AMARNATH YATRA 2024 ALL ABOUT

HOW TO REACH AMARNATH YATRA

The Amarnath Yatra is a revered pilgrimage in Hinduism, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The shrine is situated in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, at an altitude of 12,756 feet above sea level. Reaching Amarnath requires careful planning and preparation. Here are the best ways to reach Amarnath:

1. By Air: The nearest airport is Srinagar International Airport (SXR), which is well-connected to major cities in India. From Srinagar, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Baltal or Pahalgam, the base camps for the Amarnath Yatra.

2. By Rail: The nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi (JAT), which is connected to major cities in India. From Jammu, you can take a taxi or bus to Srinagar and then proceed to Baltal or Pahalgam.

3. By Road: You can drive or take a bus from Jammu to Srinagar and then to Baltal or Pahalgam. The road journey is scenic, but be prepared for long hours and winding roads.

4. Helicopter Services: Helicopter services are available from Baltal and Pahalgam to Amarnath. This is a convenient option, especially for those with limited time or mobility issues.

5. Trekking: The traditional route to Amarnath is through Pahalgam, which involves a 45-kilometer trek. The trek is challenging but offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

6. Pony and Porter Services: If you're not comfortable trekking, you can hire ponies or porters to carry you or your luggage.

7. Registration: It's mandatory to register for the Amarnath Yatra at the official website or through authorized registration counters. This helps authorities manage the crowd and ensure a smooth yatra.

Remember to plan your trip during the designated yatra period, usually in July and August. Also, prioritize your health and safety, as the high altitude and trekking can be challenging. With proper planning and preparation, your Amarnath Yatra will be a spiritual and memorable experience.

MANDATORY DOCUMENTS FOR AMARNATH YATRA

The mandatory documents for the Amarnath Yatra 2024 include ¹ ² ³ ⁴:

- Compulsory Health Certificate (CHC): Issued by an authorized doctor

- Aadhar Card: Government-recognized valid identity card obtained on or after April 8, 2024

- RFID Card: Provided by the government after taking your Aadhar biometric

- 5 Photographs: Each pilgrim must submit five photographs

- Mobile Number: Each pilgrim's mobile number is required at the time of booking

- Age Limit: The age limit for the pilgrimage is 13 to 70 years old

- Medical Certificate: A medical certificate valid after April 20, 2024, is required for the pilgrimage

- Amarnath Pilgrimage Permit: Included in the package, and you need to send a filled application form

- Booked Air Tickets: All pilgrims must have booked air tickets

HELICOPTER BOOKING FOR AMARNATH YATRA

Helicopter booking for Amarnath Yatra usually starts in the month of April ¹. The exact start date for bookings will be notified on the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board website, once the shrine board declares the start date around March ¹. Here are some other important details about Amarnath Yatra ¹:

- Opening Date: The opening date of Amarnath ji shrine is announced around the months February/March every year.

- Yatra Period: June-August (closes on the day of Rakhi).

- Heli-Services Operational During: June – August.

- Nearest Airport: Srinagar International Airport (SXR).

BEST ROUTES FOR AMARNATH YATRA

There are two routes by which pilgrims can visit the holy cave of Amarnath ¹:

- Traditional Route: Jammu – Patnitop – Anantnag – Pahalgam – Chandanwari – Pissu Top – Sheshnag – Panchtarni – Amarnath Cave Temple

- Other Route: Srinagar (by flight) – Anantnag – Pahalgam – Chandanwari – Pissu Top – Sheshnag – Panchtarni – Amarnath Cave Temple

- Baltal Route: Srinagar – Sonmarg – Baltal – Domali – Barari Marg – Sangam – Amarnath Cave Temple