July 18: The annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra will remain temporarily suspended from July 19, 2026, on both the Pahalgam and Baltal routes following an adverse weather forecast issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
According to the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg, the decision has been taken as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety and well-being of pilgrims. As per the order, no onward movement of pilgrims will be allowed from the Baltal and Nunwan/Chandanwari base camps from July 19.
The administration said the Yatra will resume only after a comprehensive assessment of weather conditions and confirmation that both routes are safe for pilgrims. Fresh updates regarding the resumption of the pilgrimage will be issued in due course.
Despite the temporary suspension, the pilgrimage has witnessed an overwhelming response this year. More than 3.7 lakh devotees have paid obeisance at the Holy Cave Shrine since the Yatra commenced.
Authorities have advised pilgrims to follow official advisories and await further announcements before planning their onward journey. The suspension is purely a precautionary step in view of the expected inclement weather in the Kashmir Himalayas over the coming days.
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