J&K LG Flags Off First Batch Of Amarnath Yatra Pilgrims From Jammu Amid Tight Security

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday flagged off the first batch of pilgrims for the annual Amarnath Yatra from Jammu to the Kashmir Valley, marking the start of the 36-day pilgrimage, which officially begins on Thursday.

Amid chants of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai,” “Bum Bum Bhole,” and “Barfani Baba Ne Bulaya Hai,” enthusiastic pilgrims from across the country departed in two escorted convoys from the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas on Canal Road. The pilgrims are heading towards the two main base camps – Pahalgam in Anantnag district and Baltal in Ganderbal district.

The Lt Governor, who also serves as the Chairman of the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB), was accompanied by senior civil and police officials during the flag-off ceremony.

This year’s Yatra is being conducted under unprecedented security arrangements, particularly in the wake of the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam. To ensure the safety of pilgrims, an additional 180 companies of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) have been deployed to reinforce the existing security grid, which includes the Indian Army, paramilitary forces, and the J&K Police.

The Yatra will conclude on August 9, coinciding with Shravan Purnima and the festival of Raksha Bandhan.

Pilgrims reach the holy cave shrine, located at an altitude of 3,888 metres, via two routes— the traditional Pahalgam route and the shorter Baltal route.

Those taking the Pahalgam route undertake a four-day, 46-km trek passing through Chandanwari, Sheshnag, and Panchtarni before reaching the cave shrine. In contrast, pilgrims opting for the Baltal route complete a 14-km trek and usually return to the base camp the same day after having darshan at the shrine.

The sacred cave houses a naturally formed ice stalagmite, believed by devotees to symbolize the mythical powers of Lord Shiva. The structure waxes and wanes with the phases of the moon, adding to its spiritual significance.

Amarnath Yatra 2025: Route Options – Baltal vs Pahalgam

There are two Amarnath Yatra routes to reach the Holy Cave: the Baltal route and the Pahalgam route.

The Pahalgam route covers a distance of approximately 36 kilometers and typically takes between three to five days to complete. It is ideal for those who prefer a slower, more scenic trek through the breathtaking landscapes of the Kashmir Valley. This traditional route passes through key halting points such as Chandanwari, Sheshnag, and Panchtarni, making it well-suited for pilgrims who wish to experience the spiritual journey at a more relaxed pace.

The Baltal route, on the other hand, is much shorter—about 14 kilometers – but significantly steeper and more challenging. It usually takes one to two days to complete and is best suited for physically fit individuals or those with limited time. Many pilgrims using this route complete the journey and return on the same day after having darshan at the cave shrine.

Both routes offer unique experiences, and the choice depends on individual preferences, physical fitness, and time availability.