Vaishno Devi Shrine Welcomes 94.8 Lakh Pilgrims, Achieving Second-Highest Footfall in a Decade
Jammu (Jammu and Kashmir), January 1: The iconic Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine in Jammu and Kashmir marked a significant milestone in 2024, witnessing its second-highest annual pilgrimage turnout in a decade. With 94.83 lakh devotees paying obeisance, the sacred site reaffirms its prominence as a revered spiritual destination.
Anshul Garg, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB), expressed gratitude for the overwhelming response, stating, “94.83 lakh pilgrims paid obeisance at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine in 2024, making it the second-highest figure recorded in the past ten years.”
Sustained High Pilgrim Turnout
The 2024 pilgrimage numbers continue the remarkable trend of increasing footfall at the shrine. Earlier, on December 12, 2024, Garg had highlighted that over 90 lakh devotees had visited the shrine for the third consecutive year. “For three years in a row, the number of pilgrims has exceeded 90 lakh. Last year, we achieved over 95 lakh. This year, the pilgrimage trend has remained consistent,” he shared.
Infrastructure Enhancements to Elevate the Devotee Experience
The Shrine Board is steadfast in its commitment to enhancing facilities and infrastructure to improve the pilgrimage experience. According to Garg, significant initiatives are underway to ensure greater convenience for devotees. “We are continually working on projects to provide better facilities, ensuring devotees have an enriching and seamless experience,” he said.
The CEO also emphasized how improved connectivity is driving higher footfall to Katra, the base town for the shrine. “With projects like the Vande Bharat train and the upcoming Delhi-Katra Express nearing completion, we anticipate a further rise in pilgrim numbers,” Garg added.
Upcoming Developments
In a December 8 post, Garg announced that the annual pilgrimage had crossed nine million visitors for the third consecutive year since 2022. He also provided updates on several key infrastructure projects slated for completion by 2025. Among these are the New Vaishnavi Bhawan with family accommodations, an exit track to streamline crowd movement, and an all-weather queue complex at Darshani Deodi and Banganga.
A Testament to Faith
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine remains a symbol of unwavering faith, drawing millions of devotees from across the globe every year. The continued efforts of the Shrine Board to enhance infrastructure and improve connectivity ensure that this sacred site will remain one of India’s most visited and cherished religious destinations.
With the promise of upcoming projects and sustained growth in footfall, the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage is set to continue its legacy as a spiritual haven for millions.
