Banganga

Banganga is the sacred stream where Mata Vaishno Devi washed her hair while moving toward the Trikuta hills. Located just a short walk past the main Yatra check post in Katra, this holy river bank marks the first major halt for millions of pilgrims traveling across Jammu and Kashmir.

Legend of the Holy Arrow

Devotees believe that Goddess Vaishnavi shot an arrow into the stone floor to bring forth water for her thirsty companion Lallu Veer. The spring water flows steadily throughout the year down the foothills. Pilgrims take a ritual dip in the flowing ghats to wash away exhaustion before starting the steep mountain climb.

Ghats and Practical Flow

Truth is, the ghat area stays bustling day and night with energetic chants. Modern railings, paved paths, and separate bathing enclosures for men and women make the holy bath straightforward. You will find small tea stalls, medical help booths, and battery cart transit counters lined along the pathway.