Jammu, India, 2nd July 2023: The annual pilgrimage to the sacred Amarnath cave shrine in the South Kashmir Himalayas began on a high note as over 8,000 devotees visited the shrine on the opening day. The pilgrimage, which spans 62 days, commenced from two different routes, with a total of 12,807 pilgrims undertaking the journey since the first batch was inaugurated by Lt Governor Manoj Sinha on June 30.
On Sunday, a fresh group of 4,903 pilgrims set off from the base camp to embark on the spiritual journey. The Amarnath cave shrine, located at an altitude of 3,880 meters, attracts devotees from all over the country who come to offer their prayers and seek blessings.
The pilgrimage is conducted through two main routes: the traditional 48-kilometre Nunwan-Pahalgam route in the Anantnag district and the shorter but steeper 14-kilometre Baltal route in the Ganderbal district. Both routes provide unique experiences and challenges for the pilgrims.
According to officials, a group of 2,557 devotees, including 379 women and 226 sadhus, departed for Pahalgam in 104 vehicles, while another convoy of 131 vehicles transported 2,346 pilgrims to the Baltal base camp early on the same day. The authorities have made necessary arrangements to ensure the safety and comfort of the pilgrims throughout their journey.
The pilgrimage to the Amarnath cave shrine holds immense religious significance for Hindus, as it is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva. Pilgrims undertake this challenging journey to pay homage to the ice stalagmite, which forms naturally inside the cave and is considered to be a manifestation of Lord Shiva.
To streamline the pilgrimage and ensure the smooth flow of devotees, over 350,000 individuals have registered online for the yatra so far. The authorities have implemented various measures to manage the pilgrimage effectively, including providing medical facilities, security arrangements, and other essential services along the routes.
The annual yatra to the Amarnath shrine is not only a religious event but also a cultural and social gathering that promotes harmony and unity among people from diverse backgrounds. It is a time for devotees to connect with their spiritual beliefs and experience the natural beauty of the Himalayan region.
As the pilgrimage continues, authorities are committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment for all the pilgrims. Strict adherence to COVID-19 protocols and guidelines has been emphasized to ensure the well-being of everyone involved in the yatra.
The Amarnath pilgrimage is a significant event in the religious calendar of India, attracting devotees who seek spiritual solace and divine blessings. It is a time of devotion, introspection, and reverence as thousands of pilgrims embark on this sacred journey to express their faith and devotion to Lord Shiva at the revered Amarnath cave shrine.
