How Did Nearly 48,000 Devotees Participate in Amarnath Yatra in Just Three Days?

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How Did Nearly 48,000 Devotees Participate in Amarnath Yatra in Just Three Days?

Synopsis

In an extraordinary display of faith, nearly 48,000 devotees have undertaken the Amarnath Yatra in just three days. With robust security measures in place, the pilgrimage has commenced smoothly, offering spiritual fulfillment to thousands. Join us as we explore the significance of this revered journey in the heart of Kashmir.

Key Takeaways

  • 48,000 devotees participated in the Amarnath Yatra in three days.
  • 7,208 pilgrims left Jammu for Kashmir on Sunday.
  • Robust security measures are in place.
  • Locals warmly welcomed the first batch of Yatris.
  • The Yatra started on July 3 and will conclude on August 9.

Srinagar, July 6 (NationPress) Close to 48,000 devotees have undertaken the ongoing Amarnath Yatra over the past three days, all while being protected by stringent security measures. On Sunday, an additional group of 7,208 pilgrims departed from Jammu towards Kashmir.

Officials reported that over 21,000 Yatris visited the holy cave shrine on Saturday. They noted that another 7,208 Yatris left the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu for the Valley via two escorted convoys on Sunday.

“The first convoy is transporting pilgrims to the North Kashmir Baltal base camp, while the second is heading to South Kashmir Nunwan (Pahalgam) base camp,” stated the officials.

According to the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB), which oversees the annual pilgrimage, in addition to those arriving at the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas, several Yatris are directly registering at the Baltal and Nunwan base camps.

On Saturday, thirty-six Yatris experienced minor injuries when five vehicles in the Yatri convoy collided at Chandrakote in Jammu's Ramban district.

The authorities are leaving no stone unturned in ensuring comprehensive security for this year’s Amarnath Yatra, especially in light of the tragic attack on April 22, where 26 civilians were killed by terrorists in the Baisaran meadow of Pahalgam.

An additional 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) have been deployed to strengthen the existing forces comprising the Army, BSF, CRPF, SSB, and local police.

All transit camps along the routes to the base camps and the entire journey from Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas to the cave shrine are under the vigilant watch of security personnel.

This year, locals have shown unwavering support for the Amarnath Yatra, as they have in years past.

To demonstrate their solidarity after the Pahalgam terror attack, the locals warmly welcomed the first group of Yatris with garlands and placards as they crossed the Navyug Tunnel into the Valley at Qazigund.

The Yatra commenced on July 3 and will conclude after 38 days on August 9, coinciding with the festivals of Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.

Devotees reach the holy cave shrine, located 3,888 meters above sea level in the Kashmir Himalayas, via either the traditional Pahalgam route or the shorter Baltal route.

For those taking the Pahalgam route, the journey includes stops at Chandanwari, Sheshnag, and Panchtarni, covering a total distance of 46 km on foot, which takes about four days. Meanwhile, those on the Baltal route trek 14 km to the cave shrine and return to the base camp on the same day.

Due to security concerns, helicopter services are not available for Yatris this year.

The cave shrine is home to an ice stalagmite structure that changes with the moon's phases, which devotees believe represents the divine powers of Lord Shiva.

The Amarnath Yatra is regarded as one of the most sacred pilgrimages. According to legend, Lord Shiva revealed the secrets of eternal life and immortality to Mata Parvati in this cave, during which two pigeons were accidentally present.

Traditionally, a pair of mountain pigeons is seen flying out of the cave shrine each year when the Yatra begins.

Point of View

I affirm that the Amarnath Yatra remains a profound testament to the enduring faith of devotees. Despite security challenges, the commitment of local communities and authorities showcases a united front against adversity, ensuring that this revered pilgrimage continues to thrive. Our nation stands firm in its dedication to safeguarding such cultural treasures.
NationPress
21/07/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Amarnath Yatra?
The Amarnath Yatra is a significant religious pilgrimage to the Amarnath cave shrine, where devotees believe Lord Shiva revealed the secrets of eternal life to Mata Parvati.
How many devotees participated this year?
Nearly 48,000 devotees performed the Amarnath Yatra over the last three days.
What routes are taken to reach the shrine?
Devotees can take either the traditional Pahalgam route or the shorter Baltal route to reach the Amarnath cave shrine.
Is security provided for the Yatra?
Yes, extensive security arrangements have been made to ensure the safety of all pilgrims during the Amarnath Yatra.
When does the Amarnath Yatra end?
The Amarnath Yatra concludes after 38 days on August 9, coinciding with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.