Over 8,790 pilgrims have departed for the Kashmir Valley from Jammu’s Bhagwati Nagar base camp on Friday for the 2026 Annual Amarnath Yatra under stringent security measures. As per available official information, 3,450 pilgrims are heading towards the Baltal axis, while another 5,346 pilgrims are moving towards the Pahalgam axis.
The batch comprised 6,426 male pilgrims, 2,042 female pilgrims, 228 sadhus, 56 sadhvis, 10 children, 33 foreign male pilgrims, and one transgender pilgrim.
The two convoys include 354 vehicles, including 175 buses, 70 medium motor vehicles (MMVs), 106 light motor vehicles (LMVs) and three other vehicles.
The first batch heading for the Baltal axis left the base camp at 2:42 a.m., followed by the Pahalgam convoy at 3:24 am.
Officials said the total number of pilgrims who have departed from Jammu for the annual pilgrimage has now reached 62,816.
After entering Ramban district via the Nashri Tunnel, the Baltal-bound pilgrims are scheduled to halt at Lambar Ground, Banihal, where breakfast and other basic facilities have been arranged.
Meanwhile, pilgrims travelling towards the Pahalgam route will stop at the Chanderkoot Langar sites in Ramban for breakfast before continuing their onwards journey to south Kashmir.
The administration has made all necessary arrangements, including health, medical, and convenience facilities, to ensure the smooth conduct of the Yatra.
The pilgrimage began on Thursday. Authorities expect a massive rush this year, with improved facilities and security arrangements.
Also read: Eighth batch of over 8,000 Amarnath Pilgrims depart for Valley
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