Lidea Feed

Before going on Vaishno Devi Yatra, know these 14 strict rules, otherwise you can get into trouble

newscrab March 18, 2025 09:39 PM

If you are also going to visit Vaishno Devi, then before going you should know the strict rules there. Otherwise, you can get into any trouble. Know what are the rules?

More than 10 million devotees visit Mata Vaishno Devi every year. A case has been registered against eight people, including social media influencer Orri K, for allegedly consuming alcohol at a hotel in Katra, the base camp for the Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrimage, in Reasi district of Jammu. In such a situation, if you are also going on a pilgrimage to Vaishno Devi, then you should be aware of the strict rules while visiting this holy place. Jammu and Kashmir Police has made some rules related to the journey which apply to the 12 km journey from Katra to the holy cave and the surrounding areas.

Know what are those 14 strict rules

Alcohol is banned not only in Katra but also in nearby villages like Arali, Hansali and Matiyal.

Meat, poultry, seafood and eggs are all prohibited in Katra.

Tobacco products - cigarettes, bidis, matches and other intoxicants are prohibited beyond Banganga. Banganga is a holy stop where many devotees take a bath before continuing their journey. The journey from here to the Vaishno Devi temple at Bhawan is about 12-13 km.

Items such as lighters, scissors, toys, axes, knives, hatchets, cattle prods, crowbars, hammers, drills and razor-type blades (except safety razors) are prohibited beyond Banganga.

Weapons and Explosives - Ammunition, BB guns, compressed air guns, firearms, firearm parts, pellet guns, and realistic replicas of weapons are strictly prohibited.

Flammable materials - cooking fuel, gasoline and gas torches are not permitted beyond Banganga.

Hazardous Chemicals - Inactivating chemicals and other hazardous substances are prohibited.

Video Filming - Video cameras/camcorders are prohibited en route; filming is not permitted beyond Banganga.

Coconuts - not allowed beyond the frisking area in the building. Deposit your coconuts in the main waiting room in exchange for tokens.

Encouraging begging – Begging is strictly prohibited.

Damage to property – Pasting posters, writing on walls or damaging property is a punishable offence attracting fine and imprisonment.

Shouting slogans is not allowed inside the cave.

Kanya Pujan (worship of young girls) - Strictly prohibited.

No Tipping – Giving tips, dakshina or any other gifts to any employee or individual is not allowed.

Things to remember for the pilgrimage:

1. Get an official travel slip - Get it only from the travel registration counter at the Tourist Reception Centre at Katra Bus Stand. Without a valid slip, crossing the Banganga check post is not allowed.

2. Ensure proper receipts - Get official receipts for all payments made to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVSB) and private vendors. Always check the official rate list before making payment.

3. Donate only at designated places - Only use the donation box provided by the SMVSB. Donations at authorised counters at Katra, Ardhkunwari, Sanjhi Chhat and Bhawan are tax-exempt under the Income Tax Act. Always get a formal receipt.

4. Respect fellow pilgrims – avoid loud or inappropriate dress, offensive language or rude gestures.

5. Follow designated trails - Walk on paved paths rather than stairs. Don't rest in areas with warning signs, near landslide-prone areas, or try to outrun others on difficult sections.

6. Keep valuables safe - Avoid carrying excessive cash, jewelry or valuables. Do not hand over your belongings to strangers. Deposit the excess luggage in the cloakroom, as only cash and special offerings are allowed inside the holy cave.

7. Follow the darshan procedures - Wait for your group number to be announced before proceeding for darshan at Gate No. 1. Do not crowd or try to jump out of the queue.

8. Bhairon Darshan - Bhairon temple can be visited only after visiting the holy cave. So go there and visit there too

Image Source : FILE PHOTO