The holy Amarnath cave is nestled among snow-tipped mountains in Jammu and Kashmir, India at a majestic elevation of 3888 meters. Located around 141 km from Srinagar – the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir – this Hindu shrine holds immense religious significance for Hindus all over the world. Excepting a brief period between June – August when it remains open to devotees, the temple is mostly frozen underneath thick layers of snow throughout the year. Whether you are seeking divine peace or simply hoping to experience an exquisite wilderness journey; there could be no better place than this sacred destination. Each year, hundreds of thousands of Hindus and other pious individuals embark on a journey to the Amarnath Cave. As one of 51 Shakti Peethas scattered across South Asia – honoring the fallen body parts of Hindu deity Sati – this sacred site is venerated by many. Contained within its 40-meter walls lies an awe-inspiring Shiva Linga formed from water droplets dripping off the cave’s roof onto its floor and solidifying into a vertical structure that has been recognized in ancient texts like Mahabharata and Puranas as symbolizing Lord Shiva himself.
Every year, thousands of devoted followers of Lord Shiva embark on an awe-inspiring journey to Amarnath in Jammu and Kashmir. As pilgrims navigate through the rugged terrain, they will discover a stunning cave housing a naturally formed Shivaling made entirely out of ice – providing them with an unforgettable experience as this manifestation resembles the divine deity himself.
Every year, millions of travelers from around the globe make their way to Amarnath for a strenuous mountain expedition known as ‘Amarnath Yatra’. Allegedly, this is believed to be where Lord Shiva divulged the mystery regarding life and eternity with Goddess Parvati.
Sharavan from July to August marks the only time of year that Amarnath Cave is available for access. To undertake this sacred pilgrimage, you can choose between two routes: Baltal or Pahalgam. While Baltal offers a shorter course with steeper terrain, many devotees prefer Pahalgam due its longer stretch and more gradual incline. The journey typically takes 3-5 days from the starting point, though private helicopter services are now offered along both paths as an alternative option; just make sure to book early and register beforehand!
As the story goes, Bhrigu Muni was the first to behold Amarnath. Way back when Kashmir Valley was submerged under water, Kashyap Muni drained it through a number of rivers and streams. Thus, as soon as the waters receded away from there emerged Bhrigu Muni who in turn discovered Lord Amarnath’s Lingam for everyone else to witness. Soon after hearing about this momentous discovery several people started making their way towards that sacred site turning it into one of Hinduism’s most important pilgrimages ever since then! Apparently according to researchers’ findings as well ancient locals’ beliefs suggest that Gadaria community were actually first ones who witnessed Baba Barfani inside Amaranth cave. As the tale goes, Lord Shiva divulged to Goddess Parvati the secret of life and immortality at this special place. Unveiling his immortal account to her there, it was christened Amarnath – ‘amar’ meaning eternal. No one was meant to hear Lord Shiva’s sacred tale except Parvati, so he brought her to Amarnath Cave in order for it to remain a secret. Coincidentally, two pigeons were also present during the narration – and upon listening to this story of immortality, they too became immortal! Since then countless pilgrims have reported sightings of these mythical birds at the cave itself.
By flight
The Srinagar Airport, accommodating all major airlines is roughly 70 km away from Pahalgam. To make the journey to Amarnath easier and faster, there are government bus services as well as private cabs available for hire from Pahalgam. Additionally, Hans helicopters offer regular flights between Baltal (nearby to Pahalgam) and Amarnath for a more convenient trip.
By road
Amarnath is situated in a rugged terrain, and consequently not easily accessible via road. After arriving at Jammu, travelers must take the highway to Srinagar before heading toward Baltal or Pahalgam. Of these two paths, those aiming to get there quickly should consider the one from Baltal as it is shorter but more difficult; while families with elders may find more relief on the longer route by way of Pahalgam. To ease your journey you can also hire ponies and palkies along either path-the first taking 1-2 days (15 km) while latter requiring 3-5 days (36-48km). Regardless of which route you decide to go down know that when done successfully Amaranth will be waiting for you!
By train
If you’re planning to visit Amarnath, the closest railway station is Jammu at a distance of 178 km. While in Jammu, travelers can hire cabs to bring them to either Baltal or Pahalgam – both routes that will take you close to your destination. If you choose the Baltal route, it’s only a one-to-two day trek (15 kilometers) until finally arriving at Amarnath; however if perhaps Pahalgam fits better into your itinerary then be prepared for a longer journey spanning three-to five days (36 – 48 kms).
