The 57-day Amarnath Yatra 2026 has witnessed a record influx of pilgrims, even as the sacred natural ice Shivling (Baba Barfani) inside the Amarnath cave has almost completely melted within the first week of the pilgrimage.

Despite the disappearance of the naturally formed ice lingam, thousands of devotees continue to visit the holy cave every day, expressing unwavering faith in Lord Shiva. Pilgrims say their devotion goes beyond the physical presence of the ice formation.

“We may not be able to see Baba today, but Baba is watching us,” said one devotee, adding that they had waited for months and travelled hundreds of kilometres to undertake the sacred pilgrimage. Many devotees believe Lord Shiva is present throughout the holy cave and that the spiritual significance of the pilgrimage remains unchanged.

Experts attribute the early melting of the ice Shivling primarily to rising temperatures caused by global warming. Increased human activity around the cave during the pilgrimage is also believed to have contributed to the faster melting. Similar incidents have been observed over the past three years, with the natural ice formation disappearing within days of the Yatra’s commencement.

Meanwhile, the pilgrimage has recorded an impressive turnout. Since the Yatra began on July 3, more than 1.42 lakh devotees have offered prayers at the holy cave, marking an increase of around 28 percent compared to the corresponding period last year.

Authorities have made extensive arrangements to ensure the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage. Essential facilities have been set up at base camps and along the trekking routes. Several social and religious organisations are operating langars to provide free meals to pilgrims.

Thousands of tents have also been installed at Baltal, Nunwan, Pahalgam, and near the holy cave to provide accommodation and other essential services, ensuring that devotees can complete the pilgrimage safely and comfortably despite the challenging weather conditions.

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