Shrikhand yatra sees dip in pilgrim turnout

This year’s Shrikhand Mahadev Yatra witnessed a noticeable dip in pilgrim turnout, as only 7,442 devotees completed the 35-km ascent to the 18,570-foot summit, where the revered 72-foot tall Shivlingam stands. In comparison, 8,702 pilgrims undertook the arduous trek during the same period last year.

Held between July 10 and 23, the yatra was hampered by persistent monsoon rains and cloudbursts in the lead-up to the pilgrimage. These weather disruptions not only discouraged many from attempting the trek but also led to logistical delays. Despite this, enthusiasm remained high early on, with 5,198 pilgrims securing slots on the first day of registration. The Shrikhand Mahadev Trust had capped daily departures at 800 for safety.

The worst impact was felt due to extreme weather events in neighbouring Mandi district, which triggered government advisories warning against travel to high-altitude regions. Many pilgrims from outside Himachal Pradesh cancelled their plans amid safety concerns. However, those who made the journey called it a test of faith, citing the steep moraine trails, snow-laden ridges and misty forests as both challenging and spiritually uplifting.

Remarkably, the pilgrimage concluded with only one reported fatality, due to acute oxygen deficiency at high altitude — a significant improvement over the five deaths recorded before the official start of the yatra last year. Organisers attributed this success to improved medical facilities, oxygen-supply tents, proactive weather alerts and rapid-response teams stationed along the trail.

The three-day trek, described by devotees as physically gruelling yet emotionally transformative, culminates at the remote summit shrine where pilgrims offer milk, flowers and prayers to Lord Shiva. The journey through narrow mountain passes and thick alpine mist is seen as a sacred communion with the divine, deeply etched in spiritual and cultural memory.

As the final group of pilgrims completed their ascent on July 23, preparations began to formally close the route by July 28. Officials and the organising trust are now reviewing this year’s challenges to enhance early-warning systems, improve trail infrastructure and upgrade emergency shelters. Feedback from volunteers and devotees will be incorporated into planning for next year’s yatra.