Over 2.69 Lakh Devotees Visit Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine During Chaitra Navratri
The annual Chaitra Navratri pilgrimage to the Mata Vaishno Devi Temple has witnessed a significant surge in footfall this year, with over 2.69 lakh devotees visiting the shrine so far. The nine-day festival, which began on March 19, continues to draw large numbers of pilgrims to the hill shrine in Jammu and Kashmir’s Reasi district.
Key Highlights
- More than 2.69 lakh pilgrims visited the shrine till March 25
- Daily footfall peaked above 45,000 during the festival
- Pilgrim registration temporarily suspended twice to manage crowds
- Multi-layered security and crowd management measures in place
- Festival runs from March 19 to March 27
Heavy Footfall During Navratri
According to officials from the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, 2,69,716 pilgrims had offered prayers at the temple by March 25. The yatra has been proceeding smoothly despite the heavy rush.
Daily visitor numbers steadily increased during the festival, crossing 45,000 on some days. Devotees have been trekking the 13-kilometre route from Katra to the shrine, chanting religious hymns as part of the pilgrimage.
Official Statement
Officials said that arrangements have been scaled up to handle the surge in pilgrims. Registration for the yatra was briefly paused on two occasions to regulate the flow and prevent overcrowding.
They added that all necessary steps are being taken to ensure that the pilgrimage continues in a safe and orderly manner.
Security and Crowd Management Measures
Authorities have implemented a multi-tier security system covering the base camp at Katra, the trekking routes, and the Bhawan area near the shrine. Personnel from police, paramilitary forces, and quick response teams have been deployed throughout the route.
Volunteers have also been stationed to guide pilgrims and manage movement along the pathway. In addition, wireless communication systems have been introduced this year to improve coordination among officials.
Context and Background
Chaitra Navratri is a significant Hindu festival dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga in her nine forms, known as Navdurga. The Mata Vaishno Devi shrine is one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in India and typically sees one of its highest footfalls during this period.
The festival also marks the beginning of the Shat Chandi Maha Yagya at the shrine, a ritual involving Vedic chants and ceremonies.
Public Impact
The surge in pilgrims highlights the shrine’s religious importance and its role in regional tourism. The influx also provides economic activity for local businesses in Katra and surrounding areas.
At the same time, the high turnout requires careful planning to ensure safety, crowd control, and uninterrupted pilgrimage for visitors.
Inputs & Images: Hindusthan Samachar
Edited by: Pushkarini Annabathula
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Last Updated on: Thursday, March 26, 2026 3:32 pm by Pushkarini Annabathula | Published by: Pushkarini Annabathula on Thursday, March 26, 2026 3:32 pm | News Categories: Latest
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