Amarnathji Yatra

Amarnathji Yatra is regarded as one of the holiest points of Jammu & Kashmir pilgrim tourism. People from far flung areas come to visit the cave of Amarnath every year in the month of July to August. The Shiva Lingam of Amarnath which forms naturally through the droplets of ice over a period of time is a symbol of immense reverence for the devotees.

The journey or yatra to Amarnathji begins in the month of July when the routes are comparatively clear. There are two locations via which Amarnathji yatra can be completed. The first one starts from Pahalgam which is around 46 km away from Amarnath. Pilgrims can avail of transport facilities till Chandanwari and after that the rest 30 km has to be covered on foot by the travelers. While passing through Chandanwari people have the option of staying back for one night and the following day they can start again. Seshnag and Panchtarni are the two next destinations. From Panchtarni Amarnathji cave is only six km away.

The second location from where Amarnathji yatra starts is Baltal. Unlike Pahalgam, from Baltal Amarnath can be arrived at in just one day. Through Sonamarg and Baltal, the cave of Amarnathji is reached by the pilgrims some of whom use porters, while some others use dandies and ponies.

Arranging accommodation facilities on every route to Amarnathji yatra, the government of Jammu & Kashmir also provide strict vigilance and security to the pilgrims. Registration procedures initiate quite early to avoid unnecessary rush. Also there is a specific pilgrim number beyond which people are not allowed to take part in the Amarnathji Yatra.

Although a stressful and risky sojourn, yet Amarnathji Yatra attracts hundreds and thousands of pilgrims every year who come to gather the blessings of Holy Lord Shiva.

Last Updated on 8/29/2011