Jammu Kashmir – The annual pilgrimage to the sacred Amarnath Cave Temple will commence on July 3 this year and conclude on August 28. The announcement was made by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who confirmed that the yatra will last for 57 days—slightly longer than previous years.
Registration Process and Eligibility
Registration for the pilgrimage will begin from April 15 and will be mandatory for all devotees. Pilgrims can register through selected bank branches across the country as well as via the official website of the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board.
Devotees aged between 13 and 70 years will be eligible to undertake the journey. Authorities have clearly stated that individuals below 13 years and above 70 years will not be permitted to participate, keeping safety concerns in mind.
Banks Offering Registration Facility
To make the process accessible, several major banks have been authorized to handle registrations. These include Yes Bank, ICICI Bank, Punjab National Bank, State Bank of India, and Axis Bank. Around 556 designated branches nationwide will assist pilgrims with advance registration.
Two Routes for Pilgrimage
The yatra will be conducted via two routes. The traditional 48-kilometre Nunwan-Pahalgam route in Anantnag district remains the longer but more gradual path. The alternative route is the shorter 14-kilometre Baltal route in Ganderbal district, which is steeper and more challenging.
First Puja on June 19
The Lieutenant Governor also informed that the first ritual prayer will be held on June 19, coinciding with the auspicious occasion of Jyestha Purnima.
Decision Taken in SASB Meeting
The schedule and arrangements were finalized during a meeting of the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board chaired by Manoj Sinha. Authorities are preparing to ensure a smooth and safe pilgrimage for devotees arriving from across the country.