Amarnath Yatra: Sacred Pilgrimage Guide
Amarnath Cave houses a natural ice Shiva Lingam at 3,880m. The annual pilgrimage (July-August) attracts hundreds of thousands. Two routes: Traditional Pahalgam (36-48km, 3-5 days) and shorter Baltal (14km, 1 day). Registration mandatory through www.shriamarnathjishrine.com. Health certificate required. Permits allocated through lottery. Facilities include camps, food, medical stations, and helicopter services. Trek is challenging, requires fitness. Carry oxygen, warm clothes, rain gear. Ponies and palanquins available. Respect religious sentiments. Free langar (community kitchen) provided. Experience is spiritually transformative. Non-pilgrims need special permits to visit the region.