Amarnath Yatra Guide
Amarnath Yatra Guide: Route, Stay, Darshan, and Tips
The sacred Amarnath Yatra is one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimages, attracting lakhs of devotees every year to the holy cave shrine of Lord Shiva in Jammu and Kashmir. This guide covers how to register, best routes, accommodation, darshan tips, and essential advice for a safe, blessed journey.
How to Register for Amarnath Yatra
- Registration is mandatory and usually opens in April-May. Visit the official Amarnath Yatra portal for dates and forms.
- Each pilgrim gets a Yatra Permit for a specific day/route after submitting a Compulsory Health Certificate and ID proof.
- You can register online or at designated bank branches across India.
How to Reach & Route Options
- By Air: Land at Srinagar Airport. From there, hire a taxi/bus to reach Baltal or Pahalgam base camps.
- By Train: Nearest railway station is Jammu. Bus/taxi service available to base camps (Jammu→Pahalgam/Baltal).
- By Road: Regular bus/taxi from Jammu, Srinagar to Pahalgam (traditional route) or Baltal (shorter, steeper route).
Yatra Routes
- Pahalgam Route: 36km trek (slow ascent; Amarnath Cave via Chandanwari–Sheshnag–Panjtarni; 3-5 days recommended).
- Baltal Route: 14km trek (short but steep; can return same day; pony/palki & helicopter options available).
Where to Stay
- Base Camps: Tented accommodation, langars, clinics at Baltal and Pahalgam (pre-book or on-the-spot, fills up fast).
- On Route: Shelters/tents, community kitchens at major stops (Sheshnag, Panjtarni, etc.).
- Hotels/Lodges: In Srinagar, Jammu, Pahalgam for pre/post-yatra stay (book in advance in season).
Darshan Tips & Safety
- The yatra runs from late June to August. Carry sweaters, raincoat, ID, yatra permit, basic medicines.
- Acclimatize well; walk at your pace to avoid altitude sickness. Listen to Yatra security instructions.
- Keep your documents and valuables secure at all times.
- Respect local customs; maintain cleanliness on the route and at the shrine.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I book a helicopter to Amarnath?
- Yes, limited tickets are sold through the official site for helicopters from Baltal and Pahalgam.
- Are elderly or kids allowed?
- Pilgrims under 13 and above 75, and pregnant women are not allowed for safety reasons.
