The revered Shri Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrimage was temporarily suspended on Friday morning following the season’s first snowfall, marking a dramatic shift in weather conditions after a prolonged dry spell in the region.
Officials halted new pilgrim registrations at the Katra base camp due to heavy rainfall in the lower regions and accumulating snow at higher altitudes, which made the trekking routes slippery and potentially hazardous. As a precautionary measure, helicopter services were also suspended, with authorities prioritising the safety of devotees.
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board shared breathtaking visuals of snow-covered landscapes, including the Bhawan and the nearby Bhairon Temple, offering a serene yet powerful glimpse of the sacred site under a pristine white blanket. The images quickly went viral, with devotees across the country flooding social media with messages of devotion, accompanied by chants of “Jai Mata Di.”
Despite the temporary suspension, officials remain optimistic about a swift reopening. Continuous weather monitoring is underway, and normal operations are expected to resume as soon as conditions stabilise. The 13-kilometre pilgrimage route, one of India’s most significant spiritual journeys, will reopen once safety checks are completed.
Authorities have urged pilgrims to stay updated through official channels and to avoid travelling to Katra until further announcements are made.
