Katra to Bhawan
Darshani Darwaaza
As per the legend, Mata
Vaishno Devi met Pandit Shridhar in the form of a girl child at the spot
which is today known as the Darshani Darwaza. This spot is also known
because Darshani Darwaaza because from here one gets a complete view of
Trikuta Mountain.
Holy Track: Old Track
In the earlier days, there used to be an unpaved track and a
few flights of stairs that used to lead the way to Bhawan. This track called
the old or original track was mostly built on the traditional track of Shri
Mata Vaishno Devi Ji, which had been used by the pilgrims since hundreds of
years. Then, after the takeover of the management of the Holy Shrine by Shri
Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board in 1986.
Holy Track: New or
Alternate Track
The old track is steep and narrow at some places. Therefore it
was decided to construct an alternate track to Bhawan that would have a
gentler gradient and would be wider and shorter.
Ban Ganga
Situated on the bank of a small rivulet called Banganga and at a height of
2700 ft., Banganga is the first major station for a yatri when he undertakes
his on-foot journey from Katra to Bhawan. As per the legend, the goddess,
accompanied by Langoor-Veer was moving to her destined abode in the Trikuta
Hills, when Langoor-veer felt thirsty. The goddess shot an arrow into the
ground and a spring gushed out.
Charan Paduka
The ancient temple of Charun Paduka, situated at a distance of nearly one Km
from Banganga, is also connected to the legend of goddess Vaishno Devi. As
per the Legend, the goddess stopped at this place for a while to look back
and check whether Bhairon Nath was still chasing her or not. Due to Her
standing there for a while, her footprints got engraved there, hence the
name.
Adhkuwari
The word Adhkuwari means Eternal virgin. At this place the Goddess is
believed to have worshiped Lord Shiva in a cave for 9 months and when Bhairo
Nath discovered her inside the cave She made an opening in the cave with her
trident and proceeded towards Bhawan. Adkuwari also marks the midpoint of
the Yatra and most pilgims like to rest here for a while and refresh
themselves.
Himkoti
Himkoti is situated at a distance of 2.75 kms from Adkuwari on
the new track. Himkoti is one of the most beautiful spots on this track with
breathtaking scenic views of the entire valley. Although there is no
traditional or religious significance associated with this point, yet the
very nature of this spot and its natural splendour envelops the pilgrims in
a ethereal and mysterious charm. Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has
developed a view point, restaurant and a dosa counter here. Packed and
cooked food including meals, hot and cold beverages and other important
items including medicare and oxygen cylinders, cassettes are available here.
There is adequate place to rest and relax and also enjoy the beauty of
nature. Himkoti is being developed something more than a view point, with an
artificial pond, a garden and a meditation centre.
Sanjhichhat
Sanjhichhat is the highest point for the pilgrims on their trek to the Holy
Bhawan. The place is situated at a height of about 6,200 feet above the sea
level, and presents a panoramic view of the landscape below. The final
destination is about 2 km. away from this point.The Helipad is also located
at this point.
Bhairon Ghati
Bhairon temple is the next halt for the pilgrims after visiting the holy
Shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi Ji. This old temple is significant from the
point of view of a holy legend associated with the Shrine. After beheading
Bhairon Nath and after his profuse repentance, the Almighty Mother Goddess
forgave and blessed him and granted him the boon that the Darshans of his
temple would be the final link of Her Great Pilgrimage. Thus, for the full
blessings of the journey to Mata Vaisno Deviji, Yatries would have to pay
obesiance at Bhairon temple on their return.
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