Shivkhori is a famous Hindu shrine dedicated to lord shiva it is situated in the Reasi district of Jammu every year millions of tourists visit this holy shrine. Pilgrims who visit Vaishnodevi shrine also prefer to visit this shrine as it’s just 80 km from the main town Katra.

Location and accessibility

Shiv khori is situated roughly 130 km from Jammu  (via Katra), and if you are considering Katra as a starting point it is around 80 km the road is well maintained except the last stretch of road that connects the main road to the holy site. There are daily buses that run from Katra to Shiv Khori you can book a bus ticket a day before or alternatively you can also book a taxi which will give you a more seamless experience as there are many twists and turns in the road. Some pilgrims also feel nausea due to the curvy roads therefore anti-nausea medications are highly recommended.  The pilgrims are dropped off at a nearby taxi stand and from there you can start the 3km long trek, before starting the trek you have to register yourself at the registration counter and thereafter you can start the trek.

How to Reach

By Air

The nearest airport to Shivkhori is situated in Jammu, and it is 127 kilometres away.

By Train

The nearest railway station to Shivkhori is Katra railway station (80 km) and Jammu Tawi railway station (112 km)

By Road

The road connection to Shivkhori is quite good and people generally prefer to stay in Katra and visit the cave and return to Karta by evening.

The trek is fairly easy as it’s just  3km (one way) and if you are facing difficulty in the trek you can prefer other alternatives such as booking pithoo, ponies or palki. There are small shops throughout the trek for refreshments in case you need a small break. Unlike Vaishnodevi the trek route of Shivkhori is not shaded properly so if you are planning to visit this shrine during the summer or rainy season consider keeping an umbrella with you.

General description

Earlier this shire was quite popular among the locals but as the road connectivity got better it grabbed the attention of other pilgrims and the visitor counts are rising every year . The word khori used in the name of the shrine is a local word that means cave hence the name shive khori which roughly translates to cave of lord shiva.

The story behind the creation of this cave

There’s a famous mythical story that states how this cave was made according to the legends there was a demon named Bhashmasur who got a power to burn anyone who came under his palm. Misusing his power once this demon started chasing lord shiva, to protect himself and his family shiva created this cave by striking the mountain with his trishul . Bhashmasurs large body size prevented him from entering the cave which protected them from the demon. But Bhashmasur was determined and started to guard the cave’s entrance in the hope that one day Shiva will leave this place. To save Shiva from the demon lord Vishnu to avatar of Mohini (beautiful woman) , her alluring beauty created a hypnotic effect on bhashmasur. When Mohini started to dance by doing various mudras Bhashmasur joined in and started to follow Mohini . Smartly Mohini took her hand to her head and Bhashmasur followed her along and unknowingly he ended his own life.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Shivkhori is between October to April when the weather is pleasant and you can enjoy the most. December and January are the chilliest months of the year, if you are sensitive to cold then avoid visiting in these months.

Places to Visit

• -Chamunda mata temple
• -Shri Agar Baba Jitto Temple
• -9 Devi temple

Things to Do

• If you love adventure activities you can also do white water rafting in the Chenab River
• rate list for rafting is given below :-

Local Culture and Customs

During maha shivaratri every year a mela is organized in shivkhori and if you want to experience this you can plan accordingly.

Itinerary Suggestions

note:- This itinerary includes Shivkori as well as Vaishno Devi

Click here to download the itinerary!

Budget Guide

The budget is as per the itinerary (3 nights 4 days).

NOTE:- The given trip budget is just a general overview and price totally depends upon your preference and the time of your visit .

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