Ramban, July 21, 2025 – The annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra continues to inspire devotion and unity, with the langar at Chanderkote, Ramban, emerging as a shining example of selfless service and community spirit. Pilgrims, or yatris, undertaking the sacred journey to the Amarnath Cave have expressed heartfelt gratitude for the delicious and nutritious meals provided at the langar site, a vital stop along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway. This initiative, driven by the dedication of sevadars and supported by the Ramban district administration, ensures a welcoming and hygienic environment for thousands of devotees.
A Tradition of Selfless Service
The langar at Chanderkote is more than just a place to dine; it is a symbol of compassion and unity. Organised by local communities and supported by the Shri Amarnath Shrine Board, the langar provides free, wholesome meals to pilgrims, embodying the spirit of seva (selfless service). On July 15, 2025, the Food Safety Officer conducted inspections at the Yatri Niwas and langar sites in Chanderkote, ensuring that Good Hygiene Practices (GMP) and personal hygiene standards were maintained to serve fresh and safe food to the yatris.A devotee from Bihar, on his second Amarnath Yatra, praised the arrangements, stating, “The facilities this year are even better than before. The langar at Chanderkote is a true blessing, and I urge all devotees to experience this well-managed pilgrimage.” The Ramban district administration has deployed over 1,200 washrooms and 200 sanitation workers across lodging centers and langar sites, with round-the-clock supervision to maintain cleanliness and hygiene. The Jal Shakti department ensures a steady water supply, further enhancing the experience for pilgrims.
A Festive and Safe Environment
The Yatri Niwas at Chanderkote, illuminated with tricolour lights, has added a festive vibe to the Amarnath Yatra 2025, which began on July 3 and will conclude on August 9. Pilgrims have lauded the arrangements, with one from Madhya Pradesh noting, “The Yatri Niwas is grand and full of facilities. We are not facing any difficulties, and it feels like Diwali here.” A pilgrim from Gujarat echoed similar sentiments, saying, “The arrangements are excellent, and we feel safe. I request everyone to join the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra and experience this pride.”
Despite a tragic incident on July 5, where 36 pilgrims were injured in a bus collision at the Chanderkote langar site due to brake failure, the administration’s swift response ensured that the injured received prompt medical attention at District Hospital Ramban. Most pilgrims continued their journey after first aid, showcasing their resilience and faith.
Enhanced Safety and InfrastructureThe Amarnath Yatra 2025 has seen significant improvements in infrastructure and safety. The Ramban District Informatics Centre has set up RFID distribution counters at Chanderkote to track pilgrims’ movements, ensuring their safety in emergencies. Following a terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, security has been heightened with facial recognition systems and 24/7 monitoring along the Pahalgam and Baltal routes. Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha highlighted the improved facilities, stating, “Since 2022, the routes to the cave have been widened to 12 feet, and telecom connectivity has been enhanced for a seamless pilgrimage.”
A Call to Experience the Yatra
The langar at Chanderkote, coupled with the administration’s efforts, has made the Amarnath Yatra 2025 a memorable and spiritually uplifting experience. Pilgrims have praised the hospitality of local Kashmiris, with one devotee noting, “The real heroes are the locals who run these langars with so much love. This is the real India we should celebrate.”
As the 38-day pilgrimage continues, the Chanderkote langar remains a beacon of hope and unity, serving as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Amarnath Yatra. Devotees are encouraged to join this sacred journey, with the assurance of safety, hygiene, and heartfelt hospitality.
