Over the past 21 days, the Amarnath Yatra has witnessed an impressive participation of more than 300,000 pilgrims. This marks a record-breaking number, as 13,797 Yatris were able to have ‘darshan’ inside the holy cave on Friday, despite challenging weather conditions.
Today, a convoy comprising 3,475 Yatris, including 2,731 males, 663 females, 12 children, 63 Sadhus, three Sadhvis, and three transgenders, left Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu, heading towards the Valley under proper guidance.
The Yatris have two primary routes to approach the Himalayan cave shrine. The traditional route from south Kashmir-Pahalgam covers a challenging 43 km uphill trek from the Pahalgam base camp, taking three to four days to reach the cave shrine. On the other hand, the north Kashmir Baltal base camp route involves a 13 km uphill trek, and those using it can return to the base camp on the same day after having ‘darshan’ inside the cave shrine, which sits at an altitude of 3,888 meters above sea level.
For convenience, helicopter services are available for Yatris on both routes. The cave shrine itself houses an ice stalagmite structure, believed by devotees to symbolize the mythical powers of Lord Shiva. Interestingly, the ice stalagmite structure undergoes changes, waxing and waning with the phases of the moon.
The Amarnath Yatra, lasting for 62 days, commenced on July 1 and will conclude on August 31, coinciding with the Shravan Purnima festival.
To ensure the well-being of the pilgrims and protect them from high altitude sickness, authorities have imposed a ban on all junk food at the ‘Langars’ or free community kitchens along both Yatra routes. The prohibited items include bottled drinks, Halwai items, fried foods, and tobacco-based products. This measure aims to enhance the overall safety and health of the participants.