What is Shivkhori?
Shivkhori is a holy cave in Jammu and Kashmir where Lord Shiva used to live before going to Amarnath. The cave is 200 meters long and is inside a mountain. Every year, 20 lakh people visit this sacred place. It’s not just a temple visit – it’s an adventure that includes trekking through beautiful hills.
When Should You Go?
Best Time: March to June and September to November. The weather is nice and you can see clear mountain views.
Special Time: Visit during Maha Shivaratri (February/March) for grand celebrations, but expect large crowds.
Avoid: July-August (excessive rain, slippery roads) and December-February (extremely cold).
How to Reach There?
Distances:
- From Jammu: 129 km via Katra, 112 km via other route
- From Katra: 80 km
- From Udhampur: 120 km
Transport Options:
- Shared bus: ₹300 per person
- Private taxi: ₹2,500 for the whole car
- Many buses and cars go from Katra to Ransoo village every day
The Trek Adventure
Starting Point: Ransoo Village
Your trek starts from Ransoo village. All buses and cars can reach here safely.
Trek Details
- How far: 3 km walk from Ransoo village
- How long: Takes 2-3 hours for the complete trip
- How difficult: Medium level – anyone with basic fitness can do it
- Height: 3,000 feet above sea level
- Path: Good concrete road with safety railings
Can’t walk? Don’t worry! You can hire a horse or a palanquin (a chair carried by people).
Inside the Holy Cave
- Size: 200 meters long, 1 meter wide, 2 meters high
- Entrance: You need to crawl for 1 meter to enter the main area
- Main Area: See the natural Shivlingam (Lord Shiva’s symbol made by nature)
- Exit: Wide path where 2-3 people can walk together
- Facilities: Electric lights, oxygen supply, fans, and clean toilets
Perfect 2-Day Weekend Plan
Day 1: Travel Day
Morning (6 AM – 12 PM)
- Leave your city early morning
- Travel to Ransoo village
Afternoon (12 PM – 6 PM)
- Check into a guesthouse near Ransoo
- Rest and get used to the mountain air
- Walk around the village
- Get ready for tomorrow’s trek
Evening (6 PM – 9 PM)
- Eat dinner early and sleep early
Day 2: Trek Day
Early Morning (5 AM – 8 AM)
- Wake up early, eat a light breakfast
- Start walking to the cave
Morning to Afternoon (8 AM – 2 PM)
- Complete a 3 km uphill walk
- Visit the holy cave and pray
- Spend time in peace and meditation
- Start walking back
Afternoon to Evening (2 PM – 7 PM)
- Return to Ransoo village
- Rest and eat
- Get ready to go home
Why Visit Shivkhori?
Spiritual Benefits
- Get God’s blessings: Feel close to Lord Shiva
- Clean your sins: The holy trip washes away bad karma
- Find peace: The cave’s energy calms your mind
- Prayers answered: Many people say their wishes come true
Health Benefits
- Reduce stress: Nature and walking make you feel relaxed
- Get fit: 3 km walking is good exercise
- Clear thinking: A Peaceful environment helps clear your mind
- Feel confident: Completing the trek makes you feel proud
Want to know more about Temple & Pilgrimage Guides
Important Things to Do and Not Do
Must Do:
- Start early morning (5-6 AM) to avoid crowds
- Drink water every 20-30 minutes while walking
- Follow the marked path only
- Keep quiet inside the cave
- Remove shoes before entering the cave
- Bring simple offerings like milk, flowers, and sweets
- Say “Om Namah Shivaya” while walking
Never Do:
- Don’t go alone – always go with friends or family
- Don’t ignore if you feel dizzy or sick
- Don’t use plastic bottles – carry your water bottle
- Don’t take photos inside the main cave without asking
- Don’t eat meat during the trip
- Don’t drink alcohol before or during the trip
- Don’t disrespect local people and their customs
Simple Step-by-Step Plan
Before Going (2-3 Weeks Earlier)
- Plan Everything: Check the weather, book rooms, arrange transport
- Get Fit: Walk 3-5 km daily, do breathing exercises
- Prepare Papers: Keep ID card, insurance, and emergency phone numbers ready
On Trek Day
- 4:30 AM: Wake up, eat a light breakfast
- 6:00 AM: Start walking from the Ransoo parking area
- 6:15 AM: Walk 700 meters to reach the mountain path
- 6:30-8:45 AM: Walk 3 km uphill with rest breaks
- 9:00 AM: Enter the cave and pray
- 9:30-11:30 AM: Walk back to the village
What to Pack
Clothes and Shoes
- Comfortable walking shoes (most important!)
- Warm jacket (gets cold in the mountains)
- Raincoat (if going during the rainy season)
- Simple, respectful clothes
Other Things
- Enough water and snacks
- First aid medicines
- Phone charger
- Flashlight for the cave
- ID card and money
Where to Stay and How Much Money?
Stay Options
- Near Ransoo: Simple guesthouses, religious places to stay
- Better Option: Stay in Katra city (better hotels) and make a day trip
Money Needed (Per Person)
Budget Trip (₹2,000-3,500):
- Transport: ₹300-500
- Stay: ₹500-800 per night
- Food: ₹300-500 per day
Comfortable Trip (₹5,000-8,000):
- Transport: ₹1,200-2,500
- Stay: ₹1,500-3,000 per night
- Food: ₹600-1,000 per day
Common Questions
Q: Can beginners do this trek?
A: Yes! It’s easy for anyone with basic walking fitness.
Q: What age is good for this trip?
A: Kids above 8 years with adults. Old people up to 65 years also go regularly.
Q: Can we visit Vaishno Devi and Shivkhori together?
A: Yes! Many people do both. Stay in Katra and visit both places.
Q: Is there a doctor available?
A: Basic medical help is available in Ransoo village.
Q: What should we offer to Lord Shiva?
A: Simple things like milk, honey, flowers, fruits, and sweets.
Q: Is there any entry fee?
A: No fee to enter the temple. Only parking charges may apply.
Special Festivals
- Maha Shivaratri: Big 3-day celebration (February/March)
- Monthly: Special prayers on Pradosh and new moon days
- Shravan month: Extra special prayers (July/August)
Final Words
The hivkhori Cave Temple trip is more than just visiting a temple. It’s a complete experience that makes you feel peaceful, healthy, and spiritually strong. The trek through beautiful mountains, the holy cave experience, and meeting good people make this trip unforgettable.
Whether you want God’s blessings, want to feel peaceful, or just love adventures, Shivkhori gives you everything. Follow this simple guide, prepare well, and get ready for a weekend that will make you feel happy and blessed.
The holy energy of Lord Shiva is waiting for you in the magical Shivkhori Cave. Your spiritual journey starts with your first step!
