Amarnath Yatra Sees Surging Footfall; Boosting Kashmir Pilgrimage Tourism

Over 3.07 lakh pilgrims have undertaken the sacred Amarnath Yatra during its first 18 days, officials confirmed on Sunday. With the Yatra due to end on 9 August, the number is now on track to exceed the official projection of 3.5 lakh for this year’s 38-day pilgrimage.

On Sunday, 3,791 more Yatris left from Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu for the Kashmir Valley in two escorted convoys.

The first convoy carried 1,208 pilgrims in 52 vehicles to the Baltal base camp, while the second transported 2,583 Yatris in 96 vehicles to the Pahalgam base camp.

Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor Manoj Sinha, who also chairs the Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB), visited the Baltal base camp to assess the arrangements.

During his visit, the L-G dined with pilgrims at a Langer (community kitchen) and expressed satisfaction over the multi-tier security and logistical systems in place.

“I commend the dedication of the teams ensuring the safe and smooth conduct of this holy Yatra,” said the L-G while interacting with pilgrims.

Chhari Mubarak Rituals Underway

The Bhumi Pujan of the Chhari Mubarak, the sacred mace of Lord Shiva, took place on 10 July at the Gauri Shankar Temple in Pahalgam.

Mahant Swami Deependra Giri, the sole custodian, led the return of the Chhari Mubarak to its resting place at Dashnami Akhara in Srinagar.

The Chhari Mubarak will begin its final journey to the cave shrine on 4 August and conclude the Yatra on 9 August.

In light of the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which tragically claimed 26 lives, authorities have intensified security.

An additional 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) have been deployed alongside the Army, BSF, CRPF, SSB, and local police.

The Army alone has positioned over 8,000 trained commandos along both pilgrimage routes.

The cave shrine, located 3,888 metres above sea level, houses a naturally formed ice stalagmite believed to symbolise Lord Shiva.

Pilgrims undertake the journey via either the 46-km Pahalgam route or the shorter 14-km Baltal route.

Authorities have suspended helicopter services this year due to enhanced security protocols.

With strong faith and improved facilities, the Amarnath Yatra 2024 continues to witness an overwhelming spiritual response from devotees across the country.

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