Amarnath Cave Temple

About Amarnath Temple & Yatra

The holy shrine of Amarnath Ji, or Amarnath Temple, is located at an elevation of 3,888 meters approx, about 29 kilometers from Pahalgam. Inside the cave is a Shiva Lingam (a phallus shaped formation made of ice), considered to be the most holy symbol by Hindus all across the globe. Devotees visit it in large numbers from June to August, with the pilgrimage tour famously known as Amarnath Yatra, which begins from Chandanwari. It is considered to be one of the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas, or the holiest shrines in Hinduism. Besides seeking blessings at the Amarnath Temple, the views surrounding it are extraordinary.

Mythology of Amarnath Cave

The place where the Amarnath Cave stands today is believed to be the same place where Lord Shiva explained the meaning of life and eternity to his consort & wife, Goddess Parvati. According to legends, Bhrigu Muni, a famous sage in Hinduism, was the first person to have discovered this holy site. At that time, the entire Kashmir Valley was submerged under water, and Kashyap Muni, another powerful sage, drained the waters with his divine powers. As the waters cleared, Bhrigu Muni was the first person to have the site of the Shiva Lingam.

Top Things to Do in Amarnath

• Seek the divine blessings at Amarnath Temple
• Enjoy the sights surrounding you

How to Reach Amarnath Cave?

You can hire a private vehicle from Jammu to Pahalgam & Baltal, state transport buses are also available. There are two trekking routes to reach Amarnath Cave, the shorter one via Baltal & the traditional one which passes through Srinagar. You can also avoid the long difficult trek and opt for taking Amarnath Yatra by helicopter.

Via Baltal

The shorter route starts from Chandanwari base in Pahalgam & goes through Baltal, Domial, Barari & Sangam. It is 14 kilometers long & allows you to complete the trip in 1-2 days. You can either walk or hire a palki (a seat carried on the shoulders of people).

Via Pahalgam

The route to Amarnath Cave via Pahalgam is the longer route & takes 3-5 days one way. This route is much wider than the Baltal route & is easily covered by the pilgrims. You can also hire ponies for the entire distance all the way to the Amarnath Temple.

Reaching Amarnath by Helicopter

You can also reach Amarnath Temple via a helicopter ride. After arriving in Srinagar, drive up to Baltal & board the helicopter which will take you up to Panchtarni. From Panchtarni, you will have to trek only for about 6 kilometers, or you can hire a palki/horse ride.

Best Time to Take Amarnath Yatra

Amarnath Yatra starts from June and ends in August.

Things to Know Before Going on Amarnath Yatra

• You will have to complete online registration before taking the Amarnath Yatra. You will have to fill out an application form which can be downloaded online, where you will be required to enter your details like full name, gender, address, state & mobile number.
• Registration will commence from all bank branches.
• Carry enough toilet paper, soap napkins.
• Remember to carry two pairs of shoes & enough socks.
• To maintain energy, carry adequate chocolates, apples, dry fruits & cheese cubes.
• Remember to carry medicines like anti allergic tablets, painkillers, crocin etc.
• Carry enough warm clothes with you.
• You will also have to buy pre activated SIM cards at the base camp of Baltal & Nunwan.
• Improve your physical fitness by doing physical exercises before taking the Amarnath Yatra.
• No one below 13 years of age and no one above 75 years of age can take the Amarnath Yatra.