Shimla: The Shrikhand Mahadev Yatra, one of the most arduous pilgrimages in North India, officially began on Sunday with the flagging-off of the first batch of devotees by Kullu Deputy Commissioner Torul S Raveesh from Singhgad in the Nirmand subdivision. Around 700 devotees set off in different batches for the demanding trek to the sacred Shrikhand Mahadev peak.
Deputy Commissioner stressed the importance of cooperation among the pilgrims to ensure the success and safety of the yatra. She encouraged the devotees to be environmentally responsible and refrain from littering along the route. Additionally, the pilgrims were provided with carry bags for waste disposal.
An online registration portal has been set up for the pilgrimage, and over 4,000 devotees have already registered. “The facility of offline registration is also available in Singhgad, and no pilgrim should start the yatra without prior registration and a mandatory medical check-up,” said the DC.
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The yatra, scheduled to continue until July 27, is highly dependent on favorable weather conditions. Base camps have been established at key points along the route, including Singhgad, Thachadu, Kunsha, Bhimdwari, and Parvati Bagh, with police, medical, and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams stationed at each location.
The Shrikhand Mahadev trek is a daunting 32-kilometer journey that reaches an altitude of 18,570 feet, requiring three to five days to complete. The path is riddled with challenges, including glaciers, narrow and slippery slopes, and the constant risk of falls. Tragedy remains a grim reality, with four pilgrims already lost along the route this year. Over the past 13 years, 35 lives have been claimed by the unforgiving terrain and harsh conditions, highlighting the need for vigilance, preparation, and awareness of the challenges of the mountainous terrain.
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Despite the risks and difficulties, the Shrikhand Mahadev pilgrimage continues to attract hundreds of devotees seeking to pay homage to Lord Shiva and witness the breathtaking landscapes along the route. The experience offers not only a physical challenge but also a spiritual journey filled with devotion, reflection, and awe-inspiring natural beauty.
Local residents have set up tents to assist the pilgrims, and some enthusiasts have even begun the yatra ahead of its official start. The administration continues to emphasize the importance of safety and adherence to guidelines to prevent further tragedies.
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