|
|
|
Holiday Tour Package |
Katra Holiday Tour Package
A haphazard spread of whitewashed concrete buildings lie at the foothills of Trikuta Mountain. Why an insignificant town draws 8.2 million people annually is hardly a mystery. Katra is the gateway to the Holy Cave Shrine of Vaishno Devi that is on top of the mountain.
Many legends surround the goddess and each one claims that it is a sacred place and that the Mata will make all your wishes come true. At over 5200 ft the goddess is out of reach and a 13 km trek will lead you to her.
Largely influenced by the religious fervor of the devotees who throng its streets Katra stays in line with the beliefs and serves only vegetarian food and alcohol is not allowed here. It is still a small town at heart even when it seems to be in the eye of the storm during peak season and the Navratri Festival around October. A bazaar selling various knick-knacks is the only distraction here.
A helicopter will whisk you away and deliver you at Sanjichhat. If you can't trust your feet, a pony or a palanquin and porters will help you get to the Vaishno Devi Shrine. After seeking the grace of the Mata, if you still have some energy left in you, go further up to the Bhairavnath Temple. After a short rest and food at a bhojanalaya, you can make the trip down.
Reaching the shrine
The Vaishno Devi Cave Shrine atop Trikuta Mountain is 13 km from Katra. While the best way to experience the pilgrimage is by foot, you have many other options to choose from.
Helicopters can drop you off at a helipad in Sanjichhat just 4-5 km from the shrine in less than 10 minutes. Six people can travel together at a time.
Devotees have to register at the Yatra Registration Counter in Katra and get a Yatra slip which is free and valid for six hours. Without the slip you cannot get beyond Baanganga. It is wise to take only the bare essentials. An hour into the trek will make you appreciate the lack of luggage.
A helicopter will whisk you away and deliver you at Sanjichhat. If you can't trust your feet, a pony or a palanquin and porters will help you get to the Vaishno Devi Shrine. After seeking the grace of the Mata, if you still have some energy left in you, go further up to the Bhairavnath Temple. After a short rest and food at a bhojanalaya, you can make the trip down.
We thank you for your patronage & look forward to serve you again in near future.
|
| |
|
|
