The Kinnaur Kailash Yatra, which was halted for two days because of bad weather, has been extended until August 15. The pilgrimage was earlier scheduled to end on Monday, officials said.
The Kinnaur district administration said the extension will give devotees who missed the yatra during the suspension another chance to undertake the pilgrimage.
Before allowing the yatra to restart, teams will check the water level in the stream near the cave and assess the trekking path. Officials said the pilgrimage will resume only if the route and weather conditions are considered safe.
Kinnaur Kailash is situated in Kinnaur district at an elevation of around 19,850 feet. The site is regarded as the winter abode of Lord Shiva.
The pilgrimage was originally due to end on August 10. However, two days were lost because of unfavourable weather. The administration has therefore extended the yatra by five days, with August 15 now set as the final date.
Officials said the route is being monitored closely, especially the section between Maling Khata and Kinnaur Kailash.
Weather conditions in the high-altitude area can change quickly. Pilgrims have therefore been advised to keep an extra one or two days in their travel plans in case of delays or disruption.
The administration will take a final call on allowing pilgrims to move ahead after teams inspect the route at Maling Khata and the cave area.
Officials have warned that the yatra could be stopped again if the weather worsens or any part of the route is found unsafe. The decision will be taken with the safety of pilgrims in mind.
The administration has urged devotees to follow all official directions. Pilgrims have been asked not to enter restricted or vulnerable areas without permission, check the latest weather and route updates before setting out, and wait for clearance before heading towards the higher sections.
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