Charan Paduka — Introduction
Charan Paduka is the second sacred stop on the Mata Vaishno Devi yatra, located approximately 3 km from Katra and beyond Banganga. Here, on a massive natural rock, the sacred footprints of Mata Vaishno Devi are imprinted. These footprints were not carved by any human hand — they are Swayambhu (self-manifested), appearing spontaneously.
Charan Paduka — Mata Vaishno Devi's sacred footprints. Mata rested on this rock during her journey.
The Sacred Legend
As Mata Vaishno Devi moved beyond Banganga while fleeing from Bhairav Nath, she stopped to rest briefly at this spot. She sat on a massive rock and meditated. When she rose and moved forward, her divine footprints were imprinted on that rock. According to the scriptures, when a divine power places her feet on a spot, that place becomes eternally sacred — its earth, stone, and water all become divine.
"Wherever Mata's feet touched, the earth became sacred. Merely taking darshan of Charan Paduka blesses the devotee's entire life."
Features of Charan Paduka
- Swayambhu Imprints: Not carved by any sculptor — naturally imprinted by Mata's divine feet
- Shape: Exactly like human feet but divinely beautiful
- Material: Imprinted on granite rock — natural formation
- Both feet: Both footprints are clearly visible
- Worship: Devotees offer flowers, milk, water, sandalwood
Temple Complex
- Grand temple built at Charan Paduka for proper worship of the footprints
- Sacred rock with footprints protected under a canopy
- Langur Veer (Hanuman ji) temple
- Rest area for devotees
- Water and prasad shops
The beautiful route from Banganga to Charan Paduka — filled with greenery and mountain views
Significance of Charan Paduka Darshan
According to scriptures, taking darshan of God's sacred feet destroys all sins and paves the way for liberation. Blessings received from Charan Paduka darshan:
- All wishes are fulfilled
- Blessings for progeny are granted
- Freedom from illness and sorrow
- Growth in business and wealth
- Inner peace and enhanced power of meditation
Practical Information
- Distance from Katra: 3 km (1.5 km from Banganga)
- Walking time from Katra: Approximately 1 hour
- Altitude: 3,400 feet (1,036 meters)
- Open: 24 hours
- Entry: Free
- Facilities: Tea stalls, toilets, rest area
🙏 Humble obeisance at Mata Rani's feet! Jai Mata Di! 🙏
