Nidhi
Subhash Staff answered 5 months ago
The trek to Vaishno Devi Temple is approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) from the base camp at Katra to the temple located in the Trikuta Mountains. Here are all the relevant details for first-time visitors:
Trekking Routes
Traditional Route
Starting Point: Banganga, Katra
Distance: 12 km
Duration: 4-6 hours (one way)
Path: Paved path with gentle slopes, well-lit, and lined with shops and rest stops.
New Battery Car Route (Tarakoote Marg)
Starting Point: Katra
Distance: 11 km
Duration: 3-4 hours (one way)
Path: Less crowded, broader, and used by battery-operated cars and e-rickshaws.
Facilities and Amenities
Rest Stops and Shelters
Several covered shelters and benches are available along the route for rest.
Food and Water
Numerous food stalls, cafes, and drinking water points are available throughout the trek.
Medical Aid
Medical aid centers are located at various points along the route for emergency assistance.
Toilets
Clean and well-maintained public restrooms are available at regular intervals.
Assistance and Transport
Palkis (Palanquins)
Available for those who cannot trek, carried by four bearers.
Cost: Varies based on the weight and distance, around INR 3000-5000 for a round trip.
Ponies
Available for rent to ride up the hill.
Cost: Approximately INR 700-1000 one way.
Battery Operated Cars
Available on the new route from Ardhkuwari to Bhawan.
Cost: INR 300 per person one way.
Helicopter Services
Available from Katra to Sanjichhat (about 2.5 km from the temple).
Cost: Approximately INR 1730 per person one way.
Booking: Advance booking is recommended via the official website.
Important Points
Yatra Parchi (Travel Permit)
Mandatory for all pilgrims and can be obtained for free at the Yatra Registration Counter in Katra or online.
Accommodation
Various options are available in Katra and near the temple, including hotels, lodges, and dharamshalas (pilgrim rest houses).
Online Booking: Available on the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board website.
Clothing and Essentials
Wear comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.
Carry essentials like water, snacks, a flashlight, and a walking stick if needed.
Safety Tips
Start early to avoid the afternoon heat.
Stay hydrated and take regular breaks.
Follow the designated path and be cautious of monkeys.
Weather and Best Time to Visit
Best Time: March to October
Weather: Pleasant during these months. Winter (November to February) can be very cold, with occasional snowfall.
By keeping these details in mind, first-time visitors can have a safe and fulfilling pilgrimage to Vaishno Devi Temple.
raman Staff answered 4 months ago
The Vaishno Devi Temple, located in Katra in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir, India, is one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimage sites dedicated to Goddess Vaishno Devi. The trek to the Vaishno Devi Temple is a significant part of the pilgrimage experience. Here’s a detailed guide to the Vaishno Devi Temple trek:
Trek Overview
Starting Point: Katra
Destination: Vaishno Devi Temple
Distance: Approximately 13-14 kilometers (8-9 miles) one way from Katra to the temple.
Duration: The trek generally takes 6-8 hours one way, depending on your pace and fitness level.
Trek Details
**1. Getting to Katra
By Air: The nearest airport is Jammu Airport, about 50 kilometers from Katra. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Katra.
By Train: Katra has a railway station with trains connecting it to major cities. Alternatively, you can take a train to Jammu and then a taxi or bus to Katra.
By Road: Katra is well-connected by road with major cities in Jammu and Kashmir. You can drive or take a bus to reach Katra.
**2. Starting the Trek
Registration: At Katra, you need to register for the trek at the Yatra Registration Counter. You will receive a yatra slip with a QR code.
Trekking Route: The trek starts from the Ban Ganga area in Katra. From there, you will follow the designated path leading to the Vaishno Devi Temple.
**3. Key Stops Along the Route
Banganga: The starting point of the trek where you can find a small temple and a water spring.
Charan Paduka: A stop where devotees believe Goddess Vaishno Devi rested during her journey.
Ardh Kuwari: A cave where it is believed that Goddess Vaishno Devi meditated for nine months to evade the demon Bhairon Nath. The cave is narrow and requires some crawling.
Holi Cave: A significant shrine on the way to the main temple.
Vaishno Devi Temple: The main shrine, where you can offer prayers to Goddess Vaishno Devi.
**4. Trek Essentials
Footwear: Comfortable and durable trekking shoes with good grip.
Clothing: Wear lightweight and weather-appropriate clothing. It can get cold in the evenings, so pack a warm layer.
Water and Snacks: Carry sufficient water and energy snacks, though there are numerous eateries and stalls along the route.
Medications: Carry any personal medications and a basic first-aid kit.
**5. Accommodation
Katra: There are numerous hotels and guesthouses in Katra ranging from budget to luxury.
En Route: There are several rest stops and dormitory-style accommodations available on the trek route, but it’s advisable to stay in Katra before starting the trek.
**6. Alternative Routes and Modes of Transport
Ponies and Palkis: For those who prefer not to walk the entire distance, ponies and palkis (palanquins) are available for hire.
Helicopter Service: There is a helicopter service from Katra to Sanjhichat, which is a base point about 6 kilometers from the main temple. From Sanjhichat, you can take a short trek to the temple.
Important Tips
Weather: Check the weather conditions before starting your trek, as the path can be challenging during adverse weather.
Safety: Follow safety guidelines, avoid shortcuts, and stick to the marked path.
Respect Local Customs: Maintain cleanliness, respect religious practices, and follow the instructions of the local authorities and guides.
The Vaishno Devi Temple trek is not only a spiritual journey but also an opportunity to experience the scenic beauty of the Himalayas. The trek can be physically demanding, so it’s essential to prepare well and trek at your own pace.