Essential Do’s and Don’ts for Pilgrims Visiting Vaishno Devi Shrine

Published On: March 18, 2025

Vaishno Devi Temple is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in India, attracting millions of devotees every year. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Shakti and is believed to be surrounded by immense spiritual energy. However, recent incidents have highlighted the importance of respecting the sanctity of this holy place. The Jammu and Kashmir Police recently took strict action against a well-known social media influencer and others for allegedly consuming alcohol and non-vegetarian food at a prominent hotel in Katra—the base camp for the pilgrimage.

To ensure a respectful and hassle-free journey, here’s a comprehensive guide on what not to do and the essential guidelines every visitor, especially social media influencers, must follow while visiting Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine.

Things You Must NOT Do at Vaishno Devi Shrine

Respecting the traditions and spiritual essence of the shrine is crucial. Below are the banned activities and items that pilgrims and visitors must strictly avoid:

1. Alcohol and Intoxicating Substances

Alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited in Katra and surrounding villages, including Arli, Hansali, and Matyal.
Smoking and the use of tobacco products such as cigarettes, bidis, matchboxes, and other addictive substances are not allowed beyond Banganga—the sacred point where many devotees take a ritual bath before their journey.

2. Consumption of Non-Vegetarian Food

The consumption or possession of meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs is banned in Katra and along the pilgrimage route. The entire Vaishno Devi pilgrimage is centered around purity, and a vegetarian diet is strictly followed.

3. Carrying Sharp or Dangerous Objects

Knives, scissors (with pointed tips), axes, hammers, drills, hatchets, and any sharp or dangerous objects are strictly prohibited beyond Banganga.
Weapons, including firearms, ammunition, pellet guns, and even realistic toy guns, are banned.

4. Flammable and Harmful Substances

Cooking fuels, gasoline, gas torches, and other flammable items are not permitted beyond Banganga.
Chemicals, explosives, or any hazardous materials are strictly prohibited.

5. Video Filming and Photography Restrictions

Carrying video cameras or camcorders is not allowed beyond Banganga. Filming inside the temple premises is strictly prohibited to maintain the sanctity of the place.

6. Bringing Coconuts (Nariyals)

Devotees are not allowed to carry coconuts beyond the frisking point at Bhawan. You can deposit them at the designated waiting hall in exchange for a token.

7. Begging and Defacing Property

Encouraging or giving alms to beggars is strictly prohibited within the shrine premises.
Writing on walls, sticking posters, or damaging temple property is a punishable offense with fines and imprisonment.

8. Chanting Slogans Inside the Holy Cave

While devotional chanting is common, loud or disruptive slogans inside the Holy Cave are not allowed. Devotees must maintain silence and focus on their prayers.

9. Kanya Poojan (Ritual Worship of Young Girls)

This practice is not permitted within the temple premises. Devotees should follow only the official rituals set by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVSB).

10. Offering Tips or Dakshina

Giving tips or dakshina to employees or any person associated with the shrine is not allowed. The temple administration ensures a transparent system where offerings are made only through authorized channels.

Essential Do’s for a Smooth and Respectful Pilgrimage

To ensure a pleasant and spiritually fulfilling journey, here are some important guidelines to follow:

1. Obtain an Official Yatra Slip

Every pilgrim must collect an official Yatra Registration Slip from the Tourist Reception Centre at the Katra bus stand. Without this slip, entry beyond Banganga is not permitted.

2. Always Ask for Official Receipts

When making payments to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVSB) or private vendors, always ask for an official receipt. Ensure that you check the approved rate list before making any transaction.

3. Make Donations Only at Designated Places

Donations should be made only at authorized SMVSB donation boxes or counters located at Katra, Adhkuwari, Sanji Chhat, and Bhawan. Donations at these official counters are tax-exempt under the Income Tax Act. Always collect a formal receipt.

4. Dress Modestly and Respect Fellow Pilgrims

Wear appropriate, comfortable, and respectful attire. Avoid loud or inappropriate clothing that might offend other devotees.
Maintain a respectful tone in conversations and avoid offensive language or gestures.

5. Stick to Designated Walking Paths

Always use the paved tracks instead of stairs, as these paths are designed for safe travel.
Do not rest in prohibited areas or landslide-prone zones. Avoid overtaking others in difficult stretches.

6. Secure Your Valuables

Carry minimal cash, avoid wearing expensive jewelry, and do not entrust strangers with your belongings.
Use the cloakroom facilities for extra luggage, as only essential cash and offerings are permitted inside the Holy Cave.

7. Follow the Darshan Queue System

Wait for your group number to be announced before proceeding to Gate No.1 for Darshan.
Avoid rushing, pushing, or attempting to bypass the queue. The temple has a well-organized system to ensure that every devotee gets their turn.

8. Complete Your Journey with Bhairon Temple Visit

Pilgrims are required to visit the Bhairon Temple after receiving the blessings of Mata Vaishno Devi. It is believed that the pilgrimage remains incomplete without this final Darshan.

Vaishno Devi is a sacred place of immense spiritual significance, and every visitor must respect the traditions and guidelines to maintain its sanctity. Social media influencers, in particular, must be cautious about their actions, as inappropriate behavior can lead to legal consequences and tarnish the pilgrimage experience for others.

For any other information pleas visit maavaishnodevi.org official website of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board

By following these do’s and don’ts, devotees can ensure a smooth, respectful, and spiritually enriching journey to Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a frequent pilgrim, adhering to these rules will make your experience truly divine and fulfilling.

Jai Mata Di!