The Amarnath Yatra is an annual pilgrimage to the sacred shrine of Lord Shiva in Jammu and Kashmir. This year, the yatra will begin on July 3 and last until August 9. However, there has been a significant drop in the number of Gujarati pilgrims. Only about 5,000 are expected to attend, which is a decline of over 8% from previous years.
The initial registration for the yatra saw 3.5 lakh pilgrims signing up. But following a terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, which killed 26 tourists, the number dropped dramatically to 85,000. Many Gujarati devotees seem to be more cautious this year.
A major concern is that there will be no helicopter services available for pilgrims. This means that all attendees must complete the journey on foot. This change has dissuaded many elderly or less fit participants from attempting the yatra.
Health clearance is also a key factor in this year’s yatra. Dr. Rakesh Joshi from Ahmedabad Civil Hospital reported that the number of pilgrims obtaining health certificates has decreased. In 2023, 455 health certificates were issued; this fell to 430 in 2024, and only 234 have been issued for 2025 so far.
Travel agencies are feeling the impact of this decline as well. Tour operators used to receive about 50 inquiries a day, but this year, they report only 1 to 2 inquiries daily. Many from the upper middle class are opting for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra instead, which is seen as a more exclusive spiritual experience.
Despite these challenges, the Amarnath Shrine Board is urging potential pilgrims to prepare physically. They recommend that pilgrims start training a month in advance, with daily walks of 4-5 kilometers and yoga to build endurance for the trek, which starts from the Bhagwati Nagar base camp.
The importance of physical fitness cannot be stressed enough. The yatra takes place at a high altitude of 3,880 metres, where the weather can be harsh and unpredictable. Pilgrims are advised to pack warm clothing, sturdy shoes, and carry enough water and snacks.
The pilgrimage is not just a physical challenge but also a spiritual journey for many. The sight of the natural ice lingam at the Amarnath Cave is a powerful symbol of faith for devotees. Many are determined to make the journey, expressing faith in the security arrangements in place.
As the yatra dates approach, it remains to be seen how many pilgrims will ultimately decide to take part. The call for safety and health preparedness is clear, but the spirit of the pilgrimage continues to drive many forward, underscoring the resilience and dedication of the devotees.
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