Amarnath Temple

Amarnath temple is situated 29 kms from Pahalgam is a sacred site where Shiva Lingam, an ice formation like a phallus is worshiped by the Hindus.

Located inside a cave, Amarnath temple altitude ranges to 3,888 meters (12,756 feet). Many devotees come here between June to August as the route starts from Chadanwari.

It is also regarded as one of 18 Maha Shakti peethas. Due to its height, the cave receives snowfall for most of the year. The entry is open just during the short summer season. There are some ice stalagmites in the cave, which is an ice cave.

The cave’s ice content makes it a sacred site for Hindu visitors. The phallic emblem of Lord Shiva, the ice pillar found inside Amarnath temple cave which is also known as the ice lingham.

His son Ganesha and his wife Parvati are represented by two smaller ice stalagmites. Hindu visitors also hold the belief that the lingham’s height changes in tandem with the moon’s phases.

Thousands of Hindus make the journey up to the cave during the month of Shravan, which falls on the August full moon. The lingam achieves its largest size at this point.

Along the way, one may enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Chandanwari, Sheshnag, and Panjtarni. On the way also visit the temples of Mattan, Martand, Anantnag, and Bijbehara are also worth visiting.

Mythology of Amarnath Cave

In Hindu mythology, the Amarnath Temple history is highly well-known. The word Amarnath which refers to Lord Shiva, is derived from the words “Amar,” which means immortal, and “Nath,” which means Lord.

The mythology states that Lord Shiva’s wife, Goddess Parvati questioned him about the keys to eternal life. Lord Shiva made the decision to travel to a more remote location that was only accessible by gods since he did not want anyone else to know the secrets.

In search of the ideal location, they left behind their old home the Kailash and walked through Kashmir’s valley. But it’s thought that Lord Shiva left his possessions behind on the route to the Amarnath Cave because he didn’t want anybody else to discover the keys to eternal life.

At Pahalgam, he left  Nandi, the Bull. At Chandanwari, he left the moon and along the banks of Sheshnag Lake in Kashmir he left the snake around his neck. They also departed from the Mahaganesh Parvat with their son, Lord Ganesha. 

Lord Shiva left behind the five elements of nature—earth, water, air, fire, and sky—at Panchtarni. When the holy pair had last arrived in the Amarnath cave Lord Shiva began revealing to goddess Parvati the mysteries of immortal life. A couple of doves nesting in the cave heard this talk.

These pairs of doves are commonly sought after by pilgrims during the Amarnath yatra, since their sighting is considered auspicious. 

Why Visit Amarnath Temple

• The Amarnath Temple Pahalgam is a way through beautiful landscapes and memory for a lifetime spiritual journey.
• You get to witness a unique form of lord shiva, in the form of ice lingam which is believed to feel his presence as well. This is what attracts the devotees.
• The Amarnath Temple is one of the most significant pilgrimage sites in Hinduism, where devotees gather to seek divine blessings and undergo a transformative spiritual experience.
• As you trek through these challenging paths, it shows your devotion, patience, and faith towards lord shiva.
• Located in the Himalayas gives both a sense of spirituality and also connecting with nature.
• On the way to Amarnath cave many communities offer langars (free community kitchens) while also giving food and drinks to the devotees.
• The ice lingam forms in winter and melts by summer that represents the fleeting nature of life. 

Best Time to Take Amarnath Yatra

The best time to undertake the Amarnath Yatra to the Shri Amarnath Cave Temple is during the months of July and August. This period aligns with the Hindu month of Shravan, considered highly auspicious for the pilgrimage.

The day temperature during the day’s ranges between 15°C and 20°C, while the nights are chilly that range from -5°C to 5°C.

As by this time the routes are cleared with melting of snow and the ice lingam formed completely gives a complete spiritual experience. It is better to avoid in monsoons due to slippery conditions and during winter months it remains closed. 

How to Reach Amarnath Cave

To start your lead to Amarnath cave, first reach from Jammu to Pahalgam and Baltal either by buses or cabs. These are the two popular trek routes. The path that goes through Srinagar is longer than that of Baltal. If you want to reach without much hustle, then take a helicopter.

Through Baltal: The shorter path passes through Baltal, Domial, Barari, and Sangam before beginning at the Chandanwari base in Pahalgam. You can finish the 14-kilometer journey in one to two days. You have two options: stroll or rent a palki, which is a seat that is carried by individuals. 

Through Pahalgam: The longer route, which takes three to five days one way, goes via Pahalgam to Amarnath Cave. Compared to the Baltal route, this one is far wider and easier for pilgrims to travel.

In addition, you can rent ponies to take you all the way to the Amarnath Temple.

Taking a helicopter to get to Amarnath: The Amarnath Temple can also be reached via helicopter. Drive up to Baltal after you arrive in Srinagar and get on the helicopter that will take you to Panchtarni. You can rent a palki or horse ride, or you can trek for only around 6 kilometers from Panchtarni.

Things to Know Before Visiting Amarnath Cave

• Devotees must register themselves for the Amarnath Yatra in advance and also do not forget to carry a yatra permit issued by the shrine board.
• Acclimatize yourself well before starting your journey as you go up the altitude increases. Better get a fitness certificate.
• Pack enough warm clothes along with rain wear as the weather is unpredictable.
• Wear sturdy and comfortable trekking shoes giving good support.
• The area is plastic, alcohol, and tobacco free, so keep the environment clean.
• Carry your own medicines, and also many medical facilities are available on the route.
• Buy a pre activated SIM card near the base camp of Baltal.
• Exercise and increase your stamina well in advance before going for the trek.
• Age limit must be between 13-75 years of age.
• Also carry some snacks, chips, dry fruits to keep yourself energized. 

Conclusion

Traveling to the Amarnath Yatra via the breathtaking scenery of Kashmir will allow you to experience both the physical and spiritual sides of life.

Seeking the blessings of Lord Shiva in the Shri Amarnath cave temple is a profound experience of faith, strength, and solidarity, especially with its magnificent ice lingam and the community spirit of the Langar.

It’s an incredible adventure across the Himalayas, with each step leading you closer to spiritual enlightenment and self-discovery as you approach the Amarnath Cave.

Essentially, the Amarnath Yatra is an unending quest for divine connection, bestowing to each pilgrim an abundance of spiritual and emotional benefits.