57-day Amarnath Yatra from July 3; registrations open April 15

Jammu — The annual Amarnath Yatra will commence on July 3 this year and conclude on August 28, coinciding with the festival of Raksha Bandhan, Jammu and Kashmir Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha announced on Sunday.

According to an official statement, the 57-day pilgrimage will begin with the ‘Pratham Puja’ on June 29, marking Jyeshtha Purnima, to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.

Advance registration for the Yatra will open from April 15 through both online and offline modes. Devotees can register at 554 designated branches of banks including J&K Bank, PNB, SBI, and Yes Bank across the country.

The pilgrimage leads to the sacred Amarnath Cave, located at an altitude of 3,888 metres in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir. Each year, thousands of devotees from across India and abroad undertake the journey to pay ??????? at the cave shrine, which houses a naturally formed ice stalagmite believed to symbolise Lord Shiva.

Pilgrims can choose between two main routes. The traditional Pahalgam route spans about 34 km and typically takes 3–5 days, passing through scenic locations such as Chandanwari, Sheshnag, and Panchtarni. Though picturesque, it involves steep climbs like Pissu Top and Mahagunas Pass and requires good physical fitness. Facilities such as free community kitchens (langars) and tents are available along the way.

The shorter Baltal route covers around 14 km and allows pilgrims to complete the journey and return to the base camp on the same day.

Helicopter services will also be available from both Pahalgam and Baltal routes, offering an alternative for devotees unable to undertake the full trek.

With inputs from IANS