The spiritual journey to the holy Amarnath Cave Shrine commenced with deep devotion and massive enthusiasm as the first batch of 5,892 pilgrims embarked on the 38-day sacred Yatra. Amid tight multi-tier security, the yatra officially began on from the Bhagwati Nagar base camp in Jammu, setting the stage for an emotionally charged and spiritually uplifting season.
This year’s pilgrimage follows the Nunwan-Pahalgam route (48 km) and the shorter but steeper Baltal route (14 km), taking devotees to the 3,880-meter-high cave shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva in the Himalayas of Kashmir.
Over 3.31 Lakh Devotees Registered; First Batch Includes Women, Children, and Transgenders
According to official reports, 5,892 pilgrims, including 1,115 women, 31 children, and 16 transgenders, departed at 4:30 AM from the Bhagwati Nagar base camp. More than 3.31 lakh yatris have already registered for the annual Amarnath Yatra this year, and on-the-spot registrations are ongoing for last-minute spiritual seekers.
Lieutenant Governor Flags Off the Yatra, Offers Prayers at Base Camp
Jammu and Kashmir’s Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha performed a special puja at Bhagwati Nagar base camp and flagged off the first convoy to the twin base camps in the Kashmir Valley. He was joined by local MLAs, top officials, and religious leaders during the flagging-off ceremony.
“Wishing all pilgrims a safe, peaceful, and soul-stirring journey to the holy abode of Baba Amarnath,” the LG said, adding that the spiritual energy in Jammu city feels like a festival as devotees gather in large numbers.
Full-Proof 24×7 Security with Technology Integration
Security for the Amarnath Yatra 2025 has been significantly upgraded. The pilgrimage is now monitored round-the-clock via the Integrated Command and Control Centre at Raj Bhawan and the Police Control Room. An RFID-based tracking system has been implemented to monitor pilgrim movement and ensure safety throughout the journey.
To provide health facilities, ONGC has constructed 100-bed hospitals at both Chandanwari and Baltal base camps. The administration has also inaugurated a new Yatri Niwas and board office in Srinagar, with another facility to be opened in Baltal on July 4.
Road Infrastructure & Accommodation Significantly Improved
The infrastructure along the Yatra routes has also seen remarkable development. The twin routes, previously six feet wide, have been expanded to twelve feet, ensuring smoother and safer passage for the pilgrims.
Additionally, food, lodging, sanitation, and medical services have been improved and widely appreciated by yatris arriving from across India.
Pilgrims Show Resilience Amid Terror Threats
Despite recent terror incidents, including the April 22 Pahalgam terrorist attack that claimed 26 lives, the spirit of the pilgrims remains unshaken.
“Let terrorists do what they will. We will never stop visiting Baba Amarnath,” said Sarwanand Patel, a pilgrim from Gujarat.
“We are not afraid,” added Sunita, a teenage pilgrim from Uttar Pradesh.
“Security and arrangements are excellent,” noted Ramesh Chander, a regular visitor who has been part of the yatra for nine consecutive years.
Their collective voice stands as a powerful rebuke to terrorism and a strong affirmation of faith.
City of Jammu Turns Divine Hub of Activity
As the convoys made their way to the base camps, the city of Jammu transformed into a spiritual haven, echoing with chants of “Bum Bum Bhole” and “Har Har Mahadev.” Over 4,000 pilgrims braved rain and restrictions to commence their journey to the holy shrine.
Strict Security Protocols Enforced Across Yatra Route
To safeguard the pilgrimage, traffic restrictions have been imposed from July 2 to August 9 on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, with daily traffic advisories and fixed cut-off timings for each route segment. CCTV surveillance has also been enhanced to monitor movement.
DIG Shridhar Patil of the Doda-Kishtwar-Ramban range warned that unauthorized drone activity along the route is strictly prohibited.
“All aerial activities require prior permission. Violators will face legal action,” he asserted.
Pilgrims from All Over India Unite for a Divine Journey
Devotees from all corners of the country are converging in Jammu to undertake this sacred journey. Sat Sharma, J&K BJP President, observed that despite recent setbacks, the atmosphere has transformed into one of devotion and divine positivity.
“The confidence in our security forces and the administration is strong. People believe they are safe and protected during this pilgrimage,” Sharma stated.
The launch of the Amarnath Yatra 2025 marks not just a religious journey but a symbol of collective resilience, unity, and faith. From improved security to better infrastructure, the administration has ensured that every pilgrim experiences a journey that is safe, sacred, and unforgettable.
With lakhs of pilgrims expected to arrive in the coming weeks, the divine rhythm of the mountains is once again echoing with chants of Lord Shiva’s name, reminding us that devotion transcends all fear.
