After a 22-day suspension due to a deadly landslide and inclement weather, the Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrimage is set to resume on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, conditions permitting. The Vaishno Devi Yatra was halted on August 26 following a landslide that tragically claimed 34 lives.

The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) announced the resumption, advising devotees to stay updated through official communication channels. The board had suspended the Yatra due to inclement weather and to perform essential maintenance on the track leading to the holy shrine.

The suspension of the Vaishno Devi Yatra marks the longest interruption since the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020. The Yatra attracts over 90 lakh visitors annually to the cave shrine atop the Trikuta Hills in the Reasi district.

During the suspension, Shrine Board authorities undertook extensive repair and safety work on the tracks leading to the cave temple. This included restoring damaged pathways, stabilizing landslide-prone zones, and reinforcing safety measures along the pilgrimage route.

Pilgrims are advised to carry valid identification, follow designated pathways, and cooperate with on-ground staff. RFID-based tracking will remain mandatory for transparency and traceability. For live updates, booking services, and helpline support, devotees can visit the Shrine Board's official website.

The Lieutenant Governor of J&K, Manoj Sinha, who is also the chairman of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, has formed a high-level three-member committee to investigate the causes of the August 26 landslide.

The resumption of the Yatra is especially significant as it comes just days before Navratri, a nine-day Hindu festival. The Vaishno Devi shrine traditionally sees a massive influx of devotees during this period. Temple authorities anticipate a sharp rise in footfall and are deploying security and medical teams across the track to manage the expected rush.