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Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra - Language, Currency, Distance, How to Reach, Expenses, Best time to go, What to Eat, Where to Go, FAQ

Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra is one of the most popular pilgrimages in India. It is located in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, and attracts millions of devotees every year. Here is a guide to help you plan your yatra:

Language

The official language of Jammu and Kashmir is Urdu, but Hindi and English are also widely spoken. You will be able to communicate in English at most tourist spots.

Currency

The official currency of India is the Indian Rupee (INR). You can exchange your currency at any bank or money changer in India.

Distance

The distance from Delhi to Katra, the base camp for the yatra, is approximately 600 kilometers. You can reach Katra by train, bus, or car.

How to Reach

There are several ways to reach Katra:

• By train: There are several trains that run from Delhi to Katra. The journey takes approximately 12 hours.
• By bus: There are several buses that run from Delhi to Katra. The journey takes approximately 10 hours.
• By car: You can also drive from Delhi to Katra. The journey takes approximately 8 hours.

Expenses

The cost of the yatra will vary depending on your travel plans. However, you can expect to spend around INR 5,000-10,000 per person.

Best time to go

The best time to visit Mata Vaishno Devi is during the spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November) months. The weather is pleasant during these months, and the crowds are smaller.

What to Eat

There are several restaurants and food stalls along the yatra route. You can find a variety of food options, including vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.

Where to Go

In addition to the main temple, there are several other places that you can visit during your yatra, including:

• Ardh Kuwari: This is a cave located halfway up the mountain. It is believed that Mata Vaishno Devi rested here during her journey.
• Bhairon Ghati: This is a temple located at the top of the mountain. It is dedicated to Bhairav, who is the guardian deity of Mata Vaishno Devi.
• Sanji Chhat: This is a resting place located near the main temple. It is believed that Mata Vaishno Devi appeared here to a devotee named Sanji.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra:

• What is the distance from Katra to the main temple? It is approximately 12 kilometers.
• How long does it take to complete the yatra? It takes approximately 12-15 hours to complete the yatra.
• Is it possible to stay overnight at the main temple? Yes, there are several guesthouses and hotels located near the main temple.
• What are the facilities available at the main temple? There are several facilities available at the main temple, including restrooms, lockers, and a medical center.
• What are the things that I should avoid doing during the yatra? You should avoid wearing revealing clothing, smoking, and drinking alcohol during the yatra.

Conclusion

The Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. By following the tips in this guide, you can plan a safe and memorable yatra.