Mata Vaishno Devi – Jammu

A land of grand ancient temples and beautiful palaces, Jammu is the winter capital of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. Nestled against the backdrop of the snow-capped Pir Panjal Mountains, this southernmost unit of the state of Jammu & Kashmir is studded with an incredibly beautiful landscape. This winter capital of the state is the leaping off point for the magnificent religious and natural attractions that lure the tourists and devotees to the other parts of the region. Be it the multi-hued flags representing the temples and shrines in the city, the tantalizing aromas that lift and diffuse from its spectacular cuisine or even the snowcapped mountains that promise adventure and action, it has something to offer to everyone. Appropriately called the City of Temples because of the profusion of shrines dotting the landscape, Jammu is a travel destination in its own right. The terrains of Jammu lay surrounded by coniferous forests and gleaming streams. Besides the usual scenic attractions of a hill station, Jammu is blessed by the foundations of various shrines and temples and is a haven for pilgrims.Nestled in the lap of the mighty Trikuta Mountains, the cave shrine of Trikuta Bhagvati, popularly known as Vaishnodevi, is one of the most visited pilgrimage centres in India – and indeed the world. Located at an altitude of 5,200 feet above sea level, the shrine attracts devotees from different parts of the country and the world. Inside the cave temple, Maa Vaishno Devi is present in the form of three Pindis which represent three Goddesses- Maa Saraswati, Maa Lakshmi and Maa Kali. It is believed that no prayers go unanswered and disheartened return happy from the shrine. Bhairon Temple is the next important stop after visiting the holy shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi.