Chamba races against rain to get ready for Manimahesh Yatra 2025

As the sacred Manimahesh Yatra 2025 approaches, scheduled to begin on August 16, the Chamba district administration is working tirelessly to prepare the 13-kilometre pilgrimage route from Hadsar to Manimahesh Dal Lake. Despite relentless monsoon rains and treacherous terrain, officials are determined to ensure a safe and smooth journey for the thousands of devotees expected to undertake this spiritual trek.

Held annually between Janmashtami and Radhashtami in the Bharmour sub-division, the high-altitude Yatra is a deeply revered tradition. But the route—often snowbound and vulnerable to landslides and flash floods—requires urgent attention during the narrow monsoon window.

Following a recent inspection, the Deputy Commissioner expressed concern over the slow pace of repairs and issued strict orders: all essential works must be completed by August 9. This includes widening the trek path, stabilizing slopes, and reinforcing embankments, with special focus on the hazardous Tosh Ki Ghot stretch. A separate mule track and a new bridge over Manimahesh Nala are also under construction to ease congestion and improve safety.

Multiple departments have been mobilized to provide core services. Drinking water points, power lines, medical camps, mobile toilets, and waste management systems are being set up along the route. BSNL is installing a mobile tower at Dhancho to ensure connectivity, while police and revenue teams are preparing for crowd control and emergency response.

Daily inspections and progress reports are now mandatory, and any delay without written approval will invite strict action under the Disaster Management Act.

Despite the challenges posed by the weather, the Chamba administration remains committed to delivering a safe, well-organized, and spiritually fulfilling experience for all pilgrims. The final week before the Yatra will be dedicated to readiness checks—ensuring that when the journey begins, the path to Manimahesh is one of devotion, safety, and care.