Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Temple, nestled in the Trikuta Mountains of Katra, Jammu & Kashmir, is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in India. Dedicated to Maa Vaishno Devi, a combined form of Goddess Mahakali, Mahalakshmi, and Mahasaraswati, it draws millions of devotees annually. Situated at an altitude of about 5,000 feet (1,500 meters), the temple is also counted among the 108 Shakti Peethas.
This ancient cave shrine holds a special place in Hindu devotion, especially for followers of the Shakti tradition. Managed by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) since 1986, the temple is not just a religious symbol but a marvel of organization and faith.
Vaishno Devi Temple Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Temple Name | Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Temple |
| Location | Trikuta Hills, Katra, District Reasi, Jammu & Kashmir |
| Deity | Maa Vaishno Devi |
| Altitude | 5,000 ft (1,500 meters) |
| Affiliation | Hinduism |
| Significance | One of the 108 Shakti Peethas, the richest and busiest pilgrimage sites |
| Built In | 0028 Vikram Samvat (approx. 1st century BCE) |
| Architecture | Cave Temple |
| Governing Body | Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board |
| Best Time to Visit | Navratri, Durga Puja, Teej, Lakshmi Puja |
| Time Required for Darshan | 1 to 5 hours (varies by season) |
| Official Website | www.maavaishnodevi.org |
Temple Timings (Opening & Closing Hours)
| Season | Opening Time | Closing Time | Temple Break |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer (April–Sept) | 05:00 AM | 09:00 PM | 12:00 PM – 04:00 PM |
| Winter (Oct–March) | 06:00 AM | 09:00 PM | 01:00 PM – 04:00 PM |
Note: Check official updates during festival seasons or while booking your Yatra online.
Vaishno Devi Temple Darshan Timings
| Particular | Timing | Days |
|---|---|---|
| Temple Opens | 05:00 AM | Daily |
| Morning Darshan | 05:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Daily |
| Temple Break | 12:00 PM – 04:00 PM | Daily |
| Evening Darshan | 04:00 PM – 09:00 PM | Daily |
| Temple Closes | 09:00 PM | Daily |
Pooja & Aarti Schedule
The ‘Aarti’ to Goddess Vaishno Devi is performed twice a day—at sunrise and sunset. The rituals are elaborate and spiritually intense.
| Aarti Type | Summer Timing | Winter Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Morning Aarti | 06:20 AM – 08:00 AM | 06:20 AM – 08:00 AM |
| Evening Aarti | 07:20 PM – 08:30 PM | 06:20 PM – 08:00 PM |
Vaishno Devi Temple Entry Fee & Yatra Registration 2025
Darshan at the temple is free, but registration is mandatory and completely computerized at the Yatra Registration Counter (YRC) in Katra.
Special Ticket Pricing
| Service | Price (INR) | Per Person |
|---|---|---|
| Attka Aarti | ₹2,000 | Yes |
| Shradha Suman Vishesh Puja (SSVP) | ₹26,000 | Yes |
| Helicopter Ride (One Way) | ₹1,730 | Yes |
| Helicopter Ride (Two Way) | ₹3,460 | Yes |
| Pony Ride (Adult) | ₹380 | Yes |
| Pony Ride (Adult + Child 3–6 yrs) | ₹380 | Yes |
Online Booking Process for Darshan & Helicopter Ride
Devotees can book various services like helicopter rides, pooja slots, accommodation, and Attka Aarti via the official portal:
Steps:
-
Visit the official website: https://www.maavaishnodevi.org/
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Click on the Online Services section.
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Choose your service: Darshan, Helicopter, Aarti, or Accommodation.
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Enter Yatra details, ID proof, and personal info.
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Select your preferred date and slot.
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Make the payment and download the confirmation slip.
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Carry the e-pass and ID proof on the day of the visit.
Contact & Helpline Information
| Department | Contact Info |
|---|---|
| Shrine Board Address | Katra, District Reasi, Jammu & Kashmir – 182301 |
| Toll-Free Number | 1800-180-7212 |
| Phone Number | +91-99060-19494 |
| Official Website | maavaishnodevi.org |
FAQs – Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Temple
Q: Is Yatra registration mandatory?
Yes, every devotee must register before proceeding with the pilgrimage. Registration is free and can be done at YRC or online.
Q: Are there helicopter services available for Vaishno Devi?
Yes. Helicopter rides from Katra to Sanjichhat and back can be booked online. One-way and round-trip options are available.
Q: What is the best time to visit the Vaishno Devi Temple?
While the temple is open year-round, Navratri, Durga Puja, and spring/summer months attract the highest number of devotees.
Q: How long does it take to reach the temple from Katra?
It takes around 4–6 hours by foot. With pony/palki or helicopter, the time is reduced significantly.
Q: Is there a VIP Darshan option?
Yes. Devotees can book Attka Aarti or Shradha Suman Puja for a more exclusive and peaceful darshan experience.