Amarnath Yatra 2025: No helicopter services for pilgrims
For the 2025 Amarnath Yatra, the Jammu and Kashmir government has banned all helicopter services to the shrine, following a deadly attack in Pahalgam earlier this year.
From July 1 to August 10, all yatra routes are now 'no-fly zones,' so choppers are off-limits for pilgrims.
Pilgrims will have to walk or use ponies
With helicopters grounded, everyone heading to the shrine will need to walk or use ponies and palkis instead.
The ban also covers drones and balloons along both main routes.
To keep things safe, 581 companies of Central Armed Police Forces will be on duty throughout the pilgrimage.
Omar Abdullah questions ban
Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has questioned whether banning helicopters is really necessary, saying it puts safety above convenience for pilgrims.
Still, officials say security has to come first after recent threats.