Welcome to Vaishno Devi

Vaishno Devi, one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimage destinations, is located in the Trikuta Mountains of Jammu and Kashmir. Every year, millions of devotees embark on this sacred journey to seek the blessings of Mata Vaishno Devi. The shrine is nestled at an altitude of 5,200 feet, and the trek to the temple is as enriching as the destination itself.

The Vaishno Devi pilgrimage holds deep spiritual significance and is believed to fulfil the wishes of the devotees who visit with sincere faith. Whether you are a devotee seeking blessings or a traveler looking for a serene spiritual retreat, It offers a profound experience.

Devotees on the sacred trek to Vaishno Devi shrine.

A Brief History

The origins of the Vaishno Devi shrine date back to ancient times. The goddess is believed to be a manifestation of Maa Durga, and the cave where the temple stands is said to be where Vaishno Devi meditated. According to legend, the temple was discovered more than 700 years ago by a devotee named Pandit Sridhar, following a divine vision. Since then, Vaishno Devi has become a pilgrimage site for millions of devotees from around the world.

Must-See Attractions

Vaishno Devi Bhawan: The main temple complex where the goddess is worshipped in the form of natural pindis (rock formations).
Ardhkuwari Cave: This sacred cave is halfway along the pilgrimage trek and is believed to be the place where the goddess meditated for nine months.
Bhairon Temple: After visiting the main shrine, it is customary to visit the Bhairon Temple, which is about 2.5 km further uphill.
Ban Ganga: A sacred river where pilgrims stop to take a dip before starting their trek to the Vaishno Devi shrine.
Sanjichhat: A viewpoint on the trek offering panoramic views of the entire Trikuta Mountain range.

How to Reach Vaishno Devi

Pilgrims typically start their journey from Katra, the base town for the trek. From Katra, a 13 km uphill trek leads to the holy shrine. The trek can be done on foot, or pilgrims can opt for ponies, palkis, or helicopter services to reach the temple. Electric vehicles are also available for those who need assistance.

Best Time to Visit Vaishno Devi

The shrine is open throughout the year, but the most popular times to visit are during the Navratri festivals in spring and autumn. Winters offer a quieter and more peaceful experience, though the cold weather requires adequate preparation.

Pilgrimage Essentials: What to Pack

Comfortable walking shoes
Warm clothing (even in summer, evenings can be chilly)
Rain gear during the monsoon season
Personal identification and yatra slip (required to visit the shrine)
Snacks and water for the trek

Vaishno Devi Pilgrimage Packages

We offer several Vaishno Devi pilgrimage packages designed to suit different needs:

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to travel to Vaishno Devi?
Yes, Vaishno Devi is considered one of the safest pilgrimage sites in India, with a well-maintained route and 24/7 security.
What are the current weather conditions in Vaishno Devi?
Weather varies by season. Summers are mild, winters are cold, and monsoons bring moderate rainfall.
Can I book helicopter services in advance?
Yes, helicopter services from Katra to Sanjichhat can be booked online. Early bookings are recommended.