Yatra Resumes After Suspension
The Vaishno Devi Yatra, one of the most revered pilgrimages in India, is set to welcome devotees again from September 14, 2025. The journey had been suspended after a devastating landslide on August 26 near Adhkuwari, midway along the 12 kilometre trek from Katra to the shrine. The incident, triggered by relentless rainfall, claimed 34 lives and left many others injured. Torrential rain and multiple landslides had made the trekking paths dangerous and disrupted access along the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway.
Now, after weeks of intensive maintenance and repair work, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board has officially confirmed the reopening. The board announced the news through its official channels, assuring pilgrims that the yatra will resume subject to favourable weather conditions. The restoration of the route marks a significant moment for millions of devotees who look forward to making the journey each year.
Guidelines For Pilgrims
To ensure a safe and smooth experience, the Shrine Board has introduced new safety measures and reinforced existing ones. Pilgrims are required to carry valid photo identification and follow the designated trekking routes. The use of RFID tracking remains mandatory, allowing authorities to monitor movement and manage crowds more effectively. On ground staff will be present throughout the route to provide assistance, and pilgrims are urged to cooperate fully with the arrangements.
The Journey to the Holy Cave
The Vaishno Devi shrine is nestled in the Trikuta Mountains of Jammu and Kashmir and holds immense spiritual significance. Each year, millions of devotees undertake the 12 kilometre trek from Katra, beginning at Ban Ganga, the first checkpoint. Registration is compulsory but free of charge, and can be done at Katra or online at the official website. A Yatra Slip is issued and must be used within six hours of generation.
The trekking route offers two paths, one gradual and one steep, with amenities and rest points along the way. Pilgrims pass through sacred stops such as Charan Paduka, Ardh Kuwari, and Sanjichhat before reaching the holy cave. Inside, devotees crawl through a narrow tunnel to seek darshan of the Holy Pindies, representing the goddesses Kali, Lakshmi, and Saraswati. The experience concludes with offerings, prayers, and prasad, while many tie red threads as a symbol of their wishes and faith.
A Sacred Tradition Continues
The reopening of the Vaishno Devi Yatra comes as a relief for devotees who were forced to postpone their plans after the suspension. The tragedy of the landslide underscored the challenges of managing a pilgrimage of such scale in a mountainous region, but the swift response and preparedness of the authorities has restored confidence. As the yatra resumes, safety, devotion, and organisation will remain at the heart of the experience.
For those planning to undertake the journey, September 14 marks the beginning of a renewed opportunity to connect with faith and tradition.
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