Brimming with devotion and excitement, hundreds of pilgrims gathered at the Bhagwati Nagar base camp in Jammu as the first batch set off for the annual Amarnath Yatra. The pilgrims expressed unwavering faith and praised the extensive security arrangements and facilities provided by the administration for the sacred journey. Many devotees and saints described the atmosphere as spiritually charged and eagerly awaited the pilgrimage throughout the year.
“The weather has been very pleasant, and the security arrangements are excellent. There is nothing to fear. This is my second Amarnath Yatra,” said one devotee. Another pilgrim expressed excitement, eagerly anticipating the darshan and feeling blessed to be part of the journey. The first day of the pilgrimage was highlighted as holding special significance, with devotees expressing no fear or anxiety as they embarked on the holy cave shrine.
A saint mentioned the excitement of the journey, describing it as the initial stage of their Kailash Yatra, with the final stage in Jammu at Harmukh Kailash. The tradition, followed since ancient times, was praised for its excellent security and overall arrangements for the pilgrims. First-time pilgrims also shared their enthusiasm, noting the tremendous support and assistance provided by the administration and Army personnel.
The pilgrimage, a wonderful experience for many, was described as a blessing by one saint who highlighted the excellent facilities and dedicated service offered to saints and devotees every year. Long-time pilgrims commended the government’s arrangements over the past 32 years, particularly for elderly and specially abled pilgrims. The comprehensive preparations and excellent arrangements for the Yatra were acknowledged by a saint from Jabalpur in Madhya Pradesh, on their third pilgrimage seeking the blessings of Baba Barfani.
Earlier, J&K Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha flagged off the first batch of pilgrims for the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra-2026 from Jammu, officially commencing the annual pilgrimage amid tight security and logistical preparations. The flag-off ceremony saw enthusiastic participation from devotees, officials, and security personnel as the first convoy embarked on the sacred journey to the revered Amarnath cave shrine.
