Why 9.5 Million Pilgrims Chose Shri Mata Vaishno Devi in 2024!

Published On: January 1, 2025

Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Pilgrimage: Nearly 9.5 Million Devotees Visited in 2024

Despite challenges, including elections in Jammu and Kashmir and a terror attack on Shiv Khori pilgrims, nearly 9.5 million devotees visited the revered Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in 2024. The annual pilgrimage recorded a slight decline compared to 2023 but continued to demonstrate unwavering faith and devotion among pilgrims.

Pilgrimage Statistics for 2024

According to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) CEO Anshul Garg, around 94.80 lakh pilgrims visited the shrine this year. While this figure is 42,000 fewer than the 95.22 lakh recorded in 2023, it remains a significant number considering the year’s challenges.

Comparison Over the Years

2024: 94.80 lakh pilgrims
2023: 95.22 lakh pilgrims
2022: 91.25 lakh pilgrims
2020: Only 17 lakh pilgrims (due to the COVID-19 pandemic)
2012: All-time high of 1.04 crore pilgrims

The numbers reflect the resilience of devotees who continue to visit the shrine despite adverse conditions.

Factors Influencing Pilgrimage Numbers in 2024

Several factors contributed to the slight decline in pilgrimage numbers this year:

Elections in Jammu and Kashmir:
Back-to-back Lok Sabha and Legislative Assembly elections affected travel plans for many devotees.
Terror Attack on Shiv Khori Pilgrims:
The June 9 terror attack on a bus carrying Shiv Khori pilgrims in Reasi, which claimed nine lives, caused a temporary decline in footfall due to safety concerns.
Protests Against Ropeway Project:
Service providers in Katra went on strike, protesting the construction of the ropeway project to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine. This led to disruptions and a brief shutdown in the area.

Current Yatra Updates

As of December 31, 2024, the pilgrimage continues to attract large numbers. CEO Anshul Garg stated that over 32,000 devotees had already undertaken the yatra by 6 PM on the final day of the year. The yatra is being regulated in accordance with established guidelines to ensure the safety and convenience of pilgrims.

Historical Trends in Pilgrimage

The pilgrimage to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi has seen fluctuations over the years:

2012: A record 1.04 crore pilgrims visited the shrine.
2013-2016: Numbers dropped steadily from 93.24 lakh in 2013 to 77.23 lakh in 2016.
2017-2018: The pilgrimage witnessed a revival, increasing to 85.87 lakh in 2018.
2019-2020: Numbers fell again, with the COVID-19 pandemic severely impacting pilgrim footfall in 2020.

Despite these variations, the shrine remains a symbol of steadfast devotion and spiritual solace for millions.

Looking Ahead: Enhancing Pilgrim Experience

To sustain and enhance the pilgrimage experience, the Shrine Board continues to focus on:

Safety Measures: Strengthening security to address concerns arising from incidents like the June 9 terror attack on Shiv Khori pilgrims at Reasi.
Infrastructure Improvements: Projects like the ropeway aim to improve accessibility while balancing local concerns.
Digital Updates: Providing real-time information about the yatra through online platforms to assist pilgrims in planning their visit.

The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrimage remains a vital spiritual journey for millions of devotees. While 2024 saw a slight decline in numbers, the resilience and faith of the pilgrims underscore the shrine’s enduring significance. As the new year begins, the Shrine Board is committed to ensuring a safer, smoother, and more enriching experience for all visitors.