Amarnath, Vaishnodevi, Shiv Khori Yatras Suspended for Second Day as Rains Lash J&K
The pilgrimage to the cave shrines of Amarnath, Mata Vaishnodevi, and Shiv Khori in Jammu and Kashmir remained suspended for the second consecutive day on Monday, July 20, 2026, due to heavy rainfall and adverse weather conditions.
The administration advised pilgrims to stay at base camps and lodging centres, citing safety concerns. The Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra was suspended until further orders, with authorities barring vehicles carrying pilgrims from proceeding beyond Jammu, Udhampur, and Ramban towards Srinagar.
Hundreds of pilgrims are stranded at various base camps and lodging centres in Jammu, Kathua, Samba, Udhampur, Ramban, and Banihal. Security has been deployed along the highway to prevent any movement of pilgrim vehicles towards Kashmir.
Similarly, the yatra to the Mata Vaishnodevi shrine in the Trikuta hills of Reasi district was suspended for the second day. Police made announcements over loudspeakers at the Katra base camp, asking pilgrims not to move towards Bhawan. Pilgrims who had arrived in Katra have been advised to stay put until the weather improves.
The pilgrimage to the Shri Shiv Khori shrine in Reasi district also remained suspended due to heavy rainfall forecast and inclement weather in the Ransoo area. The Shri Shiv Khori Shrine Board advised devotees to postpone travel until further notice.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast moderate to widespread rainfall across Jammu and Kashmir from July 19 to 24. The administration is continuously monitoring the weather and has urged devotees to check updates before planning their visit. Resumption of the yatras will depend on weather improvements and safety assessments.
Heavy rain began early Sunday, July 19, with cloudbursts reported in forest areas of Kashmir.
