Overview
The Amarnath Yatra is one of the most revered pilgrimages in Hinduism, drawing thousands of devotees every year to the holy Amarnath Cave Temple located in the Himalayas of Jammu and Kashmir. Situated at an altitude of about 3,888 meters (12,756 feet), the cave is famous for the naturally formed ice Shiva Lingam, believed to represent Lord Shiva. The yatra typically takes place during the months of July and August, aligning with the Hindu month of Shravana, and is organized by the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB). According to Hindu mythology, it is in this very cave that Lord Shiva is believed to have revealed the secret of immortality to Goddess Parvati.
Pilgrims can reach the cave via two main routes: the traditional Pahalgam route, which is longer and more scenic, and the Baltal route, which is shorter but steeper and more physically demanding. For those unable to undertake the arduous trek, helicopter services are available from both Baltal and Pahalgam. The entire pilgrimage is marked by a deep spiritual atmosphere, with chants of “Har Har Mahadev” echoing through the mountains. Given the high altitude and tough terrain, only medically fit individuals between the ages of 13 and 70 are allowed to participate, and registration with a health certificate is mandatory. Despite the physical challenges, the yatra is a deeply fulfilling experience, enhanced by the stunning natural beauty of the region and the strong sense of community fostered by free langars (community kitchens), medical aid stations, and volunteer support along the way.
Inclusion/Exclusion
Arrival in Srinagar – Half-Day Local Sightseeing
Upon arrival at Srinagar Airport, you will be received by our representative and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, take some time to relax and freshen up. In the afternoon, proceed for a half-day sightseeing tour of Srinagar, beginning with visits to the famous Mughal gardens – Cheshma Shahi (Royal Spring), Shalimar Bagh (Garden of Love), and Nishat Bagh (Garden of Pleasure), set against the backdrop of the majestic Zabarwan Mountains. Later, visit the Shankaracharya Temple, perched on a hilltop offering panoramic views of the city and Dal Lake. On your return, stop at a local Handicrafts Emporium to explore Kashmir’s rich artisan culture, including hand-knotted silk carpets, pashmina shawls, and traditional jewelry. Return to the hotel for overnight stay in Srinagar.
Srinagar – Neelgrath (Baltal) – Amarnath Cave (Helicopter Darshan)
After an early breakfast, check out and proceed by road to Neelgrath (Baltal Helipad). Upon arrival, board the helicopter for your onward journey to the Lower Cave Helipad, located near the sacred Amarnath Cave Shrine. From the helipad, begin your short but steep trek toward the holy cave, where the naturally formed Ice Shiva Lingam awaits. Take a holy dip in the ice-cold waters of the Amarnath stream, located outside the cave, and offer your prayers. After Darshan, return to the Shrine Board Camps at Panchtarni for overnight stay at your own arrangement.
Note: Accommodation is not included on this day and must be arranged directly by the pilgrim at the Shrine Board Camps.
Lower Cave Helipad – Neelgrath – Srinagar (Via Kheer Bhawani Temple)
In the morning, board your helicopter from the Lower Cave Helipad for your return journey to Neelgrath (Baltal). Upon arrival, proceed by road to Srinagar, with an en route visit to the revered Kheer Bhawani Temple, located in Tulla Mulla village near Srinagar. This sacred Hindu shrine is dedicated to Goddess Ragnya Devi and is built over a mystical spring known for changing colors, a phenomenon regarded as symbolic by devotees. After the temple visit, continue your drive to Srinagar. Upon arrival, check into your hotel. Overnight stay in Srinagar.
Srinagar – Gulmarg Day Trip
After breakfast, embark on a full-day excursion to Gulmarg, a renowned hill station and popular skiing destination in the Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir. En route, enjoy scenic views of vast saffron fields and visit the historic Awantipur ruins, featuring an 1100-year-old temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, built by King Awantiverma. Experience the picturesque countryside dotted with lush rice fields. Gulmarg is famous as a premier winter sports resort and boasts one of the world’s highest 18-hole golf courses. For adventure enthusiasts, the Gulmarg Gondola cable car offers an exhilarating ride to Apharwat Peak, stretching approximately 5 km, making it Asia’s longest and one of the world’s highest cable car rides reaching nearly 14,000 feet. (Cable car bookings can be made online at https://jkcablecar.payu.in/.) After an enjoyable day in Gulmarg, return to Srinagar for an overnight stay at the hotel.
Srinagar – Departure
After breakfast, check out from the hotel and proceed for your transfer to Srinagar Airport. Our representative will assist you with the airport formalities. This marks the conclusion of your memorable Amarnath Yatra and Kashmir tour. We wish you a safe and pleasant journey ahead.
Medicine, cash, toiletries, trekking shoes, water bottle, ID card, power bank, torch, blanket, warm clothes, moisturizers.
Cancellations received less than 45 days prior to departure will be subject to the following forfeit | Before 45 days: 25% of tour cost | 45 - 30 days: 50 % of tour cost | 30 - 20 days: 75% of tour cost | Within 20 days: 100% of tour cost | No exception to this policy can be made for any reason.
46 Days or more before date of departure: 25% of total cost. | 31 - 45 Days before date of departure: 50% of total cost. | 30 days before date of departure: 100% of total cost.
Any increase in cost because of change in the itinerary due to reasons beyond our control (force majeure) like landslides, riots, traffic jams etc. | Any dispute is subject to Delhi jurisdiction only.
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