The first batch of pilgrims for the Amarnath Yatra 2026 set off today from the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu amid chants of “Bam-Bam Bhole,” heading towards the twin base routes of Pahalgam and Baltal. Devotees will have darshan of Baba Barfani tomorrow. The 57-day pilgrimage, beginning Friday, will continue under strict security arrangements and conclude on August 28, coinciding with the festival of Raksha Bandhan.

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha flagged off the first group of pilgrims early in the morning at around 4 AM. The sacred journey to the holy ice Shivling located at an altitude of 3,880 metres will officially commence on July 3 via the 48-km Pahalgam route and the 14-km Baltal route. The challenging Baltal track, in particular, is being strengthened to ensure safer and smoother passage for devotees.

In a post on X, Manoj Sinha said, “Har Har Mahadev! The sacred journey to the holy abode of Baba Barfani begins! Flagged off the first batch of pilgrims for Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2026 from Jammu’s Bhagwati Nagar Base Camp. Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra is a profound spiritual awakening. Every step taken on this holy path is a testament to unwavering faith and surrender to the Baba Amarnath. Wishing all devotees a safe, blissful and spiritually fulfilling journey. May Lord Shiva bless us all.”



Tight Security Arrangements

Extensive security measures have been put in place to ensure the peaceful conduct of the Amarnath Yatra. The Indian Army is conducting continuous surveillance in high-altitude and sensitive regions under Operation Shiva, while Jammu and Kashmir Police is strengthening intelligence and security under Operation Hawk Eye. Multiple security agencies are working in coordination along the entire pilgrimage route.

To enhance ground security, 28 strategic watch posts have been established in vulnerable areas. Additionally, 22 specially trained sniper teams have been deployed at key locations to ensure rapid response capabilities.

Weather Monitoring a Key Challenge

Along with security, weather conditions are being closely monitored during the Amarnath Yatra 2026. Doppler weather radars have been installed in Srinagar, Banihal, Jammu, and Leh to provide real-time alerts on cloudbursts, heavy rainfall, and extreme weather conditions. This improved early warning system was developed after the devastating flash floods near the holy cave in 2022.