What’s Happening with the Amarnath Yatra? Over 2.34 Lakh Make the Pilgrimage!
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Synopsis
On July 16, 2023, a new wave of pilgrims embarked on the Amarnath Yatra, following the footsteps of over 2.34 lakh devotees who have already participated. With improved security measures in place, the Yatra is set to continue until August 9, 2023. This article delves into the latest updates and the significance of this revered pilgrimage.
Key Takeaways
- Over 2.34 lakh Yatris have participated in the Yatra so far.
- A new batch of 6,064 pilgrims left for Kashmir on July 16.
- Enhanced security measures are in place for the Yatra.
- The Chhari Mubarak will reach the holy cave shrine on August 9.
- The Yatra will conclude on August 9, 2023.
Srinagar, July 16 (NationPress) A new group of 6,064 pilgrims departed for Kashmir from Jammu on Wednesday to join the ongoing Amarnath Yatra, as more than 2.34 lakh have already experienced the 'darshan' over the past 13 days.
According to officials, over 2.34 lakh Yatris have taken part in the ongoing Amarnath Yatra since it commenced on July 3.
“A new group of 6,064 Yatris left Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu in two escorted convoys today. The first convoy, consisting of 95 vehicles carrying 2,471 Yatris, departed at 3.30 a.m. for the Baltal base camp, while the second convoy with 139 vehicles carrying 3,593 Yatris left at 4.07 a.m. for Nunwan (Pahalgam) base camp,” officials reported.
The weather department has predicted widespread light to moderate rainfall in Jammu and Kashmir within the next 24 hours.
The Bhumi Pujan for the ‘Chhari Mubarak’ (Lord Shiva’s Holy Mace) took place at Pahalgam on July 10. This sacred mace was transported to Pahalgam by a group of seers led by its sole custodian, Mahant Swami Deependra Giri, from its residence at the Dashnami Akhara Building in Srinagar.
After the rituals, the Chhari Mubarak was returned to the Dashnami Akhara Building in Srinagar. It is scheduled to depart from there on August 4, following various rituals at the historic Shankaracharya and Hari Parbat temples in Srinagar, conducted by Mahant Deependra Giri Ji and a group of Sadhus.
On its way to the holy cave, the Chhari Mubarak will perform traditional pujas at multiple temples including Durga Nag, Pampore, Awantipora, Bijbehara, Mattan, Ganeshpora, and Pahalgam.
The Chhari Mubarak is expected to reach the holy cave shrine on August 9, signifying the official conclusion of the Yatra.
This year’s Amarnath Yatra is under tight security measures, particularly after the tragic incident on April 22, where Pakistan-backed terrorists killed 26 civilians based on their faith in the Baisaran meadow of Pahalgam.
An additional 180 companies of CAPFs have been deployed to strengthen the existing forces of the Army, BSF, CRPF, SSB, and local police.
The Army has initiated 'Operation SHIVA 2025', positioning over 8,500 troops along with advanced surveillance and combat technology.
All transit camps along the journey to the two base camps and the route from Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu to the cave shrine are secured by security forces.
This year, the Yatra commenced on July 3 and will conclude after 38 days on August 9, coinciding with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.
The Yatris access the holy cave shrine located 3888 metres above sea level in the Kashmir Himalayas via the traditional Pahalgam route or the shorter Baltal route.
Pilgrims using the Pahalgam route will traverse through Chandanwari, Sheshnag, and Panchtarni to reach the cave shrine, covering a distance of 46 km on foot, which typically takes four days. Those opting for the shorter Baltal route trek 14 km to the cave shrine and return to the base camp the same day after completing the Yatra.
Due to security concerns, there are no helicopter services available for Yatris this year.
Point of View
I affirm that the ongoing Amarnath Yatra not only reflects the profound faith among devotees but also highlights the critical need for stringent security measures following recent events. The commitment to ensuring pilgrim safety while preserving the sanctity of this revered journey is paramount.
NationPress
16/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the Amarnath Yatra start?
The Amarnath Yatra commenced on July 3, 2023.
How many pilgrims have participated so far?
Over 2.34 lakh Yatris have participated in the Yatra as of July 16, 2023.
What are the routes to the Amarnath cave shrine?
Pilgrims can access the shrine from the traditional Pahalgam route or the shorter Baltal route.
What security measures are in place for the Yatra?
Extensive multi-tier security arrangements have been made, including the deployment of additional CAPF companies and the Army's 'Operation SHIVA 2025'.
When will the Yatra conclude?
The Yatra will conclude on August 9, 2023.
