Which season is best for Vaishno Devi?

 

Vaishno Devi Temple, located in the Trikuta Mountains of Jammu and Kashmir, India, is a renowned Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to the goddess Vaishno Devi. Millions of devotees visit the temple each year to seek blessings and fulfill their spiritual aspirations. The temple is situated at an altitude of approximately 5,200 feet and requires a strenuous trek of about 13 kilometers from the base camp to reach the shrine. It is believed that the goddess grants the wishes of her devotees who make the arduous journey with unwavering faith.

Ways to do Vaishno Devi Yatra

It can be undertaken by trekking the 13-kilometer path, hiring ponies or palanquins, or using a helicopter service for a quicker journey to the temple.

1. Trekking

The Yatra can be accomplished by embarking on a 13-kilometer trek, traversing the scenic trails of the Trikuta Mountains, offering a challenging yet spiritually fulfilling experience for devotees.

2. Helicopter Ride

The helicopter ride is a convenient option, providing a faster and more comfortable journey to the temple. It offers breathtaking aerial views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

3. Ponies and Palanquins

Ponies and palanquins are popular means of transport for pilgrims during the yatra. They offer convenience and assistance for those who prefer not to trek the entire distance to the temple.

Temples to Visit on a Vaishno Devi Yatra

The following are the prominent temples that you will be visiting on your Vaishno Devi trip with family:

1. Mata Vaishno Devi Temple

It holds great significance as a prominent Hindu temple and religious site. It is devoted to Vaishno Devi, revered as one of the 108 Shakti Peethas. The temple venerates Durga in her form as Vaishno Devi and is held in high regard by devotees.

2. Adh Kumari Temple

Adh Kuwari, located 6 km from the main Bhawan of Vaishno Devi, is a significant milestone on the pilgrimage. Known as the “eternal virgin,” Adh Kuwari holds immense importance as one of the essential temples along the path leading to the holy cave.

3. Bhairon Nath Temple

The Bhairon Nath Temple, located a mere 2 km from Mata Vaishno Devi Temple, is devoted to Baba Bhairavnath. According to legend, Bhairav was defeated by the goddess Vaishno Devi when he attempted to harm her. She assumed the form of Kali and beheaded him, but later forgave him upon his repentance. It is believed that seeking the blessings of Bhairon Nath is essential for a complete pilgrimage.

4. Charan Paduka

Located at an elevation of 3,380 feet, approximately 1.5 km away from Banganga, Charan Paduka is a sacred site where the revered footprints of the Goddess are believed to be imprinted on a rock slab. Pilgrims pay their respects to these divine imprints before continuing their spiritual journey.

How to Reach Vaishno Devi

Families planning a trip to Vaishnodevi have multiple transportation options. They can choose to travel by road, train, or flight. The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Railway station is the closest terminal, just 20 km away from the holy shrine. Katra, situated about 50 km from Jammu, serves as the base camp and is accessible by frequent buses from Jammu, Amritsar, New Delhi, and other major cities. Jammu is well connected by flights from major cities, and there are numerous daily and weekly trains operating to Jammu, with a few extended till Katra.

Vande Bharat Train From Delhi to Katra

The Vande Bharat train route from Delhi to Katra offers a convenient and comfortable journey for pilgrims visiting Vaishno Devi. It is supposed to run six days a week, except Tuesday. 

Best Time to go on Vaishno Devi Yatra

It attracts a constant flow of visitors throughout the year, but the peak tourist season is typically from March to July. During these months, the weather is pleasant, with maximum temperatures around 31 degrees Celsius and minimum temperatures around 17 degrees Celsius. This comfortable climate is ideal for devotees to embark on their darshan (worship) and many families choose to plan their trips to during this period.

It usually rains between August and September, the weather conditions can get a little extreme this time, but despite that many devotees prefer travelling around this time. November to February are the winter months and many travelers do not prefer travelling during these months because weather conditions are harsh and trekking around this time becomes difficult.