Photo: SUDEEP PRAMANIK · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons
What is Mata Vaishno Devi Bhawan known for?
The shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi is a cave in the Trikuta hills about 12 kilometres above Katra, reached by a paved mountain path. Within the cave the goddess is worshipped in the form of three pindis — natural rock formations — representing Maha Kali, Maha Lakshmi and Maha Saraswati. The shrine and the yatra are administered by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board.
Why is Mata Vaishno Devi Bhawan significant?
Tradition holds that the goddess, as the young Vaishnavi, meditated in the Trikuta hills and took her final form in the cave, and that Bhairon Nath, who pursued her, was slain nearby and granted forgiveness. For that reason the yatra customarily continues after darshan up to the Bhairon Nath temple. Ardhkuwari, about halfway along the path, is the cave where she is held to have meditated for nine months.
Which rituals and festivals are held at Mata Vaishno Devi Bhawan?
Darshan of the three pindis is the central act of the yatra, and the offering of chunari, coconut and dry fruit is customary. Aarti is performed at the Bhawan morning and evening. Many pilgrims chant "Jai Mata Di" through the climb.
Both Navratris are the principal seasons of the yatra.
How do you reach Mata Vaishno Devi Bhawan?
Katra has its own railway station, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra, with direct trains from Delhi and other cities; Jammu airport is about 50 kilometres away. Yatra registration is required and is issued by the Shrine Board, which is the authority for all yatra arrangements.
The path is about 12 kilometres one way. Ponies, palkis and a battery car on part of the route are available. The Bhawan is cold at night even in summer and very cold in winter, so carry warm clothing.