Chamba (Rajeev Sharma): The annual Manimahesh pilgrimage has begun in Himachal Pradesh’s Chamba district, drawing devotees from across the country to the revered Manimahesh Lake. With the yatra route involving high-altitude and difficult terrain, the administration has introduced a series of safety measures, including compulsory registration and health screening.
A daily limit of 5,000 pilgrims has been fixed for the journey from Bharmour towards Manimahesh. Authorities have urged devotees to complete the required formalities before setting out on the demanding trek.
Medical Screening Required Before the Journey
Every pilgrim must register for the yatra and undergo a health assessment at the Hadsar base camp.
Officials have said people who fail the medical examination will not be permitted to continue towards the lake. Special caution is also being exercised for elderly devotees, particularly those above 75 whose health condition may make the high-altitude journey risky.
The restrictions have been introduced because the pilgrimage route includes steep climbs, narrow and uneven stretches, streams and other challenging sections.
High-Altitude Route Poses Physical Challenges
Manimahesh Lake is situated at an elevation of roughly 13,386 feet, making the journey physically demanding even for experienced trekkers.
Reduced oxygen levels at higher elevations can add to the difficulty, particularly for pilgrims who are not accustomed to high-altitude conditions. The administration has therefore placed medical teams at important points along the route.
Pilgrims have also been advised to take the journey according to their physical capacity and avoid taking unnecessary risks.
Police, Home Guards and ITBP Deployed
Security arrangements have been expanded for the pilgrimage. Around 1,000 police and Home Guard personnel have been deployed to handle the expected crowds and respond to emergencies.
For the first time, more than 40 ITBP personnel have also been brought into the security arrangement.
The deployment is intended to strengthen crowd control and provide assistance across difficult sections of the pilgrimage route.
Helicopter Service Available for Devotees
For pilgrims seeking an alternative to the entire trekking route, four heli-taxi services have been arranged.
The helicopter service will operate subject to weather and visibility. Flights can be halted if fog, rain or other adverse conditions make flying unsafe.
Horses and mules will also remain available for pilgrims who require assistance on portions of the route.
Five Camps Provide Medical and Basic Facilities
The administration has established camps at Bharmour, Hadsar, Dhanchho, Sundrasi and Gaurikund.
These locations will serve as important support points for pilgrims, with medical facilities available along the route. Temporary accommodation has also been arranged, while langars will provide food and drinking water to devotees.
The pilgrimage attracts visitors not only from Himachal Pradesh but also from Punjab, Haryana, Jammu, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and Chandigarh.
Chhota Shahi Snan on September 4
One of the important religious occasions during the pilgrimage will be the Chhota Shahi Snan on September 4. Devotees traditionally take a holy dip in Manimahesh Lake as part of their pilgrimage.
The lake lies beneath the Manimahesh Kailash peak, which is revered by devotees as a sacred seat of Lord Shiva.
The annual pilgrimage generally takes place during August and September and coincides with the religious calendar around Janmashtami.
Ancient Tradition Draws Thousands of Devotees
Manimahesh Yatra is deeply rooted in local religious traditions. One account traces the beginning of the pilgrimage to the time of King Sahil Varman, who is believed to have received divine guidance associated with Lord Shiva.
For thousands of devotees, the difficult journey to the lake is an expression of faith and devotion. This year’s arrangements are aimed at balancing the large religious gathering with the safety requirements of a high-altitude pilgrimage.
With the yatra now underway, officials are expected to keep a close watch on pilgrim numbers, weather conditions and the health of devotees throughout the pilgrimage period.
