Vaishno Devi Temple

Vaishno Devi Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the Hindu Mother Goddess or Durga, located at the Trikuta Mountains within the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. Vaishno Devi is also known as Mata Rani and Vaishnavi. The temple is located at a height of 5,300 ft.

Vaishnavi, in the form of a five-and-a-half-foot-tall rock with three heads or ‘Pindies’ on the top is the ultimate destination of a devotee. These Pindies constitute the Sanctum Sanctorum of the holy cave known as the shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Ji, which is revered by one and all.

Vaishnodevi pilgrims (yatris) visit the temple every year, numbering more than 4.5 million. It is the second most visited religious shrine in India, after Tirupathi Tirumala Venkateswara Temple.

Mata Vaishno Devi temple can be reached from Katra – a small but bustling town around 45 kilometers from Jammu. The pilgrimage (yatra) begins at Katra and pilgrims have to cover around 14 kilometers of terrain on foot to reach the Sanctum Sanctorum. Though carriers like horses and palanquins are available, most of the people love to visit by walking. Helicopter service is also present. The atmosphere over there is very much spiritual. People love to sing, utter and chant the slogan ‘Jai Mata Di!’ (Hail Mother!) during the journey.