During the past six days, the Amarnath Yatra has seen an impressive turnout of over 84,000 pilgrims, as a fresh group of 7,010 Yatris departed from Jammu to make their way to the Valley on Friday.
Since its commencement on July 1, this year’s Amarnath Yatra has attracted a substantial number of devotees, with more than 84,000 Yatris undertaking the pilgrimage.
Yesterday, a total of 17,202 pilgrims were able to have ‘Darshan’ inside the sacred cave.
Today, an escorted convoy comprising 7,010 Yatris departed from Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu, heading towards the Valley.
Among the group, there are 5,179 males, 1,549 females, 21 children, 228 Sadhus, and 33 Sadhvis, as confirmed by officials.
Pilgrims approach the Himalayan cave shrine through either the traditional south Kashmir Pahalgam route, which involves a 43-kilometer uphill trek from the Pahalgam base camp, or the north Kashmir Baltal base camp route, which requires a 13-kilometer uphill trek.
Those opting for the traditional Pahalgam route typically take 3-4 days to reach the cave shrine, whereas those using the Baltal route can return to the base camp on the same day after having the Darshan inside the cave shrine, located at an elevation of 3,888 meters above sea level. Helicopter services are available for Yatris on both routes.
The cave shrine is home to an ice stalagmite structure that devotees believe symbolizes the mystical powers of Lord Shiva. This ice stalagmite structure undergoes waxing and waning with the phases of the moon.
The 62-day long Amarnath Yatra, which commenced on July 1, is scheduled to conclude on August 31, coinciding with the Shravan Purnima festival.
To ensure the well-being of the pilgrims and protect them from altitude sickness, authorities have implemented a ban on junk food at the free community kitchens, known as ‘Langars,’ established along both Yatra routes. The banned items include all bottled drinks, halwai items, fried foods, and tobacco-based products. (EDITED)