The Mata Vaishnodevi with Jammu Darshan Yatra is a popular pilgrimage tour that takes devotees to the revered shrine of Mata Vaishnodevi in the Trikuta hills of Jammu and Kashmir, as well as the holy sites of Jammu. The tour typically lasts 5–6 days and covers the main highlights of both destinations. The tour begins in Jammu, the winter capital of J&K. On arrival, you are taken to pay obeisance at the ancient Raghunath Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama. Other important temples in Jammu covered on the tour are the Ranbireshwar Temple, Mahamaya Temple, and Peer Baba. A visit to the Bahu Fort and the adjoining Bagh-e-Bahu Garden offers panoramic views of the Tawi River and the city. The Amar Mahal Palace Museum, Dogra Art Museum, and Mansar Lake are some other attractions in Jammu showcased as part of the tour. After getting acquainted with Jammu, you proceed towards Katra, the base town for the Vaishnodevi shrine. Nestled in the Trikuta hills at an altitude of 5200 feet, the holy cave temple of Mata Vaishnodevi is one of the most visited religious shrines in India, attracting millions of devotees every year. The 13-kilometer trek from Katra to the shrine is undertaken on foot by devotees. The initial 6-kilometer stretch consists of a concrete pathway, while the rest of the journey is along a foot trail. Pony rides and palanquin services can also be availed of by elderly pilgrims. The darshan at the sanctum sanctorum is the highlight of the yatra. Here, the natural rock formations are worshiped as the Goddess Mahalakshmi (Mata Vaishnodevi). The divination stalagmite inside the holy cave is considered to be over 700 years old. After the fulfilling temple darshan, you can rest and have lunch at the Bhavan complex managed by the Vaishnodevi Shrine Board. On your return journey, you can visit the holy town of Patnitop, near Vaishnodevi. Perched at 2024 m above sea level, Patnitop offers stunning views of the Shivalik range of the Himalayas. The Naag Mandir here has a 9-foot-tall statue of Lord Shiva. Other attractions are the parks, the ropeway ride, and scenic trekking trails. The last day of the tour is reserved for local sightseeing in Jammu. You can explore the local markets and buy souvenirs. Savor the flavors of Rajasthani cuisine and Pahari delicacies before departing from Jammu with divine blessings and wonderful memories. In summary, the Mata Vaishnodevi and Jammu Darshan Yatra covers the top religious and cultural attractions in Jammu and the popular Vaishno Devi shrine. With comprehensive sightseeing, comfortable stays, transport, and dining included, this tour package allows you to experience the highlights of these destinations in a planned and organized manner.

Highlights:

1.) Jammu Sightseeing:

• Visit the ancient Raghunath Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama, along with other iconic temples like Ranbireshwar Temple, Mahamaya Temple, and Peer Baba.
• Explore the Bahu Fort and the adjoining Bagh-e-Bahu Garden for magnificent views of the Tawi River and the city.
• Pay homage at Mansar Lake, a sacred lake known for its floating islands.

2.) Katra Tour:

• Arrive in Katra, the gateway town to the holy shrine of Mata Vaishnodevi.
• Attend the spiritual Aarti at the Banganga temple complex in the evening.
• Explore the Katra market to buy prasad, puja items, religious gifts, etc.

3.) Trek to Mata Vaishno Devi Temple:

• Commence the 13-kilometer trek from Katra to the Vaishnodevi Bhawan sanctum sanctorum.
• Hire a pony or palanquin for elderly pilgrims who cannot trek.
• Stop at the midway points of Adhkuwari and Sanji Chhat for rest.
• Attain divine blessings after Mata Vaishnodevi Darshan at the holy cave temple.

4.) Local tour of Patnitop:

• Ride the Patnitop ropeway, India’s longest cable car ride.
• Offer prayers at the Naag Mandir, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• Enjoy nature walks, hiking, and picnicking in Patnitop.

5.) Wrap up at Jammu:

• Buy souvenirs, dry fruits, artifacts, etc. from the local markets in Jammu city.
• Savor authentic Rajasthani and Pahari cuisine.
• Conclude the memorable pilgrimage tour with divine blessings.