Amarnath Yatra Travel Guide - All information and booking process from Delhi

History of Amarnath Yatra

The Amarnath Yatra is a very important Hindu religious journey. It has its roots in old stories and mythologies. In these stories, the Hindu god Lord Shiva is said to have told the goddess Parvati the secret of living forever (called the Amar Katha) at the Amarnath Cave.

Though the cave has been mentioned in ancient writings, it was rediscovered in the 1800s by a Muslim shepherd named Buta Malik. People have been going on pilgrimages to the cave for hundreds of years, as shown in old books like the Rajatarangini.

Amarnath yatra draws devoted followers from all over the India and the world, despite facing some challenges like harsh weather conditions and security concerns.

Significance of Amarnath Yatra

The natural formation sacred ice Shivalinga in the Amarnath Cave represents Lord Shiva cosmic energy. The formation and extinction of Shivalinga depends on the moon phases, symbolizing the cycles of destruction and regeneration. Devotees believe that offering prayer this sacred lingam brings spiritual blessings and fulfillment.

Every year, many people go on a pilgrimage to the Amarnath Cave, especially during the month of Shravan. They believe that doing this pilgrimage can help them reach moksha, which means being free from the cycle of being born and dying. This pilgrimage brings people together from different religious backgrounds who all want to get divine blessings. Apart from the religious significance, Amarnath cave is also well known for its natural beauty and serene landscape.

How to reach Amarnath from Delhi

By Air: The quickest way to reach Amarnath from Delhi is by taking a direct flight to Srinagar. From Srinagar, you can travel by road to reach the base camps for the pilgrimage that is Pahalgam or Baltal. From there you can either book a helicopter or do the trekking to reach Amarnath.

By Train: A train journey from Delhi to Jammu Tawi is another option. From there, you can take a bus or hire a taxi and continue your journey by road to either Pahalgam or Baltal.

By Road: If you are the one who likes road trips, you can opt to drive from Delhi to Srinagar or Jammu and then continue to the base camps. If you are taking a private trip with friends or family, can book 12 seater tempo traveller on rent and enjoy the comfort of travelling together.

Amarnath Yatra Routes

There are two main routes to reach the Amarnath cave:

1. Pahalgam Route

The Pahalgam route is a popular choice for pilgrims as it offers picturesque views and several stops along the way. Here is how you can plan your itinerary:

Day 1: Pahalgam to Chandanwari (12 km)
Day 2: Chandanwari to Sheshnag (12 km)
Day 3: Sheshnag to Panchtarni (9 km)
Day 4: Panchtarni to Amarnath Cave and return to Panchtarni (12 km)
Day 5: Return to Pahalgam

2. Baltal Route

The Baltal route is shorter with around 14 km. It is perfect for you, if you have very little time and want a direct journey to the Amarnath cave. But keep in mind that this route is steeper and more challenging, so we only recommend this route if you are an experienced trekker. You can book Delhi to Amarnath Tempo Traveller that will take you till the base camp of Baltal from where you can start helicopter ride or begin the trek.

Important Guidelines of Amarnath Yatra

Start Date: Online and Offline registration started on April 17, 2024.

Bank Branches: Offline Registration can be done at 446 branches of Punjab National Bank, Jammu and Kashmir Bank,YES Bank and 100 branches of SBI. Check the list of the banks handling registrations here

Permit Limit: One permit allows one pilgrim to register.

Quota: Each bank branch has a specific daily quota of permits for different routes.

Daily Pilgrim Count: Up to 15,000 pilgrims are allowed per day, including trekkers and those using helicopters. Routes have a limit of 7,500 pilgrims each.

Age and Health Requirements: Registration is not available for those under 13, over 75, or for pregnant women beyond six weeks.

Required Documents to carry:

• Completed application form.
• Identity card (Adhar card, Driving license)
• Compulsory Health Certificate (CHC).
• Four passport-sized photos.

Permit Colors: Permits are color-coded according to the date and route chosen.

Timing: Registration is typically available between 3 PM and 6 PM at the bank branches, though timings may vary.

Document Verification: Once documents are verified, you will receive your Yatra Permit.

Devotees of Shiva can visit Panch Kedar Yatra for Shivlinga darshan

Online Registration Process for Amarnath Yatra

1. Browse the official website of the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) (https://jksasb.nic.in/)
2. Fill out the online registration form by putting personal details (Name, address, number of people in group, etc)
3. Upload scanned copies of the following documents:

   Health Certificate (issued by a government doctor)
   Passport size photographs
   Identification documents

4. Verify your mobile number using a one time password (OTP).
5. Pay the application fee.
6. Once you have completed the application process, you will receive a confirmation message on registered mobile number.
7. After successful registration, you will be able to download your Yatra Permit from the website.

(Note: If you are travelling by Helicopter, you will not be required to register for the Yatra separately. But you will be required to submit the prescribed Compulsory Health Certificate (CHC) at the time of boarding the Helicopter.)

Offline Registration Process for Amarnath Yatra

1. Visit any of the designated branches of Punjab National Bank, Jammu and Kashmir Bank, YES Bank and State Bank of India across India. You can find a downloadable PDF list of these branches on the SASB website.
2. Collect and fill out an application form from the bank.
3. Submit the completed application form along with Aadhar Card, identity proof and Compulsory Health Certificate (issued by a government doctor) to the bank representative.
4. Pay the registration fee at the bank counter and collect the permits or receipts

Helicopter booking process for Amarnath Yatra

1. When you choose Amarnath Yatra helicopter services, you can book tickets online via the official SASB website or through approved helicopter operators.
2. Enter your information, including your name and contact details, and select your preferred date and time for the ride.
3. Pay the helicopter fare (usually range between ₹2000 to ₹6000 one way) online using the available payment options.
4. After booking, make sure you carry the e-ticket or confirmation details with you for the helicopter ride.

Yatra Tips for Amarnath Dham:

• Warm clothing, including a waterproof jacket and thermal wear.
• Comfortable and sturdy trekking shoes.
• Woolen accessories such as gloves, socks, and a cap.
• A good-quality backpack to carry essentials.
• Medicines for common ailments such as headache, cold, and altitude sickness.
• Energy-boosting snacks such as dry fruits and energy bars.
• Reusable water bottles to stay hydrated during the trek.
• A torch or flashlight with extra batteries.

Accommodation Options During Amarnath Yatra

Tents and Base camps: Provided with basic facilities like bedding, blankets, and meals at various locations on the yatra route. Some are managed by government authorities and some are by private vendors. Price range from ₹500 to ₹1500 for tent facilities.

Hotels and Guesthouses: For a more comfortable stay, you can choose from a range of options, including budget hotels or guest houses to luxury ones with price starting from ₹1500 to ₹5000.

(Note- There are free community kitchen (langers) available in the Yatra route. You can have your meals there.)