Planning Amarnath Yatra 2025? A Shocking Update You Must Know

Jammu(The Uttam Hindu): In a significant security measure, the Jammu & Kashmir government has announced that the entire Amarnath Yatra route will be a no-fly zone from July 1 to August 10, following advice from the Home Ministry. Consequently, all helicopter services from Pahalgam and Baltal to Panchtarni have been suspended for this year.

In the past, thousands of pilgrims relied on quick 10–15-minute helicopter rides to bypass the challenging terrain. Now, all devotees will have to make their way on foot or by road. Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed his concerns, noting that this ban could send a “wrong message” to the international community and that it’s the first time such a restriction has been enforced in years. However, officials point to security threats as the reason for prohibiting aerial movement, which includes drones, UAVs, and balloons.

The only exceptions to the no-fly rule will be for medical emergencies, disaster response, or official surveillance missions. The Amarnath Yatra is set to take place from July 3 to August 9, with hundreds of thousands of devotees expected. The ban is intended to ensure top-notch security for this revered pilgrimage.