JNM journalist Hardeep Jamwal, Jammu
Relief news has emerged for pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir. Preparations for the Baba Amarnath Yatra 2026 have intensified, and registration for the pilgrimage will begin in April. The Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) will soon announce the official dates for the pilgrimage, which millions of devotees are eagerly awaiting.
According to sources, all dates related to the pilgrimage and registration will be announced by the end of this month. Meanwhile, snow clearance work on the pilgrimage routes—Pahalgam and Baltal—will begin in May to ensure a safe and smooth path for pilgrims.
The government has allocated a large budget for the pilgrimage management this year. Approximately ₹180 crore will be spent on arrangements for the pilgrimage in the 2026-27 budget. This includes repairing and expanding routes, railing sensitive locations, and expanding facilities at pilgrim hostels.
An important decision related to the Yatra has also been made—June 29th has been set for the first puja. However, the final announcement regarding the start of the Yatra is still pending. The Board and administration are fully focused on ensuring that all arrangements are fully prepared before the Yatra begins.
To simplify the registration process for pilgrims, advance and group registration will be made available at over 400 bank branches across the country. However, a final decision has not yet been made regarding helicopter service and advance booking.
Preparations for the langar service have also begun. Applications have been sought from various organizations by March 25th. Like every year, approximately 120 to 125 langars are expected to be set up along the Yatra route. A final decision on these will be made by the end of April.
In addition, the administration has also initiated the application process for tents and shops. The Ganderbal and Anantnag district administrations are handling the process, as both the major routes to Pahalgam and Baltal pass through these districts.
The administrations of Jammu, Udhampur, Ramban, Srinagar, Kulgam, Kathua, and Samba districts will also work in close coordination to ensure a successful and safe pilgrimage.
Overall, extensive preparations are underway to make the Amarnath Yatra more streamlined, safe, and convenient, ensuring a better experience for pilgrims.
