Amarnath and Vaishno Devi Yatras were suspended from July 19 after an IMD weather advisory warned of widespread rainfall in Jammu and Kashmir. Authorities halted pilgrim movement as a precaution and will resume the journeys only after reviewing weather and route safety.
Amarnath Yatra Suspended on Both Routes
Authorities temporarily suspended the Shri Amarnathji Yatra from July 19 following the Jammu and Kashmir rainfall forecast. Kashmir Divisional Commissioner Anshul Garg said the suspension applies to both the Pahalgam and Baltal routes. The decision was taken to protect pilgrims from risks linked to unfavourable weather and unsafe travel conditions. No onward movement will be permitted from the Baltal and Nunwan-Chandanwari base camps in Kashmir. Pilgrim convoys will also not be allowed to leave the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu. Officials said the Amarnath Yatra route closure will continue until the routes are declared safe after a detailed assessment of weather conditions.
Vaishno Devi Yatra Temporarily Suspended
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra has also been temporarily suspended under the same IMD weather advisory. Officials said the measure was necessary for Jammu and Kashmir pilgrim safety, as moderate to widespread rainfall was forecast across the region from July 19 to July 23. Devotees have been advised not to begin the pilgrimage until further orders. Authorities also requested pilgrims to cooperate with officials and follow instructions issued through recognised communication channels.
Resumption Depends on Weather and Route Safety
Officials said the yatra resumption update will be issued after weather conditions improve and all routes are properly inspected. The administration will review landslide risks, road access and the overall safety of the pilgrimage tracks before allowing movement again. More than 3.76 lakh pilgrims have already visited the Amarnath cave shrine during the ongoing pilgrimage season. Pilgrims planning either journey should monitor official announcements and avoid relying on unverified information regarding reopening dates.
