Vaishno Devi Yatra crosses 50 lakh pilgrims in 2026, registers 27% growth
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra has crossed a significant milestone in 2026, with pilgrim footfall surpassing the 50-lakh mark by June 22, marking a sharp rise of over 27 per cent compared to the same period last year.
According to officials of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, 50.70 lakh devotees have visited the holy cave shrine in Jammu and Kashmir’s Reasi district so far this year, compared to 39.84 lakh pilgrims during the corresponding period in 2025.
The increase of 10.86 lakh pilgrims reflects strong devotional inflow from across India and abroad, underscoring continued faith in the revered shrine.
Officials said the steady rise in pilgrim numbers also highlights improved facilities and strengthened arrangements by the Shrine Board under the leadership of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. Measures such as upgraded infrastructure, better accommodation, enhanced sanitation, crowd management systems, healthcare services, battery car operations, ropeway facilities, disaster preparedness and digital services have contributed to smoother pilgrimage management.
The Shrine Board stated that the milestone reflects growing confidence among devotees and the effectiveness of coordinated efforts to ensure a safe and comfortable pilgrimage experience.
Authorities expect the upward trend to continue in the remaining months of the year, further strengthening Vaishno Devi’s status as one of India’s most visited pilgrimage sites.
