Did Nearly 70,000 Devotees Perform Amarnath Yatra in Just 4 Days?
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Synopsis
In an impressive display of faith, nearly 70,000 devotees have completed the Amarnath Yatra within just four days. This pilgrimage has drawn thousands to the sacred cave shrine in Kashmir, with strong local support and enhanced security measures in light of recent events.
Key Takeaways
- Over 70,000 devotees participated in the Amarnath Yatra in just four days.
- Enhanced security measures have been implemented to ensure safety for pilgrims.
- Local communities have shown great support and hospitality to Yatris.
- The Yatra runs from July 3 to August 9 this year.
- The cave shrine is located at an elevation of 3,888 meters in the Himalayas.
Srinagar, July 7 (NationPress) Close to 70,000 devotees have taken part in the Amarnath Yatra over the past four days, with an additional group of 8,605 pilgrims departing for the Kashmir Valley on Monday, according to officials.
Since the pilgrimage commenced on July 3, approximately 70,000 individuals have participated in the ongoing Shri Amarnath ji Yatra. Notably, 21,512 Yatris experienced the ‘Darshan’ within the sacred cave shrine on Sunday.
Officials reported that another group of 8,605 Yatris departed from Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu to the Kashmir Valley in two escorted convoys on Monday.
“The first convoy is transporting 3,486 pilgrims to the Baltal base camp in north Kashmir, while the second convoy is taking 5,119 Yatris to the Nunwan (Pahalgam) base camp in south Kashmir,” the officials stated.
Representatives from the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB), which oversees the annual pilgrimage, noted that in addition to those arriving at Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu, many Yatris are registering directly at Baltal and Nunwan (Pahalgam) for on-site participation in the Yatra.
Since the Yatra began this year, two pilgrims have tragically passed away due to natural causes.
The authorities are committed to ensuring a comprehensive security framework for this year’s Amarnath Yatra, especially following the tragic incident on April 22 when terrorists backed by Pakistan killed 26 civilians in the Baisaran meadow of Pahalgam.
An additional 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) have been deployed to enhance the existing presence of the army, BSF, CRPF, SSB, and local police.
All transit camps along the routes to the two base camps, as well as the entire journey from Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu to the cave shrine, are under the protection of security forces.
This year, locals have shown remarkable solidarity with the Amarnath Yatra, welcoming the first group of Yatris with garlands and placards as they entered the Kashmir Valley through the Navyug Tunnel at Qazigund, sending a powerful message of unity in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack.
On Sunday, local residents offered cold beverages and pure drinking water to Yatris returning from the Baltal base camp in the Ganderbal district of north Kashmir. In a heartfelt exchange, Yatris graciously accepted the hospitality and expressed their deep appreciation for the warmth shown by the local community.
The Yatra commenced on July 3 and will conclude after 38 days on August 9, coinciding with the Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan festivals.
Yatris can reach the holy cave shrine, located at an elevation of 3,888 metres in the Kashmir Himalayas, via the traditional Pahalgam route or the shorter Baltal route.
Pilgrims following the Pahalgam route must traverse Chandanwari, Sheshnag, and Panchtarni to arrive at the cave shrine, covering a distance of 46 km on foot, which typically takes about four days.
Conversely, those opting for the Baltal route need to trek 14 km to access the cave shrine and return to the base camp on the same day after completing the Yatra.
This year, due to security considerations, helicopter services are not available for Yatris.
The cave shrine features an ice stalagmite formation that changes size with the lunar phases, and devotees believe it represents the mythical powers of Lord Shiva.
The Shri Amarnath ji Yatra is regarded as one of the most sacred religious pilgrimages, as legend holds that Lord Shiva revealed the secrets of eternal life and immortality to Mata Parvati within this cave. Notably, two pigeons were present inside the cave during this divine narration, and it is said that a pair of mountain pigeons traditionally emerges from the cave shrine at the commencement of the annual Yatra.
Point of View
It is imperative to highlight the resilience and unity of the people during the Amarnath Yatra. This pilgrimage not only signifies faith but also showcases the indomitable spirit of Kashmiris who stand together, showing solidarity in the face of adversity.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Amarnath Yatra?
The Amarnath Yatra is a revered pilgrimage to the holy cave shrine of Lord Shiva, located in the Kashmir Himalayas, where devotees seek blessings and spiritual enlightenment.
How many devotees participate in the Yatra each year?
The number of devotees varies each year, but thousands participate annually, with nearly 70,000 reported in the first four days of this year's Yatra.
What security measures are in place for the Yatra?
Enhanced security measures include the deployment of additional Central Armed Police Forces, local police, and army personnel to ensure the safety of the pilgrims.
How can pilgrims reach the cave shrine?
Pilgrims can reach the Amarnath cave shrine via the traditional Pahalgam route or the shorter Baltal route, with specific distances and trekking durations for each.
What is the significance of the ice stalagmite in the cave?
The ice stalagmite in the Amarnath cave is believed to symbolize the mythical powers of Lord Shiva and is an essential part of the pilgrimage experience.
