Vaishno Devi, Jammu &Kashmir India

Introduction

If you are just a Hindu, visiting Vaishno Devi temple will give you the spiritual satisfaction of achieving the four objectives—Dharma (righteousness), Artha (material pursuits) , Kaam (Contentment) , Moksha (Salvation).

But more tha  a Hindu if you are an ardent nature lover its panaromic surroundings view will give you the thrill of a lifetime.

Location

It is located in the state of Jammu &Kashmir, in the folds of three peaked mountain, Thrikuta , 12 kilometres away from Katra.

History

India has a wide variety of ancient temples , whose history is difficult to be traced.  Similar is the case of this temple.

But geological survey states it to be a million years old. In Rig veda, the oldest of the four Vedas, you can find the mention of the Trikuta hills.

The most popular version of its origin says that Vaishno Devi was discovered about seven hundred years ago by Pandit Shridhar.

 It is popularly believed that Mata once aided in organising a Bhandara at Shridhar’s place.

 But to escape from Bhairon Nath, she had to leave the place. Gripped by grief and sorrow shridhar started giving the food, praying for Mata Vaishno Devi.

Mata gave her appearance in dreams asking him to search her the cave in the Trikuta mountain.

This led the discovery of the holy cave. The holy pindies found there are the three head a top a rock, which Shridhar found there.

 Tourist timings

This second most religious site in India, attracts tourists and devotees throughout the year.

But May, July and the festivals of Chaitra and Sharadh-Ashwin is the most suitable period.

December and January adds snowfall attractions. Shree Mata Vaishno Devi shrine board is in charge of its administration and maintenance.

 So everyone from all over the world who ever is interested in enjoying the spiritual bliss should definitely visit this temple and get the blessings of Mata Vaishno Devi.

How to Reach and Exact Location

One can reach Katra by air from anywhere of the country.

Katra also can be reached by rail and road from anywhere of the country.

After reaching the city every one can reach here by catching local buses and also can hire taxis or auto- rickshaws from anywhere throughout the city.