Charan paduka

The name "Charan Paduka" translates directly to "footprints" or "foot impressions". According to Hindu legend, the goddess Vaishno Devi paused to rest at this exact location during her journey up the Trikuta mountain to escape the pursuit of the Bhairon Nath. It is believed that she stopped here specifically to look back and check if Bhairon Nath was still following her, leaving the permanent imprint of her holy feet upon the rock. For devotees undertaking the yatra, pausing at Charan Paduka for darshan is considered an essential routine ritual. The footprints are venerated as a symbolic guide showing the righteous path one should follow in life. Pilgrims typically stop at this shrine to offer prayers, present donations in cash or kind, and seek the goddess's blessings before continuing the remaining 3 kilometers to the next stop at Ardhkuwari. ==Facilities for pilgrims==

Because so many people visit, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has built helpful services at Charan Paduka. There are places to rest, eat, and shop. A small market allows visitors to buy dry fruits, religious music, and gifts. One well-known shop is run by the T-Series music brand. This shop hires local workers and uses its profits to pay for a free food kitchen (langar) for pilgrims back at Ban Ganga. ==Education==

In 2010, the Shrine Board expanded the site by establishing the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Gurukul at Charan Paduka. This educational institution is dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the Sanskrit language and literature. Guided by highly qualified Acharyas, the Gurukul provides students with specialized instruction in the Vedas and Hindu pooja rituals, alongside standard modern subjects such as mathematics and English. ==See also==