Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Dham, nestled in the serene Trikuta Hills of Jammu and Kashmir’s Reasi district, is one of India’s most revered pilgrimage destinations. Millions of devotees visit this sacred shrine annually to seek the blessings of Mata Vaishno Devi. To further enhance the pilgrimage experience, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has introduced a range of new services aimed at improving convenience, accessibility, and comfort for all visitors. From priority helicopter services for senior citizens to upgraded facilities along the pilgrimage route, these initiatives are designed to make the journey smoother and more fulfilling. Let’s dive into the details of these new offerings.
1. Priority Helicopter Services for Senior Citizens and Differently-Abled Pilgrims
One of the most significant updates is the introduction of a dedicated quota for senior citizens and differently-abled pilgrims in the helicopter services. This initiative ensures that elderly and physically challenged devotees can access the shrine with ease and comfort.
Previously, pilgrims relied on the ropeway and battery car services, but the new helicopter quota adds another layer of convenience. A 20% reservation has been allocated for these groups, and bookings can now be made online through the official Shrine Board website, maavaishnodevi.org. According to Anshul Garg, the Chief Executive Officer of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, this move aims to make the pilgrimage more inclusive and accessible for all.
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2. Kadhi-Chawal Langar Service: A Nutritious Addition to the Pilgrimage
The Shrine Board has also expanded its langar (community kitchen) services to include kadhi-chawal, a traditional Indian dish loved for its comforting flavors. This addition complements the existing langar facilities at the Bhairon Valley and Ardhkuwari temple complex.
The langar service has always been a cornerstone of the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage, providing free meals to thousands of devotees daily.
3. Free Tea Facility: Devotees arriving at Katra via the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Railway Station will be provided with free tea and other refreshments.
4. Yagya Shala in the Temple Complex: A modern Yagya Shala (sacred fire ritual hall) has been established within the temple complex for havan and puja rituals during the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage. The facility will be operational from 9 AM to 3 PM, and up to five family members or couples can participate.
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5. Widening of Pilgrimage Paths: The traditional pilgrimage route will be beautified for devotees. Additionally, the drainage system and modern toilet facilities will be upgraded. Damaged tiles will be replaced, and street lights will be repaired. A budget of ₹20 crore has been allocated for these improvements.
6. Priority for Local Devotees: Starting from February 1, residents of the Katra subdivision will have access to special darshan (viewing) facilities at Mata Vaishno Devi. A dedicated counter has been set up at the modern Durga Bhawan building within the Mata Vaishno Devi Bhawan complex. Local residents can avail of this special darshan facility by showing their Aadhaar card at the counter during their pilgrimage.
Read also: How to Get Yatra parchi for Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra & Registration Process
These new initiatives aim to enhance the overall pilgrimage experience and ensure the comfort and convenience of all devotees visiting the holy shrine.
