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.
The Amarnath Yatra takes place every year in the months of July-August. Particular dates are announced every year keeping in mind the Hindu calendar and the weather conditions.
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.
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.
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 and drive to Srinagar. Thereafter, you will be transferred to the airport for departure.
