About Vaishno Devi Atka Aarti

The Atka Aarti is a sacred ritual performed twice daily at the holy cave shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi. This divine ceremony allows devotees to participate in the evening and morning prayers with special seating arrangements and blessed prasad. Due to its popularity, advance booking is mandatory for all pilgrims.

Step 1: Visit Official Website

Go to the official Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board website (maavaishnodevi.org) and click Online Booking Services.

Step 2: Login Process

On the booking page, log in using your mobile number via OTP verification or set a password for your account.

Step 3: Select Atka Aarti Option

After logging in, open the Atka Aarti option on your home screen to view availability.

Step 4: Choose Your Aarti Type

Select from the available Atka Aarti options with varying rates and facilities.

Atka Aarti Rates & Options — 2025 Updated

Aarti Type Rate (Per Person) Facilities Included Location
Garbhjoon Atka Aarti 500 Special aarti at Ardhkuwari cave Ardhkuwari Garbhjoon
Regular Atka Aarti 2,000 Main Bhawan aarti + Sacred prasad Main Bhawan
Group Atka Aarti 5,100 (3–4 persons) Aarti + Dormitory accommodation + Prasad Main Bhawan + Manokamna Bhawan

Special Discount: Children under 10 years can participate in the aarti free of charge.


Atka Aarti Timings — Morning & Evening

Morning Aarti

  • Time: 6:20 AM (Same throughout the year)
  • Reporting Time: 5:30 AM at Durga Bhawan Reception
  • Token Distribution: Previous evening at 7:00 PM

Evening Aarti

  • Summer Timing (March–September): 7:20 PM
  • Winter Timing (October–February): 6:20 PM
  • Reporting Time: 1 hour before aarti time
  • Token Distribution: Same day at 11:00 AM

Token Collection Process

After Online Booking:

  1. Print Your Receipt: Carry a printed copy of your online booking confirmation. This is mandatory for token collection.
  2. Report to Durga Bhawan: At Mata Vaishno Devi Bhawan, go to Durga Bhawan Reception and show your booking receipt to collect the token.
  3. Token Distribution Timings:
    • For Morning Aarti: Previous evening at 7:00 PM
    • For Evening Aarti: Same day at 11:00 AM
  4. Queue Formation: Join the queue one hour before the aarti time. Seating is arranged according to token numbers.

Important: After participating in the Atka Aarti, you’ll get the opportunity for Mata Rani’s darshan. The entire experience is truly divine and spiritually uplifting.

Offline Booking Options

If online slots are available, you can also book offline at Durga Bhawan Reception:

  • For Morning Aarti: Booking opens after 9:00 PM (previous day)
  • For Evening Aarti: Booking opens after 12:15 PM (same day)
  • Location: Durga Bhawan Reception Counter
  • Payment: Cash and card accepted

Group Atka Aarti — Special Package Details

The Group Atka Aarti is a special scheme introduced by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board:

Package Details:

  • Capacity: 3–4 adults + 2 children (under 10 years)
  • Total Cost: INR 5,100 only
  • Inclusions:
    • Participation in Atka Aarti ceremony
    • 3–4 dormitory beds in Manokamna Bhawan
    • Special Panchmeva prasad
    • Priority seating during aarti

Important Rules & Guidelines

Mandatory Requirements

  • Electronic devices like mobile phones, cameras, laptops are strictly prohibited
  • Aarti tickets cannot be cancelled, postponed, or preponed
  • No refunds once booking is confirmed
  • Appropriate dress code must be followed
  • Valid ID proof is mandatory for verification

Time Discipline

  • Report 30 minutes before the designated time
  • Entry is strictly based on token numbers
  • Late arrivals will not be accommodated
  • Follow all instructions from shrine board staff

Additional Tips for Devotees

  • Book in Advance: Atka Aarti slots fill up quickly, especially during festivals and peak seasons.
  • Carry Physical Copies: Keep printed booking confirmations and ID proofs.
  • Follow Dress Code: Wear modest, traditional clothing suitable for a temple visit.
  • Stay Hydrated: Carry water bottles as per shrine board guidelines.
  • Respect the Process: Follow all instructions from shrine board officials.
  • Plan Your Journey: Book accommodation and travel in advance during peak periods.

Free Aarti Option

For devotees who prefer not to book paid aarti, a free aarti option is also available. However, this involves longer waiting times and limited seating. We will cover the detailed process for free aarti participation in a separate comprehensive guide.