SRINAGAR:  In the latest update on the ongoing Amarnath Yatra, more than 13,000 pilgrims successfully completed their journey to the holy cave on the 24th day. The pilgrimage continues to attract devotees, with another group of 3,025 Yatris departing from Jammu to Kashmir on Tuesday.

Yesterday (July 24), on the 24th day of the Yatra, a significant number of 13,000 Yatris had the privilege of 'darshan' inside the sacred cave. Simultaneously, an additional batch of 3,025 pilgrims embarked on their journey from the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in Jammu, accompanied by a well-organized convoy towards the Valley.

The batch of pilgrims comprises 2,272 males, 696 females, four children, 48 Sadhus, and five Sadhvis, reflecting the diversity of participants in the Yatra. Since the commencement of the pilgrimage on July 1, an impressive 3.64 lakh people have participated in this year's Amarnath Yatra, as reported by the officials.

Unfortunately, during this year's Yatra, 36 pilgrims have lost their lives, highlighting the challenges and risks involved in the journey.

Yatris approach the Himalayan cave shrine through either the traditional south Kashmir Pahalgam route, involving a demanding 43-kilometre uphill trek, or the north Kashmir Baltal base camp route, which requires a 13-kilometre uphill trek.

Pilgrims using the traditional Pahalgam route spend 3-4 days to reach the cave shrine, while those opting for the Baltal route return to the base camp on the same day after receiving darshan inside the cave shrine, situated 3888 meters above sea level.

Helicopter services are also available for Yatris on both routes, providing an alternative means of transportation for those who seek it.

Inside the cave shrine lies an awe-inspiring ice stalagmite structure, believed by devotees to symbolize the mythical powers of Lord Shiva. This ice stalagmite structure undergoes cyclic changes, waxing, and waning with the phases of the moon, adding to its spiritual significance.

The 62-day-long Amarnath Yatra, which began on July 1, is set to conclude on August 31, coinciding with the Shravan Purnima festival.

To ensure the well-being of the pilgrims and protect them from high-altitude sickness, authorities have implemented a ban on all junk food at the free community kitchens, commonly known as 'Langars,' established along both Yatra routes. The prohibited items include bottled drinks, halwai items, fried foods, and tobacco-based products.

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