The first Monday of Sawan, or Shravan Somwar, is among the most significant days for devotees of Lord Shiva. This year, the first Sawan Somwar falls on August 3, with lakhs of devotees expected to throng Shiva temples across North India to offer jalabhishek, observe fasts and seek blessings.
With the Kanwar Yatra underway, authorities across Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Delhi-NCR and neighbouring states have stepped up security, imposed traffic diversions and issued advisories to ensure smooth movement of both devotees and commuters.
Why Is First Sawan Somwar So Special?
According to Hindu tradition, Mondays during the holy month of Sawan are dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees observe fasts, chant “Om Namah Shivaya”, perform Rudrabhishek and offer
Gangajal, milk, belpatra and flowers at Shiva temples. The first Somwar usually witnesses one of the biggest crowds of the month.
Heavy Rush Expected at Major Shiva Temples
Large crowds are expected at prominent shrines such as:
• Kashi Vishwanath, Varanasi
• Mahakaleshwar, Ujjain
• Baidyanath Dham, Deoghar
• Neelkanth Mahadev, Rishikesh
• Pashupatinath (Nepal)
Local Shiva temples across cities and towns
Authorities have appealed to devotees to visit during non-peak hours where possible and cooperate with crowd-management personnel.
Traffic Diversions in Several States
Because of the Kanwar Yatra and the expected rush on the first Somwar, traffic restrictions have been imposed on several highways and city roads.
Key routes in parts of Uttar Pradesh, Delhi-NCR and Uttarakhand are witnessing diversions, while sections of highways used by Kanwariyas have been reserved or restricted for general traffic. Commuters have been advised to check local police advisories before travelling.
Several districts, including Meerut, have also announced the temporary closure of schools and colleges due to the large movement of pilgrims.
Security Tightened Across Pilgrimage Routes
Police have intensified security at major temples and along Kanwar routes with additional deployment of personnel, surveillance through CCTV cameras, drones, quick response teams and intelligence monitoring. Authorities in Uttar Pradesh have also been placed on high alert following recent security inputs.
Why the First Sawan Somwar Sees the Largest Rush
The first Monday of Sawan traditionally marks the beginning of the month’s biggest round of Shiva worship, drawing devotees from across the country. The day is considered highly auspicious, prompting many pilgrims to undertake temple visits and Kanwar Yatra simultaneously. As a result, authorities expect significantly higher footfall at temples and increased traffic on pilgrimage routes compared to regular weekdays.
Tips for Devotees
If you’re planning to visit a Shiva temple on the first Sawan Somwar:
• Start early to avoid peak-hour crowds.
• Follow local traffic advisories and use public transport where possible.
• Carry drinking water and wear comfortable footwear.
• Cooperate with police and temple volunteers during security checks.
• Keep children and elderly family members close in crowded areas.
As the Kanwar Yatra gathers pace and temple footfall rises, authorities have urged devotees to plan their journey in advance and follow official advisories to ensure a safe and hassle-free darshan.
