The Vaishnodevi temple is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in India. Nestled in the Trikuta Mountains of Jammu and Kashmir, the temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess, Vaishnodevi. Every year, millions of devotees undertake the Vaishnodevi yatra to seek the blessings of the goddess and to experience the spiritual energy of the place. In this blog, we will explore the different places to visit during the Vaishnodevi yatra, how to reach the temple, and the services provided by MyTirthIndia.com.
Places to Visit during the Vaishnodevi Yatra
The Vaishnodevi yatra is not just a journey to the temple; it is an immersive experience that involves several places of interest along the way. Here are some of the places to visit during the yatra:
Katra
Katra is the base camp for the Vaishnodevi yatra. It is a bustling town that serves as the starting point for the trek to the Vaishnodevi temple. The town is dotted with shops and restaurants that cater to the needs of pilgrims. It is also home to several temples and shrines, including the Bhairo Baba temple.
Banganga
Banganga is the first stop on the Vaishnodevi yatra. It is believed to be the place where the goddess stopped to quench her thirst during her journey to the Trikuta Mountains. The Banganga river flows through the town, and pilgrims take a dip in its holy waters before starting the trek.
Charan Paduka
Charan Paduka is a rock that is believed to bear the footprints of the goddess. It is located at a height of 3380 feet above sea level and is the second stop on the yatra. Pilgrims offer prayers at the shrine dedicated to the goddess and take a break before continuing the trek.
Adhkawari
Adhkawari is a small cave that is believed to be the place where the goddess meditated for nine months before emerging as Vaishnodevi. The cave is located at a height of 4800 feet above sea level and is the third stop on the yatra. Pilgrims have to crawl through a narrow passage to reach the cave.
Sanjichhat
Sanjichhat is a rest point that is located at a height of 6200 feet above sea level. It is the last stop before reaching the Vaishnodevi temple. Pilgrims can take a break at Sanjichhat and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
Bhairon Temple
The Bhairon temple is located at a distance of 2.5 kilometers from the Vaishnodevi temple. It is believed that the Vaishnodevi yatra is incomplete without visiting the Bhairon temple. Pilgrims offer prayers at the temple before returning from the yatra.
How to Reach Vaishnodevi Temple
The Vaishnodevi temple is located in the Trikuta Mountains and can be reached by foot, helicopter, or pony. Here are the different modes of transport available:
Foot
The most popular way to reach the Vaishnodevi temple is by foot. The trek starts from Katra and is about 14 kilometers long. The trek is divided into three stages: Katra to Banganga, Banganga to Charan Paduka, Charan Paduka to Adhkawari, and Adhkawari to Vaishnodevi temple.
The trek takes about 5-6 hours to complete and involves climbing steep stairs and walking through narrow paths. Pilgrims are advised to wear comfortable shoes and carry enough water and snacks for the journey.
Helicopter
For those who cannot undertake the trek, helicopter services are available from Katra to Sanjichhat. The helicopter ride takes about 10 minutes and offers stunning views of the mountains. From Sanjichhat, pilgrims can take a pony or walk to reach the Vaishnodevi temple.
Pony
Pony rides are also available for those who cannot undertake the trek on foot. Pony rides are available from Katra to the Vaishnodevi temple and back. However, it is important to note that the pony ride can be bumpy and uncomfortable, and pilgrims are advised to take necessary precautions.
Services Provided by MyTirthIndia.com
MyTirthIndia.com is a one-stop solution for all your spiritual needs. They offer a wide range of services, including travel, accommodation, and temple darshan. Here are some of the services provided by MyTirthIndia.com:
Travel
MyTirthIndia.com offers customized travel packages for the Vaishnodevi yatra. They provide air, train, and bus bookings, as well as taxi and helicopter services. They also provide pick-up and drop-off services from airports and railway stations.
Accommodation
MyTirthIndia.com offers a wide range of accommodation options, including budget hotels, luxury hotels, and guest houses. They also provide dormitory accommodation for large groups. All the accommodation options are located near the Vaishnodevi temple and offer comfortable and hygienic facilities.
Temple Darshan
MyTirthIndia.com provides special services for temple darshan. They offer VIP darshan tickets, which allow pilgrims to bypass the long queues and have a hassle-free darshan. They also provide assistance for pooja and aarti services at the temple.
The Vaishnodevi yatra is a spiritual journey that offers a unique experience to pilgrims. The journey to the temple is not just a physical one; it is a journey of faith and devotion. The different places to visit during the yatra offer a glimpse into the mythology and history of the place, and the trek to the temple is a test of endurance and perseverance.
With the services provided by MyTirthIndia.com, pilgrims can have a hassle-free and comfortable journey to the temple. So, if you’re planning a visit to Vaishnodevi, make sure to book your travel and accommodation with MyTirthIndia.com and embark on a journey of a lifetime.