Amarnath Yatra 2026: LG performs Pratham Puja at holy cave

Although the first batch of pilgrims will be flagged off from Jammu on July 2, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday performed the ‘Pratham Puja’ at the holy cave shrine of Shri Amarnathji, marking the ceremonial commencement of the annual pilgrimage.

The Lieutenant Governor sought the blessings of Baba Barfani and prayed for peace, prosperity, good health and the well-being of all.

He also extended a heartfelt invitation to devotees across the country, urging them to participate in the sacred pilgrimage in large numbers and experience its spiritual significance.

“As the Yatra commences on July 3, the administration, Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, army, Police, security forces, local community, service providers and volunteers are working in complete synergy. Every stakeholder is committed to ensuring a safe, hassle-free and memorable pilgrimage for all devotees,” the lieutenant governor said.

“With significantly upgraded infrastructure, enhanced facilities and the invaluable support of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, we are fully prepared to welcome devotees for a spiritually fulfilling journey,” he added.

The Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) organises the Pratham Puja every year at the holy cave shrine on Jyeshtha Purnima. This year’s 57-day pilgrimage will formally commence on July 3, 2026, simultaneously from both the traditional routes — the Pahalgam route in Anantnag district and the Baltal route in Ganderbal district. The Yatra will conclude on August 28, 2026, coinciding with Raksha Bandhan.

Among those present on the occasion were Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat; Special Director General (Coordination), PHQ, S.J.M. Gillani; Principal Secretary to the Lieutenant Governor and Chief Executive Officer of the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, Dr. Mandeep K. Bhandari; Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg; Managing Director, JKPDCL, and Nodal Officer for the Baltal Axis Rahul Yadav; Inspector General of Police, Kashmir, V.K. Birdi; Deputy Inspector General, Central Kashmir Range, Rajiv Omprakash Pande; Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal Jatin Kishore; Deputy Commissioner Anantnag Dr. Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat; Director Information Shreya Singhal; and other senior officials.

LG appeals for collective support to make Yatra a success

Earlier in the day, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha met civil society representatives, business leaders and religious heads to discuss the forthcoming Shri Amarnath Yatra. During the interaction, he appealed to all sections of society to actively support and contribute to the annual pilgrimage, describing it as a true symbol of social harmony. He urged the public to come forward to ensure a memorable spiritual experience for all pilgrims.

The lieutenant governor said the Shri Amarnath Yatra provides an opportunity to showcase Jammu and Kashmir’s rich tradition of selfless service, compassion and hospitality to the world.

“Let us unite across all sections of society to make this year’s pilgrimage a beacon of faith, unity and devotion. As pilgrims embark on the sacred journey to the holy cave of Baba Barfani, let us transform our devotion into compassionate action, making this Yatra a true testament to faith, humanity and kindness,” he said.

The Lieutenant Governor noted that the sacred pilgrimage, symbolising devotion, dedication and faith, will commence on July 3 and conclude on August 28 this year. He said representatives of civil society, religious organisations, business leaders and social workers are the custodians of the nation’s moral and spiritual values.

“Everyone present here is a custodian of our spiritual traditions. Generation after generation, we have ensured that Baba Amarnath’s ancient spiritual heritage remains vibrant. As we prepare once again to welcome the devotees, I look to each of you for your guidance and cooperation. Your role is vital in ensuring that every pilgrim experiences respect, safety and a sense of belonging,” the Lieutenant Governor said.