Onlykashmir.in News Desk
Jammu, April 12: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday formally announced that the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra will commence on July 3, 2026, and conclude on Raksha Bandhan, August 28, spanning a total duration of 57 days.
The auspicious Pratham Puja, invoking the blessings of Lord Shiva, will be observed on June 29, coinciding with Jyeshtha Purnima, marking the ceremonial beginning of the pilgrimage.
Addressing a press conference at Lok Bhavan in Jammu, the Lieutenant Governor announced that advance registration for the Yatra will begin from April 15 through both online and offline modes.
Pilgrims can register at 554 designated branches of Jammu & Kashmir Bank, Punjab National Bank, State Bank of India, and Yes Bank across the country.
Appealing to devotees to participate in large numbers, the Lieutenant Governor assured that comprehensive arrangements have been put in place to ensure a safe, smooth, and spiritually fulfilling experience. “All necessary facilities have been meticulously planned to facilitate seamless movement and hassle-free Darshan at the Holy Cave,” he said.
The Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board has made elaborate provisions for essential services including transportation, accommodation, electricity, water supply, sanitation, communication, and healthcare for pilgrims.
To enhance safety and monitoring, Radio Frequency Identification Devices (RFID) will be issued to all registered pilgrims and service providers. Additionally, each registered devotee will be covered under a group accident insurance scheme with an enhanced coverage of ₹10 lakh. Insurance support has also been extended under the National Livestock Mission, providing ₹50,000 coverage per pony in case of accidental or natural death.
The administration has further ensured improved infrastructure along the Yatra routes. Grid power supply will be available along the Baltal axis up to the Holy Cave and onward to Panjtarni, with adequate illumination of tracks. Modern e-services, including prepaid facilities for hiring ponies, pithoos, and palkis, will be introduced for the convenience of pilgrims.
Yatri Niwas facilities will be operational at key locations including Baltal, Pantha Chowk (Srinagar), Nunwan, and Chanderkote, underscoring the administration’s commitment to providing a well-organized and pilgrim-friendly Yatra this year.
