The annual Kanwar Yatra will begin today after a gap of two years. The Yatra, which was cancelled in the last two years due to the COVID-19 outbreak, is expected to be attended by around 3-4 crore devotees this year. Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh governments have made elaborate arrangements to manage such a large gathering. The Kanwar Yatra will pass through Meerut, Saharanpur, Ghaziabad, Shamli, and Bhagpat districts in Uttar Pradesh. It will conclude in Haridwar, Gomukh, and Gangotri in Uttarakhand on the 26th of this month. Devotees participating in the yatra will collect the sacred water from the river Ganga. Devotees chant slogans in praise of Lord Shiva and sing bhajans and kirtans while taking part in the yatra.
While most people cover this yatra on foot, some opt for personal vehicles in case they are not able to walk long distances. Many NGOs also come forward to assist the Kanwars in their pilgrimage at various points along the way to the destination, providing makeshift accommodation, food, water, and tea.
