Katra experienced its first snowfall of the season and photos of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi temple in blanket of snow are going viral on social media. In view of this, the pilgrimage to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi has been temporarily suspended. Pilgrims have been stopped in Katra for safety reasons.
Heavy snowfall in the high-altitude areas of the Jammu region has disrupted traffic, leading to the closure of the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway. As a precaution, officials have also ordered schools in hilly districts to close on Friday. Shri Mata Vaishno Devi temple authorities shared visuals of mandir on X, "Season’s first snowfall at shri Mata Vaishno Devi Bhawan. Devotees were blessed to witness breathtaking weather as fresh snow gently adorned the holy surroundings of Maa Vaishno Devi Bhawan and Bhairon Temple, filling the atmosphere with serenity, devotion, and divine bliss," post reads.
The administration prioritizes pilgrim safety and will resume the pilgrimage once the weather improves. The snowfall on Trikuta Mountain and at the Mata's shrine has created a captivating and divine atmosphere. Pilgrims at the Bhavan consider the confluence of the open ancient cave and the snowfall a blessing, allowing them to view the Goddess's ancient form amidst the beautiful scenery.