Weather Woes: Amarnath, Vaishno Devi Yatras Temporarily Suspended After Heavy Rain Alert

Published 18 July 2026 · general

Weather Woes: Amarnath, Vaishno Devi Yatras Temporarily Suspended After Heavy Rain Alert Published By, Last Updated: July 18, 2026, 22:25 IST The much-awaited Amarnath and

Weather Woes: Amarnath, Vaishno Devi Yatras Temporarily Suspended After Heavy Rain Alert Published By, Last Updated: July 18, 2026, 22:25 IST The much-awaited Amarnath and Vaishno Devi yatra have been suspended following an IMD prediction of heavy rains in the region. Know when the suspension will come into effect. Rapid Read Amarnath yatra and Vaishno Devi yatra have been suspended over IMD's prediction of heavy rains in the region. The annual Amarnath and Vaishno Devi Yatra have been temporarily suspended from July 19, in view of the inclement weather forecast made by IMD. The much-awaited Amarnath Yatra has been suspended from both the Pahalgam and Baltal routes. The decision has been taken as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety and well-being of pilgrims traveling to the holy cave shrine in Jammu and Kashmir. According to Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Anshul Garg, no onward movement of pilgrims will be permitted from the Baltal and Nunwan/Chandanwari base camps starting July 19. The suspension applies to all yatris currently stationed at these base points, effectively halting further ascent towards the shrine until conditions improve.

Authorities indicated that the decision followed forecasts of adverse weather conditions over the coming days, necessitating a comprehensive review of route safety. “Updates regarding the resumption of the Yatra shall be issued in due course after ensuring route safety and a detailed assessment of the weather conditions," Garg said, outlining that further movement would depend on ground evaluations and subsequent advisories. Increased Numbers The suspension comes at a time when the pilgrimage has already seen significant participation this year. Official figures indicate that over 3.7 lakh devotees have paid obeisance at the Amarnath cave shrine so far during the ongoing Yatra. Usually, over the past few years, the yatra has drawn a little over 3 lakh visitors, according to several media reports. In 2024, the footfall had crossed the 5 lakh-mark, making it one of the highest attended Amarnath yatra in years. Vaishno Devi Also Closed In a related development, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra has also been temporarily suspended in view of the same weather advisory.

Authorities in Jammu stated that the decision was taken in the interest of public safety, citing forecasts that indicate unfavourable conditions in the region. Pilgrims intending to undertake either of the pilgrimages have been advised to defer their plans and follow official updates. Administrative officials have urged devotees to rely on verified communication channels for information regarding the resumption of both yatras, which will be announced after weather conditions stabilise and safety assessments are completed. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Key Questions Answered When will the Amarnath Yatra resume? The Amarnath Yatra will be temporarily suspended from July 19, 2026, due to an inclement weather forecast. Updates regarding the resumption of the Yatra will be issued after assessing route safety and weather conditions. What are the alternative routes for pilgrims? The Amarnath Yatra has been suspended from both the Pahalgam and Baltal routes due to a heavy rain alert. The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra has also been temporarily suspended.