Shree Machail Mata Yatra: Over 50000 pilgrims perform darshan at Chandi Mata Mandir

Kishtwar (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], August 4 (ANI): The shrine of the Shree Chandi Mata Mandir of Machail Paddar in Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir crossed the 50-thousand mark in the number of pilgrims taking darshan in this year of the Shree Machail Mata Yatra on Sunday.
The number crossed with today's darshan performed by 8,535 pilgrims at the holy place in this year's yatra, which officially commenced on July 25, 2024.
This annual yatra is one of the most significant pilgrimages in the Jammu Division, second only to the Katra Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra.
The popularity of the Shree Machail Yatra has soared in recent years, with over 2 lakh pilgrims visiting last year alone. Pilgrims, along with the holy mace (Chhari) procession, will proceed from Jammu on August 17 towards Darbar, following traditional paths and transits.
Currently, the weather at Machail Bhawan remains clear, ensuring a smooth experience for the devotees.
The Divisional Commissioner of Jammu, Ramesh Kumar, in collaboration with the district administration of Kishtwar, spearheaded by Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar, Devansh Yadav, and local administration, are diligently working to ensure comprehensive arrangements for the Yatris this year.
Langars by devotees near Bhawan Machail and on the route are offering meals to the pilgrims.
Additionally, lodging facilities at the Yatri Bhawan Gulabgarh, Sapphire Guest House by the district administration, along with various tent accommodations and Yatri Sarai near Chandi Mata Bhawan, Machail, are available to ensure comfort for the visitors.
With the footfall expected to exceed 300,000 this year, Devansh Yadav has appealed to the Yatris to follow guidelines.
These facilities provided to Yatris include enhancements to roads, water supply, footpaths, sanitation, security, chopper services, and online registration through the website to ensure a safe and pleasant journey for the pilgrims.
The addition of a road up to Chashoti on the Gulabgarh to Machail axis has reduced the trekking distance to 3-4 hours. New bridges and repairs to existing infrastructure have been done to provide a safe and hassle-free experience for Yatris amid challenging geography.
Yadav urged the pilgrims to visit the official Machail Yatra website for online registration and updated information regarding the Yatra, including weather conditions, routes, and other facilities.
This resource is designed to help pilgrims stay informed and address any queries they may have. Yatris are advised to carry their Aadhar cards and review the guidelines on the website.
The administration remains committed to ensuring a seamless and spiritually fulfilling experience for all devotees participating in the Shree Machail Yatra this year. (ANI)