Katra: Liquor And Meat Ban Around Vaishno Devi Shrine Extended For 2 Months; Includes Arli, Hansal And Other Regions

Situated at 1,500 metres, the revered Vaishno Devi Temple is one of the most significant pilgrimage sites for Hindus. Dedicated to Mata Vaishno Devi, this temple draws millions of devotees every year. The journey to the shrine begins in Katra and after a 12-km-long trek up the mountains, the devotees finally get to reach the shrine. To uphold its sanctity, authorities in Jammu and Kashmir have once again extended the ban on liquor and non-vegetarian food in Katra and its surrounding areas.

Katra Extends Its Ban On Liquor And Non-Vegetarian Food

Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir have extended the prohibition on the sale, possession, and consumption of alcohol and non-vegetarian food in Katra and the surrounding areas. This ban has been extended for two months to maintain the pilgrimage’s sacred nature.

Under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, Katra Sub-Divisional Magistrate Piyush Dhotra has reaffirmed the restriction. According to the Jagran reports, the ban applies to:

• The 12-km track from Katra to the shrine
• Villages within 2 km on either side, including Arli, Hansali, and Matyal
• 200 meters on both sides of major roads like Katra-Tikri Road, Katra-Jammu Road, and Katra-Reasi Road
• A 100-meter restriction on Panthal-Domail Road

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No Liquor, No Meat On Vaishno Devi Route

The ban on non-vegetarian food and liquor is reinforced to preserve the sanctity of this important pilgrimage. Vaishno Devi is considered a pure and sacred place, where devotees observe strict vegetarianism. The consumption of alcohol and non-vegetarian food is considered inappropriate here.

This ban certainly ensures that the atmosphere in this spiritual hub remains devotional and serene. For now, the restrictions will last for two months, unless withdrawn earlier. However, given the strong religious importance of the shrine, it may continue to be enforced to preserve the spiritual essence of Vaishno Devi.

For centuries, Mata Vaishno Devi’s shrine has been a place of faith and purity for all devotees. And with the extension of this ban, the sanctity and holiness of this pilgrimage site will stay protected.

So, if you’re planning a trip to Vaishno Devi, soak in the divine energy, chant ‘Jai Mata Di,’ and get ready to start this soul-enriching journey.

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva