The Vaishno Devi tradition uses several short, powerful mantras that pilgrims chant along the trek and before darshan. Here are the five most commonly recited.
1. The Devi Bija Mantra
ॐ ऐं ह्रीं क्लीं चामुण्डायै विच्चे ॥
Om Aim Hreem Kleem Chamundayai Vichche — the central mantra of the Devi Mahatmyam (Durga Saptashati). Chanted in cycles of 108 along the trek.
2. Vaishno Devi Aarti (Opening Verse)
Jai Mata Vaishnavi, Maa Jai Jai Mata Vaishnavi,
Jai gauri, jai shankari, ambe maa shaktī ke roop varey…
The aarti is sung twice daily inside the cave. Pilgrims often join the singing from the Bhawan plaza loud-speakers.
3. Trishakti Pranam
Mahakali Mahalakshmi Mahasaraswati namo namah
Trishakti rupa Vaishnavi, Trikuta vasini namo namah.
A simple shloka offering pranam to the three forms of the Goddess as she manifests in the cave.
4. Bhairon Baba Mantra (Before Bhairon Visit)
Om Hreem Bham Bhairavaaya Namah
Recited at the Bhairon Baba temple — invoking the Kshetrapal (guardian of the holy realm).
5. Hanuman Bhakti Pankhi Chaupai
Hanuman is closely associated with Banganga (where he is said to have struck the rocks for water). Many pilgrims recite Hanuman Chalisa at the Banganga ghat to begin the yatra.
How to Chant on the Trek
- Walk in rhythm with your chant — each step is a step closer to Mata.
- Synchronise breath with the mantra: inhale on first half, exhale on second.
- Mala (rudraksha or sphatik) helps count cycles of 108.
- Silent chanting is as effective as audible — the cave corridor is meant to be quiet.
Hindi-Devanagari Chant Booklet
SMVDSB has published a small Hindi-Sanskrit booklet sold at Niharika for ₹10. Carry it along — it includes the full aarti, Saptashati extracts and the chalisas.
