Two women pilgrims died and at least 11 others were injured during the Drilbu Ri Kora 'parikrama' (circumambulation) in Lahaul and Spiti district. The incident led to a major rescue operation in the high-altitude region.
Lahaul and Spiti Deputy Commissioner Kiran Bhadana confirmed the deaths and injuries. She said rescue operations were under way to evacuate pilgrims stranded along the route.
Who Were the Victims of the Drilbu Ri Kora Tragedy
The deceased have been identified as Dawa Dowa Butiya, 74, a resident of Darjeeling, and Yangzin, 61, a resident of VPO Keylong.
According to the Deputy Commissioner, around 300 people had participated in the Kora. Several pilgrims reportedly faced difficulties due to snowfall and extreme cold conditions. While some sustained injuries after...
Rescue Operation in Lahaul-Spiti High-Altitude Region
The Deputy Commissioner confirmed that rescue operations were under way to evacuate pilgrims stranded along the route. The high-altitude terrain and weather conditions made the operation challenging.
The injured pilgrims were being attended to as part of the rescue effort. The exact nature of their injuries was not immediately clear from the information available.
Our Take: Safety Must Come First on High-Altitude Pilgrimage Routes
This tragedy raises serious questions about safety arrangements for religious journeys in high-altitude regions like Lahaul and Spiti. When around 300 people set out on a parikrama in an area known for sudden snowfall and extreme cold, the risks are real and predictable.
In our view, the priority now must be the safe evacuation of every pilgrim still stranded. At the same time, authorities need to review how weather warnings are communicated and whether adequate shelter and medical support exist along such routes. Two women lost their lives, and 11 others were injured. That is not just bad luck — it is a warning that pilgrimage safety planning in remote Himalayan regions needs to be taken far more seriously.
To put it plainly, faith should not have to come at the cost of life. Better preparation, clearer weather advisories, and stronger on-ground rescue readiness can prevent such tragedies in the future.