Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2025 to Begin on July 3, Conclude on August 9: SASB Reviews Preparations
Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who also serves as Chairman of the Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board (SASB), chaired the 48th Board meeting at Raj Bhawan today to review preparations for the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2025.
This year, the yatra will commence on July 3 from both the Pahalgam route in Anantnag district and Baltal route in Ganderbal district, and will conclude on August 9, coinciding with Raksha Bandhan.
The meeting was attended by prominent Board members, including Swami Avdheshanand Giri Ji Maharaj, D. C. Raina, Kailash Mehra Sadhu, K. N. Rai, Pitambar Lal Gupta, Dr. Shailesh Raina, and Prof. Vishwamurti Shastri.
To accommodate the expected rise in pilgrim footfall this year, the Board proposed several measures to upgrade facilities, including increased lodging capacity at key centers in Jammu, Srinagar, and along the yatra routes. Enhanced Yatri Facilitation Centres for e-KYC, RFID card issuance, and on-spot registration will be operational at major locations like Nowgam and Katra Railway Stations, in addition to existing centers at Baltal, Pahalgam, Nunwan, and Pantha Chowk, Srinagar.
LG Sinha emphasized the importance of timely completion of infrastructure works and improving amenities along the route. He also stressed the expansion of facilities at Yatri Niwas, Pantha Chowk to better serve pilgrims.
The Board also discussed key projects, including:
Widening and maintenance of Yatra tracks
Insurance cover for pilgrims, service providers, and ponies
Decongestion at the Holy Cave area
Enhanced heli services and medical care facilities
Strengthening disaster preparedness and weather forecasting systems
Improved security and surveillance measures
Implementation of a Digital Pre-paid system for hiring services
During the meeting, LG Sinha appreciated the contribution of the Board members and officials for ensuring the smooth and safe conduct of previous yatras.
Dr. Mandeep K. Bhandari, CEO of SASB, presented a comprehensive briefing on the preparations underway.
The meeting was also attended by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, DGP Nalin Prabhat, senior officials from the UT administration, district officials from Ganderbal and Anantnag, and other key stakeholders, both in person and virtually.
The Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra remains one of the most significant annual religious pilgrimages in the country, drawing lakhs of devotees from across India and abroad.
