Situated at a height of 5300 ft above sea level is one of the most visited shrines in India. The sacred Temple of Goddess Mata Vaishnoo Devi which is dedicated to Mata Vaishnavi or Goddess Shakti. Popularly known as ‘Moonh Mangi Murad Pure Karne Wali’, millions of pilgrims throng from all around the world having devout faith in the goddess. Ardhkuwari Temple is one major attraction during the Journey to the shrine, with a belief that Maa Vaishoo hid herself for nine months in order to save herself form Bhairon who entered the cave from where Mata Vaishnoo made a new opening with her trident. It is also said that the journey is not considered complete if you do not visit the Bhairon ka temple where he was beheaded by the Goddess. The best time to visit the Temple is throughout the year.

History: The manifestation of Goddess Shakti , the shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi is located in the midst of three peaked mountains called as Trikuta. The amalgamation of three spiritual strengths Maha Kali, Maha Lakshmi and Maha saraswati who collectively pooled “Tejas” from various Devtas to eradicate the Asuras was the initial purpose to bring Vaishnavi in this world. It is also said that she was blessed by the Devis that once she attains the higher level of consciousness, will automatically merge with Lord Vishnu and become a part of him. With many theories & myths surrounding the temple, the holy sanctum is still revered by one and all.

Connectivity by Road: The nearest bus stand to connect to the Holy Shrine is at Jammu 52 kms away from Katra Base Camp which is the stoppage point, a two hour drive from Jammu as the rest of the uphill Journey to Mata’s Shrine is done by Foot or ponies. The roads till Jammu are well connected with major part of the cities so pilgrims can commute comfortably.

By Train: The nearest Railway station is in Jammu and is well linked with the rest of the major cities. With a distance of 52 kms away from the Base camp of Katra. A Train till Jammu and thereafter regular buses and taxis are available to embark your journey to the holiest shrine in India.

By Air: The nearest airport to Visit the Shrine is at Jammu from there are myriad transport facilities that are connecting to Katra. To make it easy for the pilgrims a helicopter service is also available that departs from the airport at Sanjhi chat from Jammu in the morning.

Best Hotels to stay: Since it attracts a lot of customers from all around the world it is not hard to get accommodation as per your budget and convenience. You can get access to 3 stars and 2 stars properties in Katra apart from that, guest houses and IRCTC guest house in Katra are also available for the devotees visiting the holy cave.

Please Note: It is important for all the pilgrims to register themselves to the Vaishno Mata Yatra for which the registration process is carried out at the katra Bus stand where in the devotees will be given Yatra Slips/Parchis which they have to carry throughout their Journey till the shrine. Also it is mandatory for all the pilgrims to take utmost care of their respective slips. If misplaced the pilgrims will be turned back by the authorities and will not be allowed to get an access to the Holy Temple.