Amarnath Yatra 2025 Begins: First Batch of Pilgrims Sets Off from Baltal, Nunwan
The sacred Amarnath Yatra began as the first batch of pilgrims departed from the Baltal and Nunwan base camps in Jammu and Kashmir
This annual pilgrimage, dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Baba Barfani, draws thousands of devotees seeking divine blessings at the holy cave shrine, perched at 3,888 meters in the Himalayas. The 38-day journey, concluding on August 9, embodies a profound blend of faith, devotion, and resilience.
The Path to Baba Barfani
The yatra offers two routes: the shorter but steeper Baltal route and the longer, more gradual Nunwan-Pahalgam path. Pilgrims, undeterred by the rugged terrain and unpredictable weather, embark on this arduous trek to behold the naturally formed ice lingam, believed to symbolize Lord Shiva. The first batch, comprising men, women, and sadhus, was flagged off amid chants of “Bam Bam Bhole,” marking the start of a spiritual quest that unites devotees from across India and beyond.
Ensuring a Safe Pilgrimage
Security forces, including the CRPF and J&K Police, are deployed along the routes, while medical camps and langars provide essential support. The Shri Amarnath Shrine Board has streamlined registration and helicopter services to facilitate access. Despite challenges like harsh weather and high altitude, the administration’s efforts aim to make this year’s yatra seamless, building on lessons from past pilgrimages.
A Symbol of Faith and Unity
The Amarnath Yatra is more than a religious event; it reflects India’s cultural and spiritual unity. Devotees, braving physical hardships, find solace in their shared devotion to Baba Barfani. As the pilgrimage unfolds over the next 38 days, it will continue to inspire faith and resilience, culminating on August 9, 2025, with the final darshan. This sacred journey remains a testament to the enduring power of spirituality in India.
