Jammu and Kashmir Bank on Tuesday began the nationwide registration process for the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2026, drawing a strong response from devotees on the very first day, with around 6,000 pilgrims registering across the country.
The yatra is scheduled to commence on July 3 and will continue until August 28, officials said.
From early morning, a heavy rush was witnessed at designated bank branches, reflecting the enthusiasm and faith among pilgrims preparing for the sacred journey to the holy cave shrine.
The registration process is being conducted through 110 designated branches of the bank spread across the country. Officials said the registration is being carried out on a first-come, first-served basis, strictly following guidelines issued by the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board.
Commenting on the development, the bank’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Amitava Chatterjee said the institution remains committed to facilitating pilgrims undertaking the annual yatra.
“J&K Bank has always remained committed to facilitating pilgrims undertaking the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra. From enabling a seamless registration process to ensuring easy and reliable banking services during the pilgrimage, we strive to ensure convenience for thousands of yatris at every step of their sacred journey,” he said.
He added that dedicated help desks have been set up at branches to guide and assist pilgrims, while staff members have been trained in advance to ensure a smooth and hassle-free registration experience.
As part of the process, advance registration of intending pilgrims is being carried out through Aadhaar-based biometric eKYC authentication in real time. Once completed, system-generated yatra permits are issued through the official portal of the Shrine Board.
Officials said that pilgrims are required to submit a valid Compulsory Health Certificate (CHC), issued by authorized medical institutions, along with the prescribed fee to obtain the yatra permit.
The strong turnout on the opening day, officials said, signals a high level of participation expected for this year’s pilgrimage.
