Srinagar, July 18: The Shri Amarnathji Yatra has been temporarily suspended from both the Pahalgam and Baltal routes with effect from July 19, 2026, following an adverse weather forecast issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The decision has been taken as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of pilgrims undertaking the annual pilgrimage.
Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg announced that no onward movement of pilgrims will be allowed from the Baltal and Nunwan/Chandanwari base camps until further orders. Authorities said the suspension is based on forecasts predicting inclement weather over the coming days, which could pose risks along the Yatra routes.
Officials emphasized that the temporary suspension is purely a safety measure and appealed to pilgrims to cooperate with the administration. They added that the Yatra will resume only after a thorough assessment of weather conditions and the safety of the trekking routes.
Despite the temporary halt, the pilgrimage has witnessed an overwhelming response this year. According to official figures, more than 3.7 lakh devotees have already paid obeisance at the Holy Cave Shrine since the commencement of the Shri Amarnathji Yatra 2026.
The administration has assured that regular updates regarding the resumption of the Yatra will be issued after reviewing the prevailing weather conditions and ensuring that both routes are safe for pilgrims.
