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Religion
Heavy Snow Forces Suspension of Hemkund Sahib Yatra
✍️ The Tribune
🗓 28 Sep 2026, 10:35 AM
👁 18
A sudden snowfall of 6‑7 inches near Hemkund Sahib in Uttarakhand has led authorities to suspend the annual pilgrimage, citing safety concerns.
Heavy snowfall, estimated at 6 to 7 inches, covered the high‑altitude region around Hemkund Sahib in Uttarakhand early this week. The sudden accumulation of snow on the pilgrimage route made the path treacherous for trekkers and led the local tourism department to halt the annual yatra for the safety of devotees.
Officials reported that the snow had settled on the narrow trails and the surrounding slopes, increasing the risk of avalanches and making navigation difficult. As a precaution, the authorities have closed the route and advised pilgrims to postpone their visit until the weather clears.
The Hemkund Sahib shrine, a significant Sikh pilgrimage site, attracts thousands of devotees each year. The suspension is expected to affect the scheduled schedule of the yatra, with organizers planning to reschedule the event once conditions improve.
Officials reported that the snow had settled on the narrow trails and the surrounding slopes, increasing the risk of avalanches and making navigation difficult. As a precaution, the authorities have closed the route and advised pilgrims to postpone their visit until the weather clears.
The Hemkund Sahib shrine, a significant Sikh pilgrimage site, attracts thousands of devotees each year. The suspension is expected to affect the scheduled schedule of the yatra, with organizers planning to reschedule the event once conditions improve.