Katra is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. The small town also serves as a base camp for the sacred shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi. Pilgrims have to walk 13km from Katra to reach the shrine. On their way to the shrine, pilgrims come across picturesque landscapes and awe-inspiring natural beauty. The small town has plenty of hotels, restaurants and cafes for travellers looking for a place to stay and eat.
Apart from Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine, there are several other pilgrimage sites in Katra such as Charan Paduka, Bhairo Mandir and Geeta Mandir. Tourists from all over the country visit Katra for a fulfilling spiritual experience. You can also look forward to buying some souvenirs for friends and family from the markets of Katra. You can find some of the best shawls and stoles in the local shops. Here is a list of popular places to visit in Katra:
Mata Vaishno Devi
Jammu Vaishno Devi Katra is the second most sacred pilgrimage site amongst Hindus. Devotees from different parts of the country visit the shrine seeking the blessing of the goddess. Mata Vaishno Devi is considered to be the most important Shaktipeeth since it is believed that the head of Sati fell in this particular spot. Inside the cave, pilgrims can witness the five and a half feet statue of the goddess. Devotees can present their offerings to the goddess and seek her blessings in this revelrous tourist place in Katra.
Charan Paduka
The temple is considered to be a sacred site among Hindu devotees. Hindus believe that it is the same place where Mata Vaishno Devi stopped while being chased by Bhairon Nath. Inside the temple, devotees can witness the rock which has her footprints. Charan Paduka temple is situated at a staggering height of 1030m. Most of the pilgrims who come to visit the Mata Vaishno Devi temple also pay a visit to the Charan Paduka temple as well. It is one of the most popular tourist places near Katra Mata Vaishno Devi.
Bal Ganga
Pilgrims take a dip into the river while on their way to the Vaishno Devi temple. It helps them to regain their strength so they can continue their journey to the cave. The river is considered to be sacred by the devotees of the Hindu faith. It is believed that Mata Vaishno Devi shot an arrow into the ground which caused the river to flow. She then used the water to wash her hair. This is the reason why the river is also known as Bal Ganga (Bal means hair in Hindi). It is one of the many popular places to visit in Katra.
Bhairon Nath
The journey to the Mata Vaishno Devi temple is incomplete without visiting the Bhairon Nath temple. The pilgrims end their journey by visiting the Bhairon Nath temple after visiting the Vaishno Devi temple. According to legend, Bhairon Nath asked the goddess for forgiveness after realizing his mistake. Not only did she forgive him she also gave Bhairon Nath his blessings. This is the reason why he is worshipped by the devotees who come to visit the Vaishno Devi temple. Bhairon Nath Temple is one of the many popular Katra sightseeing places.
Trikuta Parvat
Trikuta Parvat is one of the most famous places in Katra, Jammu. The hills are also home to the famous Trikutchal Mahadev Temple. It is also famous for its wood apples. Apart from being a sacred pilgrimage site Trikuta Parvat is also a popular picnic spot. Tourists can be seen enjoying a relaxing afternoon on the hills while enjoying their hearty meals. The hills offer a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape.
Geeta Mandir
The temple is en route to the Mata Vaishno Devi Temple. Pilgrims would often stop at the temple to take some rest to gather some strength for their journey to the caves. The devotees would also seek the deity's blessing for a safe journey to the Vaishno Devi Temple. It is one of the most famous tourist places in Katra Jammu.
Nau Devi
The 200 years old temple is surrounded by a river. The temple houses nine idols of goddesses adorned with silver ornaments. The temple is also famous for its set which further adds to the beauty of the temple. Nau Devi temple is situated 10 km away from Katra and it is one of the many popular pilgrimage sites in the region. Nau Devi temple is one of the most popular places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir.
Baba Dhansar
The temple is located in the Karua Village 17km away from Katra. The lake next to the temple is considered to be sacred. Pilgrims can enjoy taking a dip in the stream near the lake. Tourists have to wake up early to start the 200 km long trek to the temple. Devotees gladly embark on this long and tiring journey to get their wishes fulfilled. The temple receives huge numbers of devotees during the Shivratri. The place resonates with the hymns and chantings dedicated to lord Shiva by the devotees.
Jhajjar Khotli
Last but not the least, Jhajjar Khotli is a popular tourist destination in Jammu. After the tiring journey to the caves, many tourists prefer visiting the popular tourist destination for relaxation. The water from the Jhajjar River offers a much-needed respite to the pilgrims who have been through a long and tiring journey. It is an ideal destination for tourists who are looking for fun and frolic. It is one of the best places to visit in Katra, Jammu.
Katra is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Jammu and Kashmir. Apart from being home to several popular pilgrimage sites, Katra is also famous for its picturesque landscape and natural beauty. If you are planning to visit Katra then make sure you check out Veena World, there you can find the best Katra tour package at a reasonable price.
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