The sacred cave shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi Ji, nestled amidst the Trikuta Hills in Katra, witnessed an overwhelming surge of devotees during the recent eight-day Chaitra Navratras, with an impressive 3.75 lakh pilgrims paying obeisance. This brings the total yatra count for the year so far to 21.25 lakh, signaling a potentially record-breaking pilgrimage year.
Speaking to The Daily Pilgrim, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) CEO Anshul Garg confirmed the figures.
“All eight Navratras saw an average daily footfall of over 40,000 pilgrims. With the end of Navratras, the cumulative yatra this year stands at 21.25 lakh,” Garg said.
The shrine has seen a notable uptick in pilgrims since mid-March, following the conclusion of school exams and an improvement in weather conditions.
📈 Yatra Trends & Records
- Peak Rush Months: May to August (Summer Vacations)
- Lean Season: January-February (Severe Winters)
- Highest Footfall Ever: 1.04 crore in 2012
- 2024 Total: 94.84 lakh pilgrims
- 2023 Total: 95.22 lakh pilgrims
- Lowest in Decades: 17 lakh in 2020 (COVID-19 pandemic)
With a strong start to 2025, experts believe that the yatra could surpass the 1 crore mark once again, only the third time in history after 2011 and 2012.
🚨 Security & Seasonal Notes
The yatra experienced a minor dip in mid-2024 due to the terror attack on Shiv Khori pilgrims and ongoing election-related restrictions, but the momentum has rebounded strongly in 2025.
🕉️ FAST FACTS
- Total Navratras in 2025: 8 (One short from usual 9)
- Daily Pilgrim Average (Navratras): 40,000+
- Total Till Now (2025): 21.25 lakh pilgrims
- SMVDSB CEO: Anshul Garg
📸 INSPIRING SIGHTS
Devotees chanting Jai Mata Di, scenic sunrise over Bhawan, and decorated Ardhkuwari temple adorned with flowers welcomed yatris throughout the festival.
