Know more about Mata Vaishno Devi shrine (in pics)

New Delhi: Also known as Mata Rani and Vaishnavi, Vaishno Devi, is a manifestation of the Mother Goddess. A pilgrimage to this Holy Shrine is considered to be one of the holiest pilgrimages of our times.In India the words "maa" and "mata" are commonly used for mother and thus are often used in connection with Vaishno Devi.The Vaishno Devi Mandir is dedicated to Shakti and resides in a holy Cave located in the folds of the three peaked mountain named Trikuta (pronounced as Trikoot). It is near the town of Katra, in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir.The shrine from Katra is at an altitude of 5300 feet. The pilgrims (yatris have to undertake a trek of nearly 12 km from the base camp at Katra. The Holy Cave attracts millions of devotees every year. Approximatley 8 million pilgrims (yatris) visit the temple every year.The yatris are blessed with the Darshans of the Mother Goddess inside the Sanctum Sanctorum- the Holy Cave at the culmination of their pilgrimage.This place contains three idols of Maha Saraswati, Maha Lakshmi, and Maha Kali, which are all images of Vaishno Devi.These Darshans are in the shape of three natural rock formations called the Pindies.Darshans are open round the clock throughout the year. The Vaishno Devi Maa Shrine is worshipped as a Shakti Peeth. It is considered the second most visited religious shrine in India, after Tirumala Venkateswara Temple.A rail link from Udhampur to Katra is recently completed to facilitate pilgrimage.Jammu Airport is the nearest airport which has very high flight frequency, and is served by all leading domestic airlines.Since the year 1986 the Sri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board maintains the shrine. The Board has undertaken a number of developmental activities aimed at making the Yatra a comfortable and satisfying experience for the Yatris. The Board continues to reinvest the offerings and donations received in carying out improvements in various kinds of Yatri facilities.