Essential Guidelines for Pilgrims Visiting Vaishno Devi
Important Rules for Vaishno Devi Pilgrimage
If you're planning a visit to Vaishno Devi, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the strict regulations in place. Ignoring these rules could lead to complications during your pilgrimage. Here’s what you need to know.
Annually, over 10 million devotees make their way to Mata Vaishno Devi. Recently, a case was filed against eight individuals, including social media influencer Orri K, for allegedly consuming alcohol at a hotel in Katra, the base camp for the pilgrimage in Reasi district, Jammu. Therefore, if you're heading to Vaishno Devi, it's essential to be aware of the strict regulations enforced by the Jammu and Kashmir Police, which apply to the 12 km trek from Katra to the sacred cave and its vicinity.
Here are the 14 strict rules to follow:
- Alcohol consumption is prohibited not only in Katra but also in nearby villages such as Arali, Hansali, and Matiyal.
- Meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs are banned in Katra.
- Tobacco products, including cigarettes, bidis, and other intoxicants, are not allowed beyond Banganga, a holy site where many pilgrims bathe before continuing their journey. The trek from here to the Vaishno Devi temple at Bhawan is approximately 12-13 km.
- Items such as lighters, scissors, toys, knives, and other sharp objects are prohibited beyond Banganga.
- Weapons and explosives, including ammunition, firearms, and realistic replicas, are strictly forbidden.
- Flammable materials such as cooking fuel and gas torches are not allowed beyond Banganga.
- Hazardous chemicals and other dangerous substances are prohibited.
- Video recording devices are not allowed en route; filming is prohibited beyond Banganga.
- Coconuts must be deposited in the main waiting area in exchange for tokens, as they are not allowed beyond the frisking area.
- Begging is strictly forbidden.
- Defacing property, such as pasting posters or writing on walls, is punishable by fines and imprisonment.
- Screaming slogans inside the cave is not permitted.
- Kanya Pujan (worship of young girls) is strictly prohibited.
- Tipping or giving gifts to any staff or individual is not allowed.
Key Reminders for Pilgrims:
1. Obtain an official travel slip only from the travel registration counter at the Tourist Reception Centre at Katra Bus Stand. Without this slip, you cannot cross the Banganga check post.
2. Ensure you receive proper receipts for all payments made to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVSB) and private vendors. Always verify the official rate list before making any payments.
3. Donate only at designated locations using the donation boxes provided by the SMVSB. Donations at authorized counters in Katra, Ardhkunwari, Sanjhi Chhat, and Bhawan are tax-exempt under the Income Tax Act. Always request a formal receipt.
4. Be respectful to fellow pilgrims by avoiding loud or inappropriate attire, offensive language, or rude gestures.
5. Stick to designated paths while walking; avoid resting in areas marked with warning signs or near landslide-prone zones, and do not rush past others on challenging sections.
6. Keep your valuables secure; refrain from carrying large amounts of cash, jewelry, or other valuables. Do not entrust your belongings to strangers. Store excess luggage in the cloakroom, as only cash and special offerings are permitted inside the holy cave.
7. Follow the darshan procedures; wait for your group number to be called before proceeding to Gate No. 1. Avoid crowding or attempting to skip ahead in the queue.
8. Visit the Bhairon temple only after you have visited the holy cave.
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