Vaishno Devi yatra to resume from August 14 

The pilgrimage to the cave shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi in Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir will resume from Sunday after remaining suspended for 19 days, officials said.

The yatra was suspended following a landslide on August 26 that claimed 34 lives and left 20 others injured.

“Jai Mata Di! The Vaishno Devi Yatra will resume from September 14 (Sunday), subject to favourable weather conditions. For details and bookings, please visit www.maavaishnodevi.org,” the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDB) announced on X.

The Board further stated that the temporary suspension was necessitated due to inclement weather conditions and essential maintenance of the track leading to shrine. The Yatra will resume as scheduled, provided weather conditions remain favourable.

Spokesperson of the SMVDB advised pilgrims to carry valid identification, follow designated pathways, and cooperate with on-ground staff.

“RFID-based tracking will remain mandatory for transparency and traceability. For live updates, booking services, and helpline support, devotees are encouraged to visit the Shrine Board’s official website: www.maavaishnodevi.org,” it said.

The Shrine Board expressed its gratitude to all devotees for their patience and understanding during the suspension period.

“The resumption of the Yatra marks a reaffirmation of our collective faith and resilience. The Board remains committed to upholding the sanctity, safety, and dignity of this revered pilgrimage,” the spokesperson added.

The yatra suspension was the longest since the COVID-19 restrictions, with authorities prioritising pilgrim safety and completing restoration work on the damaged track and commercial structures in Katra.

The cloudburst-induced landslide took place at Adhkuwari in the Trikuta Hills of the Katra belt. The Yatra was suspended the same day.