First Batch of Amarnath Yatra Pilgrims Set Off to Jammu Base Camp
The annual pilgrimage to the revered Amarnath Cave Temple in Jammu and Kashmir has officially begun with the departure of the first batch of pilgrims from Lakhanpur to the Bhagwati Nagar base camp in Jammu. The pilgrims set off under tight security, marking the beginning of the annual Amarnath Yatra, which is scheduled to commence on July 3, 2025.
The departure of the first batch of pilgrims was preceded by a series of mock drills conducted by the security forces, including the Jammu and Kashmir Police, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). These drills aimed to prepare the security personnel for any eventuality and ensure a smooth and safe journey for the pilgrims.
According to reports, the first batch of pilgrims departed from Lakhanpur early in the morning, accompanied by a large contingent of security personnel. The pilgrims will reach the Bhagwati Nagar base camp in Jammu, where they will undergo a series of checks and procedures before embarking on their journey to the Amarnath Cave Temple.
The Amarnath Yatra is one of the most revered and popular pilgrimages in India, attracting millions of devotees from across the country and abroad every year. The yatra is a 43-kilometer trek from the base camp to the shrine, which is situated at an altitude of 3,888 meters above sea level.
The journey to the Amarnath Cave Temple is considered a challenging one, with pilgrims having to navigate through treacherous terrain and unpredictable weather conditions. However, the devotion and faith of the pilgrims make the journey worthwhile, as they strive to catch a glimpse of the revered Shiva Lingam, which is said to be formed naturally by the freeze-thaw process of snow and water.
The Amarnath Yatra is also considered a significant event in the context of Indian history and culture. The yatra is said to have been undertaken by the great saint and warrior, Adi Shankaracharya, who is believed to have established the yatra in the 8th century.
The Amarnath Yatra is also a major economic boost to the local economy, with thousands of people dependent on the pilgrimage for their livelihood. The yatra also provides an opportunity for the local people to showcase their hospitality and culture to the pilgrims, making it a unique and enriching experience for all concerned.
In recent years, the Amarnath Yatra has been marred by controversy and security concerns, with several incidents of stone-pelting and protests by separatist groups in the Kashmir Valley. However, the security forces have been working tirelessly to ensure the safety and security of the pilgrims, and the yatra has been successful in recent years.
The Amarnath Yatra is expected to continue until August 15, 2025, with thousands of pilgrims expected to undertake the journey over the next few weeks. The yatra will be closely monitored by the security forces, who will be deployed in large numbers to ensure the safety and security of the pilgrims.
In conclusion, the departure of the first batch of Amarnath Yatra pilgrims from Lakhanpur to the Bhagwati Nagar base camp in Jammu marks the official start of the annual pilgrimage. The yatra is expected to be a significant event, with thousands of pilgrims expected to undertake the journey over the next few weeks. The security forces will be working tirelessly to ensure the safety and security of the pilgrims, and the yatra is expected to be a successful one.
