Amarnath Yatra

Amarnath Yatra is considered to be one of the finest experiences that a pilgrim can even have. Those who have faith in God get a chance to visit this site and are rewarded with the best gift of their life. The cave shrine is a well known destination for the Hindu devotees as it is the last wish for every person to go for the Amarnath Yatra.

Amarnath is one of the most visited attractions of Jammu and Kashmir. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and lies on the top of the mountain Amarnath and that is why it is called by this name. As per the Hindu Mythology, it is said that this is the place where Lord Shiva learnt about the secrets of life and explained the same to Parvati. The main shrine consists of Shiva Link and for years the ice stalagmite has continued to attract the devotees. Every year thousands of pilgrims come for the Amarnath Yatra and get the blessings of Lord Shiva, Maa Parvati and their son Ganesha.

The pilgrimage site is not only popular among the Shiva devotes but other Hindu devotees as well. Though it is the toughest Yatra of all but still people of all age groups come here with full dedication just to get a glimpse of the Lord Shiva and offer their prayers. The cave is a part of the Lidder Valley and situated at a height of 3,888 m. The cave is about 150 ft high and 90 ft long. The shrine is the place where Lord Shiva disclosed the secrets of immortality and wanted only his wife to hear that.

The journey consists of a number of army posts who are responsible for the safety of the people. Proper arrangements are made that the travelers enjoy their trip and can safely return from the cave shrine. The accommodation options include the tent facility at various areas of Sheshnag (Wawajan), Baltal and Panchtarni. The charges are reasonable and you will get pillows, mattresses, bed sheets and other basic amenities so that you have a comfortable stay. In every tent, about 10-12 people can stay with toilet facilities available at the other end of the tent. Free kitchen services and medical camps are also organized in case the devotees need any kind of medical help.

Pahalgam to Amarnath

The Yatra from Pahalgam to Amarnathji is a four day trip and at the end of each you can relax at the night halts of Chandanwari, Sheshnag (Wawajan) and Panchtarni. The total distance is around 45 km which can be travelled easily in 4 days.

Day 1: Pahalgam to Chandanwadi

(Average walking time 4 hours)

The journey from Pahalgam begins on day one when you pass through the Shankar temple which is located in the Lidder Valley. Then after travelling a short distance, you reach Chandanwadi (2,900m). Though there are many other routes that you can follow but this one is a little safe and easy for the travelers. Stalls are open throughout the route so that you can eat whatever you want to. The tea stalls are quite popular and enjoy a lot of by the tourists.

Day 2: Chandanwadi to Sheshnag

(Average walking time 5 to 6 hours)

On the day 2, the journey begins from Chandanwadi and walk about 500 m to reach the Pisu Top (3390 ft). From here, the next destination is the Wawajan (3,550m) but in between you can enjoy the tea and snacks. This business is quite fruitful for the local people as travelers have tea at regular intervals during the trip so as to keep themselves energetic. From Wawajan, you will head towards the Sheshnag (3,720m) where you can enjoy the beautiful views of the lake and explore the surroundings as well. It is said that this lake is the home of many serpents, therefore it is advisable not to go too close to the lake.

Day 3: Sheshnag to Panchtarni

(Average walking time 6 hours)

The next destination of the devotees is the Mahagunas Pass which takes you around the mountains and the steep slopes all through the way. The pass is located at a height of about 4270m and is one of the difficult treks as well. Hence the travelers should be a little alert while moving through this route. During your trip, you can explore the real beauty of nature and the pleasant atmosphere which is definitely at its best.

Your next destination is Panchtarni (3,450m) which is the longest of all treks and may become tiring as well. But there are lots of arrangements made for the travelers to rest and complete their journey. You can also get a glimpse of the Himalayan Mountains from here and enjoy the views resting on the site. Slowly you can head towards your destination and try to reach the site as early as possible. The path is cleaner now and easy to walk.

Day 4: Panchtarni to Amarnath Cave & Return

(Average walking time 5 hours Return)

In order to save your time, it is better to start early in the morning so that there isn’t enough traffic and you can get down easily. Even if you move down slowly, you will be able to reach your destination easily without getting tired. During the route, you can explore the morning dew and the vibrant atmosphere.

Before you enter the Amarnath Valley, you have to pass through the Singh Pass (3,850m). If you reach this destination, you are just a few steps away from the main shrine where you can worship Lord Shiva and Parvati and get their blessings. The cave is located at a height of 4050m with the police standing at the entrance and exit to check every traveler, Hence safety measures are taken to avoid any accidents and make sure that people have a safe journey.

Day 5: Panchtarni to Chandanwadi

(Average walking time 8 hours)

As the devotees re happy after worshipping their God, therefore they usually start the return journey after resting for some time. It may take around a day to reach Chandanwadi.

Day 6: Chandanwadi to Pahalgam

(Average walking time 4 hours)

Return to Pahalgam is quite easy and you have enough time to explore the local market.

Essentials to be Carried Along

Important items to carry are gloves, waterproof shoes, sleeping bags, moisturizers, eatables, water, medical aid, woolens, caps, walking sticks and sun blocks.

Climate

Though the weather in unpredictable but still you can enjoy sunny days. The temperate may go down to 5 degree C.

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Amarnath Yatra
Amarnath Yatra
Amarnath Yatra
Amarnath Yatra
Amarnath Yatra
Amarnath Yatra

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