Katra,January 15,2026:On the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) opened the ancient Old Cave for devotees after the performance of special prayers and rituals at the holy shrine. The opening of the historic cave has generated immense enthusiasm among pilgrims, who consider darshan through the Old Cave a spiritually enriching experience.
According to officials of the Shrine Board, the Old Cave was opened in keeping with age-old religious traditions associated with Makar Sankranti, a festival that marks the transition of the sun into Makara (Capricorn) and holds great spiritual significance in Hinduism. After the completion of traditional puja and havan, devotees were allowed to pass through the sacred cave under regulated arrangements.
Pilgrims expressed joy and devotion at being able to undertake darshan through the Old Cave, which is believed to be closely associated with the ancient legend of Mata Vaishno Devi. Many devotees regard this route as symbolising faith, penance and divine blessings.
The Shrine Board ensured adequate security, crowd management and medical facilities to facilitate smooth movement of pilgrims during the special opening. Officials said that such traditional practices not only uphold the shrine’s spiritual heritage but also enhance the religious experience of devotees visiting the holy cave shrine.
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine, located in the Trikuta Hills of Reasi district, continues to witness a steady influx of pilgrims during auspicious festivals, reaffirming its status as one of the most revered pilgrimage destinations in the country.
