Amarnath Yatra Officially Begins as First Batch of Pilgrims Depart from Jammu

Jammu, July 2: The Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, officially launched the Amarnath Yatra by flagging off the first batch of pilgrims from Jammu on Thursday. This marks the formal commencement of the annual pilgrimage.

Before sending off the pilgrims, Lieutenant Governor Sinha performed a prayer ceremony. The event was attended by MP Jugal Kishore Sharma, Leader of the Opposition in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Sunil Sharma, and BJP MLA Arvind Gupta.

On the social media platform X, Sinha posted, “Har-Har Mahadev. The journey to the sacred abode of Baba Barfani has commenced. The first batch of devotees for the Amarnath Yatra 2026 has been flagged off from the Bhagwati Nagar base camp in Jammu.”

He further expressed, “The journey to Shri Amarnath Ji is a spiritual awakening. Every step taken on this sacred path is a testament to unwavering faith and devotion to Baba Amarnath. I wish for all pilgrims to have a safe, prosperous journey filled with spiritual joy. May Lord Shiva bless us all.”

BJP MP Jugal Kishore Sharma stated in an interview that this year, the number of pilgrims appears to be higher than before. He assured that there are no shortcomings in the arrangements. The administration has worked tirelessly, especially the municipal corporation, tourism department, police, and several other government agencies, to ensure that all facilities are available for the devotees.

He encouraged people from across the country to join the pilgrimage and seek blessings from Baba Barfani.

Leader of the Opposition Sunil Sharma noted the enthusiasm among pilgrims for the Amarnath Yatra. The first batch has set off today, and he expressed hopes that the journey, which will continue until August 28, will be pleasant and successful for devotees arriving from various states.

Sharma emphasized that the Amarnath Yatra is a unique pilgrimage, unlike any other in the world. It is a sacred place where Baba Barfani manifests.

BJP MLA Arvind Gupta expressed pride in having the opportunity to flag off the Amarnath Yatra alongside Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. He remarked on the distinct excitement among the pilgrims and noted that the entire city of Jammu is adorned for this journey.