1. Reach Pahalgam
Start your journey by reaching Pahalgam, which serves as the base camp for the pilgrimage to Amarnath. Pahalgam is well-connected to Srinagar, the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir, by road. You can hire a taxi or use public transportation to reach Pahalgam from Srinagar, which is approximately 100 kilometers away.
Register for the Yatra
Before embarking on the pilgrimage, it's essential to register for the Amarnath Yatra, as per the guidelines set by the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB). Registration can be done online or at designated registration counters in Pahalgam.
2. Proceed to Chandanwari
The first leg of the journey begins with a trek from Pahalgam to Chandanwari, which is approximately 16 kilometers away. You can hire a pony or a palanquin (dandi) for the trek if you prefer not to walk. The route offers scenic views of the Lidder River and lush alpine meadows.
3. Continue to Sheshnag
From Chandanwari, the trek continues to Sheshnag, which is situated at an altitude of around 3,574 meters. The trek from Chandanwari to Sheshnag covers a distance of approximately 13 kilometers and passes through rugged mountain terrain and scenic valleys.
4. Reach Panchtarni
The next stop on the pilgrimage route is Panchtarni, located approximately 12 kilometers from Sheshnag. Panchtarni is a sacred site where five rivers converge, and pilgrims often rest here before proceeding to the Amarnath Cave.
5. Final Trek to Amarnath Cave
The last leg of the journey involves a trek from Panchtarni to the Amarnath Cave, which is situated at an altitude of around 3,888 meters. The trek from Panchtarni to the cave covers a distance of approximately 6 kilometers and includes a steep ascent. Pilgrims can also hire ponies or palanquins for this final stretch if needed.