In a remarkable display of spiritual devotion that transcends borders, nine foreign devotees from six different countries—including United States, Germany, Russia, Malaysia, Nepal, and Brazil—undertook the Amarnath Yatra via the Baltal route, embracing the spiritual and cultural essence of the Himalayan pilgrimage.
Braving the challenging terrain and high altitude, the group paid obeisance at the Amarnath cave Shrine, situated at an elevation of 3,888 meters.
Their participation in the yatra underlines the growing global appeal of India’s ancient spiritual traditions and reinforces the idea of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”—the world is one family.
The foreign yatris, all between the ages of 22 and 35, expressed awe and reverence for the mystical journey, often described as one of the most difficult yet spiritually rewarding pilgrimages in the world.
One of the devotees, Sarah Klein from Berlin, said, “This journey wasn’t just about reaching the cave. It was about discovering an inner strength and experiencing India’s living spirituality. The chanting, the energy, the Himalayas—it’s unforgettable.”
Security personnel and local volunteers assisted the group throughout their trek, ensuring a smooth and safe experience.
The Baltal route in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, known for its shorter but steeper path to the cave shrine, tested their endurance but also offered stunning views of the majestic Himalayan landscape.
The Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board (SASB) officials welcomed the diverse group and highlighted the importance of such international participation.
"The yatra is not just a religious journey; it is a unifying force. Every year, we see pilgrims from various nations. It’s heartening to see the world embrace our heritage," said an SASB spokesperson.
He said this year, the Amarnath Yatra has seen increased participation from international devotees, especially with improved infrastructure, digital registration, and heightened safety measures introduced by the government.
The journey of these young foreigners is not just a testament to faith—it’s a glowing example of how Incredible India continues to connect hearts and souls across continents through shared spirituality.
Another foreign pilgrim who also undertook the yatra said the experience has been wonderful.
“We look forward to coming back at some point soon. It was wonderful and we felt very taken care of and supported and very safe,” he said.
The annual yatra commenced on July 3 this year and about 3.5 lakh pilgrims have so far paid obeisance at the cave shrine. It will culminate on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan on August 9.