AMARNATH CAVE

About Amarnath Cave

• Opening Hours: 6 AM to 6 PM (June to Mid-August)
• Prime Day & Hours: Monday to Friday, Early Morning or Late Afternoon
• Suggested Duration: 7-8 hours
• Tickets: Free Entry
• Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi Railway Station, 260 km approx from Pahalgam
• Nearest Airport: Srinagar International Airport (SXR), 90 km approx
• Nearest Bus Stop: Baltal Bus Stand, 14km approx

Amarnath Cave is one of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage sites, located in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir, at an altitude of 3,888 meters in the Himalayas. The cave houses the naturally occurring Ice Shiva Lingam, which is believed to form and dissolve in sync with the lunar cycle.

According to legend, Lord Shiva revealed the secret of immortality (Amar Katha) to Goddess Parvati inside this cave, making it a highly revered site. The cave was rediscovered by a Muslim shepherd, Buta Malik, in the 19th century, and since then, it has attracted millions of devotees.

The Amarnath Yatra is held annually from July to August when the cave is open for devotees. It is a challenging yet spiritually enriching journey. Pilgrims either take the steeper but shorter trek route from Baltal or the longer but scenic route via Pahalgam to seek blessings at this sacred shrine. Many people include this in their Kashmir Tour Packages to visit the sacred site and offer their prayers.

Must-Try Experiences

• Offer prayers at the holy site: Experience the holy spirit and magical vibes of the Amarnath Cave while offering prayers at the shrine. Seek blessings from Lord Shiva and learn about its legend.

• Trek Via Pahalgam: Take the most scenic trek via Pahalgam to reach the cave. The route offers gradual ascents, breathtaking Himalayan views, and spiritual significance, making it a preferred choice for many devotees. It is an enlightening and adventurous experience and one of the top things to do in Jammu while taking the Amarnath Yatra.

• Stop at Chandanwari: It is the base camp for the Pahalgam Trek. Take a moment to appreciate the serene beauty of nature along the Lidder River. The views of the Himalayas from this scenic location are truly unforgettable. Also, you can enjoy sledging on the slopes, one of the most adventurous things to do in Kashmir.

• Attend the Bhandara Feasts Along the Route: During the Amarnath Yatra, free Bhandaras (community kitchens) serve food to devotees, creating a spirit of unity and devotion. These feasts are organized by volunteers and offer hot meals in the cold mountain terrain.

• Experience the Thrill of Helicopter Rides: For a quicker journey, take a helicopter ride from Baltal or Pahalgam to Panchtarni, followed by a 6 km trek to the cave. The aerial views of the Himalayas add a breathtaking dimension to the pilgrimage.

Amarnath Cave Highlights

• Offer prayers and seek blessings at the sacred Amarnath Cave, home to the naturally occurring Ice Shiva Lingam, which waxes and wanes with the moon.
• Enjoy a scenic trek through the breathtaking Himalayan glaciers and rugged terrains, passing through picturesque spots like Sheshnag and Panchtarni.
• Experience Bhandara on your route, where devotees share free meals, fostering a spirit of unity and devotion among pilgrims.
• Pay your respects at the Panch Mukhi Shivling Darshan, a unique sight of five naturally formed lingams inside the Amarnath Cave.
• Visit the Mahagunas Pass along the Pahalgam route, one of the best places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir and a serene high-altitude spot offering panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains.

How To Reach Amarnath Cave

• By Air: You can book a helicopter ride to Amarnath Cave, which will take you to the cave and back to the base in one day. The ride can be taken from either Baltal or Pahalgam to Panchtarni, after which you will need to trek 6 km to reach the cave.

• By Foot: To reach the cave you can trek via Baltal Route (shorter and steeper) which will take up to 6 to 8 hours one way (that is 1 to 2 days in total) or you can take Pahalgam Route (longer and scenic) which will take up to 3 to 4 days. 

• By Pony Ride: You can also choose to take a pony ride from both routes for a certain fee. It is a little faster than walking and less tiring.

Best Time To Visit Amarnath Cave

• Peak Season: During the annual Amarnath Yatra (July to August)
• Weather Insights: Freezing temperatures, occasional snowfall, icy winds, snow-covered trails
• Things to Do: Trekking, pony rides, photography, spiritual rituals

Amarnath Cave Other Essential Information

Why Visit?

• It is one of the holiest pilgrimage sites for Hindus and has a legend that Lord Shiva narrated the story of his life to Parvati within its walls.
• The naturally forming Ice Shiva Lingam inside the cave is a rare and mystical sight, believed to be a direct manifestation of Lord Shiva.
• The journey offers a stunning trek through the Himalayas, passing through breathtaking locations like Sheshnag Lake, Mahagunas Pass, and Panchtarni.
• Pilgrims can experience the spiritual and communal atmosphere of the Amarnath Yatra, with free food (Bhandaras) and support from fellow devotees along the route.

Know Before You Go

• Wear layered, warm clothing and sturdy trekking shoes, as temperatures can drop significantly.
• Carry essential medicines, energy bars, and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and maintain stamina during the trek.
• Acclimatize in Pahalgam or Baltal before the yatra to prevent altitude sickness and ensure a smooth journey.
• Only take up trekking from the Baltal route if you are physically fit as the trek route is steeper and more difficult.
• Follow all security guidelines, register for the yatra, and carry necessary identification for verification at checkpoints.
• Hire a pony or palki if trekking is difficult, and stay updated on weather conditions to avoid unexpected hazards on the route.