SRINAGAR/JAMMU, July 3, 2025 : The much-awaited Amarnath Yatra officially commenced today, with thousands of pilgrims setting out from both Jammu and Kashmir base camps toward the sacred cave shrine high in the Himalayas. The 38-day pilgrimage, now shortened from previous years, began amid chants of “Har Har Mahadev” and “Bam Bam Bhole,” under a robust security apparatus ensuring devotees’ safety and spiritual journey.

From Bhagwati Nagar in Jammu, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha flagged off the first convoy early Wednesday morning, dispatching 5,892 registered pilgrims via 310 vehicles toward the twin routes of Pahalgam (Nunwan-Chandanwari) and Baltal, the latter being a shorter but steeper 14‑km trail . Among these pilgrims were 1,115 women, 31 children, and 16 transgender devotees , accompanied by hundreds of Sadhus clad in saffron, their presence adding to the pilgrimage’s spiritual ambiance.

In Srinagar, the first aarti was performed inside the holy cave this morning—an emotional moment captured as devotees sought blessings from Baba Barfani, the naturally formed ice lingam, marking the heart of their devotion . This ritual signals the yatra’s full momentum, with festive fervor and collective faith guiding each step uphill.

Security measures have been intensified substantially following a terror incident in April. A multi-tier security grid manned by over 581 Central Armed Police Force companies, including CRPF, BSF, ITBP, and J&K Police, ensures vigilant protection . Integrated surveillance includes drones, facial recognition systems, RFID tracking tags for pilgrims and vehicles, drone-jammers, K9 units, and frequent checkpoint and cordon operations . Daily security drills at Yatri Niwas and base camps have reinforced operational readiness .

The Srinagar–Jammu highway has been modified for pilgrimage traffic, with special lanes reserved for pilgrim convoys and advisories discouraging unauthorized travel . Helicopter services have been temporarily suspended to maintain convoy integrity and security .

Logistical arrangements have also been upgraded. A new Yatri Niwas in Pantha Chowk, Srinagar, now accommodates over 1,300 yatris . Along the routes, pilgrim shelters, medical aid stations, community kitchens, and langars have been enhanced. Field hospitals near Chandanwari and Baltal are operational, and trekking trails widened to 12 feet for safer movement .

Today’s commencement also follows comprehensive preparation reviews. On June 30, authorities conducted mock drills simulating road safety, landslide emergencies, and glacier outburst scenarios . Administrative focus on civil amenities—power, water, sanitation—is being closely coordinated with security planning.

With more than 331,000 pilgrims registered so far and numbers rising daily , the pilgrimage reflects India’s spiritual unity, transcending regional and cultural divides. The jointly orchestrated effort of the Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board, J&K administration, CAPFs, civil authorities, and local communities demonstrates a rare synergy of faith and administration.

As the 38-day yatra progresses toward its conclusion on August 9, 2025, pilgrims face not only the physical challenge of altitude and terrain but also the promise of spiritual transformation. This year’s Amarnath Yatra thus stands as a testament to the balance of devotion, cultural resilience, and modern preparedness in facing contemporary security and environmental challenges.