Jammu, May 6 (IANS): Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB), that looks after the famous Vaishno Devi pilgrimage, Monday launched an online registration facility for undertaking the pilgrimage.

After launching the facility, chief executive officer of SMVDSB, Navin Choudhary, said: "This is an endeavour to improve the registration process for pilgrims visiting the holy shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi."

He said the service would be available free of cost and those planning to visit the shrine can book their pilgrimage permit online, as early as 30 days in advance of commencing the pilgrimage.

"Pilgrims can even book online on the same day of his pilgrimage. They will get a printed registration slip with a specific number and bar-code," Choudhary said.

"Every pilgrim with the slip can start his journey to from Banganga (starting point of a 12-km trek to the shrine from base camp Katra) without queuing up at a pilgrimage registration counter at Jammu or Katra," he added.

The initiative is expected to provide convenience and comfort to pilgrims who, at times, have to wait for long hours in the queue system for getting registration slips in Katra.

Over 10 millions pilgrims visit the shrine annually.