Bhairon Mandir, Vaishno Devi
Katra, Jammu and Kashmir
The Bhairon Mandir is the temple of Bhairon Nath, on the hill above the Bhawan of Vaishno Devi, about 3 km higher up according to one source. By tradition, the yatra is completed with a visit to this temple after the darshan at the Bhawan. Pilgrims reach it on foot, or by the Bhairon Ghati ropeway, which one source says takes about 3 minutes from the Bhawan. The views from the hill over the valley are wide.
What to see and do
- Have darshan at the Bhairon Mandir, to complete the yatra
- Ride the Bhairon Ghati ropeway from the Bhawan, or walk up the hill
- See the view back over the Bhawan complex and the valley
- Rest on the hilltop before the walk down
Ideal for
- Pilgrims who follow the full tradition of the yatra
- Visitors who like views from high places
- Families who prefer the ropeway to the walk
Good to know
- Ropeway timings and tickets must be checked on the official site, as none are confirmed here
- The exact map point is an estimate, close to the ropeway station above the Bhawan
- Mist and rain can close the ropeway, and the weather changes fast
- Keep a jacket, as it is cold and windy on the hilltop
- Allow about 1 to 1.5 hours with the ropeway, and more on foot
Spiritual significance
The Bhairon Mandir finishes the yatra, for the tradition says that the visit to the Goddess is complete only after the visit to Bhairon Nath. It also gives the best views of the Bhawan and the Trikuta hills.
Why it matters
- Completing the yatra: the traditional last darshan after the Bhawan
- The ropeway: a short ride instead of the climb
- The views: over the Bhawan and the Trikuta hills