Ardh Kuwari Cave

Ardh Kuwari Cave, also known as Garbh Joon, sits roughly 6 km from Katra at an altitude of 4,800 feet, marking the midpoint of the Vaishno Devi yatra. According to legend, Mata Vaishno Devi took refuge inside this naturally womb-shaped cave for nine months while evading Bhairon Nath. Pilgrims crawl on their knees through the narrow 52-foot passage to reach the inner shrine dedicated to Maha Kali, Maha Lakshmi, and Maha Saraswati, symbolizing spiritual rebirth. Battery cars and pony services are available from here to the Bhawan.