JAMMU — The Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrimage in Jammu and Kashmir has been temporarily suspended due to adverse weather conditions, with authorities halting movement of pilgrims as a precautionary measure to ensure safety along the route.
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board suspended the yatra after weather advisories warned of unfavorable conditions, including heavy rainfall risks in parts of Jammu and Kashmir. Officials said the decision was taken to protect pilgrims traveling through mountainous terrain where rain can increase the risk of landslides and other hazards.
The pilgrimage, which begins from the base camp at Katra in Reasi district and involves a trek to the hilltop shrine, attracts large numbers of visitors throughout the year. Authorities have advised devotees to avoid starting the journey until further instructions and to follow updates issued through official channels.
The suspension came amid wider disruptions to religious travel in the region linked to deteriorating weather conditions. The Amarnath Yatra was also temporarily halted after authorities cited forecasts from the India Meteorological Department of widespread rainfall and potential risks to pilgrim safety.
Officials monitoring the situation said the resumption of the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage would depend on an assessment of weather conditions and the safety of the route. No timetable for reopening the pilgrimage was immediately announced.
Weather-related disruptions are a recurring challenge for Himalayan pilgrimages, where steep terrain and changing conditions can create safety concerns for visitors. Authorities have previously suspended pilgrim movements during periods of heavy rain, snowfall, or other extreme weather events to prevent accidents on vulnerable routes.
The Shrine Board has continued to urge pilgrims to remain informed through official communications while teams assess conditions on the ground. As of the latest available updates, the Vaishno Devi yatra remains suspended pending further review by authorities.
