Amarnath Temple Yatra

State: Jammu and Kashmir
Location: Anantnag in South Kashmir.
Language: Hindi, Kashmiri, Dogri
Introduction:
Amarnath temple is a sacred abode of one of the holy trinity, Lord Shiva. Amarnath cave is one of the most sacred shrines of Hindu religion at a distance of 28.58 miles from Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir. Located at an altitude of 12, 760 ft above sea level, Amarnath cave temple attracts thousands of devotees. Every year Government of Jammu and Kashmir in association with India Government arranges Amarnath Temple Yatra that takes place in between the month of July and August. Pilgrims are allowed to perform darshan from Ashard Puranmashi to Shravan Puranmashi which stresses for over a month or so. Every year near about 4, 00, 000 pilgrims from various nook and corner of India, visit this holy shrine of Lord Shiva.

The holy cave temple of Amarnath are related to some interesting legends. Lord Shiva, considered as a living God shared the secret of creation and eternity to Goddess Parvati in a cave in Amarnath. Without their knowledge, a pair of doves secretly listen to their conversation and having learned this secret, they reborn again and again, and have made the Amarnath cave their eternal abode.

Amarnath Temple Yatra:
The yatra or trek to Amarnath cave is an arduous journey that begins from Srinagar in the Hindu month of Shravan (July -August). The yatra commence on fifth day of the bright half of the moon. In between Srinagar to Amarnath cave, there are some subsequent halts at different places such as Pampur, Avantipur, Brijbihara, Martand, Pahalgam, Chandanwadi, Wavjan and the Mahagunus Pass. Devotees reach Amarnath caves on full moon day and after the darshan and worship of the deity their pilgrimage is completed.

Places To Visit Near Amarnath Caves:
Icy Shivalingam: Amarnath cave temple is claimed to be over 5,000 years old and houses an ice stalagmite that resembles the Shiv Linga. It grows during May to August and gradually diminishes thereafter. It is said that the changes in the length of the lingam varies in accordance with phases of moon. During the summer festival, it reaches to its extreme height.

Apart from this, there are two ice formations that represents Parvati , the divine consort of Lord Shiva and Ganesha, their son.

Amarnath Caves: Nearby Excursion Places:
Pahalgam: It is a picturesque land of lofty deodars, fir, pine junipers and conifers. It is hill resort of Jammu and Kashmir, which is situated at an height of 2, 133 m. This scenic place is positioned at the confluence of Aru and Sheshnag rivers. During both summer season and Amarnath yatra, Pahalgam chok-a-block with thousands of tourists and pilgrims.

Sonmarg: Sonmarg is a tiny hill station of Kashmir valley. It is the starting point of Ladakh region. Located at an elevation of 2,743m above sea level, Sonmarg which literally means 'meadow of gold', is true to its name. The gushing Sindh river and snow-covered mountain that forms the backdrop are the prime attractions of this town.

Amarnath Caves: Activities To Do:
Worship at the cave temples: The main activity in which all the travelers to Amarnath engages themselves is worshiping at this cave temples.

Trekking: The mountainous terrain near Amarnath is popular as paradise for trekking. Trekkers from various parts of world comes here to enjoy a laborious trekking in these barren regions.

Pony Ride: While your trip to Amarnath, don't miss to enjoy a ride on a pony. They are the most commonly available animals in this region. It will help you to reach the Amarnath cave without much backbreaking.

Amarnath Caves: Best Time To Visit:
The ideal time to visit Amarnath cave temple is in between April to October. During this period, Government arranges Amarnath yatra of 45 days for Hindu pilgrims.

Amarnath Caves: How To Reach:
By Road: Pahalgam and Baltal town of Shrinagar valley serves as a base camp for Amarnath Yatra. From Baltal, the sacred cave of Amarnath is located approximately 14 km (8.70miles) whereas from Pahalgam it is at a distance of 45 km (28.58 miles). To reach pilgrims can either choose walking through these rugged terrains or ponies.

By Rail: Jammu is the nearest Rail head to Amarnath. It connects Jammu and Kashmir state to rest of the country.

By Air: The nearest Airport to Amarnath temple is at Badgam District. It is connected all the major Indian cities. To reach you can even use helicopter service that operates from, Baltal and Shrinagar.