Charan Paduka

Charan Paduka is a small shrine on the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrimage track near Katra in Reasi District, Jammu and Kashmir. Located about 1.5 km from Banganga, it marks the spot where the footprints of Goddess Vaishno Devi are believed to be imprinted on a rock. It is the first darshan point for pilgrims trekking 12 km to the Vaishno Devi Bhawan and holds religious importance along the yatra route.

Visitors can expect a small white marble temple housing a rock slab with footprints revered as Charan Paduka of the Goddess. The shrine is situated along the paved pilgrimage track uphill from Banganga, surrounded by forested hills. Pilgrims stop briefly for darshan and prayers before continuing toward Ardhkuwari and the Bhawan. The site has a viewing platform, seating and shelters, and offers views of the Katra valley and trekking route.

According to tradition, Goddess Vaishno Devi stopped at this spot while fleeing from Bhairavnath and her footprints were left imprinted on a rock slab. The site has since been revered as Charan Paduka and is considered the first point where her presence is felt on the pilgrimage to the holy cave shrine.

Charan Paduka is a revered stop for devotees undertaking the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage. Pilgrims offer prayers and seek blessings before proceeding to Ardhkuwari and the main Bhawan. It is regarded as an auspicious first darshan and an integral part of the yatra rituals.