J&K LG Flags off First Batch of Amarnath Pilgrims from Jammu Base Camp

30-06-2023 : The Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, flagged off the first batch of pilgrims for the Shri Amarnath Cave Shrine in South Kashmir Himalayas. The event took place at the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas base camp in Jammu. The pilgrimage, known as the Amarnath Yatra, is a significant Hindu religious journey that attracts thousands of devotees each year.

The Amarnath Yatra is a 62-day long pilgrimage that will conclude on August 30. It involves a trek to the holy Amarnath Cave, located at an altitude of about 3,880 meters (12,700 feet) in the picturesque Himalayas. Inside the cave, devotees pay their respects to a naturally formed ice stalagmite, believed to represent Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism.

Amidst the chants of ‘Bam Bam Bhole,’ which is a popular slogan associated with Lord Shiva, Manoj Sinha performed the customary prayers and then flagged off the first batch of pilgrims. The enthusiasm and devotion of the devotees were evident as they embarked on their journey towards the Holy Cave.

The initial batch consisted of 3,488 pilgrims, who left the base camp in a convoy of 164 vehicles. Out of these, 1,491 pilgrims in 76 vehicles headed towards Baltal, while 1,997 pilgrims in 84 vehicles set off for Pahalgam. The convoy was escorted by security personnel to ensure the safety and security of the pilgrims throughout their journey.

The Jammu and Kashmir government has made elaborate arrangements for the yatra this year. Considering the large number of expected pilgrims, preparations have been made to facilitate their travel, accommodation, medical facilities, and other essential services. The government aims to ensure a smooth and hassle-free pilgrimage experience for all devotees.

This year, it’s anticipated that around four lakh pilgrims will visit the revered Amarnath Cave Shrine. Hindus attach great religious and cultural significance to the pilgrimage, and devotees from all over India and overseas take part in the yatra. The pilgrimage not only satisfies their spiritual needs but also helps the local economy by generating jobs and encouraging tourism.

The people of Jammu have expressed their happiness over the preparations made by the administration for the pilgrims. They appreciate the efforts taken to organize the yatra efficiently and hope that the influx of pilgrims will have a positive impact on the local economy. The Amarnath Yatra is not only a religious event but also a significant cultural and social occasion that brings people together in devotion and celebration.