Amarnath Yatra, One of the Holiest of Holy Treks in the Himalayas

Though not only one of the 12 jyotirlingas, Amarnath is one of the holiest of holy places and a trek is rather a duty for devout Hindus they must undertake once in their lifetime.

Legend goes that when Shiva's consort, Maa Parvati, asked him the secret of his immortality, he agreed to relate the story but at a secluded place, outside the hearing of all known mortals. It is said he took her to this holy cave at Amarnath, discarding Nandi the Bull, the Moon, Sheshnag, the five elements, and even his son Lord Ganesha along the way. Safely ensconced in the cave he related the story but a pair of pigeons inadvertently overhead him and gained immortality. Some say they can sight a pair of pigeons at the Shrine. This is but one of the many legends. In a way, Amarnathji can be said to be his resting place and eternal abode, thus gaining spiritual importance for Hindus.

Whatever the legends say, the Cave is one of the holiest of holy places and what is wonderful about it is that the Shivling is not of stone or metal but is an ice stalagmite, accompanied by a smaller one representing Maa Parvati and another one embodying Lord Ganesha, their son. The Ice Shivling changes size according the lunar phases. The Pilgrimage spot is located at a height of 3888 meters, at the end of the Lidder Valley, reached by trekking along a steep rocky slope.

Getting There

Srinagar is the nearest airport and Jammu the nearest railway station from where you can get buses or taxis for the onward journey. From either of these cities you arrive at Pahalgam and go on to Chandanwari, a distance of 16 kilometers. The route takes you onwards to Sheshnag and then to Panchtarni, climbing the Mahagunas Pass at a height of over 4200 meters before coming down to Panchtarni where you have an indescribable view of Bhairav Mountain and the five rivers meandering across the valley. Then you go on to the final lap onwards across the Amravati and Panjtarni Rivers, bathing there if you wish before climbing up the path to the shrine. After that pilgrims return to Panchtarni for rest. There is another route from Srinagar across the Khajjiar Glacier to Sonamarg and to Baltal. From here to the top, it is a 14 kilometer trek, advisable only if you are physically fit since you have to return to Baltal on the same day too. It is better for those not accustomed to walking to hire ponies or palkis.

The best and easiest way for Amarnath Yatra is of course a helicopter yatra. Tour organizers arrange a helicopter pick up at Baltal that takes you to about 5 kilometers of the Shrine from where you have to cover the distance on foot or on ponies. It is quick, easy and quite convenient, especially if you are not in the best form.

Best Tips for the Best Pilgrimage Experience

Go well prepared, take warm woolens, food and water bottle and follow instructions along the way. It is best to go with a group tour, preferably one that offers a helicopter ride for the last leg from Baltal to the top. Return home with a deep sense of fulfillment.