The annual Amarnath Yatra commenced on Friday with the first batch of 4,822 pilgrims beginning their journey to the holy cave shrine through the Baltal and Pahalgam routes in Jammu and Kashmir. Authorities expect more than four lakh devotees to undertake the 57-day pilgrimage, which will continue until August 28.

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha flagged off the first convoy from the Bhagwati Nagar Base Camp in Jammu. The pilgrims travelled in 259 vehicles under elaborate security arrangements before reaching Kashmir to continue the pilgrimage towards the cave shrine, located at an altitude of 3,888 metres.

The first batch includes 3,707 men, 816 women, 16 children and 246 sadhus. Devotees will offer prayers at the naturally formed ice Shivling, popularly known as Baba Barfani, inside the sacred Amarnath cave.

Authorities have strengthened security across both pilgrimage routes following extensive preparations. Security personnel have been deployed at key locations, while checkpoints and convoy monitoring systems are in place to ensure the safe movement of pilgrims.

Weather remains one of the biggest challenges for this year's pilgrimage. Intermittent rainfall has been reported over the past two days along the Baltal route, and the India Meteorological Department has forecast heavy rain in the region until July 6. In previous years, heavy rainfall and landslides forced temporary suspension of the Yatra, particularly on the Baltal route, which passes through several vulnerable stretches.

To improve pilgrim safety, authorities have installed 12 rainproof domes and shelter sheds along the Baltal-to-cave route. Large emergency shelters have also been established near Sangam and close to the holy cave to accommodate devotees in case of adverse weather conditions. Pilgrims have been advised to descend immediately after completing darshan to avoid congestion and weather-related risks.

Medical infrastructure has also been significantly enhanced this year. Nearly 1,000 doctors and healthcare personnel have been deployed along both routes. Temporary 100-bed hospitals have been established on the Baltal and Pahalgam routes to provide emergency medical care.

Oxygen booths have been installed at intervals of one to two kilometres to assist pilgrims facing breathing difficulties at high altitudes. Authorities have also arranged medical aid centres, emergency response units and oxygen-equipped camps at strategic locations, including Domel, Railpathri, Barari, Sangam Top, Chandanwari, Pissu Top and Sheshnag.

Real-time weather information is being displayed on digital screens at multiple locations, while regular announcements are being made at the base camps to keep pilgrims informed about changing weather conditions and route advisories.

The Amarnath Yatra is one of Hinduism's most significant annual pilgrimages, drawing devotees from across India and abroad. With enhanced security, medical facilities and weather monitoring systems in place, authorities are aiming to ensure a safe and smooth pilgrimage despite the challenging terrain and unpredictable weather.

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Amarnath Yatra 2026 Begins With First Batch of Pilgrims

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The Amarnath Yatra has begun with 4,822 pilgrims setting out under tight security. Authorities have deployed oxygen booths, hospitals and rain shelters along both routes.

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Amarnath Yatra 2026, Amarnath Pilgrimage, Baltal Route, Pahalgam Route, Baba Barfani, Jammu and Kashmir, Amarnath Cave, Pilgrimage News

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Amarnath Yatra, Jammu and Kashmir, Baba Barfani, Amarnath Cave, Pilgrimage, Baltal, Pahalgam, Manoj Sinha, Hindu Pilgrimage, India News, Security, Weather