Amarnath Yatra 2024 will start from 29 June 2024. The 43-day yatra will end on 19 August 2024. There will be a limit of 10,000 yatris per day on the Amarnath yatra route. This does not include yatris who undertake the yatra by helicopter. The registeration for Amarnath yatra begins on April 17, 2024 and the registeration fee is INR 150.
About Amarnath Yatra
The Amarnath yatra attracts lakhs of pilgrims every year who visit the site during Shravani Mela in July-August (Shravan month in Hindu calendar) - the only time in the whole year when the Amarnath Cave is accessible. The cave is placed at an altitude of 3,888m, about 141 km from Srinagar, the capital of Jammu and Kashmir and reached through Pahalgam town. Amarnath has an important part to play in Hinduism and is considered to be one of the holiest shrines. The annual 'Amarnath Yatra' is marked by 'Pratham Pujan' which is said to invoke the blessings of Baba Amarnath.
Moreover, since the ice is collected from the water dripping from the top of the cave due to the melting of the ice on top of it, the 'lingam' reaches a maximum around July-August when the ice caps around the cave are melting. Water seeps into the rocks that form the cave and progressively fade thereafter. As per the religious beliefs, it has been claimed that the lingam grows and shrinks with the phases of the moon reaching its height during the summer festival.
Things You Must Know for Amarnath Yatra 2024
- There must be a medical certificate issued by an authorised hospital/doctor in your state.
- Photo must be .JPEG or .JPG only and the size should not exceed 1MB.
- Medical certificate must be uploaded in .PDF format while registering, size shouldn't exceed 1MB
- The age bar is between 13 to 17 years, anyone younger or older will not be allowed.
- Pregnant woman more than 6 weeks of pregnancy aren't allowed.
- Carry the original Photo ID and Medical Certificate while travelling.
Amarnath Yatra Official Opening Dates 2024
Amarnath Yatra 2024 will begin from 29 June 2024.
The Amarnath Yatra starts with 'Pratham Pujan' to invoke the blessings of Lord Shiva. The best and the most pleasant part of the yatra is between Guru Purnima and Shravan Purnima. The devotees reach the base camp from where the actual yatra starts.
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Amarnath Yatra Registration Process 2024
- The registration will be on a first come first serve basis.
- Every yatri has to submit an application form and a compulsory health certificate (CHC) along with the required documents to obtain the yatra permit. The forms can be downloaded from here.
- These forms will also be available free of cost at the registration branch of the bank. Here is the complete list of 556 approved bank branches for 2024.
- For online registrations visit Amarnath Website and fill out the form, attach necessary documents such as medical certificates and photo ID.
- You'll receive an OTP, and you need to INR 150.
- After payment, you'll receive a confirmation and a temporary number, note it down. Visit the website again and use the number to download the permit.
- Since 2014, the SASB has also initiated a 'group registration scheme' for yatris intending to travel with friends, family or neighbours. Details of registration for NRIs/ex-yatri have been made available here - http://www.shriamarnathjishrine.com/
Amarnath Yatra 2024 Registration Date
The Amarnath Yatra 2024 registration will start on 17th April 2024
Amarnath Yatra Registration Fees 2024
The registration fees is INR 150 per yatri/per permit.
One yatra permit will be valid for registering one yatri only
Travelling to Amarnath: How To Reach Amarnath Yatra Base
The State Transport and the private operators provide bus services from Jammu to Pahalgam and Baltlal. These are the two places from where you start the Amarnath Yatra.
Amarnath Yatra Route
The Amarnath Yatra Trek is a pilgrimage journey to the sacred Amarnath Cave, primarily undertaken by trekking. There are two main routes: one from Baltal and the other from Pahalgam.- Baltal Route: Starting 15 kilometers from Sonamarg, this is the shorter route, covering 16 kilometers one way. However, it is highly challenging due to its steep terrain. Pilgrims need to complete the trek to and from the cave in a single day, as there are no camping options along the trail. Because of its difficulty and lack of rest points, the Baltal route is less popular among devotees.
- Pahalgam Route: This alternative route begins at Chandanwari, 14 kilometers from Pahalgam, and is a multi-day trek covering 32 kilometers one way. It features several camping points where pilgrims can rest overnight, making it a more manageable and less strenuous option than the Baltal route.
Amarnath Trek Distance
Route 1: Baltal to Amarnath Cave and Return Starting and finishing at Baltal, this route covers a total distance of 32 kilometers (although our Fitbit recorded 38 kilometers) and is completed in one day. It is graded as very challenging, following the route: Baltal Base Camp > Amarnath Cave > Baltal Base Camp.
Route 2: Chandanwari to Amarnath Cave and Return This multi-day trek, taking 2 to 3 days, starts and finishes at Chandanwari and covers a total distance of 64 kilometers. While still very challenging, it is easier compared to the Baltal route. The route includes: Chandanwari > Pissu Top > Sheshnag > Panjtarni > Amarnath Cave > Panjtarni > Sheshnag > Pissu Top > Chandanwari.
Route 3: Chandanwari to Amarnath Cave and Baltal Beginning at Chandanwari and ending at Baltal, this multi-day trek (2 to 3 days) spans 46 kilometers. Though very challenging, it is easier than the first two routes. The path taken is: Chandanwari > Pissu Top > Sheshnag > Panjtarni > Amarnath Cave > Baltal Base Camp.
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The overall organization of the yatra, however, is carried out by Shri Amarnath Yatra trust which provides services like telecommunication, power supply, firewood etc. Mobile phones are of no use in the area and it would be wise to leave them behind. Online Helicopter bookings can be made in advance.
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Ways to Reach Amarnath Cave
The Amarnath Yatra offers several ways to reach the sacred cave, each catering to different preferences and levels of physical endurance:- Trekking: For those who prefer a more traditional approach, trekking from Baltal or Chandanwari is the most immersive way to experience the pilgrimage. The trek involves a significant physical challenge but offers an enriching spiritual journey.
- Horse Ride: You can also opt for a horse ride to and from the Amarnath Cave. The cost for a horse ride from Baltal to the cave and back ranges from INR 4,500 to INR 6,000. However, it's important to note that using animals for transportation is not recommended due to concerns over animal welfare and the physical demands placed on the animals.
- Doli: Another option is the Doli service, where four porters carry you in a specially designed chair. This method is ideal for those who prefer not to trek. From Baltal, the cost of using a doli for a round trip to the Amarnath Cave ranges between INR 17,000 and INR 20,000 per person, offering a comfortable but still physically demanding journey.
- Helicopter Ride: One popular option is to take a helicopter from Baltal or Pahalgam to Pantarni, followed by a trek of approximately 6 kilometers to the Amarnath Cave. This convenient option significantly reduces the trekking distance. The cost for a round-trip helicopter ride ranges from INR 3,000 to INR 10,000, depending on availability and booking time.
Amarnath Yatra In Helicopter
Starting Point: Baltal helipad
Starting Point: Pahalgam helipad
Timings for all rides are according to service providers and should be strictly adhered to.
Prices yet to be announced for 2024
A maximum of 5 bookings is allowed against a single debit/credit card. The same card cannot be used for booking for the next 3 weeks. The debit/credit card used for booking should be reproduced at the time of issuing a boarding pass.
Safety:
For safety purposes, children below 13 years, elderly aged above 75 years and ladies more than 6 weeks pregnant are not allowed to undertake the pilgrimage.
Journey to The Cave From the Drop-off:
If opting for the helicopter ride, the pilgrim will be dropped at Panjtarni, which is a 6km (2 hours) walk to the Amarnath caves but with many pilgrims present, the walk will take up to 4 hours on easy terrain. Do note that it is a difficult walk as the temperatures are lower and also the altitude sickness which recommends a slower pace when walking to the caves.
There is the option of hiring a Palki as they will take you to the cave directly. Pony rides are available too but they will drop you off 2 kms before reaching the cave as the terrain gets a slight slope.
Requirements for Amarnath Helicopter Ride:
All pilgrims/travellers intending to avail helicopter services for Amarnath Yatra are required to furnish a Compulsory Health Certificate (CHC) for each individual, duly issued by authorised doctors/institutions, as per instructions laid down by Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB). The list of authorized doctors/institutions is made available on the official website well in time before the commencement of advance bookings.
No pilgrim/traveller shall be allowed to board the helicopter without submitting a CFC, issued on the specified date. Any CFC issued before/after the specified date will be rendered invalid.
Accommodation
Camps with prefabricated huts are available for overnight stay at Baltal, Nunwan, Sheshnag and Panjtarni. These camps are arranged by Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board through private contractors and cost around INR 250-375 per night.
Private Tents and huts are also set up at multiple places along the Amarnath Yatra route. These have accommodation available on floor and cot along with quilts, mattress, blankets and pillows. These cost around INR 250-1000 per night.
Baltal Route: Manigam, Baltal, Holy Cave
Pahalgam Route: Nunwan, Chandanwari, Sheshnag, Panjtarni
Tips:
It's best to stay in Sonamarg for accomodation and easier access to Baltal which is just 14 kms away.
Please note that vehicles aren't allowed to travel between 7 PM - 6 AM on the Sonamarg and Kargil route.
Food
- Free food, water and refreshment is available to the yatris along the Amarnath Yatra route.
- Langar are set up at various locations during the yatra period
- Ration for cooking food is available from the specially established Govt. Depots at Chandanwari, Sheshnag and Panjtarni at fair prices
- Numerous tea-stall and small restaurants are available at various locations
- Carry snacks like biscuit, canned food, dry fruits, chocolate, roasted chana, etc
- Neelgrath Helipad (Baltal) waiting lounge has a cafeteria
Facilities
- Jammu and Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation (JKSRTC) provide transport facility during Amarnath Yatra. Hi/tech/Super Deluxe, Deluxe and Semi-Deluxe buses are available from Jammu and Srinagar to Pahalgam and Baltal. Booking counters are established at multiple points in these cities during the yatra duration.
- Medical facilities are available to the yatris en route to the Amarnath Cave. Several Medical Aid Center(MAC), Emergency Aid Center (EAC) and base hospitals are set at different points along the route.
- Cloakroom facility to store your belongings is provided by the Amarnathji Shrine Board at Nunwan, Baltal and Amarnath Cave. These cost INR 10 for 24 hours.
- Parking facility is available at Baltal base camp for Two Wheelers (INR 30), LMVs (INR 75) and MMVs (INR 150-225)
- BSNL connectivity is available on the yatra route. Pre-loaded yatra sims are provided by BSNL to the yatris for INR 230
Legend of Amarnath
Tips for Amarnath Yatra 2024
- Prepare for the yatra by being fit, it's advised to walk everyday for about 4-5km to prepare for the yatra.
- Begin your trek at morning 5 AM
- Do pranayam for improving oxygen efficiency, also practicing breathing exercises and yoga works best.
- Drinks lots of water to prevent dehydration.
- Descend immediately if you start having altitude sickness.
- Under conditions of serious illness, contact the nearest medical fascility that's located at a distance of 2km.
- Avoid drinking alcohol, caffeine and avoid smoking.
- Buy comprehensive travel insurance that covers evacuation for Amarnath Yatra.
