The Amarnath Yatra, a key highlight of Jammu’s thriving religious tourism sector, has witnessed thousands of devotees undertaking a challenging trek to pay homage at the sacred Amarnath Cave.
This year, the religious fervour continues to grip the Amarnath Yatra in Jammu as devotees from across the globe make their way to the Holy Cave. As of July 12, a staggering 1.4 lakh pilgrims have performed darshan, with 9,155 devotees visiting the sacred site on that day alone.
As per an official statement, around 30 government departments have joined forces to provide essential services and amenities to ensure a memorable and enriching experience for the devotees. The efforts of officers and officials have been instrumental in extending support and creating a comfortable environment for the pilgrims, it said.
Over the years, the Amarnath Yatra has gained global recognition, attracting devotees not only from within India but also from other countries, including NRIs. This year, two foreign nationals from California, United States fulfilled their long-standing dream of undertaking the holy pilgrimage, as per the data provided by the U/T department.
The pilgrimage serves as a platform for promoting hospitality, peace, and spirituality as devotees from different nations become ambassadors of these values in their respective countries. The inclusivity of the Amarnath Yatra is exemplified by also welcoming 33 pilgrims from Nepal during their visit to the Holy Cave.
In addition to the Amarnath Yatra, there are several other significant yatras in the Jammu region that contribute to the religious tourism landscape. One such yatra is the Vaishno Devi Yatra, where millions of devotees embark on a spiritual journey to the holy shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi each year.
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The Kailash Yatra, held in the picturesque region of Bhaderwah, attracts devotees to the ancient Kailash Kund, believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva. These yatras not only hold religious significance but also contribute significantly to the tourism industry in the region, offering employment opportunities to the locals. They also provide a platform for cultural exchange, where devotees from different regions and countries come together to celebrate their faith and spirituality.
The Jammu region’s religious tourism offerings are not only limited to yatras but also encompass numerous temples, shrines, and sacred sites that attract pilgrims and other visitors throughout the year, giving the needed push to the religious aspect of tourism.
The rich religious heritage, coupled with the scenic beauty of the region, makes Jammu a sought-after destination for spiritual seekers and devotees from around the world.
