Sanji Chhat is a delightful little plateau two and a half kilometers short of the Holy Shrine of Vaishno Devi Ji. Since, the upward gradient ends at this point and because of the scenic view it offers, this place is a pleasant halt for the pilgrims. Prior to the take over in 1986, the state of affairs here was entirely different. Small dirty kiosks housed a cluster of shops, the shopkeepers threw the waste on the hill side, creating a dirty sight and a foul smell. There were no arrangements for drinking water except Chhabils. There was only a Dharamshalla constructed by Dharmarth Trust, which provided extremely inadequate accommodation with almost non - existent toilet facilities.
After management of the Shrine was taken over by the Shrine Board, the development scenario of Sanjhichhat witnessed a sea change. First of all a massive sanitation drive was launched to clean the hill side. The kiosks were removed and shifted to another area. The main platform was laid with white marble and Kota Stone and was beautified by constructing a fountain and flood lights. A new shopping complex and toilet blocks were constructed. Water supply was augmented. To improve the medical facilities for the pilgrims, a 24 bedded hospital was made functional. A new Helipad was also constructed here. This helipad has facilitated the recent introduction of Helicopter Service between Katra and Sanjhichhat.
