by Just what is the best time to visit the world’s most holy Hindu Temple? The answer for Vaishno Devi is: any time of year. But if you want to get the most out of your trip, there are various other things you should know before setting out on your journey. Such as where to stay and what clothes to pack and wear.
There is a wide range of accommodation available. These range from hotels, to guest houses to dharamshalas and even local homes rented out for the purpose of accommodating pilgrims. The Government provides pilgrims’ dormitories (PGs) in Katra and Bhawan, but only during the main pilgrimage season.
The best time to visit Vaishno Devi is in March to October. These months experience pleasant weather, which is ideal for pilgrims. The weather is also agreeable for trekking.
Best way to Plan Vaishno Devi Yatra:
- If you are planning to visit Vaishno Devi in summer, during peak period (April–June) then you will have better experience by choosing hotels with attached bath.
- Hotels offering pick and drop facility are best option for the comfort of pilgrims during yatra days.
- Check the weather report and decide whether to go during winter or summer.
- If it is your first time to visit Vaishno Devi then it is good idea to have 2-3 days before and after yatra. In this time you must stay with local people and experience their hospitality in their homes. This will help you to appreciate the beauty of this place better and also meet with family of pilgrims from various parts of India.
- If you are planning to visit Vaishno Devi for the first time then please go through a proper parcha (guide book) and check the important dates related to pilgrimage. This will help you to plan your schedule accordingly and also meet with basic needs of pilgrims.
Best Places to Visit Near Vaishno Devi
1) Kausani
Kausani is located around 100 km from Katra and is a place where most of the pilgrims board their rath yatra. The town has a temple of Lord Shiva, near the north-east corner of Vaishno Devi. This temple is known for its mystic power that can change the color of one’s hair, skin, teeth and nails. It does not have much tourist luxury but remains a place to visit on one way trip to Vaishno Devi.
2) Bhagsu
Bhagsu is a small town located around 25 km from Vaishno Devi. It is famous for it’s temple of Sati, who is the consort of lord Shiva and the elder sister of Lord Ganesh. The town also houses the “Maa-Gauri” or goddess Sati Kshetra which has a large number of pilgrims during times of yatra. Bhagsu Palace is also a place to visit during Vaishno Devi Yatra.
3) Thansa
Bhawan:This village is located around 32 km from Vaishno Devi and is famous for the Temple of Mata Vashno Devi. She is also known as Goddess Sati and believed to be the daughter of Lord Shiva. This temple has a small, but beautiful temple and also houses a visitable cave where one can worship Sati with incense sticks.
Final Words
It is not only the most holiest Hindu temple, but also Vaishno Devi is a place that brings together people from different parts of the world. It is a place which goes beyond religion, it’s also a place to celebrate diversity and celebrate our heritage. This beautiful country of ours has a lot to offer to people looking for destinations like this.
The temple is open to all and the devotees belong to all religious sects. This holy place is one of the most visited tourist places in the country. It is also very popular among foreign tourists because of its religious significance.
