Vaishno Devi Yatra: 14 Strict Rules You Must Know Before Visiting to Avoid Trouble

Vaishno Devi Yatra: Planning a trip to Vaishno Devi? Before you go, make sure you know the strict rules in place to avoid any trouble. From dress codes to prohibited items, here’s everything you need to know for a smooth and safe pilgrimage.

Ankush Pandey Ankush Pandey
Mar 17, 2025 - 13:43
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Vaishno Devi Yatra: 14 Strict Rules You Must Know Before Visiting to Avoid Trouble
Vaishno Devi Yatra: 14 Strict Rules You Must Know Before Visiting to Avoid Trouble

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 Jammu's Reasi district. 

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 have made some rules related to the journey that apply to the 12 km journey from Katra to the holy cave and the surrounding areas.

Know what are those 14 strict rules

  1. Alcohol is prohibited not only in Katra but also in nearby villages like Arali, Hansali and Matiyal.
  2. Meat, poultry, seafood and eggs—all of these are prohibited in Katra.
  3. 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.
  4. Items like lighters, scissors, toy axes, knives, hatchets, cattle products, crowbars, hammers, drills and razor-type blades (except safety razors) are prohibited beyond Banganga.
  5. Weapons and explosives—ammunition, BB guns, compressed air guns, firearms, firearm parts, pellet guns and realistic replicas of weapons are strictly prohibited.
  6. Flammable substances: cooking fuel, gasoline and gas torches are not allowed beyond Banganga.
  7. Hazardous chemicals: inactivating chemicals and other hazardous substances are prohibited.
  8. Video filming: Video cameras and cameras are prohibited en route; filming is not permitted beyond Banganga.
  9. Coconuts: Carrying beyond the search site is not allowed in the building. Deposit your coconuts in the main waiting room in exchange for tokens.
  10. Encouraging begging: Begging is strictly prohibited.
  11. Damage to property: Pasting posters, writing on walls or damaging property is a punishable offense attracting fines and imprisonment.
  12. Chanting slogans is not allowed inside the cave.
  13. Kanya pujan (worship of young girls) is strictly prohibited.
  14. No tips: giving tips, dakshina or any other gifts to any staff or person is not allowed.

Things to remember for the pilgrimage:

  • Get the official Yatra Slip—Get it only from the Yatra Registration counter at the Tourist Welcome Center at Katra Bus Stand. Without a valid slip, crossing the Banganga checkpost is not allowed.
  • 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 payments.
  • Donate only at designated places. Use only the donation box provided by the SMVSB. Donations at authorized counters at Katra, Ardhkumwari, Sanjhi Chhat, and Bhawan are tax-exempt under the Income Tax Act. Always get a formal receipt.
  • Respect other pilgrims: Steer clear of rude gestures, loud or inappropriate clothing, and offensive language.
  • Walk on designated paths. Walk on paved paths instead of stairs. Do not rest in areas with warning signs, near landslide-prone areas, or attempt to outrun others on difficult stretches.
  • Keep valuables safe. Avoid carrying excessive cash, jewelry, or valuables. Do not hand over your luggage to strangers. Deposit excess luggage in the cloakroom, as only cash and special offerings are allowed inside the holy cave.
  • 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.
  • Bhairon Darshan: Bhairon temple darshan is offered only after darshan at the holy cave. So go there and have darshan there as well