Amarnath Yatra Registrations Begin: Important Details from Jammu

Offline registrations for the annual Amarnath Yatra have started in Jammu, with tokens being issued to pilgrims at three centers: Vaishnavi Dham, Mahajan Hall, and Panchayat Bhavan. The Yatra, beginning on June 29, requires pilgrims to have health certificates. Security and accommodation arrangements are in place, with additional deployment along the National Highway. The pilgrimage, a significant event for Hindus, involves a trek to the Amarnath cave shrine, considered the abode of Lord Shiva.

Registration Details

According to Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM) South Jammu, Manu Hansa, the offline registrations began on Wednesday. Pilgrims need to present their Aadhar Cards to receive tokens, which they then use at registration centers. The three registration centers are located at Vaishnavi Dham, Mahajan Hall, and Panchayat Bhavan.

Health and Age Restrictions

No pilgrim below the age of 13, above the age of 70, or women more than six weeks pregnant will be allowed. Pilgrims must have a health certificate or get one during their registration check-ups.

Facilities and Security

Help desks, water filters, and dining halls are available to assist pilgrims. Udhampur Deputy Commissioner Saloni Rai mentioned that security arrangements are being enhanced along the National Highway, with 26 accommodation centers set up for 6,000 pilgrims. E-KYC centers are also available at railway stations for registration purposes.

Significance of the Yatra

The Amarnath Yatra is a significant pilgrimage for Hindus, involving a challenging trek to the Amarnath cave shrine in Jammu and Kashmir. The shrine, located at 3,888 meters, is considered the abode of Lord Shiva, enshrined in the form of an ice-lingam that naturally forms and changes with the moon.