Amarnath Cave is located approximately 3,888 meters above sea level, holds immense religious significance for Hindus, and is considered one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites. For those planning the Amarnath Yatra, which is tentatively scheduled to start on 1st July 2024 and end on 19th August 2024, it is important to understand how to reach Amarnath. Thousands of devotees from different parts of India undertake the Amarnath Yatra to seek the blessings of ‘Baba Barfani’ (also known as Amarnath). Two main routes have been established to reach the divine Amarnath cave. Pilgrims can start their spiritual journey from Jammu to Pahalgam or from Jammu to Baltal.
By Flight: The helicopter tour starts from Srinagar and ends at Panchtarni, just 2 km from the Amarnath caves. To reach Amarnath temple from different parts of India, opt for a flight to Srinagar airport, which serves as the nearest airport to Amarnath. Flights operate to Srinagar Airport from various places in India, and it takes a few hours to reach Amarnath Temple from the airport.
By Train: The nearest railway station for Amarnath Yatra is Jammu Tawi Railway Station, located 178 km from Amarnath. Take a local taxi from Jammu Tawi to reach Baltal, the starting point of the Amarnath trek. This trek stretches for 15 km and takes 1 to 2 days to complete. Alternatively, one can take a helicopter, walk, or take a pony ride to reach the temple directly. The other option is to travel from Pahalgam to Amarnath, which is easier but time-consuming.
By Road: Travel by road to Jammu, then to Srinagar, and finally to Baltal or Pahalgam. The shortest trek to Amarnath is from Baltal, while the Pahalgam trek is a more accessible option, suitable for families and elderly individuals. The walking distance from Baltal to Amarnath is 15 km, requiring 1-2 days for the journey. On the other hand, the Pahalgam to Amarnath trek covers a distance of 36-48 km and takes 3-5 days to complete.
Here are several ways to reach Amarnath from major cities in India:
By Bus: Secure Delhi to Amarnath bus tickets online. Buses come in different categories, including A/C, non-A/C, and Volvo buses. Both private and government buses run on this route. For travelers from cities like Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Jaipur, the road trip to Amarnath Cave may take time. Therefore, it is advisable to opt for air or rail travel. State transport and private operators also provide bus services from Jammu to Pahalgam and Baltal.
By Train: Choosing train travel to Amarnath is a favorable option. The nearest railway station is Jammu, which is well-connected to major Indian cities. Trains like Jammu Rajdhani, Himgiri Express, Sarvodaya Express, and Jhelum Express run between cities like Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Jammu.
By Air: The most convenient way to visit Amarnath is to opt for a flight to Srinagar Airport. The airport is about 90 km from Pahalgam, the base camp of the Amarnath Yatra. Jet Airways, IndiGo, and Air India provide connections to Srinagar Airport from major cities in India.
Jammu to Baltal (short route):
The route from Baltal to the Holy Cave is in this order: Baltal – Domail – Barari – Sangam – Cave.
The distance from Baltal to Domali is 2 km, after which one has to cover a distance of 6 km to reach Barari. After covering an additional 4 km you reach Sangam. From there it is a 2 km journey to the holy cave.
The total distance from Baltal to the cave is about 14 km, taking about 1-2 days to complete one round trip. Pony rides are not available on this route due to safety concerns. The only option to reach the holy cave is to walk or opt for dandies. This route is recommended for the return journey, as the slopes on the alternative route are steep and can cause health problems, especially for those not accustomed to the climatic conditions.
Jammu to Pahalgam (long route):
The long route from Jammu to the Holy Cave via Pahalgam follows this route: Pahalgam – Chandanwadi – Pissu Top – Zoji Bal – Naga Koti – Sheshnag – Warbal – Mahagunas Top – Pabibal – Panchtarni – Sangam – Cave.
From Pahalgam, travel 16 km to reach Chandanwari, and then travel about 13 km to Sheshnag. Continue the 4.6 km trek to Panchtarni and finally, trek from Panchtarni to the holy cave of Baba Bholenath.
This preferred route covers a journey of approximately 36 to 48 km, usually taking 3–5 days for a one-way journey. There is a heavy population of ponies along the entire route, making it suitable for elderly persons or devotees with health problems.
For those who do not want to undertake the Amarnath Yatra on foot, Amarnath helicopter services provide a convenient alternative. India Tourism organizes helicopter services to Amarnath from Baltal and Pahalgam helipads. Additionally, our Amarnath travel packages for 2023 include efficient transfers, meals, comfortable accommodation, and sightseeing.
There are two Amarnath helicopter routes:
Baltal – Panchtarni – Baltal route (Includes 2 km walk from Panchtarni to the holy cave)
Pahalgam – Panchtarni – Pahalgam route (Includes 6 km walk from Panchtarni to the holy cave)
There are also options to hire palanquins to reach Amarnath Cave. However, please note that the palanquin will drop you 2 km before reaching the cave, and this option is not available on the Baltal route.
When it comes to accommodation on Amarnath Yatra routes, including hotels in Baltal, there are many options available to meet the needs of the pilgrims. Here is a revised description of the accommodation facilities:
Camps: On the Amarnath route, camps are strategically located at Baltal, Nunwan, Sheshnag, and Panchtarni. These camps have been established through collaborative efforts of the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board and private contractors. The estimated cost of an overnight stay in these camps is Rs 250 to 400 per night.
Private Tents and Huts: Another option for accommodation is private tents and huts that are set up at various points along the Amarnath Yatra route, including hotels in Baltal. These accommodations provide amenities like quilts, blankets, pillows, and mattresses to ensure a comfortable stay. The estimated cost of these options ranges from Rs 250 to Rs 1000 per night.
During the Amarnath Yatra, the myriad of food options ensure that the pilgrims maintain the best nutrition during their journey. Here are the intricate details:
Langar and Free Food: On the Yatra routes, several langars (community kitchens) have been set up to provide free food, water, and refreshments to the pilgrims. These langars provide vegetarian food, which includes rice, dal, chapatti (Indian bread), and a range of vegetables.
Government Ration Depots: For those who wish to make their livelihood, government-administered ration depots are strategically located in Chandanwadi, Sheshnag, and Panchtarni. Here, pilgrims can purchase ration supplies at economically viable prices to prepare their meals.
Tea Stalls and Eateries: Scattered along the travel routes, tea vendors and small eateries offer a range of snacks and beverages for purchase. These establishments offer complementary gastronomic options to meet the diverse dietary needs of pilgrims.
Carry Your Snacks: It is prudent to transport your snacks to supplement the main meal and provide an extra boost of energy. Recommended snack options include canned foods, dark chocolate, roasted chana (chickpeas), glucose biscuits, and a variety of dry fruits.
Cafeteria of Baltal Helipad: Catering exclusively to pilgrims opting for helicopter services from Baltal, an establishment at Baltal Helipad operates as a cafeteria. This facility provides a stock of food and beverages for those availing of helicopter services during the Amarnath Yatra.
During the holy Amarnath Yatra, various facilities are provided to ensure a smooth and convenient journey for the pilgrims. There are several available features:
Booking Counters: Booking counters for buses have been set up in major cities like Srinagar and Pahalgam. For a hassle-free journey, it is recommended to book Amarnath Yatra Packages through Kashmir tour Packages.
Medical Facilities: On the route to Amarnath Temple, several Emergency Assistance Centers (EACs), Medical Assistance Centers (MAC), and Base Hospitals have been set up to cater to the medical needs of the pilgrims.
Cloakroom: Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB) provides cloakroom facilities at Baltal, Nunawan, and Amarnath Cave. These facilities allow pilgrims to safely store their belongings for a nominal fee of Rs 10 per 24 hours.
Parking Facility: If you are traveling to the base camp in a private vehicle, a designated parking area is available at Baltal. The facility accommodates two-wheelers, LMVs (light motor vehicles), and MMVs (medium motor vehicles).
BSNL Network: On Amarnath Marg, the Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) network is accessible. BSNL provides pre-loaded Yatra SIM cards to pilgrims at reasonable prices, ensuring reliable communication during the journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q.1 What are the different routes to reach Amarnath?
Ans. There are two main routes to reach Amarnath: the traditional Pahalgam route and the shorter Baltal route. The Pahalgam route is more popular and offers beautiful views, while the Baltal route is known for its convenience and accessibility.
Q.2 How can I reach Amarnath by air?
Ans. The nearest airport to Amarnath is Srinagar International Airport. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-booked helicopter service to reach Pahalgam or Baltal base camp.
Q.3 How can I reach Amarnath by road?
Ans. If you prefer to travel by road, you can reach Jammu by train or air and then take a taxi or bus to Pahalgam or Baltal. Regular bus services and private taxis are available from Jammu to these base camps.
Q.4 Is there any helicopter service available to reach Amarnath?
Ans. Yes, helicopter services are available from both Baltal and Pahalgam to reach Amarnath Cave. These services provide faster and more convenient options for pilgrims who have limited time or physical constraints.
Q.5 Are there any restrictions on reaching Amarnath?
Ans. Yes, there are some restrictions and guidelines to ensure the safety and well-being of the pilgrims. It is important to obtain the necessary permits and registrations, follow the specified routes, and follow the instructions given by the Amarnath Shrine Board and local authorities.
Conclusion:
Reaching Amarnath involves careful planning and choosing the route that suits your preferences and needs. Whether you decide to take the traditional Pahalgam route, the convenient Baltal route, or opt for helicopter services, it is essential to stay informed about the latest travel updates, follow the guidelines, and make necessary arrangements in advance. The journey to Amarnath is an important spiritual experience, and with proper preparation, you can set out on this pilgrimage with peace of mind and devotion.
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The Amarnath cave containing the Lingam of Lord Shiva is covered with snow-clad mountains. It is situated at an altitude of 3,888 meters and is about 141 kilometers from Srinagar. Pilgrims and tourists can see the confluence of the Amaravati and Panjtarni rivers on the way to the cave, where they can take a dip in the sacred waters of Amaravati before entering. Upon reaching the Amarnath cave, vis...