Vaishno Devi Weather And Best Time To Visit Vaishno Devi
Planning A Trip To Vaishno Devi? Here's a snapshot of Vaishno Devi weather and the best time to visit Vaishno Devi
Tucked away in Trikutta Hills in Katra in the state of Jammu & Kashmir is the holy shrine of Goddess Mata Vaishno Devi or Chandi. Considered one of the holiest sites of the country, Vaishno Devi witnesses footfall amounting to lakhs every year. Tourists from different parts of the country throng the shrine in the hope that the Mata fulfils their wishes. The Mata resides in the Holy Cave at an altitude of 5200 ft and yatris have to trek up to catch a glimpse of the deity. Summers are considered the best time to visit Vaishno Devi, when the weather is perfect for the trek.
Summer (March to June)
Photograph by http://www.triphills.com
The best time to visit Vaishno Devi is undoubtedly in the months of May, June and July. While days are quiet, by evening the temperatures cool down considerably. It is a pleasant time to go for darshan during this period. It is recommended to carry light woollens, because even though the summer weather remains cool, you may experience evening cold because of the high altitude. These are also the months when the crowd is relatively less.
Autumn (October & November)
Photograph by https://www.tribuneindia.com/
These are the peak months for Vaishno Devi darshan because of the festivities. Navratri and Dussehra which celebrates the power and glory of Goddess Durga/Chandi experience maximum footfall of pilgrims. The chant of ‘Jai Mata Di’ fills the air as people surge on for a glimpse of the Devi. It is also the time to enjoy the stunning beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Monsoon (July to September)
Photograph by http://noisebreak.com
Monsoon is the best time to explore the beauty of the terrain. With the area receiving moderate to heavy rainfall, there is lush greenery all around accompanied by cascading waterfalls. However, it is risky to undertake a Yatra during these months because of the risk of sudden mudslides. But since it is off season here, budget travellers can find hotels at low cost.
Winter (December to February)
Photograph by https://www.indiatoday.in
By virtue of being located at a high altitude, Vaishno Devi experiences heavy snowfall during the winter months. Unless you are travelling with aged people and kids, tourists can attempt a visit during this period as it is quite an experience. The Holy Cave remains open and despite the sub-zero temperatures, one finds pilgrims making their way through the snow for a visit to the Holy Mother.
