A fresh batch of 5,794 pilgrims, including 1,211 women, departed from the Bhagwati Nagar base camp in Jammu early Monday for the annual Amarnath Yatra, officials said. This fifth convoy brings the total number of pilgrims who have offered prayers at the holy cave shrine to around 60,000 since the yatra began on July 3.
Composition of the Fifth Batch
The fifth batch comprised 21 children, 599 sadhus, and 76 sadhvis, according to officials. The pilgrims left the base camp in separate convoys between 3:10 am and 3:45 am under tight security arrangements.
Of these, 3,490 pilgrims traveling in 139 vehicles headed to the Nuwan base camp in Pahalgam, while 2,304 pilgrims in 128 vehicles set off for the Baltal base camp.
Two Routes to the Shrine
Pilgrims are undertaking the yatra simultaneously via two routes: the traditional 48-kilometer Nunwan-Pahalgam route in Anantnag district and the shorter but steeper 14-kilometer Baltal route in Ganderbal district. Both routes are heavily guarded by security forces to ensure the safety of the devotees.
Progress of the Yatra
Since the commencement of the yatra on July 3, approximately 60,000 pilgrims have had darshan at the 3,880-meter-high cave shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. The yatra is expected to continue for several weeks, with more batches scheduled to depart from Jammu daily.
Officials stated that the pilgrimage is proceeding smoothly despite challenging weather conditions. The Shri Amarnath Shrine Board has made extensive arrangements for the comfort and safety of the pilgrims, including medical facilities, food, and accommodation along the routes.
