How Many Devotees Have Joined the Amarnath Yatra?
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Synopsis
The Amarnath Yatra has witnessed an impressive turnout of over 1.45 lakh devotees in just eight days, with more pilgrims on their way to the sacred cave shrine. This year's Yatra is marked by heightened security following recent tragic events. Devotees can choose between traditional and shorter routes, each offering a unique pilgrimage experience.
Key Takeaways
- Over 1.45 lakh devotees have participated in the Amarnath Yatra.
- A total of 6,482 pilgrims recently departed from Jammu.
- Extensive security measures are in place for the Yatra.
- The Yatra started on July 3 and will end on August 9.
- Devotees can choose between Pahalgam and Baltal routes.
Srinagar, July 11 (NationPress) More than 1.45 lakh devotees have participated in the Amarnath Yatra over the past eight days, as an additional group of 6,482 pilgrims departed for Kashmir from Jammu on Friday. Officials reported that since the Yatra commenced on July 3, over 1.45 lakh pilgrims have experienced ‘darshan’ at the sacred cave shrine. “Another group of 6,482 Yatris left Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in two escorted convoys today. The first convoy, comprising 107 vehicles carrying 2,353 Yatris, departed at 3:20 a.m. for the Baltal base camp, while the second convoy, with 161 vehicles carrying 4,129 Yatris, left at 4:04 a.m. for the Nunwan (Pahalgam) base camp,” officials stated.
The Bhumi Pujan for ‘Chhari Mubarak’ (Lord Shiva’s Holy Mace) was conducted in Pahalgam on Thursday.
The Chhari Mubarak was transported to Pahalgam by a group of Sadhus, led by the sole custodian of the Chhari Mubarak, Mahant Swami Deependra Giri, from its location at the Dashnami Akhara Building in Srinagar.
In Pahalgam, the Chhari Mubarak was taken to the Gauri Shankar temple for the Bhumi Pujan. Subsequently, it was moved to the Martand Sun temple for further Puja and had a ceremonial dip in the holy spring at the Martand Sun Temple.
The Chhari Mubarak is expected to arrive at the sacred cave shrine on August 9, the day when the Yatra officially concludes.
In addition to the Yatris arriving at Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu, many pilgrims are registering directly at Baltal and Nunwan (Pahalgam) to participate in the Yatra.
Authorities have implemented rigorous multi-tier security measures for this year's Amarnath Yatra, especially following the tragic attack on April 22, when Pakistan-backed terrorists took the lives of 26 civilians after discriminating against them based on faith in the Baisaran meadow of Pahalgam.
Additionally, an extra 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) have been deployed to bolster the existing presence of the army, BSF, CRPF, SSB, and local police.
All transit camps along the route to the two base camps and the entire path from Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu to the cave shrine are under security oversight.
This year's Yatra began on July 3 and will conclude after 38 days on August 9, coinciding with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.
Yatris can reach the holy cave shrine, located at an altitude of 3,888 meters in the Kashmir Himalayas, via the traditional Pahalgam route or the shorter Baltal route.
Those opting for the Pahalgam route traverse through Chandanwari, Sheshnag, and Panchtarni to reach the cave shrine, covering a distance of 46 km on foot. This journey typically takes pilgrims four days. Conversely, those using the shorter Baltal route need to trek 14 km to reach the cave shrine and return to the base camp on the same day after completing the Yatra. Due to security issues, no helicopter services are available for Yatris this year.
The cave shrine contains an ice stalagmite formation that fluctuates with the lunar phases. Devotees believe this structure represents the mythical powers of Lord Shiva. The Shri Amarnath ji Yatra is one of the most sacred pilgrimages for Hindu devotees, as legend has it that Lord Shiva revealed the secrets of eternal life and immortality to Mata Parvati in this cave.
Point of View
It is crucial to highlight the resilience of the devotees and the extensive security measures in place. Despite past tragedies, the commitment of both pilgrims and authorities reflects the enduring spirit of faith and community. The Yatra stands as a testament to the deep-rooted cultural and spiritual heritage of India, uniting people in their quest for divine connection.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Amarnath Yatra?
The Amarnath Yatra is a significant annual pilgrimage for Hindus, where devotees travel to the Amarnath cave shrine to offer prayers and seek blessings from Lord Shiva.
How long does the Yatra last?
This year's Yatra commenced on July 3 and will conclude on August 9, lasting a total of 38 days.
What are the routes to the cave shrine?
Devotees can choose between the traditional Pahalgam route or the shorter Baltal route to reach the cave shrine.
Is there security for the Yatra?
Yes, extensive multi-tier security arrangements have been implemented to ensure the safety of the pilgrims during the Yatra.
What is the significance of the Chhari Mubarak?
The Chhari Mubarak, or Lord Shiva's Holy Mace, is an important symbol in the Yatra, representing the divine presence of Lord Shiva.
