temple and its significance.
Where To Stay & Eat
Photo: farago_jozsef / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Katra offers a wide range of accommodation options for pilgrims, from budget lodges to luxury hotels. The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board also provides accommodations such as Niharika Bhawan and Shakti Bhawan where you can book your stay. Beyond that, dorms and guesthouses are also available in Katra.
Additionally, numerous eateries and food stalls are available along the trekking route, offering vegetarian meals as per religious customs. The Shrine Board also runs several bhojanalayas that provide hygienic food at nominal prices. At Bhawan, pilgrims can find food outlets serving simple yet nourishing meals.
Tips For Travellers
Photo: Raulcaeser / Wikimedia Commons
When you are planning your trip to Vaishno Devi Temple in Katra, you have to keep the following tips into consideration:
- Entry Pass: Every devotee who wants to embark on their trek to the temple must have the “Yatra Parchi,” which one can apply for online and then collect from the Yatra Registration Counter in Katra. The registration is free but it is mandatory for every pilgrim.
- Entry Gates: The trek starts at Banganga, which is the first gate. Other gates include Charan Paduka and Ardhkuwari. The final entry is at Bhawan, where the temple is located.
- Ponies and Palkies: If you are having difficulty finishing the trek, you can use the horses and palkies provided throughout the route. Make sure you aren’t haggling because the tariffs are set for these.
- Deposits: You must deposit items like mobile phones, bags, and shoes at designated counters before entering the temple premises. There are lockers available.
- Steps or Paved Road: While a few sections of the hike have uneven terrain, much of it is well-paved, particularly around Bhawan and Bhairon Temple.
- What to Wear: Dress appropriately for the weather. You need to dress in layers throughout the cold.
- What to Carry: For your safety and well-being, you need to carry all the relevant essentials like water bottles, light snacks, first aid, and a flashlight for trekking at night. Also, carry some cash with you.
Vaishno Devi Temple trekking is one of the most challenging pilgrimage treks in India, which requires a lot of resilience and physical endurance. The trek not only tests the pilgrim’s faith but rewards you with a divine connection to Goddess Vaishno Devi after you finish the trek. You can confirm all your bookings with TripXL for the ultimate travel experience.
Cover Photo: Ravi Hooda / Unsplash
