These destinations namely Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, collectively known as Char Dham. These pilgrimage centers draw the maximum numbers of pilgrims each year, thus becoming the most important hubs of religious travel in the whole of Northern India. Traditionally, the pilgrimage begins from the West and ends in the East. Thus, the Char Dham Yatra commences from Yamunotri, then proceeding to Gangotri and finally to Kedarnath and Badrinath.

Each of these four sites is devoted to a specific deity. Yamunotri is dedicated to the Goddess Yamuna who goes along the pilgrims to the high altitudes of the picturesque Rawai Valley. It is believed that a bath in the waters of the Yamuna protects the devotee from untimely death. Gangotri is dedicated to the Goddess Ganga. The shrine overlooks the River Bhagirathi, another name of River Ganga – the name having been derived from the myth of the ancient King Bhagirath’s penance that succeeded in bringing her upon the earth from the heaven. Kedarnath is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is also a part of the Panch Kedar. It is the northernmost Jyotirlinga and is close to the source of the holy River Mandakini. Badrinath is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is situated on the bank of the River Alaknanda. According to legend, Lord Vishnu meditated here while his consort Lakshmi took the form of a berry (Badri) tree to offer him shade.

Before embarking on this journey, one has to be prepared to experience physical as well as mental hardships on the Himalayan roads. The Char Dham Yatra is one of the quite accessible yet most arduous journeys. The Yatra route in the state is usually bustling with activity, especially during the summer. The scenic beauty of the mountains solemnly provides strength to the pilgrims as they move towards their destination.

बद्रीनाथ धाम से जुड़ी रोचक बातें

1. पुराणों के अनुसार बद्रीनाथ धाम में पहले भगवान शिव अपने परिवार के साथ वास करते थे। एक बार भगवान विष्णु तपस्या के लिए एक शांत स्थान की तलाश कर रहे थे लेकिन उन्हें कोई ऐसा स्थान नहीं मिला और अंत में वह बद्रीनाथ धाम में आए और इस स्थान को देखकर मोहित हो गए । लेकिन उन्हें यह नहीं पता था कि यहां भगवान शिव अपने परिवार के साथ वास करते हैं।

2.इस स्थान के लिए भगवान विष्णु ने एक बालक का रुप लिया और जोर -जोर से रोने लगे । एक बालक को इस तरह रोते हुए देखकर माता पार्वती उन्हें चुप कराने लगी।लेकिन वह बालक चुप नहीं हुआ।

3. भगवान शिव इन सब के बारे में जानते थे । उन्होंने माता पार्वती से उस बालक को छोड़ने के लिए कहा। लेकिन मां ने शिवजी की बात नहीं मानी और उस बालक को सुलाने के लिए चली गई।

4.उस बालक को सुलाने के बाद माता पार्वती बाहर आ गई । जिसके बाद भगवान विष्णु ने अंदर से दरवाजा बंद कर लिया ।

5.जब भगवान शिव वहां आए तो उन्होंने शिवजी से कहा कि मुझे यह स्थान पसंद आ गया है। आप केदारनाथ चले जांए।

6. जिसके बाद बद्रीनाथ भगवान विष्णु का धाम बन गई।

7. इससे जुड़ी एक और कथा का शास्त्रों में वर्णन है । एक बार माता लक्ष्मी भगवान विष्णु से रुठकर अपने मायके चली गई । जिसके बाद भगवान विष्णु ने माता लक्ष्मी को मनाने के लिए कठोर तप किया।

8.भगवान विष्णु को ढुंढते हुए मां लक्ष्मी उसी स्थान पर पहुंची जहां वह तपस्या में लीन थे।

9.भगवान विष्णु एक बेर के पेड़ पर बैठकर तपस्या कर रहे थे। जिसके बाद से ही मां लक्ष्मी नें उन्हें बद्रीनाथ का नाम दिया।

10. बद्ररीनाथ धाम में की जानें वाली आरती को एक मुस्लिम शायर ने लिखा है। यह शायर फकरुद्दीन (बदरुद्दीन) था जो चमोली जिले के नंदप्रयाग के रहने वाले था। फकरुद्दीन यह आरती केवल 18 वर्ष की उम्र में लिखी थी।

Kedar meaning powerful is another name of Lord Shiva the protector and the destroyer. The beautiful ambiance around the temple looks like quite peace on heaven causes a beautiful place to do meditation.The main attractions here is the Shiva Temple, which is a popular Hindu shrine and pilgrimage, attracting devotees from all over the world. The travel and tourism scope here is strengthened by factors like natural beauty and religious zest.

Shiva is considered the embodiment of all passions – love, hatred, fear, death and mysticism which are expressed through his various forms. There are more than 200 shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva in the area itself, the most important one is Kedarnath.

The best time to visit Kedarnath is during summers (May and June) when the minimum temperature is 5°C, and the maximum is around 18°C. This season is ideal for visiting temples and sightseeing. The monsoon season lasts from July to August, accompanied by heavy rains lead to landslides and floods, making it unfavorable to visit.

It is said that the temple was originally built by the Pandavas from the Mahabharata fame, but was consecrated in 8th century AD by Adi Shankaracharya on his excursion across the Garhwal Himalayas. Today, the temple is the most revered shrine of the enchanting Himalayan region and sits as an important part of the Chota Char Dham Pilgrim Circuit. Additionally, it’s the first of the sacred Panch Kedar shrines and also one of the 12 Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Kedarnath Dham holds a special place in the heart of every Hindu devout and Shaivite who yearns to visit this pious destination at least once in their lifetime. If you too are someone planning a pilgrimage tour here, note that the town is connected to almost every major city of Uttarakhand via a motorable road which extends till Gaurikund. Further up Gaurikund, one has to cover a paved yet gruelling pathway uphill of about 14 km. To do so, one can either embark on a trekking expedition, hire a pony or rent a palanquin which can be pre-booked from the GMVN office. Helicopter services are also available to Kedarnath.

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 Manimahesh Lake is situated Twenty-six kilometers from Bharmour in the Budhil valley , one of the chief pilgrimage spots in Himachal Pradesh. The lake is situated at an altitude of 13,000 feet at the foot of the Kailash peak (18,564 ft). Every year, on the eighth day of the light half of the moon in the month of Bhadon, a fair is held at this lake, which attracts thousands of pilgrims who assemble here to take a dip in the holy water.

Lord Shiva is the presiding deity of this fair / jatra. He is believed to reside in Kailash. A rock formation in the shape of a Shivling on Kailash is considered to be the manifestation of Lord Shiva. The snowfield at the base of the mountain is called Shiva’s Chaugan by the local people.

Mount Kailash is considered as invincible. No one has so far been able to scale this peak despite the fact that much taller peaks, including Mount Everest have been conquered many times. One story goes that once a Gaddi tried to climb the mountain alongwith his herd of sheep. He is believed to have been turned stone alongwith his sheep. The series of minor peaks below the principal peak are believed to be the remains of the ill-fated shepherd and his flock.

There is yet another legend according to which a snake also attempted to climb this peak but failed and was turned into stone. It is also believed that the devotees can have a view of the Kailash peak only if the Lord is pleased. Bad weather, when the peak is hidden behind clouds, is a sign of the Lord’s displeasure.

At one corner of the Manimahesh lake is a marble image of Shiva which is worshipped by the pilgrims who visit this place. After bathing in the holy waters, the pilgrims go around the circumference of the lake three times. The lake and its surroundings present a majestic view. The quiet waters of the lake carry the reflection of snow capped peaks that carry over the valley.

Manimahesh is approached from different routes. Pilgrims from Lahaul-Spiti come through Kugti pass. Some from Kangra and Mandi come via Kawarsi or Jalsu passes. The easiest route is from Chamba and runs through Bharmaur. At present buses ply upto Hadsar via Bharmour. Beyond Hadsar, the pilgrims have to trek for 13 kms to reach Manimahesh.Between Hadsar and Manimahesh is an important halting place known as Dhanchho where pilgrims usually spend a night. There is a beautiful waterfall.

About one and half kilometers short of Manimahesh lake fall two religiously important water bodies called Gauri Kund and Shiva Krotri where as per popular belief Gauri and Shiva bathe respectively. The women pilgrims do take holy dip in Gauri Kund and the men pilgrims in Shiva Krotri before proceeding to Manimahesh lake.

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.