Is Another Batch of 5,246 Yatris Departing for the Valley as Amarnath Yatra Kicks Off Today?
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Synopsis
The annual Amarnath Yatra has commenced with another batch of 5,246 Yatris leaving Jammu for the Valley. This year, heightened security measures are in place following a tragic terror attack, ensuring the safety of pilgrims as they embark on this sacred journey to the holy cave shrine.
Key Takeaways
- 5,246 Yatris embarked on the annual Amarnath Yatra from Jammu.
- The Yatra lasts for 36 days and concludes on August 9.
- Enhanced security measures are in place this year for safety.
- Devotees can choose between the Pahalgam and Baltal routes.
- Locals play a crucial role in facilitating the pilgrimage.
Jammu, July 2 (NationPress) A new group of 5,246 Yatris has embarked from Jammu towards the Valley, marking the official commencement of the annual Amarnath Yatra on Thursday, according to officials.
The second batch of pilgrims departed from Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas on Canal Road in Jammu, traveling in two escorted convoys.
Out of these, 1,993 Yatris are heading to the Baltal base camp, while 3,253 Yatris are destined for the Pahalgam base camp.
This year’s 36-day Amarnath Yatra kicked off on Thursday, with the inaugural group of Yatris setting off from Baltal base camp to the sacred cave shrine in the morning.
Other members of the first batch also departed from Pahalgam towards the cave shrine.
Upon their arrival in the Valley on Wednesday, local citizens from various sectors welcomed the Yatris with garlands and placards at the Navyug Tunnel in Qazigund town.
The Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, officially flagged off the first batch of Yatris for this year’s Amarnath Yatra from Jammu.
This year, heightened security measures are in place due to the tragic April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians at the hands of Pakistan-backed Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) terrorists.
An additional 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) have been deployed to supplement the existing security arrangements, which include the Army, security forces, and Jammu and Kashmir Police.
Yatris have been instructed to travel from Jammu to the Valley exclusively as part of the escorted convoys and are advised against proceeding independently towards the base camps.
The Yatra officially commenced on Thursday and will conclude after 36 days on August 9, coinciding with the festivals of Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.
Devotees reach the holy cave shrine located at an altitude of 3,888 meters above sea level via either the traditional Pahalgam route or the shorter Baltal route.
Those opting for the Pahalgam route trek from Pahalgam to Chandanwati, Sheshnag, and Panchtarni to arrive at the holy cave shrine, taking four days to complete the 46-km trek.
Conversely, those using the Baltal route return to the base camp on the same day after performing 'Darshan' within the cave shrine, covering a 14-km trek.
This year, for security reasons, helicopter services for Yatris are unavailable.
The cave shrine features an ice stalagmite structure that changes with the lunar phases.
Devotees believe this ice stalagmite represents the mystical powers of Lord Shiva.
The local community plays a vital role in the Yatra, offering ponies, palkis, and even assisting infirm pilgrims to reach the cave shrine.
Point of View
The Amarnath Yatra represents a significant cultural and religious event in India. It unites devotees in their spiritual quest, while also highlighting the importance of security and cooperation between local communities and authorities to ensure a safe pilgrimage experience.
NationPress
04/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Amarnath Yatra?
The Amarnath Yatra is an annual pilgrimage to the Amarnath Cave, where devotees worship an ice stalagmite believed to symbolize Lord Shiva.
When does the Yatra take place?
This year, the Yatra commenced on July 2 and will conclude on August 9, coinciding with the festivals of Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.
What routes can Yatris take?
Devotees can choose between the traditional Pahalgam route or the shorter Baltal route to reach the holy cave shrine.
Are there any security measures in place?
Yes, enhanced security measures have been implemented this year due to previous incidents, including the deployment of additional CAPF companies.
Can Yatris travel independently?
Yatris are advised to travel only as part of escorted convoys and not to proceed independently to the base camps.
