Heavy Rains Force Cancellation of Gujarat's Annual Girnar Liri Parikrama Pilgrimage | Safety Concerns
Gujarat's Girnar Parikrama cancelled due to heavy rain

In a rare decision that has disappointed thousands of devotees, the annual Girnar Liri Parikrama pilgrimage in Gujarat has been officially called off due to relentless heavy rainfall and deteriorating weather conditions. The cancellation marks a significant disruption to one of the region's most revered spiritual traditions.

Safety Takes Precedence Over Tradition

District Collector and District Magistrate S. G. Rathi confirmed the cancellation, citing imminent safety hazards posed by the continuing downpour. "The persistent heavy rainfall has created unsafe conditions for pilgrims attempting the challenging 36-kilometer circumambulation of Girnar mountain," stated the official announcement.

Massive Pilgrimage Grounded

The Girnar Liri Parikrama typically attracts massive crowds of spiritual seekers who undertake the arduous journey around the sacred mountain peaks. This year's cancellation affects:

  • Over 50,000 expected participants
  • Local businesses dependent on pilgrimage tourism
  • Religious organizations planning the event
  • Local administration and security arrangements

Administrative Measures Implemented

Authorities have taken comprehensive steps to manage the situation:

  1. Complete restriction on pilgrimage activities
  2. Enhanced security deployment to prevent unauthorized attempts
  3. Public awareness campaigns about the cancellation
  4. Coordination with local communities and religious leaders

Weather Woes Continue

The decision comes as Gujarat experiences one of its wettest monsoon seasons in recent years. The Girnar region, particularly the forest areas and mountain trails, has become treacherous due to:

  • Slippery pathways and unstable terrain
  • Reduced visibility affecting navigation
  • Potential flash flood risks in valleys
  • Limited emergency access routes

While the cancellation brings disappointment to the faithful, authorities emphasize that participant safety remains the highest priority. The district administration continues to monitor weather patterns and will reassess conditions for any potential rescheduling opportunities.