More than 12,000 pilgrims performed darshan of the ice 'Shivling' at the holy Amarnath cave shrine in south Kashmir's Anantnag district on the first day of the annual Amarnath Yatra, officials said on Friday.
Massive turnout on opening day
The 46-day yatra, which began on Thursday, saw a heavy rush of devotees. According to the Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB), 12,356 pilgrims had the darshan of the naturally formed ice 'Shivling' on the first day. The yatra will conclude on August 28.
The pilgrims, who had gathered at the base camps in Jammu and Kashmir, were escorted by security forces to the cave shrine located at an altitude of 3,880 metres in the Himalayas. The administration has made elaborate arrangements for the safety and convenience of the pilgrims.
Security and logistics
Over 40,000 security personnel, including paramilitary forces and local police, have been deployed along the two routes—the traditional Pahalgam route and the shorter Baltal route. The Jammu and Kashmir administration has set up langars (community kitchens), medical camps, and rest facilities at various points.
According to officials, the yatra is expected to attract over 3.5 lakh pilgrims this year. The SASB has issued advisories for pilgrims to carry warm clothing, rain gear, and necessary medicines due to the unpredictable weather conditions in the upper reaches.
Pilgrims share their experience
Many devotees expressed their joy and spiritual satisfaction. "It is a divine experience. I have been waiting for this moment for years," said a pilgrim from Maharashtra. Another pilgrim from Delhi said, "The arrangements are very good. We feel safe and well taken care of."
The Amarnath Yatra holds immense significance for Hindus, who believe that the ice Shivling represents the abode of Lord Shiva. The cave shrine is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in India.
