Amarnath Yatra suspended from 19 July:Pilgrims stopped on both routes; bad weather forecast prompts decision

The Jammu Kashmir administration has announced the temporary suspension of the Shri Amarnathji Yatra from both the Pahalgam and Baltal routes with effect from July 19, 2026, citing an adverse weather forecast issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg said no onward movement of pilgrims will be allowed from the Baltal and Nunwan/Chandanwari base camps until further notice. The yatra will resume only after a comprehensive assessment of weather and route safety. More than 3.7 lakh pilgrims have visited the Holy Cave Shrine during the ongoing pilgrimage so far. How is the Amarnath Shivling formed? The Amarnath Shivling is a naturally occurring ice stalagmite and is not carved from a block of ice. It forms when water droplets continuously drip from the roof of the cave and freeze layer by layer on the cave floor during winter and spring. Similar to the formation of stalagmites in limestone caves, the ice structure develops naturally over time. Its size varies every year depending on weather conditions, temperature and the availability of water inside the cave. Can the Shivling form again? Experts say the chances of the Shivling reforming during the current pilgrimage are extremely low. The ice formation can reappear only if the region receives fresh snowfall or temperatures fall below freezing for a sustained period. With current weather conditions, such a possibility remains unlikely. Pilgrimage figures so far Nearly 86,000 pilgrims visited the shrine during the first four days of the yatra. The number of devotees was expected to cross one lakh on the fifth day. Around four lakh devotees have registered for this year’s pilgrimage. 2 routes to the shrine The Amarnath Yatra is conducted through two routes: Nunwan-Pahalgam Route: The traditional 48-kilometre route, which is longer but relatively less steep. Baltal Route: A shorter 14-kilometre route in Ganderbal district that involves a much steeper and more challenging climb. The pilgrimage will continue until August 28, with authorities maintaining that the melting of the Shivling will not affect the ongoing yatra. ​