Every summer, Jammu becomes the gateway for one of the country's largest pilgrimages — and this year is no different. The Shri Amarnath Yatra 2026 runs from 3 July to 28 August, and batches of pilgrims have been departing from Jammu since the first was flagged off on 2 July, moving on under multi-layer security towards the Baltal and Pahalgam routes.
The result is a city visibly in welcome mode. Registration and token distribution for yatris is being handled at the newly developed Tawi Riverfront, and the influx brings a seasonal buzz — and seasonal work — to Jammu's hospitality, transport and vending trades.
A city in welcome mode
Along the Jammu–Srinagar highway, the first batch of pilgrims was received at the Chanderkote langar site in Ramban by the district administration, civil society members and various langar (community kitchen) organisations. These volunteer-run kitchens serve free meals around the clock through the season.
The support goes well beyond food. Om Shiv Shakti Sewa Langar Committee president Varinder Malik said their site runs a 24-hour medical camp stocked with oxygen cylinders and essential medicines, backed by a dedicated ambulance, alongside a three-meal service that will continue through 28 August.
How young Jammuites can help
The yatra is one of the year's biggest opportunities for hands-on community service — and much of it is powered by volunteers:
Langar seva: registered langar organisations and NGOs are formally invited to set up and run community kitchens and allied services during the yatra; established groups such as the Radha Soami Satsang Beas and local seva samitis take on volunteers ahead of the season.
Through the shrine board: the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) coordinates the pilgrimage and is the first point of contact for those who want to contribute in an organised way.
Around the city: the surge of visitors also means short-term work and civic-volunteering roles across Jammu's transport, hospitality and heritage-guide spaces.
For young residents, the yatra is a reminder that seva is not an abstract idea — it is a bus stand, a langar counter or a medical tent, staffed by people who chose to show up. If you have been looking for a way to give back this summer, the season has arrived on your doorstep.
Sources: The Tribune, India.com, Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board.
