If you are a person residing in India, you would have definitely come across the name Amarnath. One of the names we quite often associate with pilgrimage and religion. However, there is more to Amarnath than merely being aforesaid. And that is exactly what we will be looking at in this write-up.
This mesmerizing place is located in the Himalayan Mountain Range, Jammu and Kashmir. This place is known for the great Amaranth cave and the Yatra that starts from Baltal.
Table of Contents
- History of Amarnath
- Things to do in Amarnath
- Explore the Amarnath Caves
- Join the Amarnath Yatra
- Stay at Baltal
- Enjoy the beauty of Pahalgam
- Amarnath as a tourist place
- How to Reach
- Frequently Asked Questions
History of Amarnath
The history of the place goes back to God and goddesses. To be precise this place has to do much with Lord Shiva and his story of immortality. According to the tale, it was Sage Bhrigu who discovered the cave for the first time. And since then it was constant work to make the place a pilgrimage center. It is also said that many Sage and Rishis went up to drain the waters from the river to make Amarnath a holy place. Why has the place gained so much importance among the Indian Hindu Pilgrimage? According to historical and mythical facts, it is said that Lord Shiva chose this place to tell Parvati Devi about the secrets of his immortality.
Things to do in Amarnath
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1. Explore the Amarnath Caves
Amarnath Caves is one of the most important landmarks and also a famous pilgrimage spot in entire India. It is a very important place for the worshippers of Lord Shiva. And that makes the place even more important. Inside the cave, there is a Shivlinga that is naturally formed by ice. Every year that is a tremendous surge in people visiting the place. All due to the very beautiful Yatra, that happens annually. This famous Yatra is called Amarnath Yatra. And thus we move on to our next subject.
2. Join the Amarnath Yatra
After you visit Amarnath Yatra, it is mandatory to know about the Amarnath Yatra. This Yatra pulls lakhs of people all over India from June to August. It is during this time the famous Yatra is held. This Yatra mostly starts from Pahalgam to Baltal then to Jammu and Kashmir.
There is a process and a few things to keep in mind while registering for the Yatra or your trip to witness this extraordinary experience. First and foremost is the registration process which is solely on a first come first basis. The person opting for the Yatra should be healthy and need to submit a health certificate to prove so. The registration can be done online or physical copies are available at any government bank. You will get the permit on depositing 150 rupees.
It should be noted that only one person per permit is allowed for the Yatra.
It is quite easy to reach the place through private transport or State bus. You can either start the Yatra from Pahalgam or Baltal according to your convenience.
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3. Stay at Baltal
Devotees stay at Baltal during their Yatra as they believe that their Lord stays here. This belief of the devotees makes the place one of the holiest places to make the devotee base camp. Baltal is also known for its surreal beauty. Travelers always are in awe when they come across the most beautiful part of Baltal ie Sonamarg.
This place looks pristine with snow-capped mountains and wide flowers growing during the winter season. Also, the breathtaking view of the lakes and streams makes the place out of ordinary. People look forward to the most amazing outdoor activities at this place when they are not here for the Yatra. Some of the activities follow as paragliding through the snowcapped mountains and Yak riding to count a few.
4. Enjoy the beauty of Pahalgam
Pahalgam is also known as the valley of Shepherds and there is a point to that! The green landscape and the lush green surroundings look like some meadow countryside. You can see mountain goats and sheep grazing on them without any hindrance from the people or crowd. Apart from the nature and the beauty of tourism part, Pahalgam is also connected to Yatra. It is from here most of the time the devotees start their Amarnath Yatra! Also, this place serves as the base for the devotees.
Apart from that, this place is a tiny hill station that provides numerous activities right from trekking to hiking and fishing.
Also Reach:Â Pahalgam-Hill Station Of Jammu And Kashmir
Amarnath as a tourist place
Amarnath we know majorly for the Yatra and as an important pilgrimage center as we can connect with Lord Shiva. However, This is also one of the best places for travelers looking for serenity and peace. When you are in Amarnath, there are neighborhood places that give you a glimpse of Himalayan ranges, beautiful valleys and lakes. The outdoor activities along will bring the best of the travel agenda of the tourist looking for adventure.
How to Reach
By Road – Most of the time the devotees come here by trekking. However, there are many local transportation, buses and cabs that reach can take you to any place in and around the place. Either you can connect via Pahalgam.
By Train – For people from other parts of the country, can reach the place by train. The railway station here makes it more convenient by connecting to major cities and states. Hence opting train route will give the travelers a no-nonsense way.
By Flight – For another part of the country, Srinagar airport connects to all the major airports of the country. Also, the international airport plays an important role in connecting people here from long distances.
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Amarnath is a must-visit place not just for the devotees but for those who are looking for serendipity. This place of Sanctity is around 125 kilometers from Srinagar. With the ice-forming Shivlinga and nature at its best, Amarnath is all about Spirituality and Self- Seeking!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Amarnath the best place to visit?
Amarnath is located in the Himalayan Mountain Range, Jammu and Kashmir. And one of the most important pilgrimage site in India. That makes the place best!
What is the Best Time to visit?
Amarnath is not a place that you can visit all around the year. It is opened to visitors during the great Yatra that mostly starts from June and ends by August.
Is it best for outdoor activities?
Yes, The place has the best outdoor activities not within its premises but neighborhood places like Pahalgam and Balta with boating, sightseeing, trekking, hiking, paragliding.
Things to keep in mind while visiting here.
Amarnath is a holy place. And the tourist or devotees coming here during the Yatra has to maintain certain rules and dignity. Also registration is a must for visiting and taking part in the Yatra.
What languages are spoken in Amarnath?
Hindi is the official language but locals speak and understand English as well.
How safe to visit Amarnath?
Amarnath is the safest place to visit.
Are there any historical places here?
No, there are no historical places
Can I get cheaper accommodation here?
Accommodations are not that cheaper in Amarnath, particularly during peak times.
Is Amarnath a good honeymoon destination?
Yes! Amarnath is without any doubt popular among honeymooners and couples who are looking for explorations and some time for serendipity.
