Jammu: The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine in Jammu and Kashmir has crossed a major milestone this year, with more than 50 lakh devotees undertaking the pilgrimage so far in 2026, officials said on Tuesday.
According to officials of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB), which manages the affairs of the revered shrine, the number of pilgrims crossed the 50-lakh mark on June 22. As of now, a total of 50.70 lakh devotees have offered prayers at the holy cave shrine.
The achievement marks a significant increase compared to the same period last year. During the corresponding period in 2025, around 39.84 lakh pilgrims had visited the shrine. This year’s figure of 50.70 lakh represents an increase of nearly 10.86 lakh devotees.
Officials attributed the rise in pilgrim numbers to the unwavering faith of devotees from across India and abroad, as well as the improved facilities and management of the annual pilgrimage.
Under the leadership of Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who also serves as the Chairman of the Shrine Board, several initiatives have been introduced to make the pilgrimage safer and more convenient. These include upgrades to infrastructure, accommodation, sanitation, crowd management, healthcare services, battery car facilities, ropeway services, disaster preparedness and digital services.
The Shrine Board said the continued increase in pilgrim footfall reflects the confidence of devotees in the arrangements made for the yatra and the coordinated efforts of all agencies involved in managing the pilgrimage.
Officials expressed optimism that the number of pilgrims will continue to rise in the coming months, particularly during the festive season, making 2026 one of the busiest years for the Vaishno Devi Yatra.
With inputs from IANS