Located in the Jammu and Kashmir region of Northern India, the Vaishno Devi Temple is a hillside city dedicated to the Hindu religion. Remarkably, it resides on Trikuta Mountain, an important landmark for Hindus. When you want to explore a grand structure on your next vacation, the Vaishno Devi Temple is an outstanding attraction on your Himachal Pradesh itinerary.
History Behind This Temple City
Within this expansive temple city is the Holy Cave. Geologically, scientists estimate this structure to be one million years old. Because of the cave's ancient age, the Hindu mythology surrounding it and the city itself is vast. One legend describes an ancient prince Arjuna and his need to seek a blessing before heading to war. At Lord Krishna's request, Arjuna traveled into Jammu's hillsides and praised Vaishno Devi at this location. In turn, this mother goddess blessed him, and the area's significance to the Hindus was solidified.
Choosing a Pilgrimage Route
Most visitors begin their trek to the temple from the city of Katra. From here, take one of two routes. First, the old route includes a walk past the Charan Paduka Temple. Secondly, take the alternative route directly to Ardhkuwari, the midway point between Katra and the Vaishno Devi Temple.
Because these routes vary between 3 and 5 miles long, visitors have other transport options. Buses and taxis to Katra are commonplace, for instance. Afterward, consider taking a pony or mule during part of the trek. Another option is reserving a helicopter ride. Ideally, match your physical abilities to the trekking selections before you arrive for the best experience.
Comforting Amenities for Travelers
Although the trek to the temple is considerably long, the locals make the journey a comfortable one with certain amenities. For example, the entire route is fully lit for trekking 24 hours a day. Indeed, the path is open 365 days a year. Also, food stalls, bathrooms and relaxing benches are carefully stretched along the route. With police and security checkpoints to protect your safety, trekking to the temple is a joyous part of the experience.
Worshiping at the Temple
Aarti or Hindu worship occurs twice daily at sunrise and sunset. During this worship service, priests perform several tasks to worship the goddess at the Holy Cave. Requiring about 2 hours to complete, the aartis are highlights for Hindu followers.
Typically, a prasad or sacred food offering occurs during each aarti. With the goddess's blessing, the priests offer the prasad to the worshipers. It's believed that a darshan or encounter with the goddess is possible during any aarti performed at the Vaishno Devi Temple.
Shopping, Dining and Donating Opportunities
Hill stations surrounding the temple have plenty of shopping stalls open to visitors. For example, visit the Katra bus stand, Adkuwari or Bhawan for souvenirs. From deity photos to saris, these shops offer memorable treasures as you support the locals with your contributions.
When you work up an appetite, enjoy restaurants in these communities, too. Tea, beans and noodles are common staples to fill you up. After enjoying your day trip to the temple and the surrounding properties, consider donating to the organization. For your convenience, donation boxes are found throughout the temple.
Selecting a Season for Your Itinerary
Between July and September, you'll find the temple relatively quiet during the off-season. Rain and hot temperatures often make this season difficult to travel up to the temple city, however. Alternatively, visit between December and June. Winter temperatures and snowy conditions make the pilgrimage a unique time for Hindus and visitors.
Overall, the peak season for visiting the Vaishno Devi Temple is September and October. During the autumn, the temperatures remain cool and the surrounding trees have fall colors. Also, the Navaratri Festival occurs annually. Celebrated over nine nights, this festival commemorates the triumph of good over evil. If you plan to travel during the festival, book your lodging far in advance for the best selections.
Millions of visitors travel to the Vaishno Devi Temple each year to worship and find peace with their spirituality. Located 5,000 feet above sea level, the temple city has a view of the surrounding Himalayas, too. Hindu followers and everyday travelers are welcome to learn, worship and participate in activities at the Vaishno Devi Temple any time.
