16th batch of over 4600 pilgrims leave for Amarnath cave from Jammu
The 16th batch of over 4,600 pilgrims has departed from Jammu for the annual Amarnath Yatra. The pilgrimage is being conducted under strict multi-tier security arrangements along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway.
Why it matters
The Amarnath Yatra is a major annual religious event in India that requires significant logistical and security coordination due to the sensitive region and high volume of participants.
A fresh batch of 4,640 pilgrims left the Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas here early Friday (July 17, 2026) for the annual Amarnath Yatra amid tight security arrangements , officials said.
More than 3.45 lakh pilgrims have paid obeisance to Lord Shiva at the 3,880-metre-high cave shrine till now.
The 16th batch, travelling in a convoy of 171 vehicles, comprised 1,626 pilgrims heading for the shorter Baltal route in central Kashmir's Ganderbal district and 3,014 pilgrims bound for the traditional Pahalgam route in south Kashmir's Anantnag district, they said.
According to officials, the Baltal-bound convoy departed the base camp at 2:42 a.m., followed by the Pahalgam-bound convoy at 3:11 a.m.
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