Srinagar, July 3: The Amarnath Yatra 2025 officially commenced as 5,880 pilgrims departed from the Bhagwati Nagar base camp in Jammu, reaching Srinagar on Wednesday evening under unprecedented security arrangements. The 38-day pilgrimage to the 3,880-metre Amarnath cave shrine began Thursday via the Nunwan-Pahalgam and Baltal routes.
Senior officials, including the Srinagar District Commissioner and SSP Srinagar, welcomed the first batch of yatris. The convoy was flagged off by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who extended his wishes for a safe and spiritually fulfilling journey.
“Prayed to Baba Amarnath for peace and blessings to all,” said Lt Governor Sinha during the flag-off ceremony.
Routes, Numbers, and Monitoring System
The yatra is taking place from two designated paths:
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48-km Nunwan-Pahalgam route (Anantnag)
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14-km Baltal route (Ganderbal)
Of the 5,880 pilgrims, 3,403 opted for Pahalgam while 2,489 chose Baltal, officials confirmed. With over 3.31 lakh registrations this year, the majority have chosen the more scenic but longer Pahalgam trail.
To ensure real-time safety, the administration has implemented:
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24×7 surveillance via Integrated Command and Control Centre
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Live tracking through RFID-based system
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Monitoring by the Police Control Room (PCR)
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Security Measures Amplified Post-Terror Attack
The 2025 Amarnath Yatra follows heightened security concerns after a terror attack in April in Pahalgam, which claimed 26 civilian lives, mostly tourists. In response:
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A multi-tier security cordon has been deployed
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Personnel from CRPF, Jammu and Kashmir Police, Indian Army, and intelligence agencies are actively involved
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Drone surveillance and mobile command vehicles are also in place
“The yatra is not just spiritual — it’s also symbolic of national unity and resilience,” said an official from the J&K administration.
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Pilgrims Show Resolve Amid Fear
Many pilgrims, including families and elderly devotees, have expressed unwavering determination. A yatri from Mumbai, who wished to remain anonymous, said:
“This journey is a tribute to those who died in the terror attack. We want to send a clear message — we are not afraid.”
Last year’s Amarnath Yatra saw over 5 lakh pilgrims, the highest footfall in 12 years. Authorities hope to maintain smooth conduct this year, despite weather and security challenges.
FAQs (Schema-Optimized)
Q1: How many pilgrims began the Amarnath Yatra 2025?
A total of 5,880 pilgrims were part of the first convoy flagged off from Jammu for the 2025 Amarnath Yatra.
Q2: What are the two main routes for the Amarnath Yatra?
The yatra takes place through the 48-km Nunwan-Pahalgam route and the 14-km Baltal route, with Pahalgam being longer and more scenic.
Q3: What security measures are in place for the Yatra?
The pilgrimage is monitored 24×7 using RFID tracking, command centres, and a multi-tier security deployment involving the Army, Police, and CRPF.
Q4: Is the yatra affected by previous terror incidents?
Yes, security has been intensified following a terror attack in April 2025, but pilgrims have shown strong resolve to continue.
Q5: How many pilgrims have registered for 2025?
Over 3.31 lakh pilgrims have registered for the yatra this year, with a majority choosing the Pahalgam route.