Praise Valley’s hospitality, beauty, spirit of brotherhood
Srinagar, Jul 02: Yatri Niwas Pantha Chowk in Srinagar came alive with chants of “Bam Bam Bhole”, prayers and emotional scenes on Thursday as hundreds of first-time Shri Amarnath Yatra pilgrims arrived in the Valley, many of them overwhelmed by Kashmir’s breathtaking beauty and warm hospitality.
From elderly devotees to youngsters, the atmosphere at the Yatri Niwas reflected a unique blend of spirituality, excitement and relief as pilgrims prepared to proceed towards the holy cave shrine through the Baltal and Pahalgam routes.
For many first-time yatris, the journey turned into far more than a religious pilgrimage. Alongside faith and devotion, pilgrims said they were deeply touched by the kindness, compassion and brotherhood shown by the people of Kashmir.
“We never knew Kashmir was so beautiful and peaceful,” said Meena Sharma, a pilgrim from Delhi, while admiring the mist-covered mountains surrounding the city. “We had heard many things before coming here, but after arriving, all our fears disappeared. The people here welcomed us warmly and guided us at every step. We are taking back beautiful memories from Kashmir.”
The arrival of pilgrims filled the Yatri Niwas with energy and devotion as volunteers, officials and security personnel assisted devotees with directions, registration and accommodation.
Pushpa Devi, a first-time yatri from Madhya Pradesh, said the Valley’s natural beauty and hospitality made the spiritual journey even more memorable.
“The mountains, cool breeze and peaceful atmosphere make this place feel heavenly,” she said. “But what touched us most was the behaviour of the people. Shopkeepers, volunteers and even strangers were helping pilgrims selflessly. We feel respected and cared for here.”
Several women pilgrims said they felt safe and comfortable during their stay in Kashmir and appreciated the support extended by locals and security personnel.
“As women travellers, safety is always a concern during long journeys, but here we felt completely comfortable,” said Rekha Joshi, who arrived with a group from Gujarat. “Locals offered us water, directions and help whenever needed. The police and volunteers are guiding everyone patiently.”
Another woman pilgrim from Maharashtra said the atmosphere in Kashmir had changed her perception of the Valley.
“We used to see Kashmir only in photographs and on television, but seeing it in person is a completely different feeling,” she said. “The greenery, rivers and mountains are mesmerising, and the warmth of people makes the experience even more special.”
Elderly yatris, too, shared emotional accounts of the assistance they received from residents and volunteers.
“At this age, travelling and climbing are not easy,” said 70-year-old Om Prakash from Haryana. “But young boys here helped elderly pilgrims with luggage and guided us patiently. Their humanity and respect touched my heart.”
Another elderly pilgrim from Rajasthan, Shanti Lal Sharma, said his perception of Kashmir had changed completely after visiting the Valley.
“We came here with devotion for Baba Amarnath, but we are also taking back love and affection from Kashmir,” he said. “People here welcomed us like family members. This journey will remain in our hearts forever.”
Pilgrims also praised the administration, Jammu and Kashmir Police and other security agencies for maintaining smooth arrangements and ensuring a secure atmosphere.
“The arrangements are excellent,” said Rajesh Tiwari from Uttar Pradesh. “From Jammu to Srinagar, everything has been systematic. Security personnel are present everywhere and are helping devotees with patience and humility.”
However, many pilgrims urged authorities to simplify the registration process and increase the number of registration counters, particularly for senior citizens and first-time visitors unfamiliar with procedures.
“Registration should be easier and quicker,” said a group of pilgrims from Punjab. “Long queues become exhausting, especially for elderly people and women travelling with families. More counters and help desks would make the experience smoother.”
Some yatris also demanded separate assistance facilities for women and elderly devotees at registration and transit points.
Despite minor inconveniences, pilgrims said the warmth of Kashmir’s people and the spiritual atmosphere overshadowed every hardship.
“For us, this is no longer just a pilgrimage,” said one elderly devotee while preparing for the onward journey. “It has become a lesson in humanity, brotherhood and peace.”
The majority of the pilgrims urged the LG Manoj Sinha-led administration to set up additional registration counters so that every pilgrim can undertake a hassle-free journey. “There should be more counters for registration, and completion of formalities should be done in a very speedy manner. After performing darshan at the holy cave shrine, we would like to visit tourist places and take a shikara ride in Dal Lake as well,” a group of enthusiastic pilgrims said.
