Vaishno Devi Yatra via Himkoti or Ardhkuwari – Which Route is Best?

Vaishno Devi Yatra has two diverse routes, one of them is through the Himkoti and the other is through the Ardhkuwari. The Himkoti route is a newer, more comfortable, and scenic route with the facilities and amenities managed by the Shrine Board. In contrast, the Ardhkuwari route is the older, more traditional, and steeper route with the two sub-routes. The older Hathimataha route and the newer Himkoti route. Both routes have significance; you can choose any of your preferred routes from the following for your Vaishno Devi Yatra. To learn about both routes, you can go through the information mentioned and learn about the respective routes for the Vaishno Devi Yatra.

Vaishno Devi Yatra via Himkoti Route

The Himkoti route is a famous trekking route for the Vaishno Devi Yatra. It tends to start from Katra and go through the Banganga, Charan Paduka, Ardhkunwari, Himkoti, Sanjhi Chatt, and then to the temple. This route is also connected to the Tarakot route, which goes from Katra to Sanjhi Chhat. To learn more about the Himkoti route, go through the information mentioned below and get updated with the following.

• The Himkoti route is primarily used for travelling on foot, although some people also use horses, mules, or palanquins.
• Sometimes, the Himkoti route is closed due to landslides, so it is also essential that you check the situation before further travelling on this route.
• On this route, you also tend to get other facilities, such as battery car or helicopter facilities, which are not available on Himkoti routes.
• The time from March to July is also considered to be the best for the trip, as during this period, the weather is pleasant and there is less rainfall.

Vaishno Devi Yatra via Ardhkuwari Route

The Vaishno Devi Yatra through Ardhkuwari tends to involve trekking to the Ardhkuwari cave, which is a significant stop on the way to the main Vaishno Devi Shrine. Ardhkuwari is located about halfway between Katra and Bhawan, roughly 6 kilometres from Katra. Pilgrims can choose to trek the entire distance or utilise services like ponies, palanquins, or battery cars for certain portions. To learn more about the key aspects of the Vaishno Devi Yatra via Ardhkuwari, look at the information mentioned and get updated with the following. 

• The Ardhkuwari Cave is also believed to be where Mata Vaishno Devi used to meditate for nine months. It is a place of significant religious importance and is also visited by pilgrims for darshan. 
• The trek to Ardhkuwari from Katra is 6 kilometres, and the trek from Ardhkuwari to Bhawan is another 6 kilometres.
• Pilgrims can walk or choose to use ponies, palanquins, or battery car services, especially for the Ardhkuwari to Bhawan stretch.
• Battery cars are also available for senior citizens and physically challenged individuals, particularly for travel between Ardhkuwari and Bhawan.
• Ardhkuwari is considered a crucial stop on the Yatra, with pilgrims often taking time for darshan in the cave and experiencing the spiritual ambiance.

The features of the Vaishno Devi Yatra via Himkoti and Ardhkuwari

Devotees take diverse routes to visit the Bhawan, including the Vaishno Devi Yatra through the Himkoti and the Yatra via Ardhkuwari. To learn more about the features of the following routes, look at the details mentioned below and get a more detailed breakdown.

Ardhkuwari Route:

• Traditional Route: This is the older and more established path that leads further to the Bhawan from Katra, and many people are familiar with it.

• Sub-routes: From Ardhkuwari, pilgrims have two options: the elder Hathimatha and the newer Himkoti routes.
• Steeper: The Hathimatha route is also further known for being more challenging and steep.
• Less Developed: The older route may have fewer facilities and amenities when compared further to the Himkoti route.

Himkoti Route:

• New Route: This route was developed recently and is further designed to be more comfortable for the pilgrims.

• Managed by the Shrine Board: The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board is managed and maintained by the Himkoti route and provides facilities like restaurants and rest areas.
• Less Crowded: This route is generally less crowded than the older Hathimatha routes, so you can choose the Himkot route to experience a less crowded experience. 
• Scenic Views: The Himkot area also offers beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, which make it a popular spot for relaxation and photography. 
• Shorter: The Himkoti route is slightly shorter than the Hathimatha route from Ardhkuwari to the Bhawan. 
• No Stairs: The Himkoti route is further designed with a smooth gradient and interlocking tiles, which makes it easier for pedestrians and eliminates the need for stairs.

Conclusion

Therefore, after reviewing the information mentioned above, you must be further updated with the Himkoti and Ardhkuwari route for the Vaishno Devi Yatra and its features. If you wonder which path is the best, both are almost identical. If you are looking for a less strenuous and more comfortable trek with amenities and beautiful views, the Himoti route is generally preferred. If you prefer a more traditional and challenging experience, the Ardhkuwari route, the older Hathimatha section, will be even more suitable.

FAQs

What is the difference between the old and new routes to Vaishno Dev?

From Adhkuwari to Bhawan, there are two different routes. The previous route is 6 km and goes through Hatimattha/ Sanjichhat, and the new route is 5 km and goes through Himkoti. The new route begins before Adhkuwari, while the old route diverts from the Adi-Kuwari temple.

What is the ropeway route to travel to Vaishno Devi?

The ropeway begins from the Bhawan, near the Vaishno Devi Shrine, and ends at the Bhairon Ghati. Travel to the temple in the most comfortable state.

How far is the walk to the Vaishno Devi temple through the Himkoti route?

The Himkoti route to the Maa Vaishno Devi temple is about 13 kilometres from Katra, the base camp. Most people reach it in 5 to 8 hours on foot; thus, the travel time depends on the person's fitness.

How far is the walk to the Vaishno Devi temple through the Ardhkuwari route?

The Walk from the Katra to the Vaishno Devi temples through the Ardhkuwari is approximately 12 to 13 kilometres. The Ardhkuwari cave is located about 6 kilometres from Katra.