The annual Budha Amarnath Yatra kicked off on August 14 in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha flagged off the first group of pilgrims from Jammu, marking the start of this revered pilgrimage amid fervent religious sentiments and extensive security measures.
After performing a pooja at Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas around 6:30 AM, Sinha wished the pilgrims well as they began their 230-km journey to the Baba Budha Amarnath temple in Rajpura, Mandi tehsil. The pilgrimage is set to last for 12 days, culminating on Raksha Bandhan, August 28.
“Blessed to flag off the sacred Shri Budha Amarnath Ji yatra today. This divine pilgrimage is a transformative experience for devotees,” Sinha shared on X. The Lieutenant Governor prayed for a safe and spiritually enriching journey for all pilgrims traveling from various regions across India.
In light of past incidents, authorities have implemented multi-tier security arrangements along the entire pilgrimage route. Police will escort the convoys, and additional central armed police forces have been stationed along the Jammu-Rajouri-Poonch route, ensuring the safety of the pilgrims.
Security forces continue conducting search and verification operations at various lodging sites, including the Dashnami Akhara, while the entire Rajouri and Poonch areas remain under close surveillance. Checkpoints have also been established on the Jammu-Rajouri-Poonch highway, reinforcing efforts to maintain high security standards during the yatra.
Describing the journey, Sinha emphasized its significance. “The yatra is not merely a physical journey but a profound inward exploration towards self-realisation and the eternal consciousness of Lord Shiva,” he stated.
As pilgrims gathered in Jammu, the atmosphere buzzed with enthusiasm. Individuals from states such as Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, and Maharashtra chanted slogans like “Bam Bam Bhole,” and “Jai Bholenath,” showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of this spiritual gathering.
“We are very excited to embark on the Budha Amarnath Yatra. Coming from Rajasthan, we feel proud to be part of this profound religious journey,” shared Rita Devi, a pilgrim from Uttar Pradesh. Devrattan from Karnataka expressed similar sentiments, highlighting the rejuvenation of the yatra after previous disruptions due to security concerns.
Traffic Police have issued advisories, establishing mandatory cut-off timings for registered pilgrim convoys on the Jammu-Poonch route, aimed at ensuring smooth traffic flow from August 17 to 28.
Langars and help counters are set up at key stations along the trek, including Sunderbani, Nowshera, and Rajal in the Rajouri district, providing essential support to the pilgrims during their journey.
Furthermore, the Poonch district administration has initiated a dedicated portal to facilitate advance registrations, allowing pilgrims from across the nation to participate in the yatra with ease.
The Budha Amarnath shrine, located approximately 4,600 feet above sea level, is home to a revered self-manifested white stone Shivling. Devotees traditionally take a holy dip in the nearby Pulastya River, affectionately named after the sage Pulastya, before entering the temple to offer their prayers.