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The Amarnath temple is one of the iconic cave temples of Jammu and Kashmir that is revered highly among Hindus worldwide. The journey to reach the main temple shrine is a challenging task yet the unwavering faith of the devotees makes the visit a worthy one. The temple is surrounded by natural beauty which makes the trek all the more adventurous and beautiful. Every year, thousands of devotees undertake the holy Amarnath Yatra to witness and worship Lord Shiva who is said to manifest himself in the form of an ice lingam.
Quick Facts About Amarnath Temple
Location: Anantnag District, Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir
Elevation: 12,756 ft above sea level
Timings: Darshan timings at the holy cave are from 6 AM – 4 PM
Entry Charges: Free
Starting Point: Pahalgam and Baltal
Nearest Airport: Jammu International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi Railway Station
Best Time To Visit: June to August
Level Of Difficulty: Difficult due to 16 kms steep trek
The Legend And Belief Of Amarnath Temple
Photo: Ashishyadav.photographs / Wikimedia Commons
Amarnath Cave temple is said to be the place where Lord Shiva narrated the Amar Katha to his wife Goddess Parvati. Lord Shiva did not want any other person to know the secret, he left all his belongings and travelled to a secluded place where no one can reach.
Suggested Read: Srinagar Temples
Location
Photo: Indrani Majhi / Shutterstock
Amarnath Temple is a cave temple situated around 168 km from the main Anantnag city. One can reach tot the temple through either Pahalgam or Sonamarg. In the Sind Valley, a cave is surrounded by snow and glaciers throughout the year. But, it opens for a small period of time during summer.
How To Reach
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
After reaching the Jammu railway station or airport, one can hire cabs or take a bus to reach Pahalgam or Baltal. It takes 1-2 days of trekking to reach Amarnath from Baltal. The route from Pahalgam takes a longer time of around 3-5 days of trekking. Alternatively, there is a helicopter drop available from Srinagar to Panjtarni located just 2 km from the temple.
Suggested Read: Museums In Jammu And Kashmir
Things To Do Near Amarnath Cave Temple
Jammu and Kashmir is also fondly known as Heaven on Earth due to its unparalleled views of snow-clad peaks and adventure activities.
1. Gangabal Trek
Photo: Tabishm2 / Wikimedia Commons
There is another trekking trail near Amarnath known as Gangabal Trek that can be undertaken by those looking for some added adventure. Flagged off from Srinagar, this exciting trail takes you through the scenic locales of Nichinai, Sonmarg, Krishansar, and Dubta Pani and finally reaches the beautiful Gangabal Lake.
2. Pahalgam River Rafting
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
For those looking to have some added adventure, there is river rafting on the Indus River or Lidder River in Pahalgam. In order to experience it to the fullest, it is best to visit during the spring or summer season from April to June. Another difficult and one of the most challenging rafting experiences is on the River Zanskar in Pahalgam which takes you between the Zanskar mountains, Padum and Nimu.
Best Time To Visit: April to June
Cost/Person: ₹1800 – ₹3500
Suggested Read: Famous Festivals In Jammu And Kashmir
3. Golfing At Pahalgam Golf Course
Photo: Kreativeart / Wikimedia Commons
Set against the backdrop of snow-clad Himalayan mountains and greenery, golfing at the Pahalgam Golf Course is an unforgettable and unique experience. The place is an 18-hole golf course that offers an opportunity to golfers of all skill levels to enjoy this game amidst breathtaking scenery. There are well-maintained greens and fairways with an undulating terrain, natural hazards and well-placed bunkers to add to the thrill and excitement of the game.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Cost/Person: ₹150
4. Helicopter Ride To Amarnath
Photo: Adventurewhite / Wikimedia Commons
Instead of trekking, people can choose to go take a helicopter ride to Amarnath Temple. The ride takes you through stunning terrains and lofty mountains while taking you on an aerial excursion through one of the most beautiful regions of the country. The ride drops the person at Panchtarni which is just a 2-hour trek from there.
Cost/Person: ₹3000
Suggested Read: Hill Stations Near Vaishno Devi
Where To Stay
Photo: Sanu N / Wikimedia Commons
A person can choose to stay at either of the four places depending upon their choice of starting their trek to Amarnath Temple. These are Pahalgam, Sonmarg, Baltal, and Chandanwari. Here, one can find hotels, resorts and Dharamshala as per his or her budget. There is a luxurious stay at Radisson Hotel Sonmarg and Country Inn and suites at Sonmarg. For those looking for some pocket-friendly options, there is the Spring and Imperial Hotel at Anantnag.
Where To Eat
Photo: Muhammad Khawar Nazir / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
On the road to Amarnath Caves, one can find several restaurants serving delicious food to all the pilgrims. Some of the top choices include Shree Ganesh Vaishno Dhaba on Chandanwari Road, Pahalgam, Mettu Pahalgam Delight, Pahalgam, and Prem Vaishno Dhaba near the helipad in Pahalgam.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Gulmarg
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Mattingly Marinaccio / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
- It is mandatory to submit a Compulsory Health Certificate when booking the helicopter service.
- Always carry identification cards.
- You need to first register yourself for the Amarnath temple visit to get the Yatra permit
- Keep the age limit for the trek in mind.
- Always pack woollen clothes and other winter essentials to combat the mountain atmosphere during the trip.
- Keep some energy-boosting snacks always in hand.
- Always adhere to the safety guidelines given by the government during the trip.
- Though first aid is available at regular intervals of your trip, it is best to keep a smaller first aid kit for any kind of emergency.
Amarnath Temple offers a spiritually enriching journey amidst stunning natural beauty, making it a must-visit for devoted pilgrims and adventure seekers alike. Travelling through the stunning Kashmir scenery for a visit to Amarnath Temple is both an adventurous and a spiritual experience. Undertake this spiritual enlightenment journey with TripXL on your next trip to Jammu and Kashmir.
Cover Photo: Guptaele / Wikimedia Commons
