Bhairon Temple is a significant Hindu shrine located in Katra, near the town of Jammu, in the Indian union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. It is dedicated to Bhairavnath, a reclusive form of Lord Shiva, and is considered an essential part of the pilgrimage to the holy shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi.
Bhairon Temple is situated at an altitude on a hill top, about 1.42 miles (approximately 2.3 kilometers) from the main Bhawan of Mata Vaishno Devi, in Katra, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
Yes, the pilgrimage to Vaishno Devi is considered incomplete without a visit to the Bhairon Temple. After the darshan (sight) of Mata Vaishno Devi, pilgrims usually make their way to Bhairon Temple to pay homage.
Pilgrims reach Bhairon Temple after visiting the Vaishno Devi shrine. The temple can be accessed by foot via a steep path, palanquin, pony services, or by a recently introduced rope-way that significantly reduces the travel time for the devotees.
Hindu mythology states that the visit to Mata Vaishno Devi only becomes complete after paying obeisance at Bhairon Temple. It is believed that Bhairavnath was a demon god who was slain by Mata Vaishno Devi and upon his death, he asked for forgiveness. The Goddess then decreed that those who visited her shrine must also visit the temple of Bhairon to conclude their pilgrimage.
Bhairon Temple is usually open all year round and the timings are similar to those of the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine. It opens early in the morning before sunrise and closes after sunset. The exact timings may vary slightly, so it's advised to check with the current schedule before planning a visit.
Special poojas and rituals are conducted during major Hindu festivals such as Navaratri. The temple also witnesses a surge in the number of pilgrims during these festive seasons. It's advisable to check festival dates annually as they are based on the Hindu lunar calendar.
Facilities provided for pilgrims include resting areas, food stalls, drinking water, and medical aid. For the convenience of visitors, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board manages lockers, cloakrooms, and other necessary facilities both at the main Bhawan and at Bhairon Temple.
No, there is no entry fee to visit Bhairon Temple. However, if pilgrims choose to use the rope-way service or hire a pony or palanquin for the journey, there will be a charge for those services.
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