Vaishno Devis Old Cave Route Reopens for Pilgrimage in Jammu and Kashmir

The old and natural cave route of the Vaishno Devi shrine in Jammu and Kashmirs Reasi district has reopened for pilgrimage, allowing devotees to undertake the traditional and scenic path to the holy shrine.

In accordance with its annual tradition, the historic and natural cave route leading to the revered Vaishno Devi shrine in Jammu and Kashmir's Reasi district was reopened on Sunday, as announced by officials. This natural path, which serves as an alternative route for undertaking the pilgrimage to the cave shrine nestled in the Trikuta hills, is typically reopened during this time of the year after performing a sacred pooja.

Reopening Facilitated by Pooja

The decision to reopen the old cave route takes into account the reduced number of devotees visiting the shrine during this period. Officials confirmed that the route was reopened on Sunday, allowing pilgrims to undertake the yatra through its ancient passage.

Ensuring Pilgrim Safety

Anshul Garg, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Shri Mata Vaishnodevi Shrine Board (SMVDSB), emphasized that the reopening of the old cave route was facilitated after performing a pooja at the shrine. He further stated that the shrine board will strive to encourage more devotees to undertake the pilgrimage through the old cave, while adhering to the permissible crowd capacity limitations of the route.

Managing Crowd and Congestion

To ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience for pilgrims, the authorities have been instructed to regulate the darshan through the old cave by carefully considering the crowd flow and potential congestion. Garg highlighted the importance of these measures to prevent any inconvenience to the devotees.

Limited Reopening Period

It is noteworthy that the old cave route is only reopened during the months of January and February each year, coinciding with the period when the influx of pilgrims is significantly lower. During the remaining months, pilgrims utilize the newly constructed caves to reach the sanctum sanctorum of the temple.