Okha to Mata Vaishno Devi

Language

The official language spoken in Okha and Mata Vaishno Devi is Hindi. However, English is also widely spoken in tourist areas.

Currency

The Indian Rupee (INR) is the official currency used in both Okha and Mata Vaishno Devi.

Distance

The distance between Okha and Mata Vaishno Devi is approximately 1,200 kilometers (746 miles).

How to Reach

There are several ways to reach Mata Vaishno Devi from Okha:

• By Train: Take a train from Okha to Jammu Tawi railway station. From there, you can take a bus or a taxi to Katra, the base camp for the pilgrimage to Mata Vaishno Devi.
• By Air: Take a flight from Okha to Jammu Airport. From there, you can take a bus or a taxi to Katra.
• By Road: You can drive or take a bus from Okha to Katra. The journey by road will take approximately 18-20 hours.

Expenses

The expenses for a pilgrimage to Mata Vaishno Devi from Okha will vary depending on the mode of transportation you choose and the duration of your stay. However, here is a rough estimate of the costs involved:

• Train fare: Rs. 500-1,000 per person
• Flight fare: Rs. 2,000-3,000 per person
• Bus fare: Rs. 500-1,000 per person
• Accommodation: Rs. 500-1,000 per night
• Food: Rs. 200-500 per day
• Other expenses: Rs. 500-1,000 per day

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, making it ideal for trekking to the shrine.

What to Eat

There are several restaurants and food stalls in Katra and along the trek route to Mata Vaishno Devi. You can find a variety of Indian and international cuisines to choose from. Some of the popular dishes include:

• Rajma chawal: A traditional Punjabi dish made with kidney beans and rice.
• Chhole bhature: A North Indian dish made with chickpeas and fried bread.
• Aloo paratha: A flatbread stuffed with potatoes.
• Dahi puri: A crispy semolina shell filled with potatoes, onions, and yogurt.
• Kulfi: A traditional Indian ice cream made with milk, sugar, and spices.

Where to Go

In addition to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, there are several other places of interest in Katra and the surrounding area. Here are some of the places you can visit:

• Vaishno Devi Temple: The main shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi, located at the top of a steep mountain.
• Bhairon Temple: A temple dedicated to Bhairon, the guardian deity of Mata Vaishno Devi, located at the top of another mountain.
• Shiva Temple: A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on the banks of the Banganga River.
• Durga Temple: A temple dedicated to Goddess Durga, located in the town of Katra.
• Surya Temple: A temple dedicated to Lord Surya, the sun god, located in the town of Katra.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about the pilgrimage to Mata Vaishno Devi from Okha:

1. What is the distance from Okha to Mata Vaishno Devi? The distance between Okha and Mata Vaishno Devi is approximately 1,200 kilometers (746 miles).
2. What is the best way to reach Mata Vaishno Devi from Okha? The best way to reach Mata Vaishno Devi from Okha is by train or bus. You can also fly to Jammu Airport and then take a bus or a taxi to Katra.
3. How much does it cost to go to Mata Vaishno Devi from Okha? The expenses for a pilgrimage to Mata Vaishno Devi from Okha will vary depending on the mode of transportation you choose and the duration of your stay. However, you can expect to spend around Rs. 5,000-10,000 per person.
4. What is the best time to visit Mata Vaishno Devi? 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, making it ideal for trekking to the shrine.
5. What should I pack for a pilgrimage to Mata Vaishno Devi? You should pack comfortable clothes and shoes, as well as a raincoat and a hat. You should also bring a flashlight, a water bottle, and some snacks.