Jammu, July 24: As many as 3042 pilgrims left here today for cave shrine of Amarnath in south Kashmir Himalayas to seek blessings of Lord Shiva. The pilgrims, including 487 women and 27 children, besides 216 Sadhus, left in 153 vehicles with a security escort from Mam stadium here in the morning. "They were in high spirits and had no signs of fear despite terrorist strikes on pilgrims at Katra and an army camp in Akhnoor on July 21 and 22," an official on duty with the pilgrims said. Yatris from different parts of the country continue to arrive in the winter capital to join the pilgrimage. They are being provided boarding and lodging facilities in 26 different community Centres and schools in the city.
Reports from Srinagar said as many as 113996 pilgrims have arrived in Kashmir in connection with the Amarnath Yatra. Of them, 112779 have performed darshan of 'holy ice-lingum' in the cave shrine located above 3880 meters in south Kashmir Himalayas. The yatra, which commenced on July 9, will conclude on August 12 coinciding with Raksha Bandhan.

Bureau Report