|
|
|
|
Adikuwari
and Garbh Joon |
<< Back |
|
Around
500 meters from Indraprasth is Adikuwari located at an
altitude of 4800 feet. One can get the first glimpse of the
fluttering flag on top and can hear continuous announcements
from the announcement booth much earlier. Adikuwari is the
half way spot of the entire trek as it is situated at a
distance of 6 kilometers from Katra, on the main track. This
is one of the most important Darshans on the visit, second
only to the main Darshans at the Holy Cave, which is still 6
kilometers from this place.
The term Adikuwari is believed to have come from Adikuwari,
which means 'The Eternal Virgin'. At this spot,' according to
the legend, Mata Vaishno Devi Ji had observed spiritual
discipline (Tapasya) for nine months in a small womb
shaped cave. When Vaishnavi, in the form of a small girl,
disappeared from the Bandara organized by Pandit Shridhar,
She halted at Banganga and Charan Paduka. From there she
reached Adikuwari, where in this particular cave, She
meditated for nine long months. The exact spot where She
meditated is located at the right hand side inside the cave
and is shaped like a womb. When, during Her meditation She
realized that Bhairon Nath had approached 125 water points
en-route to Bhavan. Water is precious and one should not waste
it.
Free Medical and First Aid
:
First aid is available
at strategic places all along the track. Medical dispensaries,
health centers, clinics, hospitals, etc. manned by trained
professional staff and equipped with all medical facilities
are available at Banganga, Charan Paduka, Adikuwari, Sanjhi
Chhat and Bhavan.
Free Toilets and Bathrooms
:
Free toilets and
washrooms are located at short distances. They are cleaned at
regular intervals and pilgrims would find them to be a
refreshing change compared to the toilets at most of the other
pilgrim spots. There are more than 80 toilet blocks with about
660 seats en-route to Bhavan.
Vishram Sthals (Resting Places)
:
Sheds have been
constructed at an approximate distance of 500 meters from each
other. At most of the places, toilet blocks and Refreshment
Units are also situated adjacent to them. Pilgrims can rest
and refresh at these spots.
Help and Announcement
:
All Shrine Board
establishments literally double up for help and assistance
booths as well. Officials and functionaries posted at these
places are always willing to extend a helping hand to the
pilgrims. Twenty four hour manned announcement booths are
located at Bus Stand (Katra), Banganga, Adikuwari, Himkoti,
Sanjhi Chhat and Bhavan.
|
|
