The Vaishno Devi Shrine is a spiritual journey that every Hindu devotee dreams of completing in their lifetime. Located in the Trikuta Mountains, the Vaishno Devi Shrine is a cave temple that is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Mata Vaishno Devi. The journey to the shrine involves a 12 km uphill trek, which can be done on foot or by horse or palanquin. The trek is divided into 5 zones, each with its unique landscape, and takes around 6-9 hours to complete. During the trek, you will come across several small shops selling food and drinks. Ensure you carry water bottles and wear comfortable shoes.
The Bhairavnath Temple is situated at the top of the hill, which can be reached from the Bhawan after a steep 2.5 km trek. It is believed that your journey to Vaishno Devi is incomplete without visiting the Bhairavnath Temple. The temple is dedicated to Bhairavnath, who was granted divine powers by Mata Vaishno Devi. The trek to the temple is steep and takes around 2-3 hours to complete. It is recommended to start early in the morning to avoid the rush and heat. The view from the top is breathtaking, and the temple is a peaceful and serene place to spend some time in.
If you are interested in exploring the local culture, you can visit the Nau Devi Temple, which is dedicated to the nine forms of the goddess Durga. A trip to the Dera Baba Banda Bahadur, located on the banks of river Chenab, is also recommended. The Patnitop Hill Station is a perfect place for a day trip if you want to enjoy the scenic beauty of the region.