Introduction
Mata Vaishno Devi is an important shrine for Hindus, and lakhs of devotees visit the shrine annually. The shrine board which manages the shrine, and the associated logistics has been introducing a lot of improvements over the years. One major decision in late 2022 was introducing Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) cards. This has been done with the security and crowd management of devotees in mind. A person carrying an RFID card can be tracked throughout the yatra route. Antennas have been installed to enable tracking.
Now for some FAQs:
Q1: Is the RFID card required for all devotees?
Ans: All devotees who are above the age of 5 years are required to obtain an RFID card to start the yatra.
Q2: How do I get an RFID card for Vaishno Devi yatra?
Ans: Is the online registration valid to start the yatra? RFID cards can only be obtained at the designated yatra registration centres and cannot be obtained online. Although the online yatra registration link is still live, the parchi that gets generated has lost its relevance as you will have to stand in a queue at the registration centres.
Q3: Is there a separate queue for devotees who have done the online registration?
Ans: Unfortunately, there is no separate queue for those who have already done their online registration. Everyone has to stand in the same queue and there is no specific advantage. The only consolation could be that the details will be available to the office beforehand and you will not need to repeat the information, but the advantage is barely there.
Q4: What are the documents required to obtain an RFID card for the Vaishno devi yatra?
Ans: You will need to carry identity proof and will be asked about your place of origin at the registration counter. A photo will also be taken at the counter before handing out the RFID card.
Q5: Where can you get the RFID cards to start the Vaishno Devi yatra?
Ans: Below are the places one can get registered and obtain an RFID card.
| Location | Number of counters |
| Yatra registration counter 1 – Katra main chowk | 13 |
| Yatra registration counter 2 – Katra new bus stand | 2 |
| Niharika Bhawan – Katra | 1 |
| Railway station – Katra | 2 |
| Vaishnavi Dham – Jammu | 1 |
| Airport – Jammu | 1 |
| Helipad | 1 |
Q6: What are the timings for getting the RFID cards for the Vaishno Devi yatra?
Ans: The counters mentioned above are open from 5 AM to 10 PM. Anyone reaching late has to plan accordingly.
Q7: Does everyone in a group have to stand in the queue to obtain an RFID card for Vaishno Devi darshan?
Ans: Anyone above the age of 5 years has to stand in the queue to get the RFID card. Even if you are coming in a group, every individual has to stand in the queue to get the card as photograph will be taken before handing out the card.
Q8: Is there a time limit to start the Vaishno Devi yatra after obtaining RFID cards?
Ans: The official stance is that a yatri should cross the Banganga checkpoint within 6 hours of the issue of the RFID card, however during my yatra there were no such checks.
Q9: Are there any charges for obtaining RFID cards for Vaishno Devi darshan?
Ans: RFID cards are issued free of cost and there is nothing to pay to the board or anyone else.
Q10: Where to return the RFID cards after Vaishno devi darshan?
Ans: There are designated drop boxes at the exit gate so make sure that you return the cards upon completion of the yatra. Many are taking the cards back home either unintentionally or as a souvenir, so the administration has deployed some people at the exit gate to ensure the cards are returned.
Q11: Can I start my yatra without getting an RFID card?
Ans: The security personnel posted at the entry gate will check for the card, so there is no way to gain entry without the RFID card. You will be asked to wear it around your neck even if the card is lying in your pocket.
Please note that this information is true as of the beginning of the year as obtained/observed during my annual visit to the temple. If you have any additional information that could be useful to others, please drop a comment below and I will include it in the post (after verification).
If you are interested in reading about how I do this annual yatra to the shrine then do read my blog by clicking here.