Vaishno Devi Yatra
This
cave temple has a very popular following from
people of all faiths. Among the most revered of
shrines, and the oldest in the region, it entails
a 13.5 km trek from Katra which in turn is 50 km
from Jammu. The route up to the shrine consists of
both tiled paths as well as steep staircases, and
the devout often walk barefeet up the Trikuta
mountain. Several shrines, wayside stalls for
snacks and beverages and water-points dot the
route. An important temple, midway at Adhkunwari,
marks a major centre of obeisance where the
goddess is supposed to have spent nine months on
her journey up the mountain.
Vaishnav Devi Temple at Katra, Jammu
The cave shrine is
narrow and pilgrims have to walk through a
running stream of cold water Charan Ganga.
to get to the sanctum sanctorum. Within,
three rock-cut idols of the goddesses,
Mahakali, Mahalakshmi and Mahasaraswati are
venerated canopies of silver and gold.
Coconuts and red scarves are offered.
Legend has it that
Vaishno Devi took the cave for her home upon
being chased by a demon, Bhairon, whom she
slayed outside the shrine. A visit to the
temple dedicated to Bhairon who was absolved
of his sin before he died, is an obligatory
part of the pilgrimage.
 
Vignettes of a 'yatra' to Vaishno Devi
All pilgrims are
required to get passes at Katra for the 'yatra'
which continues round the year. In the
winter, snow can often block the route, but
summer nights are ideal for the uphill
ascent. To facilitate pilgrims the entire
route has been electrically lit, and there
is overnight accommodation available at the
shrine.
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