Travel Restrictions Imposed on Shrikhand Mahadev and Kinnaur Kailash Pilgrimages Due to Natural Hazards
Travel Ban on Pilgrimages in Himachal Pradesh
Due to the risks posed by landslides, sudden flooding, and unstable glaciers, the district administrations of Kullu and Kinnaur in Himachal Pradesh have suspended the Shrikhand Mahadev and Kinnaur Kailash pilgrimages until further notice. This announcement was made by officials on Monday.
Shrikhand Mahadev, located at an elevation of 16,900 feet in Kullu district, is regarded as one of the most challenging religious journeys in India. Pilgrims must undertake a 35-kilometer trek that leads through grassy meadows to a 72-foot tall Shiva Lingam.
In Kinnaur district, Kinnaur Kailash, situated at 19,850 feet, is considered the winter abode of Lord Shiva. Typically, both pilgrimages commence in July. The suspension of the Shrikhand Mahadev pilgrimage was prompted when a joint team of experts from the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports in Manali, along with officials from the revenue and forest departments, declared both traditional and alternative routes unsafe.
Safety Concerns and Emergency Preparedness
According to the inspection report, the Bhimdwari-Parvati Bag route and the proposed alternative path feature steep descents, unstable terrain, slippery paths, and numerous mountain streams. The risk of landslides, falling rocks, and sudden floods remains extremely high on these routes.
Officials also noted that conducting rescue operations in these areas during any emergency would be exceedingly difficult. The Kullu administration has mandated strict adherence to the travel ban and warned of legal action against violators.
Similarly, the Kinnaur district administration has postponed the Kinnaur Kailash pilgrimage until further notice. The scouting team's report highlighted the presence of large glaciers, caves, and unstable rocks between Milling Khata and the Shiva Lingam, along with recent incidents of rockslides, making the route highly dangerous.
Officials indicated that rising temperatures are exacerbating the risk of landslides and falling rocks due to melting snow.