Legendary Trip to Amarnath : A Journey of Spirituality
Top 10 Places to visit during the Amarnath Yatra:
Beginning from a sojourn, spiritual yatra, the Amarnath Yatra takes one up to some of the most picturesque landscapes along the Himalayas. Besides the famous shrine, the Amarnath Cave, there are several other destinations along the route that would make it an apt blend for a visit on this sojourn. Here are top 10 places to be visited on the Amarnath Yatra, along with the recommended hotels and tips for each location:
10. Amarnath Cave
The biggest attraction of the yatra is the magnificent ice lingam of the Amarnath Cave—a naturally formed symbol of Lord Shiva, resonating with energy and grandeur, which leaves these visiting pilgrims in a state of wow. The holy cave is situated at a height of 3,888 meters above sea level and is visited by people only in the summer months, when the snows have melted. What is interesting, however, is that the way to the cave entails frenzied expedition over an undulating landscape, yet the journey in itself is accounted for as a spiritual yatra.
Recommended Hotels:
| Hotel Name | Rating | Price Range |
| Jahangir Cottage Pahalgam | 4.5/5 | $50 – $100 |
| Zebrina Guest House Pahalgam | 4.2/5 | $30 – $60 |
| Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Pine N Peak, Pahalgam | 4.7/5 | $100 – $200 |
Tips:
Timing: Your plan should be to visit during the Yatra season, which is mainly from June to August.
Accommodation: Advance booking of accommodation to avoid disappointment.
Weather: The weather is unpredictable, with heavy snowing and very cold conditions.
safety: Follow local authorities and guides regarding any advice on trekking
9. Pahalgam
It is a nice town and the base camp for the holy pilgrimage to Amarnath. Feel this place by soaking in its natural beauty, trekking, camping, and rafting on its rivers. Pahalgam has lush green meadows surrounded by pine forests, with Lidder River, popular for trout fishing and other activities of local sports.
Recommended Hotels:
| Hotel Name | Rating | Price Range |
| Heevan Pahalgam | 4.6/5 | $80 – $150 |
| Paradise Retreat Daksum | 4.4/5 | $60 – $120 |
| JKTDC Tourist Establishment, Kokernag | 4.1/5 | $40 – $80 |
Tips:
Activities: Trek, camp, and raft to get up and close with the naturally beautiful regions.
Local Cuisine: Savor local banquets in hauteASH Kashmiri cuisine with Wazwan, either with Kahwa tea.
Shopping: One can visit the local markets to buy Kashmiri handicrafts and traditional items as souvenirs.
Transport: One can move around town using local taxis or the town buses.
8. Sheshnag Lake
This high-altitude lake is named after a mythical snake, Sheshnag—a mesmerizing stop along the yatra route. This high-altitude lake tastes tranquilly turquoise water and majestic mountains around. With 4,100 meters (13,450 ft) high altitude, it is a common camping site for pilgrims. Hindu Mythology relates that Shiva left behind his snake, which represented his power, at the site while he was on his way to the Amarnath Cave.
Recommended Hotels:
| Hotel Name | Rating | Price Range |
| Hotel Bliss | 4.3/5 | $50 – $100 |
| Hotel Alpine | 4.0/5 | $40 – $80 |
| BG’s White Residential Home | 4.2/5 | $30 – $60 |
Tips:
Photography: Take amazing pictures of the lake and the mountains around.
Hiking: Take small walks around the lake to enjoy lungfuls of beauty.
Weather: Be prepared for changing weather with powerful winds and sudden storms.
Safety: Follow the local authorities and guides of trekkers in case of safety measures on the journey.
7. Aishmuqam Shrine
Not only that, one can also visit the Aishmuqam Shrine that belongs to Sufi saint Baba Zain-ud-din-wali for architectural and spiritual enlightenment purposes. The shrine’s characteristic intricate carvings and tranquil atmosphere give due importance to Hindu and Muslim devotees during earlier times.
Recommended Hotels:
| Hotel Name | Rating | Price Range |
| The Oasis Srinagar | 4.5/5 | $80 – $150 |
| Robusta Retreat | 4.3/5 | $60 – $120 |
| Kashmir Holiday Resort | 4.1/5 | $50 – $100 |
Tips:
Prayer: Join in the prayers and rituals sung/read out here in this shrine so that one may feel its spiritual importance from one’s own fiber.
Architecture: Be amazed at the complex architecture developed for the temple.
Local Food: Pamper your taste buds with some real Kashmiri treat like Wazwan and Kahwa tea.
Transportation: Taxis or buses within a community level.
6. Kokernag Botanical Garden
This is an exquisite botanical garden with rows of rare flowers, soulful ponds, Japanese bridges—an excellent respite from the yatra. It is located around the Kokernag area of springs and charming landscapes.
Recommended Hotels:
| Hotel Name | Rating | Price Range |
| Water Vibe Homestay Srinagar | 4.4/5 | $40 – $80 |
| Cherrytree Resort | 4.2/5 | $50 – $100 |
| Hotel Bliss | 4.3/5 | $50 – $100 |
Tips:
Nature Walk: A leisurely walk around the garden of nature, surrounded by flora and fauna.
Photograph: click a few shots, as a photographer would do, to show, in an interesting way, how a garden can be.
Weather: Be aware of changing weather frequently; beware of strong-gust storms.
Transportation: Get around town in local nonmetered taxis or buses.
5. Martand Sun Temple
Though distinctly off the yatra route, ancient Martand Sun Temple—situated near Anantnag—is definitely an architectural wonder one simply cannot overlook. This eighth-century temple stands as testament to the rich cultural legacy that its people have left behind and one of the finest examples in the area of ancient Hindu temple architecture.
Recommended Hotels:
| Hotel Name | Rating | Price Range |
| Park Inn by Radisson, IP Extension- New Delhi | 4.5/5 | $80 – $150 |
| OYO Padam Residency | 4.2/5 | $40 – $80 |
| FabHotel Hargobind Enclave | 4.1/5 | $30 – $60 |
Tips:
Architecture: Observe the intensive design and architecture of this temple.
History: Brief them about the history and the importance of the temple briefly.
Local Cuisine: Enjoy local Kashmiri cuisines, such as Wazwan and Kahwa tea.
Transport: One can either walk, hire a local taxi, or board the bus to move around the town.
4. Tarsar and Marsar Lakes
This trek to such pristine high-altitude lakes is most rewarding and an experience of getting so close to completely untouched natural beauty. Tarsar and Marsar Lakes lie at an altitude of approximately 4,200 meters above mean sea level, enveloped by snow-capped peaks.
Recommended Hotels:
| Hotel Name | Rating | Price Range |
| Radisson Hotel Sonamarg | 4.6/5 | $100 – $200 |
| Country Inn & Suites By Radisson Sonamarg | 4.4/5 | $80 – $150 |
| Treebo Trend Hargobind Enclave | 4.0/5 | $40 – $80 |
Tips:
Trekking: This path to the lakes is quite tough.
Photography: Take magnificent photo shots of the lakes and their surrounding mountain ranges.
Weather: Be on the lookout for strong gusts of wind, sudden storms, and rapidly changing weather.
Safety: Heed local authorities and any trekking guides regarding safety during the journey.
3. Srinagar
Spend some time in Srinagar, the capital of Jammu and Kashmir. Without a doubt, the Shankaracharya Temple, the Hazrat Bal Shrine, and the more contemporary Tulip Garden are not on the list. Its serene lakes and old-fashioned houseboats, with their local, colorful bazaars, contribute immensely to give one nearly the feel for the rich cultural heritage of the place.
Recommended Hotels:
| Hotel Name | Rating | Price Range |
| The Oasis Srinagar | 4.5/5 | $80 – $150 |
| Robusta Retreat | 4.3/5 | $60 – $120 |
| Kashmir Holiday Resort | 4.1/5 | $50 – $100 |
Tips:
Flavors to Relish: Traditional Kashmiri cuisine, Wazwan, and Kahwa tea.
Shopping: Purchase exclusive ethnic Kashmir handicrafts and souvenirs from any of the local markets.
Transportation: Local taxis or buses can be used when moving around the city.
Weather: The weather is changeable; sometimes squally, with sudden storms.
2. Local Hospitality
Acquaint yourselves with the warm, hospitable local communities on the way to the yatra and share something about the invaluable culture and traditions. Take time off to interact with the locals, eat some type of symbiotic Kashmiri cuisine, and visit the local bazaars to soak a little in its culture.
Recommended Hotels:
| Hotel Name | Rating | Price Range |
| Water Vibe Homestay Srinagar | 4.4/5 | $40 – $80 |
| Cherrytree Resort | 4.2/5 | $50 – $100 |
| BG’s White Residential Home | 4.2/5 | $30 – $60 |
Tips:
Cultural exchange: This leads to increased learning about local traditions and practices on livelihoods through direct cultural exchange.
Foods: Sample all their local foods and if possible understand how some of their dishes are prepared.
Shopping: Always go in for local traditional handicraft and souvenir goods available across markets.
Transport: The local town transport is provided through local taxis or buses.
1. Adventure Activities
One can indulge in adventure trekking, camping, and river rafting to soak completely in the natural beauty of the region. For open-air adventure freaks, there are monuments of rough Himalayan terrain in the form of boulders that test the outer reaches of physical and mental capabilities.
Recommended Hotels:
| Hotel Name | Rating | Price Range |
| Heevan Pahalgam | 4.6/5 | $80 – $150 |
| Paradise Retreat Daksum | 4.4/5 | $60 – $120 |
| JKTDC Tourist Establishment, Kokernag | 4.1/5 | $40 – $80 |
Tips:
Safety: Be equipped with the right gear and any other necessary guides for any form of adventure activity.
Weather: Prepare for frequent changeability. Windswept, squalls.
Transportation: Travel within the city using local taxis or buses.
Accommodation: You should make reservations early to avoid any hitch in accommodation.
The Amarnath Yatra status symbolizes spiritual enlightenment, spots of natural beauty, and a cultural experience. Given below are the top ten places to be visited and make memorable one’s pilgrimage to the ice lingam cave of Shri Amarnath.
FAQ
Q1. What is Amarnath Yatra?
Touted to be a holy pilgrimage, the Amarnath Yatra is held in the beautiful Amarnath Cave in Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is one of the biggest pilgrimages of Hindus devoted to Lord Shiva.
Q2. When is the Amarnath Yatra?
Generally, the holy Amarnath Yatra is carried out in the summer months: June, July, and August. The exact dates are announced each year by the Shri Amarnath Shrine Board, SASB, after consideration of various factors—the weather being one.
Q3. What are the two main routes available for the Amarnath Yatra?
The two main treks to the holy cave of Shri Amarnathji are the Pahalgam track and the Baltal track. While the Pahalgam track is about 46 kilometers long and having a gradual rise, the Baltal track is only about 14 kilometers long and having a steep rise.
Q4. How much time is it taking to reach the Cave of Amarnath?
It takes about 2-5 days to reach the Amarnath Cave from the base camp via a tough trek. The duration again depends upon the route purchased and upon the individual’s physical fitness.
Q5. Why is health and fitness required for the Amarnath Yatra?
Against the backdrop of rugged roads at high altitude, health and physical fitness become the twin requirements. Pilgrims are advised to undergo medical checkups and acclimatization routines at an appropriate base camp before embarking on the holy pilgrimage. Also, carry some basic medications with yourself, and if you are suffering from any chronic health problem, do consult a doctor.
Q6. What is the process for registration in Amarnath Yatra?
Registration for the Amarnath Yatra can be inducted online or through nominated bank branches. The registration fee is Rs. 100 per yatri. Only physically fit persons below the age of 75 years and above the age of 13 years are permitted to register. No lady with more than six weeks of pregnancy shall be permitted to register.
Q7. What are the accommodation facilities along the yatra route?
The accommodation facilities along the yatra range from tents to those provided by the government and lastly the private ones by tour operators. One must ensure making an advance booking for accommodation, especially during peak season, to have a comfort stay.
Q8. What is the weather condition like during Amarnath Yatra?
The temperature conditions at Amarnath Yatra premises are pretty variable and drop below 5°C quite frequently. Warm and woolen garments along with quality trekking shoes essentially become a must-carry for the traveler.
Q9. What arrangements have foreseen to ensure safety and security for the Amarnathji Yatra?
Safety and security of pilgrims is thus the prime concern. The Indian Army, along with local authorities, deploys manpower along the yatra routes to assist the pilgrims and render emergency services wherever required. The guidelines issued by them have to be scrupulously adhered to and safety precautions taken throughout the journey.
Q10. What is the do’s and dont’s of Amarnath Yatra?
Do’s: Carry adequate woolen clothing, trekking shoes and some basic medications with you. Keep your clothes and eatables in a suitable waterproof bag. Always carry along with you your Identity Card and Yatra permit, move in a group and follow the instructions issued by the Yatra Administration.
Dont’s:Avoid halting at spots marked by warning notices. Not to walk with bare feet and not to wear woolen garments not to use slippers not to take a short cut in the route not to start the journey with an empty stomach not to do anything that may result in pollution or disturb the environment of the place.
Q11. What are the emergency contact numbers for the Amarnath Yatra?
For any assistance, contact the SASB Camp Directors or the nearest Yatra Control room. In case of any accident or emergent situation, immediately contact the nearest Camp Director or Mountain Rescue Teams (MRTs) deployed at various locations.
Q12.What are the environmental guidelines for the Amarnath Yatra?
Respect the environment and do nothing whatsoever to pollute the Yatra area. Avoid throwing coins, currency notes, decorative chunnis, brass lotas, or any other material towards the Shivlingam while having Darshans at the Holy Cave.
Q13. What are the cultural and spiritual aspects of the Amarnath Yatra?
The Amarnath Yatra is more of a transformative sojourn. Whether you are a seasoned pilgrim or embarking on your first spiritual journey, the Amarnath Yatra promises a lifetime of memories. It is a deeply spiritual journey that requires devotion, perseverance, and preparation.
Q14. What are the best places to visit during the Amarnath Yatra?
Some of the best places to visit during the Amarnath Yatra include the Amarnath Cave, Baltal, Pahalgam, Chandanwari, Sheshnag Lake, Lidder River, Srinagar, Gulmarg, Sinthan Top, Yousmarg Valley, Tarsar and Marsar Lakes, Aharbal Waterfall, and Achabal Wildlife Sanctuary.
Q15. What are the group registration guidelines for the Amarnath Yatra?
Group registration allows 5 or more people to register together for a single date of Yatra. This year, the group registration window was opened from 2nd April 2019 to 31st May 2019. Please view the guidelines for group registration for the Amarnath Yatra at the designated website.
Q16. What are the documents required for Amarnath Yatra registration?
The documents required for Amarnath Yatra registration include a Compulsory Health Certificate (CHC) issued by authorized institutions or doctors. The registration form must be completed with all necessary information.
Q17. What are the helpline numbers for the Amarnath Yatra?
For any assistance, contact the SASB Camp Directors or the nearest Yatra Control room. In case of any query related to Yatra, please contact the SASB at 0191-2503399 and 0191-2555662 (Jammu) or 0194-2313146, 0194-2313147-49 (Srinagar), or the Toll Free Number: 1800-180- 6110.
Q18. What are the precautions for women during the Amarnath Yatra?
Women are advised to wear salwar kameez, pant-shirt, or a track suit instead of sarees. They should also avoid stopping at places marked by warning notices and follow the instructions issued by the Yatra Administration.
Q19. What are the precautions for children and elderly during the Amarnath Yatra?
Children below the age of 13 years and elderly persons above the age of 70 years are not allowed to undertake the pilgrimage for safety reasons.
Q20. What are the precautions for pregnant women during the Amarnath Yatra?
Women who are more than six weeks pregnant are not allowed to undertake the pilgrimage for safety reasons.
