The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine in Jammu and Kashmir recorded its second-highest number of pilgrims in a decade, with 94.83 lakh devotees visiting in 2024, according to Anshul Garg, CEO, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB). This marks the third consecutive year the shrine has welcomed over 90 lakh visitors, solidifying its position as one of India’s most visited religious sites.

Efforts are underway to enhance the pilgrimage experience, with ongoing infrastructure projects like the New Vaishnavi Bhawan featuring family rooms, an all-weather queue complex at Darshani Deodi and Banganga, and a dedicated exit track for crowd management. These developments aim to offer greater convenience for devotees, reflecting the Board’s commitment to continuous improvement.

Improved connectivity to Katra, including the Vande Bharat train and the soon-to-be-completed Delhi-Katra Express, is expected to boost footfall further. Garg emphasised the significance of these initiatives in accommodating the growing number of pilgrims.

The Board’s infrastructure upgrades underscore its dedication to enhancing the spiritual journey for devotees. With the completion of these projects by 2025, the shrine is set to welcome even more visitors, reinforcing its cultural and spiritual importance in the country.