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Lies amidst snow-covered Himalayas Mountains, the holy shrine of 'Vaishno Devi' is a frequented pilgrimage in India. In the middle of stretched forests, Vaishno Devi shrine is located on Trikuta Mountain. Dedicated to Shakti, the sacred shrine is located near Katra in Reasi. Millions of devotees from different corners of the world visit this holy place every year.
Maa Vaishno Devi
The shrine is dedicated to Maa Vaishnavi. Also known as the 'Goddess of Power', the devi is a main deity of Hindus. You will find three Pindis (heads) inside the cave, the main place of this sacred shrine. These pindies are in the forms of Maha Kaali (Goddess of power), Maha Saraswati (Goddess of wisdom) and Maha Lakshmi (Goddess of wealth). The holy cave is approx 98 feet long and upto 14 people can enter at a time.
Legend
People believe that the place served where Goddess Durga killed Bhairo, a devil. According to legends, a Brahmin discovered the shrine thousands year ago. It is believed that people can reach there, only when Maa Vaishno calls them. Nobody can visit the holy shrine without the permission of Maa.
The Sacred Journey
The journey of Vaishno Devi starts at Katra. From here, devotees have to cover 13 km to reach the shrine. Many devotees cover the distance on foot. However, they can also hire horses and palkis as per their convenience. Even devotees can visit there by helicopter as well.
The entire path is a wide road along with lush green surroundings. After 6 km, you reach 'Ardhkanwari', the holy cave where Mata meditated for 9 months. Then, after covering 9.5 km, you will reach 'Saanjhi Chatt', where you can rest for some time. From here, the holy shrine of 'Mata Vaishno Devi' is 3.5 km away.
Throughout the way, you can listen the loud voice of 'Jai Mata Di'.
On the way, you can also take a halt at the road side dhabas and tea stalls. Devotees also enjoy the spectacular surroundings and hilly mountains. Abundance of natural beauty refreshes your mind and makes your body relaxed.
Accommodation
Devotees on the way to Vaishno Devi temple can stay at hotels in Darbar, Adhkawari and Sanjichhat. Shri Mata Vaishnov Devi Shrine Board arranges accommodation at Vishram Ghar or Niharika. Tourists can also find accommodation at Dharmshalas in Katra.
Important Travel Information
If you plan to go Vaishno Devi by air, Jammu is the nearest airport, 48 km from Katra. Jammu is the nearest railway station. It is also well-linked via road through all the prominent cities of India. Regular bus services are available from Jammu central bus station.
Author's Bio:
Mata Vaishnodevi Tours hold great significant for devotees especially Hindus. Being the most famous shrine among the India Pilgrimage Tours, it is frequently visited by devotees.
