Editorial photo #13917296 Religion and Belief

Annual Amarnath Yatra Pilgrimage Begins In Kashmir, India

An Indian policeman stands guard as Hindu pilgrims gather in the early morning before beginning their pilgrimage to the Amarnath Cave Shrine from the Baltal base camp amid rainfall, east of Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, on July 3, 2026. The annual Amarnath Yatra to the Amarnath Cave Shrine begins on July 3 under extensive security arrangements across Jammu and Kashmir. Authorities have intensified security measures, including the deployment of thousands of security personnel, advanced surveillance systems, checkpoints, area domination patrols, and escorted pilgrim convoys, to ensure the safe and smooth conduct of the annual Hindu pilgrimage. (Photo by Firdous Nazir/NurPhoto)