Vaishno Devi Mandir Travel Guide

Vaishno Devi Mandir Travel Guide

The temple of Vaishno Devi is located in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. The exact situation of this temple is atop a hill that stands at an altitude of 5200 feet. The temple is dedicated to Mata Rani Vaishno Devi who is one of the many avatars of Goddess Shakti. This is one of the most revered places of Hindu worship. There are several thousands of tourists and pilgrims that visit the temple every year. Special arrangements are made both the government of India and the state government of the Jammu and Kashmir to look into the basic needs of the pilgrims and their safety and security.

A large part of the journey to the temple is covered by pilgrims on foot. There is however carriers for elderly people available. You can also hire ponies, mules and other breeds of horses for the journey. The nearest airport is at Jammu Airport and from here there is a regular and frequent schedule of flights that operate to all other parts of the country. The service providers are both private and government owned airlines companies that are available.

The temple of Vaishno Devi is open for pilgrims and visitors at all times of the year except in the winters. The premises and the route is closed in the severely cold months of the winter season. There are natural risks that may be involved and thus pilgrims are not allowed. The main shrine of the temple is located within a cave that is at the summit of the hill. Once the pilgrims reach the distance they can queue up for a closer look at the shrine.

There are several other places that you may also visit when you are here. There is the temple of Deva Mai that is located in the town of Katra. In close proximity to Katra there are the caves dedicated to Lord Shiva – Shiv Khori. Then there are the well known temples of Baba Dhansar. This beautiful temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a popularly visited destination. You can also visit the temples of Baba Jitto and Dera Baba Banda. They are both well known for their legendary existence and are always visited.

There is a choice that you have when it comes to the selection of accommodation facilities. There are private hotels and accommodations available along with government hotels and guests houses too. There are plenty of dharamsalas too that provide quality and yet cost-effective accommodation and food arrangements. There are arrangements available from the Temple Board as well. it is however advisable to check on all the available options and make prior reservations. The huge numbers of pilgrims may not allow last minute booking availability. 

Last Updated: 29/03/2012