Vaishno Devi Yatra to Resume tomorrow after three-week halt

September 16, 2025

JAMMU: The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDB) has announced that the pilgrimage to the revered cave shrine in Jammu and Kashmir’s Reasi district will resume on Wednesday, September 17, nearly three weeks after it was suspended due to heavy rainfall and landslides. Officials clarified that the yatra’s restart will depend on favorable weather.

In a statement posted on X, the Shrine Board urged devotees to keep track of official advisories. Pilgrims have been asked to carry valid ID cards, use the designated trekking routes, and follow staff instructions. The use of RFID-based tracking will remain compulsory for monitoring and safety.

Jai Mata Di Vaishno Devi Yatra shall resume from September 17, 2025 (Wednesday) subject to favorable weather conditions. Devotees are requested to stay updated through official communication channels. For bookings please visit https://t.co/cdRLtcFYSM @OfficeOfLGJandK @diprjk

— Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (@OfficialSMVDSB) September 16, 2025

The yatra was halted on August 26 after a massive landslide struck near Adhkuwari, midway on the 12-km trek from Katra to the shrine, killing 34 people and injuring 20. Restoration of damaged paths and facilities has been underway since, with authorities citing pilgrim safety as their top priority.

The suspension, the longest since COVID-19 restrictions, was initially expected to end on September 14, but persistent rains forced an extension.

Located in the Trikuta Hills, the Vaishno Devi shrine is one of India’s most sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites, drawing lakhs of devotees every year.