OVERVIEW :

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. 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. 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. 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.