About the tour
About the Amarnath Yatra
The Amarnath Yatra is one of the most challenging and rewarding pilgrimages in Hinduism — a journey to the sacred Amarnath Cave Shrine at 3,888 m (12,756 ft) in the Kashmir Himalayas, where a naturally-formed ice shivling waxes and wanes with the moon. Lord Shiva is said to have revealed the secret of immortality to Goddess Parvati in this very cave.
Each yatra season runs typically from late June to mid-August (around 45 days, ending on Raksha Bandhan). The yatra is administered by the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB).
Best Time to Visit
- July – August (yatra season only) — the temple cave is open only during this 45-day window.
- The exact opening & closing dates change each year — check the official SASB website 2-3 months in advance.
Two Yatra Routes
Pahalgam Route — The Traditional, Easier Path
The classical 5-day, 48-km route via the scenic Lidder Valley. Recommended for first-time yatris and those wanting a more spiritual journey.
Itinerary
- Day 1: Pahalgam → Chandanwari (16 km drive)
- Day 2: Chandanwari → Sheshnag (12 km trek)
- Day 3: Sheshnag → Panchtarni (12 km trek over Mahagunas Pass at 4,600 m)
- Day 4: Panchtarni → Amarnath Cave (6 km) → return
- Day 5: Return to Pahalgam
Baltal Route — The Shorter, Steeper Path
14 km one-way; can be done in 1-2 days. Steeper and more challenging — best for fit yatris.
Helicopter Yatra (Recommended for Elderly)
Helicopters operate from Pahalgam, Baltal and Srinagar. Walk only the final 6 km from Panchtarni helipad to the cave (or use ponies/palkis). 1-2 day option, much easier on the body. Book 3+ months in advance — slots fill fast.
Mandatory Yatra Registration
Every yatri must register through the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB). Required documents:
- Compulsory Health Certificate (CHC) issued by an SASB-authorised doctor
- Yatra Permit (issued at registration)
- 4 passport-size photographs
- ID proof (Aadhaar/Passport)
- Children below 13 and pilgrims above 75 are NOT allowed for safety reasons
- Pregnant women are not permitted
What to Pack
- Warm trekking jacket, fleece, thermal innerwear, woollen cap, gloves, scarf
- Sturdy waterproof trekking shoes (broken in)
- Raincoat / poncho (weather changes rapidly)
- Trekking pole, headlamp
- Diamox (altitude sickness prevention) + personal medication
- Energy bars, dry fruits, glucose, water bottle
- Power bank + extra camera batteries
- Identity documents in waterproof pouch
Health & Safety
- Acclimatise at Pahalgam or Sonamarg for 1-2 days before the trek
- Carry Diamox (consult doctor first) for altitude sickness
- Avoid alcohol and smoking during the yatra
- Maintain steady pace — do not rush, especially over Mahagunas Pass
- Yatris with heart, lung or BP conditions must consult their physician first
- Free medical aid & oxygen are available at all base camps and along the route
How to Reach the Base
By Air
Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport (SXR), Srinagar with daily flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, etc. From Srinagar: 95 km to Pahalgam (3 hr) or 100 km to Baltal (3 hr).
By Rail
Closest railhead: Jammu Tawi (JAT). From there, road journey of 8-10 hours to Pahalgam/Baltal.
By Road
NH-44 connects Jammu to Srinagar (270 km). Our fleet arranges chauffeur-driven SUVs from Jammu/Srinagar to Pahalgam or Baltal.
Ready for one of India’s most powerful pilgrimages? Use the booking card or WhatsApp Prithvi — we’ll arrange your yatra registration, helicopter slot, hotel + transport. Bookings open in late spring each year.