57-day Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra to begin from July 3, window for advance registration opens on April 15
Jammu, April 12
The echoes of "Bam Bam Bhole" are set to resonate through the Kashmir Himalayas once again. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who also serves as the Chairman of the Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board, officially announced today that the annual pilgrimage to the holy cave shrine of Amarnath will commence on July 3 and conclude on August 28 on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan, spanning a total of 57 days.
Addressing reporters here, LG Sinha said, "The pilgrimage will begin on July 3rd and conclude on Rakshabandhan on August 28th. Overall, this year's pilgrimage will be slightly longer. It will span 57 days. The Pratham Puja will be held on Jyeshtha Purnima, 29 June 2026. Registration will begin on April 15th."
He added that advance registration facilities will be available both online and offline. "Advance registration is available at 554 bank branches. Jammu and Kashmir Bank, Punjab National Bank, State Bank of India, and Yes Bank have various branches across the country where this registration will be conducted. Online registration can also be done through the official website of the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board," LG Sinha said.
The Lieutenant Governor further stated that devotees must be between 13 and 70 years of age to be eligible for the Yatra. He noted that participation has witnessed a steady rise in recent years, reflecting growing faith and improved infrastructure.
Highlighting arrangements, LG Sinha said several initiatives have been introduced to enhance safety and convenience. RFID cards have been made mandatory for all pilgrims, while group accidental insurance cover has been increased from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 10 lakh.
He also pointed to significant infrastructure upgrades, including widening of tracks on both Baltal and Nunwan routes, improved bridges, and strengthened disaster management mechanisms with deployment of mountain rescue teams and security forces.
"With better facilities, real-time monitoring, improved sanitation, and enhanced connectivity, the Yatra experience has significantly improved. Devotees are more satisfied with the arrangements compared to previous years," LG Sinha added.
The Lieutenant Governor said extensive preparations are underway to ensure a safe and smooth pilgrimage for thousands of devotees expected to participate this year.
— ANI
Reader Comments
My parents went last year and they were very happy with the arrangements, especially the sanitation facilities. The widening of tracks is much needed. Hope the weather remains favourable this time. Good to see the registration process is so accessible with so many bank branches.
While the improvements are commendable, I hope the focus on infrastructure doesn't overshadow the environmental impact. The Himalayas are fragile. The authorities must ensure strict waste management protocols are followed by all pilgrims and service providers. A respectful suggestion for a greener Yatra.
As someone who has visited Kashmir as a tourist, it's heartening to see such detailed planning for a large-scale spiritual event. The real-time monitoring and mountain rescue teams are crucial. Wishing all the devotees a safe and profound journey.
The fact that it concludes on Raksha Bandhan feels very auspicious. Planning a trip with my brother. The age limit of 13-70 seems practical given the terrain. Kudos to the J&K administration and the Shrine Board for the streamlined process. Bam Bam Bhole!
My grandmother did the Yatra at 68 last year and said the medical camps were a lifesaver. Hearing about more improvements gives us confidence. Hope the online registration portal doesn't crash due to high traffic on the first day!
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