About Banganga
Banganga is a sacred stream located at the foothills of the Trikuta Hills in Katra, Reasi district, Jammu and Kashmir, marking the starting point of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrimage. Believed to have been created by the goddess with an arrow to quench thirst, it is where pilgrims traditionally take a holy dip before beginning the 12 km trek to the shrine. The site features a small temple, bathing ghats and a bridge over the stream.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a small, shallow stream with stepped bathing ghats, a pedestrian bridge, and small shrines along the banks at the base of the Trikuta Hills. The area is busy with pilgrims taking a ritual dip before starting the Vaishno Devi yatra. There are changing areas, food stalls and shops nearby. The setting is open and riverside, with views of the hills and the start of the paved pilgrimage track leading uphill.
Key highlights
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Sacred stream where Vaishno Devi pilgrims take a ritual holy dip before the yatra
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Traditional starting point (Darshani Darwaza area) of the 12 km trek to Vaishno Devi Shrine
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Stepped bathing ghats and small temples along the banks
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Bridge over Banganga offering views of the stream and pilgrim procession
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Associated legend of the stream being created by the goddess's arrow
History of Banganga
According to tradition, Banganga was created when the goddess Vaishno Devi, while travelling to the Trikuta Hills, shot an arrow (baan) into the ground to create a stream to quench the thirst of her companion Langur Veer (Hanuman). The stream has since been regarded as sacred and marks the historic starting point of the pilgrimage.
Culture & Context
Banganga holds deep religious significance for Hindu pilgrims undertaking the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra. Taking a holy dip (snan) in its waters is considered purifying before beginning the trek to the shrine. The site is associated with ritual bathing, prayers and offerings and is an integral part of the pilgrimage culture of Katra.
Route
| By air |
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