Thousands of pilgrims planning to undertake the Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra and Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra have been asked to postpone their journey after authorities temporarily suspended both pilgrimages following an India Meteorological Department (IMD) weather alert predicting adverse weather conditions across Jammu & Kashmir.
The precautionary decision has been taken to ensure the safety and well-being of devotees amid forecasts of heavy rainfall and unstable weather in the region.
Shri Amarnath Yatra Suspended from July 19
The administration announced that the Shri Amarnath Yatra will remain temporarily suspended from both the Pahalgam and Baltal routes with effect from July 19, 2026.
In addition, the movement of pilgrims from Jammu to the Kashmir Valley has also been halted until weather conditions improve.
Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg said the decision was taken after reviewing the latest IMD weather advisory.
“In view of the forecast of inclement weather over the next few days and considering the safety and well-being of the pilgrims, Shri Amarnathji Yatra shall remain temporarily suspended from both Pahalgam and Baltal routes with effect from 19.07.2026. Accordingly, no onward movement of pilgrims will be permitted from the Baltal and Nunwan/Chandanwari base camps. Updates regarding the resumption of the Yatra will be issued after ensuring route safety and a comprehensive assessment of weather conditions,” he said.
Authorities have urged all devotees to cooperate with officials and avoid travelling to the base camps until fresh instructions are issued.
Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra Also Temporarily Suspended
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra has also been temporarily suspended following the same IMD weather advisory.
Officials said the decision has been taken purely as a precautionary safety measure in view of the expected deterioration in weather conditions over the coming days.
Pilgrims planning to visit the revered shrine in Katra have been advised to postpone their travel and follow official announcements regarding the reopening of the pilgrimage.
Over 3.76 Lakh Devotees Have Visited the Holy Cave
Despite the temporary suspension, the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2026 has witnessed an overwhelming response from devotees across India and abroad.
Officials said 16,039 pilgrims offered prayers at the Holy Cave Shrine on Saturday via the twin routes of Baltal and Pahalgam.
With this, the total number of pilgrims who have completed the pilgrimage has reached 3,76,779 within just 16 days since the 57-day Yatra commenced on July 3, 2026.
Notably, this year’s pilgrimage crossed last year’s total footfall of 3.5 lakh devotees within the first 15 days itself. In comparison, the 2025 Yatra lasted 38 days before recording 3.5 lakh pilgrims.
Officials confirmed that all devotees who visited the shrine on Saturday safely began their return journey toward their respective base camps by the evening.
Weather Conditions Changed During the Day
According to officials, weather remained clear and sunny across the Holy Cave Shrine area for most of Saturday.
However, cool winds began blowing across Panchtarni and Mahagunas Top later in the evening, prompting authorities to closely monitor weather developments before allowing further pilgrim movement.
Pilgrims Asked to Follow Official Updates
Authorities have requested devotees not to rely on rumours or unofficial information regarding the Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra suspended and Amarnath Yatra suspended announcements.
Pilgrims should regularly check updates issued by the administration before planning their journey. The Yatra will resume only after route safety inspections and a comprehensive review of weather conditions.
For now, the temporary suspension is aimed solely at ensuring the safety of lakhs of devotees undertaking one of India’s most significant annual pilgrimages.
