Ardh Kuwari Cave
Katra, India
- Experience the spiritual atmosphere
- Offer prayers
- Rest and meditate
- Visit the cave shrine
Known for:
Description:
Ardh Kuwari Cave, also known as Garbhajoon Cave, is a significant pilgrimage site located about halfway up the Trikuta Mountains on the way to the Vaishno Devi shrine in Katra, India. It is a narrow, naturally formed cave believed to be the place where Goddess Vaishno Devi meditated for nine months. Pilgrims often stop here to rest and offer prayers before continuing their journey. The cave is quite small, allowing only a few people inside at a time. The atmosphere inside is charged with spiritual energy, making it a powerful experience for devotees.
History:
According to legend, Ardh Kuwari Cave is where Goddess Vaishno Devi hid from Bhairavnath for nine months. It is believed that she took the form of a girl child during this period, hence the name 'Ardh Kuwari' which translates to 'half-girl'. Bhairavnath eventually found her and chased her to the Holy Cave, where she finally revealed her true form and beheaded him. The cave holds immense religious significance for Hindus and is considered a sacred place of worship.