Due to essential repair work on the south Kashmir Pahalgam route, authorities have announced that the Amarnath Yatra will exclusively proceed via the Baltal route until it concludes on August 19.
Officials from the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) reported that recent rains have damaged the Pahalgam-Cave shrine path. As repair work is underway, pilgrims will need to use the central Kashmir Baltal-Cave shrine route for the remainder of this year’s Yatra. Since the pilgrimage commenced on June 29, around 5 lakh devotees have had ‘Darshan’ at the holy cave shrine as of Tuesday. This number surpasses last year’s total of 4.45 lakh Yatris.
Security forces, including police and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), are on duty around the clock along the over 350 km route from Jammu to the two base camps, ensuring the safety of pilgrims. Additionally, security personnel are stationed in sufficient numbers at transit camps, base camps, and the cave shrine itself.
Local residents play a significant role in assisting pilgrims, providing ponies and working as porters to help devotees, especially the weak and infirm, complete the mountainous journey. The SASB, led by Lt Governor Manoj Sinha, manages the Yatra with professional efficiency, contributing to a safe, smooth, and hassle-free pilgrimage through the rugged Himalayan terrain.
The cave shrine, situated at an altitude of 3,888 meters in the Kashmir Himalayas, houses an ice stalagmite that devotees believe symbolizes the mythical powers of Lord Shiva. Pilgrims typically approach the shrine via either the traditional south Kashmir Pahalgam route or the north Kashmir Baltal route. The Pahalgam-Cave shrine route is 48 km long and takes 4-5 days to traverse, whereas the Baltal-Cave shrine route is 14 km long, allowing for a one-day round trip.
Helicopter services are available for pilgrims on both routes, from Baltal and Chandanwari on the south Kashmir route. This year’s Yatra, which will conclude after 52 days on August 19, coincides with the Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan festivals.
