The ultimate Hindu pilgrimage situated in the serene mountains of Kashmir, Amarnath is the dream of every Shiv devotee. There is a belief in Hinduism that the Amarnath Cave is the place where Lord Shiva unraveled the secret of his immortality to Goddess Parvati and attained Samadhi. It is believed that Lord Shiva resides in the Amarnath Cave in the form of an ice-lingam. This naturally occurring Shiva Lingam modifies its shape according to the movement of the Moon. Two pigeons have been frequently spotted flying in and around the cave in such harsh weather. It is said that these are the two pigeons that overheard the secret of immortality being narrated by Shiva and became immortal.
The Amarnath Yatra is a vigorous journey with unfavorable weather harsh terrain. Yet thousands of devotees take up this ardent journey to get close to their Lord.
By air: The nearest airport is the Sheikh Ul-Alam International Airport in Srinagar. You can hire a taxi or travel by bus to Pahalgam.
By train: The nearest railway station is in Jammu. You can hire a taxi or travel by bus to Pahalgam.
By road: Srinagar and Jammu are well-connected with major cities. From here, direct transport is available for Pahalgam.
PAHALGAM (1N) – SHESHNAG (1N) – PANCHTARNI (1N) – PAHALGAM (1N) – SRINAGAR (1N)
Only people aged between 13-75 years are allowed to take up the yatra. Women with a maximum of 6 weeks of pregnancy are allowed to take up the yatra.
Helicopter services are available from Pahalgam and Baltal to Panchtarni. One has to trek for 6 km from Panchtarni to the Amarnath cave.
Registration for the yatra takes place only at the designated Bank Branches identified by the SASB all over India. The list of these Bank Branches is made available online every year.
One can get an application form online or at the designated Bank Branches.
One is required to submit a Compulsory Health Certificate issued by an Authorized Institution/ Doctor. The list of these Authorized Institutions and Doctors is also made available online every year.
The weather throughout the yatra is cold and harsh. Therefore, it is advisable to carry your woolens and warm clothes for the journey. Keep your necessary medicines as well. Since the journey involves a lot of traveling, therefore, carry minimal luggage.
You will be received in Srinagar. From there you’ll drive to Pahalgam (91 km/ 2 ½ hours) and will be transferred to the hotel. After checking in you may relax at the hotel.
Overnight stay will be in Pahalgam.
After early morning breakfast, you will check out from the hotel. Later you will be transferred to Chandanwari (16 km/40 mins), the base from where the yatra begins.
On the first day of the yatra, you will reach the campsite of Sheshnag. Shiva is said to have left the snake around his neck here on his way to the Amarnath cave. The beautiful Sheshnag Lake adds to the scenic beauty.
Overnight stay will be in the tents at Sheshnag.
After early morning breakfast, you will trek to the second campsite of Panchtarni. Shiva is said to have left all the five natural elements here.
After taking some rest, start the 6 km trek to the Amarnath Cave.
Offer your prayers at the holy cave. Also, see the Shivlingas of Goddess Parvati and Lord Ganesh.
After this divine experience trek back to Panchtarni.
Overnight stay will be in tents at Panchtarni.
After early morning breakfast, you shall proceed for Pahalgam. You will trek down to Chandanwari, having your lunch at Sheshnag on the way. From Chandanwari you will be transferred to your hotel in Pahalgam. Check into the hotel and rest.
Overnight stay will be in Pahalgam.
After early morning breakfast, you will check out from the hotel. You will drive to Srinagar. Check into the hotel upon arrival. Freshen up and proceed for a half-day sightseeing tour. Visit the marvelous Mughal Gardens and Shalimar-Nishad Baghs. Take a Shikara ride on the Dal Lake.
Overnight stay will be in Srinagar.
After early morning breakfast, you will check out of the hotel. Thereafter, you will be transferred to the airport for departure.
Yatra comes to an end.
