Amarnath
Come the Hindu month of Sharavan (July – August), and Hindus from all across the world start flocking to Amarnath. Arranged annually by the state government of Jammu & Kashmir, the Amarnath Yatra is held in high regard by the Hindu community. Devotees make a beeline to get to the Amarnath Cave, believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva. The Hindu god is worshipped here in the form of a ‘lingam’, the phallic symbol of Lord Shiva. Though the journey happens to be a rigorous one, nothing seems to dampen the spirit and devotion of pilgrims. Religion is the lifeblood of the nation in India. And it is at places like Amarnath that one gets to experience the spiritual fervour that India has always be known for. To make it easy for travelers to reach the Amarnath Cave, helicopters are made available during the pilgrimage season. Get to experience why devotees walk continuously for 15 days to reach the site of pilgrimage. In addition, you can visit a number of tourist destinations located close by.
Best Time to Visit
The pilgrimage season is between the months of July and August. So, confirm the exact date before you arrive to participate in the holy yatra.
Mythological Background
The holy cave at Amarnath finds its mention at many places in the Hindu scriptures. Believed to be around 5,000 years old, the Amarnath Cave is steeped in mythology and legends. According to what Hindus believe, the cave came to light when a Gujjar shepherd found it. The shepherd was gifted a bag by the saint he met there. On returning home, the shepherd saw the bag to be filled with gold coins. When the news spread across the village, they came to believe that Lord Shiva abided in the cave. Another legend has it that it is here that Lord Shiva disclosed to Parvati (his consort) the secret of creation in the Amarnath Cave.
The Trek to Amarnath
The divine journey begins at Chandanwari, which can be reached either by hiring a taxi or catching a bus. From Chandanwari onwards, there are no buses or taxis available as the climb becomes steeper. The distance can be covered either on foot or by hiring a pony. Next halt is at Sheshnag, which is located at a distance of 11 km from Chandanwari. Further, pilgrims need to undertake a trek of around 13 km to reach the final stoppage at Panchtarni. Just at a distance of 6 km from Panchtari lies the ultimate destination, the holy cave of Aamarnath.
Travellers can also undertake this wonderful trek, at an altitude of 14,500 ft. The whole region is surrounded by picturesque valley and mountain ranges. The trek gives travelers an opportunity to come in close contact with the serenely beautiful creations of nature.
Reaching Amarnath in Jammu Kashmir
There is no direct road or rail link that could make Amarnath accessible. Visitors will first need to fly to the airport at Srinagar, 145 km away. The entry point for accessibility to the pilgrimage site is Jammu, located at 300 km. The city of Jammu has good connectivity via air, rail and road to all the key destinations of the country. Be also informed that weather conditions are not favourable and the trek to Amarnath truly demands physical fitness. The effort, however, is worth it.
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