JAMMU, Apr 15: The registration process for the annual Amarnath Yatra commenced on Wednesday, drawing an overwhelming response from devotees in Jammu. Long queues were witnessed at designated bank counters early in the morning, reflecting heightened enthusiasm for the revered pilgrimage.
The advance registration facility has been made available through both online and offline platforms to ensure accessibility for pilgrims across the country.
The 57 day pilgrimage is scheduled to begin on July 3 and will conclude on August 28, coinciding with the auspicious occasion of Raksha Bandhan. Devotees will undertake the journey via two routes the traditional 48-km Nunwan-Pahalgam track in Anantnag and the shorter but steeper 14-km Baltal route in Ganderbal.
Officials confirmed a significant rush at registration centres. According to representatives of Punjab National Bank, which serves as the nodal bank for the yatra, multiple counters have been established to manage the growing footfall. Across India, over 500 bank branches are participating in the process, with a substantial number dedicated to facilitating registrations.
In Jammu, several branches, including those of Jammu & Kashmir Bank and Punjab National Bank, reported heavy turnout as devotees queued up well before opening hours to secure early slots.
Pilgrims expressed eagerness to be part of the initial batches of the yatra. Many highlighted improvements in infrastructure and overall conditions in the Kashmir region, encouraging greater participation this year. Repeat yatra is also emphasized the spiritual significance of the journey, calling it an essential annual ritual.
Authorities anticipate a further rise in registrations in the coming weeks and are working towards streamlining procedures to ensure a smoother experience for pilgrims nationwide.