Srinagar: The annual Amarnath Yatra continues peacefully with over 2.34 lakh devotees having offered prayers at the holy cave shrine in the first 13 days of the pilgrimage. On Wednesday, another batch of 6,064 yatris departed from Jammu towards the Kashmir Himalayas, reinforcing the massive spiritual turnout amid tight security.
The Yatra, which began on July 3, will conclude on August 9, coinciding with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan. The 38-day pilgrimage is one of the most significant Hindu spiritual undertakings and is being held this year under unprecedented security arrangements following an April terrorist attack that killed 26 civilians in Pahalgam.
Massive Pilgrim Turnout, Smooth Movement
According to officials, the latest group left Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu in two secured convoys early Wednesday morning.
The first convoy, consisting of 95 vehicles carrying 2,471 pilgrims, left at 3:30 AM for the Baltal base camp.
The second convoy, with 139 vehicles carrying 3,593 pilgrims, departed at 4:07 AM for the Nunwan (Pahalgam) base camp.
Despite a forecast of widespread light to moderate rainfall, the Yatra continues with steady enthusiasm and no reported disruptions.
Sacred Traditions Continue: Chhari Mubarak Rituals
The ceremonial Chhari Mubarak—the holy mace of Lord Shiva—has already commenced its ritual journey. The Bhumi Pujan was performed at Pahalgam on July 10, led by Mahant Swami Deependra Giri, the sole custodian of the mace.
The Chhari Mubarak was later taken back to Dashnami Akhara in Srinagar, from where it will again embark on its spiritual circuit on August 4, visiting historic temples such as Shankaracharya and Hari Parbat, and halting at important sites including Durga Nag, Pampore, Awantipora, Bijbehara, Mattan, Ganeshpora, and Pahalgam. It will finally reach the holy cave on August 9, marking the culmination of the Yatra.
Security at an All-Time High
The Jammu and Kashmir administration, in coordination with central agencies, has deployed multi-tiered security for the pilgrimage, particularly after the April 22 terrorist attack in Baisaran. That brutal assault, executed by Pakistan-backed militants, targeted civilians based on their faith.
To prevent any repetition, the government has launched ‘Operation SHIVA 2025’, deploying over 8,500 troops from the Indian Army and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), including the CRPF, BSF, SSB, and local police. Surveillance drones, thermal imaging, and quick reaction teams are in place along the entire route.
All transit camps from Bhagwati Nagar to the cave shrine are fortified. The movement of convoys is closely monitored, and no unauthorized vehicles are allowed near pilgrim paths.
No Helicopter Services This Year
Notably, helicopter services have been suspended this year due to heightened security protocols. Pilgrims must undertake the trek either via the traditional Pahalgam route—a 46-kilometre journey completed in four days—or the shorter Baltal route, which requires a strenuous 14-kilometre climb that can be completed in a single day.
Despite the physical and logistical challenges, the spirit among the devotees remains high. Camps are equipped with medical aid, community kitchens, and weather shelters to support the thousands making the journey each day.
A Symbol of Resilience
The 2025 edition of the Amarnath Yatra is seen as a symbol of resilience, held under extraordinary vigilance but with the same spiritual fervor. With over 2.34 lakh pilgrims already having received ‘darshan’ and thousands more expected in the coming weeks, the event stands as a testament to India’s enduring faith and resolve in the face of adversity.
