Anantnag, June 19, 2025: Union Minister of Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat has declared Kashmir a safe, divine, and culturally rich destination, inviting all Indians to experience its unparalleled beauty during the Amarnath Yatra 2025 and beyond. Speaking during a visit to the historic Martand Sun Temple in Anantnag, south Kashmir, Shekhawat assured pilgrims of top-tier security for the upcoming 38-day pilgrimage, scheduled from July 3 to August 9, while emphasizing the need to preserve the valley’s natural and cultural heritage.
Commitment to Pilgrim Safety
Addressing concerns following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives, Shekhawat reaffirmed the commitment of both the central and Jammu and Kashmir governments to ensure pilgrim safety. “People should come for the Amarnath Yatra. It is safe, and the Government of India and the state government are committed to ensuring you will not get even a scratch,” he told PTI Videos after visiting the Martand Sun Temple. The yatra, a sacred journey to the Amarnath Cave Shrine at 3,888 meters, will proceed via the Pahalgam and Baltal routes under stringent security measures, including 581 Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) companies, drones, jammers, and K9 units as part of ‘Operation Shiva.’
Promoting Kashmir’s Cultural and Natural Grandeur
Shekhawat highlighted Kashmir’s rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty, urging the 140 crore people of India to explore its historical and spiritual significance. “Kashmir is safe, divine, and culturally rich. I appeal to all Indians to visit and preserve its natural and heritage beauty,” he said, encouraging tourists to appreciate sites like the Martand Sun Temple, built by King Lalitaditya, and the Avanti Swami Temple in Awantipora, which reflect the valley’s civilizational past. During his two-day visit, the minister also offered prayers at the Mata Kheer Bhawani Temple in Tulamulla and visited the Naranag Temple complex in Ganderbal, underscoring their historical and spiritual value.
Environmental Conservation and Tourism Development
The Union Minister called on pilgrims and tourists to protect Kashmir’s pristine environment, emphasising sustainable tourism practices. He reviewed tourist facilities at Pahalgam, Betaab Valley, and other sites alongside Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and district administration officials, noting ongoing restoration efforts for heritage monuments. “Some restoration work has been carried out very well, but there is a need to do more to preserve this centuries-old heritage,” Shekhawat said, advocating for collaboration between the ASI and state archaeology departments.
Collaboration with J&K Administration
Shekhawat’s visit included a productive meeting with Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on June 18, where they discussed strategies to boost tourism. “In a warm and cordial atmosphere, we held a positive and forward-looking discussion on enhancing infrastructure, promoting heritage sites, and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities. These efforts aim to transform Jammu and Kashmir into a global tourism destination, revitalising the sector hit hard by the Pahalgam attack.
Resilience of Kashmir’s Spirit
At the Pahalgam terror attack site, Shekhawat praised the resilience of locals, stating, “The strength of the people and their quiet resolve to not let fear define them represent the real soul of Kashmir.” His visit, coupled with Chief Minister Abdullah’s initiatives to restore tourist confidence, signals a concerted push to revive Kashmir’s tourism industry while ensuring the Amarnath Yatra remains a safe and spiritually enriching experience.
Key Details of Amarnath Yatra 2025
- Duration: July 3 to August 9, 2025
- Routes: Pahalgam (48 km) and Baltal (14 km)
- Security: 581 CAPF companies, drones, jammers, K9 units
- Authority: Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board (SASB)
- Base Camp: Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas, Jammu
