The annual Amarnath Yatra commenced with the arrival of the first pilgrims in the Kashmir valley. Local residents at the Navyug Tunnel in Qazigund, Kulgam district and Pahalgam greeted the pilgrims with warmth. Kashmiri youth and locals offered sweets and the fragrance of traditional Izbandh Soz, symbolizing communal harmony. Chants of ‘Har Har Mahadev’ and ‘Bam Bam Bhole’ echoed, reflecting the devotion of the pilgrims. The 38-day pilgrimage, officially starting on July 3, 2025, is supported by stringent security measures implemented by authorities. Approximately 4,500 devotees began their spiritual journey from Jammu, flagged off by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, under enhanced security along National Highway 44 (NH-44).
