The annual Shrikhand Mahadev Yatra, considered one of the toughest pilgrimages in the Himalayas, will commence on July 10 and continue until July 23, with the final group of pilgrims expected to return by July 29, officials confirmed.
Kullu Deputy Commissioner Torul S Raveesh announced that the yatra will be divided into five sectors, with security arrangements already underway. Repair work is currently being carried out on trekking routes that were damaged in last year’s disaster, she said, adding that the administration is ensuring all rest points and accommodations are properly equipped for the passengers.
She also emphasised the need for swift action and close coordination among all relevant departments. A video conference was held to coordinate preparations, involving Yatra Trust members and local representatives from Chail and Juagi panchayats. During the meeting, Buddhi Singh Thakur, founder member of the Yatra Trust and chairman of Milkfed, shared suggestions to enhance the pilgrimage experience for the visitors.
Mandatory Online Registration & Medical Checkups
SDM Nirmand and Trust Vice President Manmohan Singh stressed that online registration is mandatory for all participants. A registration fee of ₹250 will be charged, and medical checkups will be conducted before the trek. Teams from the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Mountaineering Institute and emergency rescue units will accompany pilgrims to provide assistance along the route.
Base Camps and Deployment
Base camps will be set up at Singhgad, Thachdu, Kunsha, Bhim Dwari, and Parvati Bagh, each staffed by sector magistrates, police personnel, health and forest department officials, and representatives from the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Mountaineering Institute, Manali, Jal Shakti. Specialised units for medical aid, rescue operations, and revenue management will also be on standby.
The authorities have strictly advised all pilgrims to register in advance, noting that monitoring unregistered travel along the difficult terrain is a significant challenge. “For your safety, unauthorised travel without registration and health clearance is strictly prohibited,” officials warned.
The yatra remains a test of physical and spiritual endurance, drawing thousands of devotees annually to the revered Shrikhand Mahadev Peak, believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva.
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