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Honeymoon's over and it was the time for pilgrimage to Vaishno Devi. This is what a good Punjabi husband will do after marriage (btw I'm from the united states of Biharica and got married to a pretty Punjabi Girl). The planning for the trip was immaculate- 2 month's in advance (I didn't even do for my marriage). The biggest driver was my father's wish, who has been a regular visitor to the temple. My brother completed the family reunion and took advantage of offers on Sahara from MakeMyTrip.com so that we all could start on April 5th.
The time was right as it was a good Friday but unfortunately all the world had thought about going to Vaishno Devi's. No wonder even my train tickets was wait listed.
For travelling, there are many options
- Trains: Jhelam (everyday), Rajdhani, Uttar Sampoorna Kranti (Everyday, there is a special version which leaves only on Friday and return on Saturdays), Holiday Specials (Sun, Tuesday and Thursdays).
- Volvo buses (Rao Travels 011-41670704, 011-26144545) or you can also try Lajput electronic market in New Delhi for general local buses. The Volvos buses leave by 7.00, and always require prior booking.
- The total distance is about 600 kms, you can also get a cab for 8 rs/km. This option is advisable for a bigger group.
It required a miracle for my train ticket to be confirmed. I tried hard through my uncle who knew ways and mean to sort out a situation like I was in, but was of no avail. However, the good thing was that we had decided to go on the journey anyways and hence landed on the station with all bag and baggage. A good suggestion to all who are stuck due to travelling is the good old saying popular with tourists going for Vaishno Devi- "Aap Tabhi Jaa sakto ho, jab Maata bulaigi (you will go only when Goddess invites you)". Our chances to go were bleak and we had made plans what we will to celebrate my brother's homecoming. Since I was already on my way to get the refund for the ticket, Priya told me to check for Holiday Special, a special for the needy. I had no second thoughts when the person at the counter told me that there was vacancy (and I paid him some extra monies to celebrate my happiness). The train left at 12.00 (scheduled time for departure 9.10 and delay due to no patrol in the engine). And so began our journey, our return journey was however still not confirmed.
Maata Vaishno Devi's tale is famous for the victory of good over evil. During this was she hid herself in Adkuwari (first leg of the pilgrimage and about 6 kms from the start). Navratras festival celebrates her 9 month seclusion in this cave. She also beheaded demon called Bhairon, who in his dying moments said "Jai Mata Di", which is to be chanted on the way to Temple. Though it ended Bhairon's life, but the Goddess blessed him thereby making it a must to pay a visit to "Bhairon" Baba's temple, while visiting Vaishno Devi's temple.
We reached Jammu at 1.00 after our long 12 hours trip (it should take 9 hours). Originally we were suggested to take a bus from the station, but the bus station was 6 kms away. Owing to lethargy and sheer time pressure to start the first leg of our climb, we took a taxi. It took us 1.5 hrs to reach Katra.
There are a number of hotels and with flexible rates. I stayed in Bhawani's Paradise and payed Rs.1000 for a night for a Family AC room (which can accommodate 4 people). You can also go for a double/single room for half the cost. Additional beds would cost extra. Ensure that the room is comfortable as you will require it on your way back. Rooms are also available in the Bhavan (where the temple is), you can look for more information on Maa Vaishno Devi's Board Website. The board only second to Tirupati is generating funds. Our taxi driver informed us that last year the contribution is close to Rs.2000 crores (I'm sure this is over hyped figures). But the amenities that the board has provided is spic and span.
I was amazed with the electric mood that was prevailing across the devotees and so ifectious it was that I also got into the mood. Devotees come from from all places, one notable devotee is a 60 year old gentleman, comes here every month, travels all the way from airport to the temple on foot (about 70 kms). I saw a few who would crawl all the way to the temple, many sing in groups and dance; all of this will ensure that on the way to the temple you won't miss any fun. Even the ambiance is electric. You can find all the types of item to eat (except non-veg) i found corn, cafe coffee day outlet on the way. There are enough and more places where you can get photographs with Mata on the background. You will see Vaishno Devi's VCD (Gulshan's Kumar T-Series stores are
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