Vaishno Devi Yatra suspended for 6th day: How to get full refund

The Vaishno Devi Yatra has been suspended for the sixth day in a row as heavy rainfall and landslides continue to make the route unsafe for pilgrims. Authorities have said that services will remain shut until the weather improves and the path is secure again.

The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) has confirmed that all bookings during this period stand cancelled and devotees will be given a complete refund. This includes helicopter services from Katra to Bhawan, the ropeway between Bhawan and Bhairon Ghati, hotel accommodations, and other yatra-related services.

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), the shrine board said: “All bookings cancelled with 100% refund till yatra is suspended. Send cancellation requests with details to refund@maavaishnodevi.net. Earlier self-cancellations will get a refund within 15 days. For queries, contact SMVDSB Call Centre @ 18001807212/ +91 9906019494.”

All bookings cancelled with 100% refund till yatra is suspended. Send cancellation requests with details to refund@maavaishnodevi.net

Earlier self-cancellations will get pending refund within 15 days.

For queries, contact SMVDSB Call Centre @ 18001807212/ +91 9906019494.

— Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (@OfficialSMVDSB) August 31, 2025

This means that devotees do not need to worry about financial losses. Those who cancelled their bookings before the official suspension will also get their refunds within 15 days.

For assistance, the shrine board has set up a helpline. Devotees can call on the given number for queries related to cancellations and refunds.

High-Level Committee Formed

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who also serves as the chairman of the shrine board, said the yatra was halted before the cloudburst at Adhkuwari. He has ordered the formation of a three-member high-level committee to investigate the landslides and their causes, as reported by India TV.

The committee will be headed by Shaleen Kabra, Additional Chief Secretary of the Jammu and Kashmir Jal Shakti Department. The Divisional Commissioner of Jammu and the Inspector General of Police will serve as its members.

The panel has been directed to complete its inquiry and submit its report to the Lieutenant Governor within two weeks.

Earlier, on August 14, a cloudburst during the Machail Yatra in Kishtwar district claimed more than 50 lives, with several people still reported missing.