Katra/Jammu, September 18, 2025 : The pilgrimage to the holy shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi atop Trikuta hills in Reasi district resumed on Thursday morning after being briefly suspended due to bad weather.
Officials of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) confirmed that registration for the yatra began again at Katra base camp following improved weather conditions. “The yatra is progressing smoothly. Pilgrims are being facilitated with all essential services, and those opting for helicopter services have been asked to book tickets in advance,” an official statement read.
The pilgrimage had resumed on Wednesday after a 22-day suspension caused by a landslide and heavy rainfall on August 26. However, later that evening, the yatra was again halted when inclement weather forced the authorities to stop movement after allowing 2,500 pilgrims during the day.
On Thursday morning, devotees in large numbers queued at Banganga and Darshani Deodi, chanting devotional slogans as they prepared to begin their journey to the sacred cave shrine.
“We are happy that registration has restarted. It feels like Mata herself has called us. After waiting for days, we are confident of having darshan and seeking her blessings,” said Tribhavan Deka, a pilgrim from Assam, accompanied by a group of seven members.
Savitri Devi from Uttarakhand, who arrived with her family of 11, echoed the same sentiment. “We had been planning this pilgrimage for years, but it never materialized. Despite the rains, Mata’s call brought us here, and we feel blessed,” she said.
The Shrine Board has reiterated its advisory for pilgrims to carry valid identification, follow designated pathways, and cooperate with on-ground staff. Radio Frequency Identity Card (RFID)-based tracking remains mandatory for ensuring transparency and safety.
The yatra’s resumption is expected to draw a surge of pilgrims ahead of the Navratri festival beginning September 22, bringing renewed spiritual fervor to Katra and the shrine.
