As the 36-day-long Amarnath Yatra begins, thousands of pilgrims from across India have reached Jammu and Kashmir to undertake the sacred journey to the Amarnath cave shrine. The first batch of Yatris set off from Baltal and Pahalgam base camps early Thursday, while the second batch of 5,246 pilgrims left Jammu’s Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in heavily escorted convoys, highlighting heightened security protocols.
Devotees expressed deep satisfaction with the arrangements and lauded the Indian Army and administration for their efforts. "The facilities this year are better than ever," said a pilgrim, noting the spiritual nature of the trek and the improved safety measures.
The Yatra was flagged off by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday. Security has been significantly intensified following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam. Over 180 additional companies of CAPFs have been deployed, alongside the Indian Army, paramilitary, and J&K Police. Authorities have strictly advised pilgrims to travel only in escorted convoys.
The pilgrimage, ending on August 9, offers two routes to the 3,888-metre-high shrine: a 46 km trek via Pahalgam and a shorter 14 km path from Baltal. Helicopter services have been suspended this year due to security concerns.
The Amarnath cave houses a naturally formed ice stalagmite believed to represent Lord Shiva, attracting lakhs of devotees each year seeking spiritual solace and divine blessings.