Located around 80 km from Katra, the base of Vaishno Devi Yatra, Shiv Khori is a holy cave that houses a naturally formed ‘Shivling’ (the power behind all creations). The very well-known cave shrine of Shiv Khori is one of the most revered shrines in the region and is visited by the devotees of Lord Shiva in huge numbers every year.
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Architecture of Shiv Khori
The cave is around 150 meters in length, and the Swayambhu Lingam features are 4 feet tall. A milky fluid drips on its own from the ceiling, offering Abhishekam to the Shivlinga. The footprints of Goddess Parvati can be seen on the Linga’s left side. On the same side, there is an impression of Kartikeya, the first son of the Lord and Devi. Above the lingam, an imprint of 5-headed Ganesha, their second son, can also be seen. It is believed that all the images and impressions of all Hindu deities (33 crore) and related objects like Trishul (the Trident of the Lord), Sheshnag (Snake God with six heads), etc. are all naturally formed.
The cave roof also has an impression of Lord Vishnu’s Sudarshan Chakra. One can also spot the images of Lord Rama, his consort Devi Sita, his brother Lakshmana and Lord Hanuman. As you step inside the cave, feel the mystery, spirituality, and tranquility.
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History of Shiv Khori in Jammu
According to the legend, Bhasmasur, a demon, meditated for several years for Lord Shiva. The Lord was happy with him and offered him a boon: he could now end anyone’s life just by placing his hand on their heads. After obtaining the boon from the Lord, wrong intentions entered his mind, and he decided to end the Lord’s life. They hide in this cave to save themselves and their consort, Parvati. At this point, Lord Vishnu disguises as a beautiful apsara Mohini. He lures the demon to dance with her. As they both started dancing, Mohini kept her hand above her head, and the devil did the same. In this manner, the demon took his life.
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Fair at Shiv Khori in Jammu
The cave temple of Shiv Khori bustles with activity during its 3-day Mela (festival) that is organized at the time of Maha Shivratri (February-March). Thousands of the Lord’s devotees attend the festival. The cave shrine is located on a hillock in the village of Ransoo and is accessible after a small trek. Also, it is stated that Baba Ramesgiri, a guru, traveled from this cave to the Amarnath cave during his lifetime
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