Jammu/Srinagar – The annual Amarnath Yatra continues with unwavering devotion and meticulous coordination as the 10th batch of 6,482 pilgrims departed from the Bhagwati Nagar base camp in Jammu early Friday morning (July 11, 2025), escorted by a multi-tier security arrangement.
According to officials, the convoy left between 3:20 am and 4:04 am, comprising 268 vehicles. The group included 4,838 men, 1,387 women, 16 children, and 241 sadhus (monks).
Two Convoys, Two Routes
The pilgrims are split into two groups based on the twin routes leading to the 3,880-metre-high Amarnath cave shrine located in the Himalayas of south Kashmir:
- The first convoy, consisting of 107 vehicles and 2,353 pilgrims, is heading toward the Baltal base camp in Ganderbal district. The Baltal route is shorter (14 km) but steeper and more physically demanding.
- The second convoy, comprising 161 vehicles and 4,129 pilgrims, is bound for the Pahalgam base camp in Anantnag district. This traditional 48-km route offers a more gradual and scenic trek.
Yatra So Far
Since the Yatra commenced on July 3, more than 1.30 lakh pilgrims have already had darshan of the sacred ice lingam inside the Amarnath cave, believed to be a manifestation of Lord Shiva.
Since July 2, when Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha flagged off the first group of yatris from Jammu, a total of 69,270 pilgrims have departed from the city for the Kashmir Valley.
Online Registrations and Expectations
Over 4 lakh people have registered online for the 38-day-long pilgrimage, which continues till August 11. The administration hopes to surpass last year’s total of 5.10 lakh devotees.
Massive Security and Logistical Arrangements
The pilgrimage is being conducted under heavy security with personnel from the CRPF, J&K Police, and Army deployed along the routes and at base camps. Multi-layered security, real-time tracking, medical support, and weather-monitoring mechanisms are in place to ensure safety and convenience for the pilgrims.
As the holy yatra gains momentum, the twin routes continue to buzz with spirituality, resilience, and the spirit of service. The coming weeks are expected to witness further surges in pilgrim numbers as devotees from across the country journey to seek blessings at one of Hinduism’s holiest shrines.