Vaishno Devi Landslide: This Is The Safest Route For Pilgrims Now

Last Updated:July 21, 2025, 12:07 IST

A landslide on Vaishno Devi’s traditional route injured 4 pilgrims. Two key paths are shut, but travel continues via a safe stretch of the Tarakot route and Sanjhi Chhat

After Ardhkuwari, the old route via Sanjhi Chhat is operational, and pilgrims are continuing their journey from there. (News18)

Continuous rainfall over Katra and the Trikuta Mountains in Jammu and Kashmir triggered a landslide along the Vaishno Devi Yatra route on Monday, resulting in the collapse of a tin shed along the path. Rescue operations are currently underway, and the affected section of the route has been closed for safety reasons.

Pilgrims Injured In Landslide On Traditional Route

According to a PTI report, the landslide occurred on the old traditional route to the Vaishno Devi shrine in Reasi district, Jammu and Kashmir. The incident took place at approximately 8:50 am near Gulshan Ka Langar, close to Banganga, the starting point for the pilgrimage, where many pony operators are typically stationed.

Officials confirmed that at least four pilgrims were injured in the incident. Emergency services responded swiftly, rescuing and evacuating those trapped to nearby hospitals.

Which Routes Are Closed?

There are two main routes for pilgrims to reach the Vaishno Devi shrine from Katra:

1. The Traditional Route:- This is the older, widely used footpath leading to the shrine, where the landslide occurred. Due to its proximity to hilly terrain near Gulshan Kumar’s Bhandaar, it has been deemed unsafe and is closed from the entry point.
2. The Tarakot Route via Ardhkuwari:- This 14-km newly constructed path is primarily used for battery-operated vehicles. However, due to the risk of additional landslides during the monsoon, this route has also been temporarily closed beyond Ardhkuwari.

The Safe Route Currently Open

Despite the closures, pilgrimage to Vaishno Devi continues. A safe stretch of the Tarakot route up to Ardhkuwari remains open, and devotees are being redirected through this route. After Ardhkuwari, the old route via Sanjhi Chhat is operational, and pilgrims are continuing their journey from there.

Authorities are ensuring that all visitors are safely guided through this available path to prevent disruption for the many devotees arriving from across the country.

Location :

Katra, India, India

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