Amarnath Yatra 2026 begins; devotees offer prayers at Pahalgam's historic temple

The Amarnath Yatra 2026 commenced in an atmosphere of devotion as pilgrims gathered at the historic Gauri Shankar Temple in Pahalgam, the first sacred stop before beginning the journey to the holy Amarnath Cave. The centuries-old temple witnessed a traditional Aarti, with devotees seeking Lord Shiva's blessings before starting the pilgrimage.

According to temple priests, the shrine is around 250 years old and holds deep spiritual significance.

Pilgrims described the Aarti as an emotional and uplifting experience, saying the prayers filled them with faith and positivity for the challenging trek ahead.

The annual pilgrimage follows two routes—Pahalgam and Baltal—and will conclude on August 28, coinciding with Raksha Bandhan.