Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra is a famous pilgrimage destination located in the state of Jammu and Kashmir in India. It is a revered shrine. Shrine is dedicated to Goddess Vaishno Devi. She is also known as Mata Rani, who is believed to fulfill the wishes of her devotees. So if you planning to come, you should know about Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra Complete the step-by-step trip guide.
Mata Vaishno Devi Complete Step-By-Step Trip Guide
- Plan your trip: The first step is to plan your trip in advance. Decide on the dates, book your travel tickets, and make hotel reservations. It is advisable to plan the trip during the offseason to avoid the crowds.
- Pack your bags: Pack your bags with essential things. Some of the things are comfortable clothing and walking shoes. Also water bottles, snacks, medicines, and a flashlight.
- Reach Jammu: The nearest airport and railway station to Katra. The base camp of the Vaishno Devi Yatra is located in Jammu. So, the first step is to reach Jammu either by flight or train.
- Reach Katra: From Jammu, you can take a taxi. A bus to reach Katra, which is about 45 km from Jammu. It takes around 1.5 hours to reach Katra from Jammu.
- Register for Yatra: Before starting the Yatra. You need to register yourself at the Yatra Registration Counter in Katra. You will need to fill out a form and provide your details including your name, address, and contact number.
- Begin the Yatra: The Yatra starts from Katra .The total distance from Katra to Vaishno Devi Temple is around 14 km. You can either walk or hire a pony, palki, or helicopter ride to reach the temple.
Here Comes The Complete Mata Vaishno Devi Step-By-Step Guide Trip Guide To Cover Before Reaching The Bhawan.
- First Stop: The first stop on the Yatra is Banganga, which is around 2.5 km from Katra. Here, you can take a bath in the holy Banganga River.
- Second Stop: The second stop is Charan Paduka, which is around 1.5 km from Banganga. It is believed that Goddess Vaishno Devi stopped here to take a rest while on her way to the cave.
- Third Stop: The third stop is Adkuwari, which is around 6 km from Katra. Here, you can see the Holy Cave of Mata Vaishno Devi from a distance. You can also rest and have refreshments at Adkuwari.
- Fourth Stop: The fourth and final stop is the Holy Cave of Mata Vaishno Devi which is around 6 km from Adkuwari. Here you can offer prayers and seek the blessings of the Goddess.
- Return to Katra: After visiting the Holy Cave, you need to return to Katra. You can either walk or take a pony, palki, or helicopter ride.
- Accommodation: There are many budget and luxury hotels in Katra where you can stay overnight. You can also stay in the Dharamshalas run by the Shrine Board
- In conclusion, this is the Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra complete step-by-step trip guide that requires physical and mental strength to complete. It is advisable to carry enough water and food supplies during the Yatra and to wear comfortable clothes and shoes. With the above guide, you can plan your Yatra effectively and experience the divine blessings of Mata Vaishno Devi.
Some More Services That Can Help You During Your Visit To Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra Step-By-Step Trip Guide:
- Yatra Parchi: Once you reach Katra, you need to obtain a Yatra Parchi from the Yatra Registration Counter. The Yatra Parchi is mandatory to start the Yatra, and it contains your personal details and the date of your visit. You can obtain the Yatra Parchi for free, but there is an option to book it online in advance to avoid waiting in line.
- Battery-Operated Vehicles: To reduce walking distance, battery-operated vehicles are available at a nominal cost. These vehicles can take you from Banganga to Adkuwari or from Adkuwari to the Holy Cave.
- Helicopter Service: If you want to avoid walking, you can take a helicopter service from Katra to Sanjichhat or from Sanjichhat to the Holy Cave. The helicopter service is available at a cost, and it is advisable to book it in advance.
- Pithoo and Palki Service: If you prefer a traditional mode of transportation, you can hire a pit hoo or a palki service. A pithoo is a person who carries you on his back, and a palki is a chair carried by four people. These services are available at a cost, and you can negotiate the price with the service provider.
- Food and Water: There are many food and water stalls available on the Yatra route, and it is advisable to carry your own water bottle and snacks. You can also find restaurants and food stalls in Katra that serve vegetarian food.
- Accommodation: If you plan to stay overnight in Katra you can find many budget and luxury hotels. The Shrine Board also operates several Dharamshalas that provide free or low-cost accommodation to the Yatris. It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak season.
- Medical Facilities: In case of any medical emergency, you can avail of medical facilities available on the Yatra route. The Shrine Board operates several medical aid posts, and you can also find medical shops in Katra