How Many Pilgrims Have Undertaken the Amarnath Yatra?
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Synopsis
In just 19 days since the Amarnath Yatra began on July 3, over 3.21 lakh pilgrims have engaged in the holy journey, with thousands arriving daily. Enhanced security measures are in place, ensuring the safety of worshippers as they make their spiritual trek through the breathtaking Kashmir Himalayas.
Key Takeaways
- Significant participation: Over 3.21 lakh devotees have joined the Yatra.
- Multiple routes: Pilgrims can choose between the Pahalgam and Baltal routes.
- Enhanced security: Strong measures are in place to protect pilgrims.
- Spiritual significance: The ice stalagmite symbolizes Lord Shiva.
- Preparation for the final journey: The Chhari Mubarak will commence its final journey on August 4.
Srinagar, July 22 (NationPress) Over 3.21 lakh devotees have participated in the ongoing Amarnath Yatra in the past 19 days since it began on July 3. On Tuesday, an additional batch of 3,536 pilgrims departed Jammu for Kashmir.
Officials reported, “A new group of 3,536 Yatris left Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu today in two escorted convoys destined for the Valley. The first convoy, comprising 48 vehicles with 1,250 Yatris, departed at 3:33 a.m. for Baltal base camp, while the second convoy of 84 vehicles with 2,286 Yatris left at 4:06 a.m. for Pahalgam base camp.
“There is a significant influx of yatris as thousands of pilgrims arrive daily from various parts of the country at the twin base camps to embark on the Yatra,” officials stated.
The Bhumi Pujan of ‘Chhari Mubarak’ (Lord Shiva’s Holy) was conducted at Pahalgam on July 10. A group of seers, led by the sole custodian of the Chhari Mubarak, Mahant Swami Deependra Giri, transported the Chhari Mubarak from its location at the Dashnami Akhara Building in Srinagar to Pahalgam. At Pahalgam, the Chhari Mubarak was taken to the Gauri Shankar temple for the Bhumi Pujan ceremony.
After the rituals, the Chhari Mubarak was returned to its original location at the Dashnami Akhara building. It is set to commence its final journey towards the cave shrine from Dashnami Akhara temple in Srinagar on August 4, arriving at the holy cave shrine on August 9, which will officially conclude the Yatra.
This year’s Amarnath Yatra has seen extensive multi-tier security arrangements due to the tragic attack on April 22, where 26 civilians were killed by Pakistan-backed terrorists after segregating them based on faith in the Baisaran meadow of Pahalgam.
To enhance security, an additional 180 companies of CAPFs have been deployed, bolstering the existing forces of the Army, BSF, CRPF, SSB, and local police. The Army has stationed over 8,000 special commandos to ensure the safety of pilgrims this year.
The Yatra, which began on July 3, will conclude after 38 days on August 9, coinciding with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.
Pilgrims can reach the holy cave shrine situated at 3,888 metres above sea level in the Kashmir Himalayas via the traditional Pahalgam route or the shorter Baltal route. Those taking the Pahalgam route will trek through Chandanwari, Sheshnag, and Panchtarni to cover a distance of 46 km on foot, which typically takes around four days. In contrast, the Baltal route requires a 14 km trek to reach the cave shrine, allowing for a return to the base camp on the same day after darshan.
Due to security concerns, helicopter services are unavailable for Yatris this year.
The cave shrine features an ice stalagmite that changes with the moon’s phases, believed to symbolize the mythical powers of Lord Shiva.
Point of View
We witness the unwavering faith of over 3.21 lakh pilgrims. This event not only signifies spiritual devotion but also showcases the robust security measures taken to ensure their safety. The Yatra's significance resonates deeply across India, uniting devotees in their quest for divine connection.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Amarnath Yatra?
The Amarnath Yatra is a pilgrimage to the Amarnath cave shrine in the Himalayas, dedicated to Lord Shiva, where devotees worship an ice stalagmite believed to represent the deity.
How many pilgrims have participated this year?
As of now, over 3.21 lakh pilgrims have registered for the Amarnath Yatra since it began on July 3.
What routes can pilgrims take to reach the shrine?
Pilgrims can take the traditional Pahalgam route or the shorter Baltal route. The Pahalgam route is a 46 km trek, while the Baltal route is a 14 km trek.
What security measures are in place for the Yatra?
Extensive security arrangements include additional deployment of CAPFs and special commandos to ensure the safety of pilgrims during the Yatra.
When does the Amarnath Yatra conclude?
The Yatra is scheduled to conclude on August 9, coinciding with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.
