Darshan
According to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, darshan is open round the clock, throughout the year. Pilgrims move through the Holy Cave in a continuous queue by day and by night.
Aarti
The aarti is performed twice a day:
- Morning — just before sunrise.
- Evening — just after sunset.
The Shrine Board says the full aarti, first inside the sanctum and then outside the cave, takes nearly two hours, during which darshan remains suspended. Pilgrims seated outside the cave listen to discourses, and prasad and charanamrit are distributed afterwards. The aarti is relayed live on screens in the Bhawan complex.
Exact aarti times shift with sunrise and sunset through the year. Ask at the Bhawan or check with the Shrine Board.
When the Yatra may pause
- Bad weather. The Shrine Board suspends the Yatra during heavy rain, landslide risk or other emergencies.
- Capacity. When the daily limit of about 30,000–35,000 pilgrims is reached, registration stops until the next day ("waiting").
- Service timings. The helicopter, battery cars and Bhawan–Bhairon ropeway run to their own schedules and stop in bad weather. Check the official portal.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Vaishno Devi trek take?
It varies with fitness, crowds and the route. Many walking pilgrims allow most of a day for the round trip, plus time in the darshan queue, which can be long at peak times. Plan for a full day and night.
Is darshan open at night?
Yes. According to the Shrine Board, darshan is open round the clock throughout the year. It pauses for about two hours during the morning and evening aarti.
What should I wear for the Yatra?
Comfortable flat-soled shoes with good grip, and layers. Even in summer the Bhawan is cool at night, and in winter heavy woollens are needed. Carry rain protection in the monsoon. See What to carry.
Can I carry my mobile phone?
Phones, cameras, belts, combs, shoes and other items not allowed in the Holy Cave must be deposited at the free cloak rooms at the Bhawan before darshan. Rules on electronic items along the track can change, so follow the instructions of security staff.
Is food available on the way?
Yes. The Shrine Board runs Bhojanalayas at Adhkuwari, Sanjichhat and the Bhawan (round the clock at the Bhawan) and refreshment units along both tracks. Food on the route is vegetarian.
Do I need to visit Bhairon Temple?
It is optional, but many devotees believe the Yatra is complete only after visiting Bhairon Temple, about 1.5 km above the Bhawan. A passenger ropeway connects the Bhawan and Bhairon Ghati.
Can I stay overnight at the Bhawan?
Yes. The Shrine Board offers rented rooms and dormitories (book on the official portal) and free rest halls on a first-come, first-served basis, with free blankets against a refundable deposit.
Timings, fares, rules and routes can change at short notice. Please confirm time-sensitive details with Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board or the relevant authority before you travel. Page last reviewed: 4 October 2026.