The convoy carrying 3,600 pilgrims had early this morning left the Bhagwati Nagar base camp here to undertake the annual Amarnath Yatra and offer prayers at the holy cave shrine.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday said the rising turnout for this year's Amarnath Yatra reflects growing faith in the pilgrimage and offers fresh impetus to Jammu and Kashmir tourism sector, while reviewing pilgrim facilities in Srinagar.
The deceased, identified as Manoj Batra, had travelled to Jammu and Kashmir for the Yatra.
Amid rain and cold weather, the annual Amarnath Yatra commenced early morning on Friday, with the first batches of pilgrims leaving the twin base camps of Baltal and Nunwan for the 3,880-metre-high cave shrine in the south Kashmir Himalayas, officials said. The mountainous cave shrine houses a naturally formed ice lingam.
The 57-day Amarnath Yatra 2026 has commenced with the first batches of pilgrims setting out from Baltal and Pahalgam under elaborate security, digital surveillance and extensive logistical arrangements.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday held a meeting with political leaders at Raj Bhawan in Srinagar and discussed the preparations for Amarnath Yatra, which is scheduled to begin from July 3.
The Yatra will begin on 3 July and conclude on 9 August.
The Amarnath yatra will begin in Kashmir on 3 July and conclude on 9 August.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday reviewed the working of the security grid and various significant steps being taken by the Army, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), and J&K Police to ensure foolproof security for the Amarnath Yatra.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday performed the 'Pratham Puja' at the Holy Cave, marking the ceremonial beginning of the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra.
