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The pilgrims of Mata
Vaishnodevi start their journey, from Katra, accessible by bus from Jammu Tawi railway station. It
is the base and from which the yatra is to be made by walk alone. The distance of nearly
fourteen kilometers from here is dotted with holy little shrines bearing the
vestiges of the Mother's hurried flight to the cave. They are enshrining
worshipful icons and yatris invariably halt at each to offer prayers for easeful
journey and graceful return. This Hash temple marks the traditional starting
point and so agra puja to Mother's manifestation is offered here. Ritualistic
prayer services are offered at the start of the journey. This little shrine
housing enchanting images ensures joyous journey, says the priest after prayers.
This place is exceedingly important due to the fact of mother's visiting the
Brahmin priest first. Hence ardent veneration. After prayers, the pilgrims feel
that trekking steep route would be as comforting as drinking Thumbs up beverage.
Relief emerging from such belief takes them to the sannidhi effortlessly.
It
lies near Katra which is accessible by train or bus.
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