The 2025 Amarnath Yatra began on July 3, with over 12,000 pilgrims reaching the holy cave shrine on the first day. Tucked deep in the Himalayas at an altitude of 3,880 meters, the shrine draws thousands of devotees each year. This year’s pilgrimage will run until August 9.
Officials said 12,348 pilgrims offered prayers at the shrine by 7:15 PM on Thursday. This included 9,181 men, 2,223 women, 99 children, 122 sadhus, 7 sadhvis, and 8 transgender devotees. Security personnel also joined the spiritual journey, with 708 making the trek.
Massive turnout marks Yatra start
The first batch of pilgrims began their journey from two base camps, Baltal in Ganderbal and Nunwan in Pahalgam, flagged off by Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Vijay Kumar Bidhuri and Anantnag DC.
Union Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Shobha Karandlaje, joined the Yatra from Baltal. “Today, we are all going to have the darshan of Bholenath. It feels wonderful. The atmosphere here is pleasant, and people are happy,” she told reporters.
Authorities have enforced tight security this year. A three-tier system is in place, supported by real-time monitoring through AI-powered CCTV surveillance. An RFID-based tracking system also helps authorities monitor every pilgrim’s movement for added safety.
“From security forces to pitthus, tents to service providers, everyone is contributing to its success,” said Divisional Commissioner Vijay Kumar Bidhuri. “The enthusiasm among devotees is high. I pray everyone’s wishes are fulfilled and peace prevails.”
Devotees at the base camps expressed confidence in the arrangements. “We are not afraid of terrorism,” said a pilgrim at Pahalgam. “The facilities are excellent.”
“This is my 14th Amarnath Yatra. The arrangements improve every year,” said a pilgrim from Punjab’s Sangrur district.
Pilgrims welcomed with warmth, unity
The second batch of 5,246 pilgrims left the Jammu base camp on Thursday morning. Of these, 1,993 headed to Baltal and 3,253 to Pahalgam. A convoy of 268 vehicles was deployed, including buses, medium and light motor vehicles.
Locals and civil society groups have welcomed the pilgrims warmly. The Pahalgam Alliance greeted visitors with water, juice, and garlands. “Pilgrims were greeted with flowers. Let’s walk together in peace and brotherhood,” said Mushtaq Pahalgami, who leads the group.
Jyotika Solanki, a pilgrim from Baroda, Gujarat, said, “We feel safe here. The security and services are good.”
Local service providers have also stepped in. “We are thrilled to see pilgrims arrive in such large numbers. We will serve them throughout,” said Amir Khatana, a local palanquin carrier.
Political leaders also voiced their support. J&K’s former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said, “May you all be blessed with strength and safety.” The BJP’s Satpal Sharma said, “The neighbouring country will never succeed in disturbing peace in J&K.”
Two routes, strict safety measures
The Yatra follows two main routes:
| Route | District | Length | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nunwan-Pahalgam | Anantnag | 48 km | Longer, gradual |
| Baltal | Ganderbal | 14 km | Shorter, steeper |
Tracks have been widened from six feet to twelve to improve safety and flow. Pilgrims must register in advance with a health certificate. This year’s registration fee is ₹220.
Over 3.3 lakh devotees have already registered, but only 15,000 are allowed each day to manage the crowd.
Helicopter services are banned. The authorities have declared all routes as no-fly zones until August 10. Pilgrims must trek or use ponies or palkis.
Medical facilities have expanded. ONGC has set up 100-bed hospitals at Baltal and Chandanwari. Ramban’s health department has established 17 medical camps, equipped with labs, ECG units, and ambulances.
“We have added more facilities this year, including cardiac monitors and backup ambulances,” said Kamal Zadoo, Chief Medical Officer of Ramban.
No plastic, trek safely, eat
Pilgrims are urged to avoid littering. Plastic is banned, and offenders face legal action. Free meals are available at langars. Devotees are advised to wear trekking shoes and avoid alcohol, caffeine, and fasting before the trek.
Women are asked not to wear sarees while trekking. Recommended attire includes salwar kameez, pants, or tracksuits.
Authorities are coordinating the Yatra through an Integrated Command and Control Centre. Drones are banned unless approved by the district administration. “Flying objects without permission are prohibited,” said DIG Shridhar Patil.
The Kashmir Police reminded pilgrims to travel only in designated convoys and not to arrive too early. This year’s pilgrimage comes amid heightened security concerns following a terror attack in April that killed 26 people in Pahalgam.
Despite the threat, the turnout remains strong. Locals, security forces, and officials say they are committed to making the Yatra safe for everyone.
The Amarnath Yatra 2025 will conclude on August 9.
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