Amarnath Yatra 2015

Amarnath Yatra, the most named pilgrimage tour in India that calls all the devotees towards the famous cave of Lord Shiva in the state of Jammu & Kashmir in the form of white “Shivlingam” made naturally of snow. The pilgrims need to cover the rugged and challenging ways towards the Amarnath Cave, 40m which is surrounded by snowy mountains throughout the year. The cave itself is covered with snow most time of the year except for a short period of time in summer when it is open for the devotees.

The Amarnath Darshan is all about an annual pilgrimage that is made to the Amarnath cave by lakhs of Hindu devotees on the challenging mountainous terrains to catch the mightiest glimpse of an ice stalagmite formed inside the cave.

If Lord Shiva has truly called you to visit His holy shrine at Amarnath, be assured that our Amarnath Tour packages are the perfect answers to your prayers for a well-crafted, meticulously executed, and spiritually catalytic Amarnath yatra. Whether you want to visit the holy cave of Amarnath from Baltal or Pahalgam, or also want to include the wondrous spots of Kashmir along with Maa’s holy shrine at Vaishno Devi in a single journey, our Amarnath yatra packages are well-tailored to suit your unique expectations from the holy pilgrimage.

Pilgrims visit the holy site during the 45-day season around the festival of Shravani Mela in July-August, coinciding with the Hindu holy month of Shraavana. The beginning of this annual pilgrimage called the Amarnath Ji Yatra is marked by ‘Pratham pujan’ to invoke the blessings of Shri Amarnathji.

Amarnath Yatra 2014

Amarnath Yatra, the most named pilgrimage tour in India that calls all the devotees towards the famous cave of Lord Shiva in the state of Jammu & Kashmir in the form of white “Shivlingam” made naturally of snow. The pilgrims need to cover the rugged and challenging ways towards the Amarnath Cave, 40m which is surrounded by snowy mountains throughout the year. The cave itself is covered with snow most time of the year except for a short period of time in summer when it is open for the devotees.

The Amarnath Darshan is all about an annual pilgrimage that is made to the Amarnath cave by lakhs of Hindu devotees on the challenging mountainous terrains to catch the mightiest glimpse of an ice stalagmite formed inside the cave.

If Lord Shiva has truly called you to visit His holy shrine at Amarnath, be assured that our Amarnath Tour packages are the perfect answers to your prayers for a well-crafted, meticulously executed, and spiritually catalytic Amarnath yatra. Whether you want to visit the holy cave of Amarnath from Baltal or Pahalgam, or also want to include the wondrous spots of Kashmir along with Maa’s holy shrine at Vaishno Devi in a single journey, our Amarnath yatra packages are well-tailored to suit your unique expectations from the holy pilgrimage.

Pilgrims visit the holy site during the 45-day season around the festival of Shravani Mela in July-August, coinciding with the Hindu holy month of Shraavana. The beginning of this annual pilgrimage called the Amarnath Ji Yatra is marked by ‘Pratham pujan’ to invoke the blessings of Shri Amarnathji.

Amarnath Yatra 2013

Amarnath Yatra, the most named pilgrimage tour in India that calls all the devotees towards the famous cave of Lord Shiva in the state of Jammu & Kashmir in the form of white “Shivlingam” made naturally of snow. The pilgrims need to cover the rugged and challenging ways towards the Amarnath Cave, 40m which is surrounded by snowy mountains throughout the year. The cave itself is covered with snow most time of the year except for a short period of time in summer when it is open for the devotees.

The Amarnath Darshan is all about an annual pilgrimage that is made to the Amarnath cave by lakhs of Hindu devotees on the challenging mountainous terrains to catch the mightiest glimpse of an ice stalagmite formed inside the cave.

If Lord Shiva has truly called you to visit His holy shrine at Amarnath, be assured that our Amarnath Tour packages are the perfect answers to your prayers for a well-crafted, meticulously executed, and spiritually catalytic Amarnath yatra. Whether you want to visit the holy cave of Amarnath from Baltal or Pahalgam, or also want to include the wondrous spots of Kashmir along with Maa’s holy shrine at Vaishno Devi in a single journey, our Amarnath yatra packages are well-tailored to suit your unique expectations from the holy pilgrimage.

Pilgrims visit the holy site during the 45-day season around the festival of Shravani Mela in July-August, coinciding with the Hindu holy month of Shraavana. The beginning of this annual pilgrimage called the Amarnath Ji Yatra is marked by ‘Pratham pujan’ to invoke the blessings of Shri Amarnathji.

The Rejuvenation of the Yatra

The 2011 Amarnath Yatra held immense significance. The previous year (2010) witnessed a devastating flash flood that disrupted the pilgrimage. However, 2011 marked a year of rejuvenation, with a surge in pilgrim registrations compared to the previous year. This renewed enthusiasm reflected the faith and resilience of devotees, eager to reach the holy cave and seek blessings from Lord Shiva.

A Well-Charted Course: Preparations and Logistics

The successful execution of the 2011 Amarnath Yatra was a testament to meticulous planning and coordinated efforts. The Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) played a crucial role in managing the pilgrimage. Registration for the Yatra commenced in May 2011, with two routes – Baltal and Pahalgam – offering pilgrims flexibility based on their physical capabilities.

Extensive arrangements were made to ensure the safety and well-being of pilgrims. Medical camps were set up along the routes, equipped to handle emergencies. Security personnel were deployed to maintain order and ensure a smooth pilgrim flow. Additionally, efforts were made to minimize environmental impact, promoting sustainable practices during the Yatra.

Overcoming Challenges

Despite meticulous planning, the 2011 Amarnath Yatra faced its share of challenges. Unfavorable weather conditions, particularly heavy rainfall, disrupted the pilgrimage on several occasions. The routes became slippery, posing a safety risk to pilgrims. Authorities were forced to temporarily suspend the Yatra on both routes to ensure the safety of devotees and allow for proper maintenance of the paths.

However, these obstacles only strengthened the resolve of the pilgrims. Undeterred by the hardships, they waited patiently for the Yatra to resume, their faith in Lord Shiva unwavering. The spirit of camaraderie among pilgrims and the dedication of volunteers created a supportive environment that helped everyone overcome the challenges.

Experiences of the Pilgrims

The 2011 Amarnath Yatra witnessed a diverse cross-section of pilgrims from all walks of life. Some were seasoned trekkers, well-prepared for the physical demands of the journey. Others were elderly devotees, their faith pushing them to overcome their limitations. Many families with young children embarked on the pilgrimage, instilling the values of devotion in the next generation.

The journey to the holy cave was not just a physical feat; it was a profound spiritual experience. Sharing stories with fellow pilgrims, chanting devotional hymns, and witnessing the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas fostered a sense of spiritual awakening. The culmination of the journey, the darshan (holy sight) of the naturally formed ice lingam within the Amarnath Cave, brought immense satisfaction and a sense of accomplishment for the devotees.

A Legacy of Resilience: The Enduring Spirit of Amarnath Yatra

The 2011 Amarnath Yatra was a resounding success, not just in terms of the number of pilgrims but also in terms of the spirit it embodied. It highlighted the unwavering faith of devotees, the meticulous planning of the authorities, and the dedication of volunteers. The challenges faced during the Yatra showcased the resilience of the human spirit and the power of faith to overcome any obstacle.

The 2011 Amarnath Yatra continues to serve as an inspiration for future pilgrimages. It’s a reminder that the journey to the holy cave is not just about reaching the destination; it’s about the transformative experience it offers, strengthening faith and fostering a deep sense of connection with the divine.

Beyond the 2011 Yatra: A Glimpse into the Future

Since 2011, the Amarnath Yatra has continued to attract a large number of pilgrims every year. Technological advancements have made the registration process more efficient. Additionally, infrastructure improvements have ensured a smoother and safer journey for devotees.

However, challenges like environmental sustainability and crowd management remain. Initiatives promoting eco-friendly practices and responsible tourism are crucial for preserving the sanctity of the pilgrimage site.

A Call to Action: Planning Your Amarnath Yatra

For those considering embarking on the Amarnath Yatra, thorough physical preparation and adherence to registration guidelines are essential. Researching weather conditions and packing accordingly will ensure a comfortable and safe journey.

I am sure that, Amarnath cave needs no introduction. It is a very famous cave, located in Jammu and Kashmir, India. The altitude of the cave is 3,888 m. The cave is about 141 km from Shrinagar, the capital of Jammu and Kashmir. The Amarnath temple can be reached through the Pahalgam town. As you all know that, lord Shiva is the main god of Amarnath cave. The best part is that, the Shivalinga will form naturally due to freezing of water drops.

The water drops fall down from the ceiling of the cave and it grows up vertically from the floor of the cave. This is how the Shivalinga in Amarnath cave will be formed. If you want to see this in your naked eyes, you need to take the Amarnath yatra. You can reach the Amarnath temple by two routes. One is through the old and traditional route called Pahalgam town and it will take 5 days to reach the Amarnath cave.

Second route is that, you can take trekking from Baltal and it will take 1 to two days to reach the cave. It is you that has to choose the route what you find reliable and soothing for you. It is needless to mention that, trekking would not be that simple. If you are physically fit and fine, you can do trekking. Otherwise, you should take the traditional route to reach the cave. May to September is the best time to visit the Amarnath temple. During this time, the temperature will be good.

Amarnath is one of the most famous pilgrimage destinations of India and is organized every year by the government of Jammu and Kashmir. The shrine has an important part to play in Hindu culture and is considered to be one of the holiest shrines. The main cave is situated at a height of 12,756 ft from the sea level and remains covered with snow most of the year except for a short period of time in summer. Every year ‘Amarnath Yatra’ is marked by ‘Pratham Pujan’ which is said to summon the blessings of Baba Amarnath and attracts a large number of devotees from all over the world.

As per the beliefs, the Amarnath Cave is where God Shiva was narrating Amar Katha to Goddess Parvati and wanted to keep it a secret. Therefore, he left all his companions behind. His riding friend – Nandi, the bull – was left at Pahalgam, the moon atop his head at Chandanwari, the snake around his neck at Lake Sheshnag, the 5 basic essentials of life that he carried at Panchtarini and even his son- Lord Ganesha himself- at Mahaguna top.

When he finished the narration, he realized that Goddess Parvati has actually fallen asleep and a parrot was listening all this while. This infuriated the Lord and he threw his Trishul to kill the parrot. To save himself, the parrot entered the womb of the saint’s wife. The baby was later born to become a famous sage.

There are two Amarnath Yatra routes that pilgrims can take to travel Amarnath Cave and both these routes are well connected from all the major cities for easy connectivity. To start from Srinagar or Pahalgam, one will have to trek to a height of more than 14,000 feet. Hence, being physically fit and mentally prepared for the journey is a must. The two routes to Amarnath Yatra are:

It is the most popular and shortest route to reach the cave. The region of Baltal is 14 km from the Cave and allows people to only walk. Ponies are not allowed. However, one can be carried on ‘Dandies’. The trek via Baltal usually takes 1-2 days to complete. This route is advised to be taken by the people who are young, healthy and looking for some adventure amidst the religious trip.

This is the most preferable route and is around 47 km from the main Amarnath Cave Site. The first step of Yatra starts at Chandanwari which is 16 km from the Pahalgam base camp and is at 9,500 feet. Then there is Pissu top, which is 3 km away and located at 11,000 ft, Shesnag – 9 km from Pissu top at 11,730 ft, followed by the Panjtarni-12 km ahead and located at 12,000 feet. Pilgrims who cannot walk this far can opt for Helicopter services easily available for it. The trek usually takes 3-5 days one way to complete.

Amarnath cave is a Hindu shrine located in Jammu and Kashmir, India. The cave is situated at an altitude of 3,888 m (12,756 ft), about 141 km (88 mi) from Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir and reached through Pahalgam town. The shrine forms an important part of Hinduism,and is considered to be one of the holiest shrines in Hinduism. The cave is surrounded by snowy mountains. The cave itself is covered with snow most of the year except for a short period of time in summer when it is open for pilgrims. Hundreds of thousands of Hindu devotees make an annual pilgrimage to the Amarnath cave across challenging mountainous terrain.

It is reckoned that Baba Bholenath call out to his devotees to Amarnath cave, where he generously showers blessings and grant prayers and wishes of the people. Perched at an elevation of around 3,888 m and 45 kms away from Pahalgam, Amarnath Temple is believed to be the earthly abode of Lord Shiva.

Legend has it that the Amarnath Cave was chosen by Lord Shiva to reveal the secret of creation of the world and immortality to his consort Goddess Parvati. After leaving behind all his ornaments, he entered this holy cave along with Goddess Parvati with the intention to let out the secret. It is believed that while he was letting out the secret, a pigeon’s egg over heard it and became immortal. It is also believed that the pair, which was born out of the egg, can still be seen in the cave.

Considered to be a sacred Hindu pilgrimage, Amarnath is famed for the natural formation of Shiva Linga from the snow. A large number of devotees throng Amarnath during the months of June and August. This pious journey, which is also dubbed the holy Amarnath Yatra, begins from Chandanwadi (16kms from Pahalgam) and via Pissu, Sheshnag and Panchtarni, it concludes at Amarnath Cave situated on the Amarnath mountain. There is also another route for the Yatra starting from Jammu and via Udhampur, Patnitop, Kud, Ramban, Banihal, QaziGund, Anantnag, Srinagar and Baltal, the journey finally concludes at the holy cave.

According to legend, Bhrigu Muni was the first to have discovered Amarnath. Long time ago it is believed that The Valley of Kashmir was submerged under water and Kashyap Muni drained it through a series of rivers and rivulets. Therefore, when the waters drained, Bhrigu Muni was the first to have Darshan of Lord Amarnath. Thereafter, when people heard of the Lingam, it became an abode of Lord Bholenath for all believers and a pilgrimage which is done by lakhs of people each year.[9] According to the researchers and as per the belief of locals gadaria community were the first to discover the Amaranth cave and saw the first glimpse of Baba Barfani.

François Bernier, a French physician accompanied Emperor Aurangzeb during his visit to Kashmir in 1663. In his book “Travels in Mughal Empire” he writes while giving an account the places he visited in Kashmir that he was “pursuing journey to a grotto full of wonderful congelations, two days journey from Sangsafed” when he “received intelligence that my Nawab felt very impatient and uneasy on account of my long absence”. The “grotto” he refers to is obviously the Amarnath cave as the editor of the second edition of the English translation of the book, Vincient A. Smith makes clear in his introduction. He writes: “The grotto full of wonderful congelations is the Amarnath cave, where blocks of ice, stalagmites formed by dripping water from the roof are worshipped by many Hindus who resort here as images of Shiva.