First Visuals Of Amarnath Shivling Released; Yatra To Begin From July 3 Amid Heavy Snowfall Challenges
First Visuals Of Amarnath Shivling Released; Yatra To Begin From July 3 Amid Heavy Snowfall Challenges
The sacred countdown to the Amarnath Yatra 2025 has begun, bringing with it immense excitement for devotees across India. For the first time this year, images of the revered ice Shivling inside the Amarnath cave have been revealed, nearly two months before the official commencement of the pilgrimage.
As per the Shri Amarnath Shrine Board, the yatra is scheduled to start on July 3 and conclude on August 19, coinciding with Raksha Bandhan. The early visuals have only deepened the spiritual fervour among devotees awaiting their journey to seek the blessings of Baba Barfani, a manifestation of Lord Shiva.
Pilgrims from various regions, including some fortunate devotees from Punjab, have already had a glimpse of the holy cave and captured photographs of the naturally formed Shivling. This early exposure has amplified anticipation for the upcoming pilgrimage.
However, preparations this year come with significant hurdles due to unusually heavy snowfall, with snowdrifts in some areas reportedly measuring 10 to 20 feet. These extreme conditions have posed challenges for authorities responsible for readying the routes.
In response, snow clearance operations have begun on both primary paths—Baltal and Chandanwari—to make them accessible and safe for the influx of pilgrims. These efforts are ongoing to ensure that the tracks are walkable well before the yatra kicks off.
Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha conducted an inspection at the Amarnath Yatra transit camp in Pantha Chowk, Srinagar, to assess the current status of the preparations.
Despite recent security concerns, including the Pahalgam attack, the spirit of the pilgrims remains strong. Over 360,000 devotees have already registered for this year’s yatra, with numbers expected to climb in the coming weeks—highlighting the unshaken devotion and determination of the faithful.
