The Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board, the governing body overseeing the organization of the Amarnath Yatra, has made the decision to prohibit certain food items from the pilgrimage menu due to potential health risks for the pilgrims. Effective from July 1, pilgrims will be unable to consume deep-fried and fast-food items, as well as sweets such as jalebi, during their journey. This measure is aimed at safeguarding the well-being of the pilgrims throughout their Yatra experience.
Popular food items such as halwa, jalebi, gulab jamun, ladoos, barfi, and rasgullas have been excluded from the food menu, along with crunchy snacks that are rich in fat and salt. Pilgrims will no longer have access to well-known items like Kurkure, namkeen mixtures, pakoras, and samosas. Additionally, dishes like chhola-bhatura, pooris, pizza, burgers, dosas, and chowmein will also be prohibited from consumption.
In order to ensure the well-being of pilgrims and service providers during the challenging 14-kilometer long trek through high altitudes and steep mountainous terrain, a comprehensive food menu has been developed for Langar organizations, food stalls, shops, and other establishments operating in the Yatra area. The objective is to discourage the availability of “unhealthy” food items that could be detrimental to the health of the pilgrims. By offering a carefully curated food selection, the aim is to encourage pilgrims to make healthier dietary choices throughout their journey.
The approved food items for consumption during the pilgrimage include steamed rice and light options such as roasted chana, poha, uthappam, idli, dal-roti, and chocolate. Additionally, pilgrims are permitted to have kheer, oats, dry fruits, honey, and boiled sweets as part of their dietary choices throughout the journey.
The registration process for visiting the sacred Amarnath temple will commence on July 1, 2023. Located in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the temple holds significant religious importance. The Amarnath Yatra spans a duration of 62 days, starting from July 1 and concluding on August 31, 2023. Pilgrims will have the opportunity to embark on this spiritual journey during this designated period.
The registration process for the pilgrimage offers both online and offline options for individuals to choose from. Pilgrims can conveniently register through the online portal or avail themselves of the offline channels. To facilitate the registration procedure, there are 542 bank locations spread across the country, providing easy access for pilgrims to complete their registration formalities. This ensures a seamless and accessible process for individuals interested in undertaking the pilgrimage.