Safety Concerns Prompt Rajasthan to Suspend Pashupatinath Tour for Seniors

In a move aimed at safeguarding senior citizens, Rajasthan has temporarily suspended the Pashupatinath pilgrimage under its Senior Citizen Pilgrimage Scheme. The suspension was announced on Thursday, referencing the recent natural disaster that struck Nepal.

State Minister Joraram Kumawat clarified that, following the chief minister’s orders, all air services to Kathmandu between 27 and 31 August 2026 are on hold.

The decision reflects a commitment to protect the health, comfort, and security of elderly pilgrims. Kumawat noted that the tragic event in Nepal has compromised local infrastructure, making travel hazardous for the ageing population.

Authorities warned that damaged roads, limited medical facilities, and unpredictable weather could pose serious threats to senior travellers.

The Rajasthan government will maintain vigilant monitoring of the situation in Nepal, evaluating reconstruction efforts, weather updates, and security protocols before lifting the ban.

Families are encouraged not to view the delay as a setback, but as a necessary precaution ensuring that when the pilgrimage resumes, it will be conducted under safe and reliable conditions.