The Amarnath Yatra is a revered annual Hindu pilgrimage to the holy Amarnath Cave in Jammu and Kashmir. The Yatra for 2025 is scheduled from July 3rd to August 9th. While there are two main routes (Pahalgam and Baltal), this guide focuses on the traditional Pahalgam route from Jammu.
Important Note: Information regarding the Yatra, including dates, registration, and guidelines, is subject to change by the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB). Always refer to the official SASB website (jksasb.nic.in) for the most up-to-date and accurate details.
Amarnath Yatra 2025: From Jammu via Pahalgam
1. Yatra Dates (2025):
- Commencement: July 3, 2025
- Conclusion: August 9, 2025
- The duration for 2025 is reduced to 38 days.
2. Registration Process:
- Registration for Amarnath Yatra 2025 commenced on April 14, 2025. It is mandatory for all pilgrims.
3. Eligibility:
- Age: 13 to 70 years.
- Pregnant women beyond 6 weeks of pregnancy are strictly not allowed.
- Individuals with chronic or high-risk medical conditions may not be permitted.
4. Required Documents for Registration:
- Passport-size photograph.
- Valid Identity Proof (Aadhaar, Driving License, Passport, etc.).
- Compulsory Health Certificate (CHC):
- Must be issued by an authorized doctor on or after April 8, 2025.
- The certificate must be in the official SASB format.
- It needs to be issued by a doctor listed in your state government’s approved panel.
- Common checks include blood pressure, pulse, ECG (if needed), high-altitude risk assessment, and a review of medical history (heart/stroke/respiratory issues, diabetes, hypertension, epilepsy, etc.).
- Ensure the doctor’s name, seal, and medical registration number are clearly visible.
5. Registration Options:
Online Registration:
- Visit the official SASB website (jksasb.nic.in) and navigate to ‘Online Services’ -> ‘Yatra Permit Registration’.
- Read and agree to the guidelines.
- Fill in personal details (name, preferred yatra date, Aadhaar number, mobile number).
- Upload a passport-size photograph and a scanned copy of your CHC.
- Verify your mobile number via OTP.
- Complete the registration fee payment (approximately Rs. 220).
- Download your Yatra Registration Permit.
Offline Registration:
- Visit a designated bank branch (PNB, J&K Bank, SBI, YES Bank are commonly authorized).
- Obtain and fill the registration form.
- Attach supporting documents (ID proof, address proof, and the mandatory CHC).
- Submit the form. The bank will issue a registration slip and generate the Yatra Permit online after biometric eKYC authentication.
- Offline registration at banks will stop 7 days before the Yatra begins.
6. Mobile Application:
You can also register through the official “Shri Amarnathji Yatra” mobile application.
7. RFID Card:
Pilgrims will need to collect an RFID card from designated centers in Jammu/Kashmir Division. This is a crucial security measure.
8. The Pahalgam Route from Jammu:
The Pahalgam route is the traditional and longer route, offering picturesque views. It is generally considered less steep than the Baltal route, making it suitable for families and elderly individuals, though it still demands significant physical endurance.
Jammu to Pahalgam
- The distance from Jammu to Pahalgam is approximately 315 km.
- You can travel by taxi or buses. These are available at the Tourist Reception Centre J&K Govt, Raghunath Bazaar, Jammu, early in the morning.
- Alternatively, many pilgrims travel from Jammu to Srinagar (around 260 km) and then take a bus or taxi from Srinagar to Pahalgam (around 95 km).
Pahalgam to Holy Cave
Pahalgam Route Trek Itinerary – Approximately 3-5 days:
Day 1: Pahalgam (2,130 m) to Chandanwari (2,895 m) – 16 km (by road/trek)
- From Pahalgam, you can take a local taxi or shared vehicle to Chandanwari, which is the starting point of the trek.
- Pilgrims often camp at Pahalgam or Chandanwari on the first night.
Day 2: Chandanwari to Sheshnag (3,574 m) – 12 km trek
- The trek from Chandanwari to Sheshnag is uphill and passes through the Pissu Top (approx. 3,377m), a steep climb.
- The route follows the Lidder River.
- Sheshnag is a beautiful high-altitude lake. Pilgrims camp here for the night.
Day 3: Sheshnag to Panchtarni (3,657 m) – 14 km trek
- This is one of the more challenging stretches, involving a steep ascent to Mahagunas Pass (approx. 4,276 m / 14,000 ft), the highest point on the Pahalgam route.
- After the pass, there’s a descent to Panchtarni, a meadow where five streams converge.
- Pilgrims camp at Panchtarni. Due to the high altitude, some may experience low oxygen levels.
Day 4: Panchtarni to Amarnath Cave (3,888 m) and back to Panchtarni/Sheshnag – 6 km (one way) trek
- The holy shrine is about 6 km from Panchtarni.
- Pilgrims start early in the morning for the Darshan as there is no place to stay at the Amarnath Cave.
- On the way, you’ll cross the confluence of Amravati and Panchtarni. Some pilgrims take a holy bath in Amravati.
- After Darshan, pilgrims typically return to Panchtarni or trek further back to Sheshnag for the night.
Day 5: Panchtarni/Sheshnag to Chandanwari/Pahalgam
- Descend back to Chandanwari or Pahalgam to conclude the trek.
9. Essential Items to Carry:
The weather in the Himalayas can be unpredictable and harsh. Proper gear is crucial for a safe Yatra.
Clothing:
- Layered Clothing: Thermal wear (base layer), woolen sweaters/fleece jackets (mid-layers), and a heavy, waterproof, and windproof jacket (outer layer).
- Waterproof trousers.
- Monkey cap/balaclava, warm gloves (preferably waterproof).
- Woolen socks (multiple pairs).
Footwear:
- Sturdy, waterproof trekking shoes with good ankle support and excellent traction. Break them in before the Yatra to avoid blisters.
- Sandals or flip-flops for comfortable camp wear.
Essentials:
- Compulsory Health Certificate (CHC) and Yatra Permit (multiple copies).
- Government-issued Photo ID (Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID).
- RFID Card.
- Backpack (comfortable, well-fitted, with rain cover).
- Water bottle/hydration pack.
- Torch/headlamp with extra batteries.
- Power bank/mobile charger.
- Personal medicines and a basic first-aid kit (painkillers, anti-diarrhea, antiseptic, band-aids, glucose tablets, etc.).
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+), lip balm with SPF, moisturizer.
- Sunglasses (polarized).
- Energy bars, dry fruits, chocolates, and other high-energy snacks.
- Energy bars, dry fruits, chocolates, and other high-energy snacks.
- Raincoat/poncho and umbrella.
- Trekking poles for stability.
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, toilet paper).
- Small towel.
- A small personal bag for valuables.
- Plastic bags to keep wet clothes separate.
10. Health and Safety Guidelines:
- Physical Fitness: The Yatra is physically demanding. Undertake regular exercise and walks a few weeks before the pilgrimage to improve your stamina.
- Acclimatization: If you are traveling from lower altitudes, allow for a day or two of acclimatization at Pahalgam before starting the trek.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration and high-altitude sickness.
- Slow Pace: Trek at a slow and steady pace. Do not exert yourself.
- Food: Eat light, nutritious food.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking.
- Medical Assistance: Medical camps are set up along the route. Do not hesitate to seek medical help if you feel unwell.
- Disposal: Do not litter. Dispose of waste responsibly.
- Helicopter Service: Helicopter services are available from Pahalgam (or Baltal) to Panchtarni for those who cannot or prefer not to trek the entire distance. From Panchtarni, it’s a 6 km trek to the Holy Cave. Book helicopter tickets well in advance through authorized channels.
- Ponys/Palkis: Ponies and Palkis (palanquins) are available for hire on the trekking routes.
Important Reminders:
- Booking: Make all necessary bookings (travel, accommodation, helicopter if opting) well in advance, as the Yatra attracts a large number of pilgrims.
- Security: Heavy security arrangements are in place for the Yatra. Cooperate with the authorities and follow all instructions.
- Weather: Be prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions, including rain, snow, and significant temperature drops.
By following these guidelines and preparing thoroughly, you can have a safe and spiritually fulfilling Amarnath Yatra experience via the Pahalgam route. Jai Bhole Nath! Jai Shambhu..