Shiv Khori Cave Shrine of an avatar of Lord Shiva, is located in the lap of nature in the form of a cave on a hillock in Udhampur district in India’s own Heaven on Earth, Jammu and Kashmir. The 4-foot lingam was formed naturally in a cave. This self-manifested lingam of Lord Shiva is also known as Swayambhu and is of great importance in Hindu religion. According to some, the cave is dedicated to one of the forms of Lord Shiva, which is believed to be unborn and invisible. As one explores the cave, they experience the divine aura of this form of Lord Shiva.
Shivkhori is an enchanting destination famous for its religious belief. The route inside the cave is challenging for many, and the thrill is worth experiencing as devotees are sure to feel blessed at the sight of the idol.
Devotees of Lord Shiva from all over the world visit the cave to offer their sincere prayers. The journey to the cave-shrine requires trekking over 3 kilometres of the route through the stunning mountains covered with lush greenery. The cave consists of naturally formed shapes or impressions that look like Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, Lord Ganesh, Nandi, Kartikeya, and Sheshnag. Many find these naturally formed impressions very intriguing and get drawn to this mystical location like bees to honey. The magical vibe of the cave is sure to mesmerize you, and you will want to keep coming back to Shiv Khori Cave again and again.
History of Shiv Khori Cave Temple
As per history, about 100 years ago, a Muslim shepherd is said to have discovered this historic cave. It is said that when a goat went missing from his herd, he shepherd came to this cave accidentally searching for his goat Jammu Tour Packages.
Upon entering the cave, he was awestruck to see many saints offering puja to Lord Shiva. The divine power of Shiva impressed him and he got himself involved in the puja there. Later, the shepherd disclosed what happened inside the cave to many, much against the promise he made to saints to not reveal about them or this cave to anybody. The story says that after narrating this incident to others the shepherd met his death. Legends say that many famous saints were closely attached to this cave. They spent many years inside the cave for meditation and spiritual enlightenment.
Best Time To Visit Shivkhori
Shiv Khori Cave buzzes with pilgrims all year round. There is no dearth of visitors throughout the year to this holy shrine. However, the preferred times are:
- October, November as it matches with Navraatra period and
- February, March during Maha Shivratri when the big mela is held.
Nevertheless, it is a pleasant climate in Kashmir during summer and spring when tourists pay a visit here. There are also tourists who frequent Kashmir Attractions during the winter to enjoy winter sports and at the same time pay a visit to these renowned holy places.
How To Reach Shivkhori
The closest Railway Station is the Udhampur Railway Station. The nearest airport near Shivkhori is the Jammu Airport which is about 75 kilometres away from Udhampur. Visitors can avail public or private transport from the airport to reach the cave.
Pony or Palkhi Services are available from the base to the cave. Visitors can also trek through the mountains clad with lush green forests from Ranso, Reasi to reach the breathtaking cave of Shivkhori. Trekkers walk a distance of about 3.5 kilometres to reach the cave shrine.
Helicopter services have also been made available from Katra which takes around 20 minutes to reach the Shivkhori Shrine.
