It is true that when most people think about planning a trip to Katra, they choose to visit just the Vaishno Devi temple. However, there are many other places to visit near Katra for sure.
The moment we mention the name of Vaishno Devi, there are no doubts about the fact that most people think that there is only a temple that you can visit. However, the experience is highly surreal, and if you are up for visiting the nearby places, there are quite a few options near Katra in Vaishno Devi. Today we will talk about seven of these spots you must cover. Remember that Katra, Vaishno Devi is more than just a religious spot. You can explore a lot, and this is what people miss out on.
Another misconception in this domain is that you must visit all the spots on foot. However, that is not the case at all. The good thing about this beautiful spot is that there are arrangements for everybody per their needs. Keep in mind that although we are incorporating just seven locations in this list, there is much more that you can try out. You should research a bit for the best knowledge on the same. Check out the list of the top seven best places to visit near Katra:
List of 7 Best Places To Visit Near Katra Vaishno Devi
1.Mata Vaishno Devi Temple
As you can make out from the name itself, the first spot we have to discuss is the beautiful and religious Mata Vaishno Devi temple in Katra. It is the second most sacred spot in the world, and every year, numerous devotees visit the spot from around the world. It is a Shakti peeth, and most people regard it as the most pious spot in the land. You have to walk to the temple, and the experience is surreal inside. What do you see?
The temple is inside a cave with a five and a half feet structure of the deity. Not only that, there are some fantastic carvings on the wall of the cave as well. You can choose to get all the offerings from outside the temple. There is a saying that each devotee sees the deity differently. Mata Vaishno Devi Temple is one of the best places to visit near Katra.
2. Bal Ganga
The entire atmosphere of Katra is incredibly sacred, and hence you will surely get many amazing spots to visit. The Bal Ganga is one of them. You can take a small dip here before visiting the Mata Vaishno Devi temple. Even if you do not want to dip, the scenic beauty is also quite promising, and you can sit by the sides. Legends say that Mata Vaishno Devi used to sit on the side of Bal Ganga and then wash her hair in the water of Ganga. This is one of the primary reasons this river is known as Bal Ganga, as Bal means hair.
3. Baba Dhansar
How can you visit Katra and not pay the Baba Dhansar spot a short visit? It is a trendy spot, and each year, tons of pilgrims frequent this religious location. The temple is close to Karua Jheel, and the view of the location is also one of a kind for sure. Who is Baba Dhansar? According to legends, he is the son of none other than Vasudev and was the one who killed a demon that emerged from the water of the jheel. A small temple nearby has the idol of Shiva, and the occasion of Mahashivratri is celebrated with vigour!
4. Charan Paduka
When you visit the land of Katra, there are no doubts that there are tons of beautiful and pious locations that you can see. There is no doubt that Charan Paduka is undoubtedly one of them and holds quite a value. There is a common saying that this is where Mata Vaishno Devi stopped after being chased by Bhairo Nath. Once you enter the temple, you will be able to see that rock that also has the imprint of her footsteps. The beauty of Charan Paduka is that outside the temple, you get a beautiful view that is one of a kind.
5. Trikuta Parvat
For those who do not know, the term Parvat refers to mountains. The Trikuta Parvat is a beautiful location at Katra, and you should pay this a visit even if you do not go anywhere else. In part itself, you will be able to find the very popular Trikutchal Mahadev Temple. Not only that but such is the beauty of this particular spot that many people frequently enjoy a good picnic on the hills. You will also be able to click some mesmerizing pictures from this spot.
6. Nau Devi
If we refer to the literal meaning of the term, then it is none other than “nine deities.” The locals regard Nau Devi mandir as one of the most religious spots with exceptional powers. It is a 200-year-old temple surrounded by a river with nine devis. The location is around 10 km from Katra and is a popular pilgrimage site. If you go by the popularity of this place, then it might be difficult for you to find when it will be empty. People tend to visit the Nau Devi temple throughout the year.
7. Himkoti
And finally, if you are willing to have a picnic and want to sit somewhere relaxing and beautiful, then Himkoti is the spot. From here, you will have the most amazing view of the spot, and Himkoti is the perfect place to have a good picnic with your family. The greenery and the charismatic environment will attract you to the centre of Himkoti, and you will want to sit for hours. One of the primary reasons why people visit this place is because of its beauty, and it is for sure one of a kind!
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