New Delhi (Agency): The ongoing Amarnath Yatra has seen a significant turnout as approximately 7,000 pilgrims completed the sacred journey on its 30th day. On Monday, a group of 1,550 pilgrims left Jammu for the Valley, marking the latest addition to the record-breaking Yatra season.
Officials reported that on the 30th day, around 7,000 pilgrims had the opportunity for ‘darshan’ (holy visit) inside the revered cave. The batch that departed Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu on Monday was the smallest since the Yatra commenced on July 1.
The group consisted of 1,165 male, 354 female, seven children, 19 Sadhus, and five Sadhvis. So far, the Yatra has witnessed 36 pilgrim fatalities.
The Amarnath Yatra offers two routes to reach the Himalayan cave shrine. One is the traditional south Kashmir Pahalgam route, involving a strenuous uphill trek of 43 km. The other option is from the north Kashmir Baltal base camp, requiring a 14 km uphill trek. Pilgrims using the Pahalgam route take three to four days to reach the cave shrine, while those on the Baltal route can return the same day after ‘darshan.’
Additionally, helicopter services are available for Yatris (pilgrims) on both routes, providing a faster and easier alternative.
The cave shrine houses an ice stalagmite structure believed to symbolize the mythical powers of Lord Shiva. This ice structure fluctuates in size with the phases of the moon.
The 62-day Amarnath Yatra, starting on July 1 and ending on August 31, coinciding with Raksha Bandhan, has seen an unprecedented number of participants.
To ensure the well-being of pilgrims and protect them from high altitude sickness, authorities have imposed a ban on junk food at the free community kitchens known as ‘Langars’ set up along both Yatra routes. Items such as bottled drinks, halwai items, fried foods, and tobacco-based products are prohibited.
The 2023 Amarnath Yatra continues to captivate devotees from all walks of life as they seek to complete this sacred journey amidst the majestic landscapes of the Himalayas.
