India is home to several renowned pilgrimages and the Amarnath Yatra is a crucial one among the devotees of the Hindu deity, Lord Shiva. It is based around the revered Amarnath Temple, which is a cave temple nestled at an elevation of 3,888 metres in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam tehsil in the district of Anantnag. Located roughly 24 km from Sonamarg, the cave has a naturally formed enshrined Shivaling made of ice, which resembles Lord Shiva. The Amarnath temple is surrounded by majestic glaciers and snow-capped mountains in the valley of Sindh. People from all over the country as well as the globe visit Amarnath seeking blessings from god, a memorable challenge and stunning views of nature and its wonders. With an impressive footfall of visitors every year, a number that reads in the higher lakhs, it is no wonder that Amarnath is one of the most sought-after destinations in Jammu and Kashmir . 

If you are looking for a spiritual trip mixed with a fun adventure amidst the breathtaking nature, travel to Amarnath. SOTC understand your trip needs and brings Amarnath packages at affordable prices. Whether it is a solo short trip or a long vacation with family, the Amarnath tour packages offered by SOTC cater to a wide variety of journey criteria. With our Amarnath packages, you don’t have to spend hours planning the trip from scratch as our unique tour itineraries offer a balanced vacation experience that suits everyone’s needs. Also, most of our Amarnath tour packages include optional flights, meals, accommodations, sightseeing, etc., so you can have a smooth trip from start to end without any hassles.

Find more details on the destination, such as popular Amarnath packages, the best Amarnath places to visit, the best foods to try, when to visit, etc., on this elaborate Amarnath travel guide.

Most Popular Amarnath Tour Packages

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Quick facts about Amarnath 

While choosing from the available Amarnath tour packages on our website, make sure to take a glance at the quick facts about the destination;

Best Time To Visit Amarnath

Before planning an Amarnath trip, it is crucial to know when it's the correct time to visit this popular pilgrimage site. Due to its geographical location and regional climatic conditions, Amarnath remains inaccessible for the most part of the year. Generally, the path to this temple is opened between June and August, however, it is subject to change annually. So, before looking for Amarnath packages, go through the following pointers to understand the season-wise Amarnath tourism scene;

Amarnath in summer

The peak season for Amarnath travel starts around the month of April and continues till June. It is the period when spring comes and transitions into the soothing summer season, bringing pleasant weather to the region. It is the best time to visit Amarnath for pilgrimage purposes, making it the peak season. The region welcomes thousands of devotees and tourists from all across the country. You can expect an average temperature range of 13°C to 29°C during these months. The region experiences a burst of colours, with lush surroundings, clear passages, colourful wildflowers, etc., during this season. Find Amarnath yatra tour package options in your ideal budget on SOTC.

Amarnath in winter

Another season for Amarnath tourism is winter, which starts in October and March. It is called the pre-pilgrimage season and the region experiences heavy snowfall during these months. If you want to explore this region covered in thick blankets of snow and gaze at the scenic landscapes, winter can be a great time to visit. However, note that the cave remains inaccessible for darshans due to the heavy snowfall and weather conditions. Winter is the best time to visit its surrounding region for snow adventures. Get deals on Amarnath packages for winter on our website.

Amarnath in monsoon

Monsoon, which spans from July to September, is yet another season you can consider for Amarnath tourism. As the region experiences heavy rainfall during these months, it creates slippery and muddy terrain, which affects the path and the trek experience to the Amarnath temple. Whether the Amarnath temple yatra route is open or not, entirely depends on the weather conditions. So, if you are visiting Amarnath between July and September, make sure to check the conditions beforehand. As the rain brings a vibrant filter to the natural beauty of the region, the monsoon can also be a great time to visit Amarnath and its surrounding region. The Amarnath Yatra cost during non-peak season is quite low. Look at Amarnath Yatra tour package options for any season on SOTC.

How to reach Amarnath 

Another essential aspect you need to consider when planning and booking Amarnath yatra tour package options is choosing the preferred mode of transport for the journey. Here are the best ways to reach Amarnath;

By flight

If you are considering air travel, note that it can only help you complete a portion of the journey. The nearest airport to Amarnath is the Srinagar Airport in Budgam, roughly 110 km away. The airport is served by several popular airlines with frequent flights connecting it to major Indian cities. For reference, a direct flight from New Delhi to Srinagar takes around an hour and 10 minutes to complete. From the airport, you can take a bus to taxi to Pahalgam and continue by road or helicopter to Amarnath.

By train 

The nearest railway station to Amarnath is in Jammu, which is connected by daily long-distance trains from and to major Indian cities. After reaching Jammu by train, tourists can hire a cab or catch a bus to Baltal or Pahalgam, from where they can take the road route to reach the Amarnath Temple. 

By road

The path leading to Amarnath Temple is rough and can’t be reached by car, bus or bike. The two road routes connecting to the temple are from Baltal and Pahalgam. The Baltal to Amarnath route is the shortest one (15 km) and takes 1 or 2 days to complete. However, it is a bit difficult to scale among the two options. The other choice is the Pahalgam to Amarnath route, which is relatively longer (36-48 km) but is much easier and safer for most tourists. The Pahalgam to Amarnath route takes between 3 and 5 days to complete.

Best places to visit in Amarnath 

If you are covering the holy route to Amarnath, make sure to check out some of the most popular tourist destinations in its vicinity. You can find Amarnath yatra package options on our page featuring itineraries that let you visit destinations, such as;

Amarnath Temple

The most popular place to visit during the holy Amarnath temple yatra is obviously the revered Amarnath temple. Dedicated to the Hindu deity Lord Shiva, this cave is believed to be over 5000 years old. Inside this temple, there is a massive ice stalagmite that creates the naturally-formed Shivling, which wanes and waxes with the cycle of the moon. It attracts thousands of devotees during the month of Shravan when the ice-formed Shivling is in its ideal form. To reach the temple, visitors often pick the traditional trek route, which is a bit challenging but is seen as a test before attaining spiritual liberation upon reaching the temple. The whole Amarnath Yatra and popular Amarnath Yatra tour package options are centred around this temple. Get your Amarnath yatra package from SOTC for a divine tourism experience. 

Aru Valley

Located a few kilometres from Pahalgam, Aru Valley is one of the main tourist destinations to visit on an Amarnath trip. It is a majestic location featuring valley terrain where lush greenery, snow-capped mountains and gushing streams create an alluring scenery that can win over the hearts of all nature lovers. Nestled at an elevation of 2400 metres, tourists visit Aru Valley to glance at its natural beauty or engage in adventure treks. Get Amarnath yatra package options featuring Aru Valley on our website.

Baltal Valley

Another renowned nearby tourist destination that you can hit on your Amarnath trip is the Baltal Valley. This stunning valley works as a stopover and a camping ground for those taking on the holy Amarnath Cave Temple pilgrimage. Nestled at the foot of Zoji La, on the confluence of the Sind River and glacier streams, the valley offers jaw-dropping panoramic views comprised of the rugged snow-capped mountains and lush meadows. Some Amarnath yatra package options feature a short stay at this site. 

Sheshnag Lake

While on your Amarnath Yatra trip, make sure to drop by the famous Sheshnag Lake. It is a magnificent alpine lake perched at an altitude of 3658 metres, surrounded by picturesque snow-capped mountains, tall pine trees and lush green meadows. As the lake falls on the route leading to Amarnath Cave, you don’t have to worry about taking a major detour to visit this stunning location. According to Hindu mythology, the king of snakes, Sheshnag, is believed to reside in it. Hence, alongside its natural beauty, the lake also holds immense religious significance. It is commonly seen as a standard inclusion in several Amarnath yatra tour package options.

Kokernag Botanical Garden

The Kokernag Botanical Garden is a well-known tourist attraction included in many Amarnath yatra tour package options. It is a place that is worth visiting during your tour to Amarnath in Jammu and Kashmir. Spread across 26 hectares of land, the site was founded in 1969 and is covered in dense greenery, offering visitors to experience a wide range of exotic flora. From artificial ponds and Japanese-style arched bridges to watchtowers and swift-flowing streams, its beauty and serenity will surely make your visit worthwhile. Find Amarnath trip package options featuring the Kokernag Botanical Garden visit on SOTC.

Things to do in Amarnath 

While Amarnath trip package options include fun activities to keep the trip interesting and engaging, you can also add a few fun adventures to spice things up. Following are some of the most popular things to do during the Amarnath trip;

Trek to Amarnath

The most obvious and highly sought-after activity one likes to participate in during their trip is the trek to Amarnath. There are two main starting points for the trek to the revered temple, one being the shorter but riskier route starting from Baltal and the other being the more popular, simpler but longer route starting from Pahalgam. You can take the trail that suits your inner trek enthusiasts the most and enjoy magnificent views and tourist attractions along the way to the temple. You can find this activity included in many Amarnath trip package options.

Trek to Gangabal

Another local trek that many add to their Amarnath tour plan is the trek to Gangabal. This trek starts from Srinagar and goes through the destinations of Sonmarg, Nichinai, Krishna and Dubta Pani before finally reaching the stunning Gangabal lake site. The adventure and sceneries along the way mixed with the picturesque final destination make this trek a fan-favourite. 

Golfing in Pahalgam

If you are interested in golfing or planning on giving it a shot, there’s no better alternative than trying it during your trip to Amarnath Yatra at Pahalgam. Located at an elevation of 2400 metres, the Pahalgam golf course is a beautiful nine-golf course where you can enjoy a beautiful game of golf amidst scenic views of the mountains and the lush greenery. Find Amarnath trip package options with interesting itineraries on SOTC.

River rafting in Pahalgam

Another highly sought-after adventure activity that tourists like to add to their Amarnath trip plan is river rafting. With multiple grades of rapids flowing in the vicinity of Pahalgam, you can take on the adrenaline-rushing challenge of making your way through the gushing stream with your group of fellow paddlers. If you can’t find this activity in popular Amarnath trip package options, consider arranging for it by yourself.

Helicopter ride to Amarnath

While many prefer trekking to Amarnath from Baltal or Pahalgam, others take on the more adventurous yet simpler option of flying to the temple by helicopter. Choosing a helicopter to travel to Amarnath is a perfect option for tourists of all ages, especially the elderly. During the helicopter trip to Amarnath Yatra, tourists will be able to experience a thrilling air ride and soak in the beauty of the surrounding terrain from a bird’s vantage point. Make the most of your trip by adding fun adventures with Amarnath Yatra travel package options by SOTC.

Famous foods in Amarnath

Wondering what food to try on your tour to Amarnath? Here are some popular options to consider;

Rajma Dal

Devotees and tourists visiting Amarnath mainly look for vegetarian delights that are both tasty and highly nutritious and Rajma Dal is a perfect match for them. It is a simple yet delicious dish made from local spices and red kidney beans. Rajma Dal is served alongside rice and is rich in protein, helping you re-energize while on the trip.

Kashmiri Rajma

If you are not looking forward to trying traditional Rajma on your Amarnath visit, you can consider trying Kashmiri Rajma. This vegetarian dish is a local favourite that follows the regular Rajma recipe, except it is prepared with some distinct regional spices to give it an authentic Kashmiri taste. Also served alongside rice, you can try this flavourful dish at almost all eateries in the area.

Ladakhi Pulao

This dish basically takes the traditional concept of Pulao and adds a unique Kashmiri twist to make it special. Ladakhi Pulao is a fragrant rice dish containing dried nuts and fruits that is popular among vegetarians. It is a simple yet flavourful dish that is paired with vegetarian side dishes to make a delightful meal for tourists on their Amarnath Yatra.

Kashmiri Saag

If you are looking for delicious side dishes to try with rice or roti during the trip to Amarnath Yatra, give Kashmiri Saag a shot. It is a hearty dish made from local greens with a handful of mild spices. This comforting and highly nutritious dish is exactly what you are looking for in your pahadi diet. It is easily available in most eateries in the region.

Khatte Baingan

Another popular side dish to try with rice or roti on your trip to Amarnath Yatra is Khatte Baingan. As the name suggests, it is a gravy-based tangy dish made with eggplants. The dish also boasts a slight spiciness and you will experience a burst of strong flavours with each bite. Most popular Amarnath yatra travel package options by SOTC come with meals included, so you don’t have to additionally worry about finding lunch or dinner. 

Must visit restaurants/resorts in Amarnath 

Wondering where to grab a bite on your trip to Amarnath Yatra? Here are some popular restaurants you can check out;

Dana Pani

When talking about good vegetarian food on your Amarnath trip, there’s no better place than Dana Pani. It is a well-known restaurant serving vegetarian and Jain dishes, making it massively popular among those going on the pilgrimage to Amarnath. Though there is an absence of luxury, the restaurant makes it up with delicious yet affordable dishes. Dal Tadka and Chana Masala are some of their signature dishes. The restaurant is located on Main Market, Chandanwari, Pahalgam.

Trout Beat

If you are seeking non-veg delights, especially seafood, then find what you are looking for at Trout Beat. It is also located on Chandanwari Road, Pahalgam, and is famous for serving lip-smacking delicacies made of local trout fish. The restaurant also serves vegetarian delights and features a cosy Kashmiri-style interior. Some of their signature dishes are Trout Masala and Trout Tandoori.

Nathu’s Rasoi

Another famous pure vegetarian restaurant where you can dine on your Amarnath visit is Nathu’s Rasoi. Located near the Petrol Pump in Pahalgam, this restaurant features a spacious seating arrangement and serves a wide range of delicious North Indian dishes. Some of its most famous dishes are Masala Dosa, Poori Bhaji, Chola, etc. You can also get a variety of sweets and namkeens at Nathu’s Rasoi, all at affordable rates.

Cafe Log Inn

Cafe Log Inn on Chandanwari Road, Pahalgam, is a solid example of an aesthetic quaint cafe that features a cosy interior and serves a variety of cafe and fast food items. Some of their key items that you can try on your visit include pizzas, walnut cake, sandwiches, desserts, trout dishes, etc. Amarnath Yatra travel package options by SOTC include meals alongside accommodations, optional flights, Amarnath sightseeing, etc., for your utmost convenience.

Best honeymoon destinations in Amarnath 

Going on the holy Amarnath yatra with your significant other is an auspicious way to start off a marriage. You can look for honeymoon special Amarnath yatra travel package options on SOTC. Besides, here are some other popular nearby destinations that are ideal for newlyweds to visit;

Pahalgam

One of the most popular detours honeymooners can take on their Amarnath trip is a short stay in Pahalgam. Located on the banks of the Liddar River, this quaint hill station is a famous starting point for the Amarnath Yatra. In itself, the town is renowned for its natural beauty and serenity. During your visit, you and your loved one can participate in fun adventures like trekking and river rafting in Pahalgam and check out nearby tourist attractions like Aru Valley, Chandanwari, Baissaran, Betaab Valley, etc. Get Amarnath yatra travel package options featuring Pahalgam stays on our website.

Srinagar

Honeymooners visiting Jammu and Kashmir for the revered Amarnath Yatra, especially the ones flying in from other major Indian cities, can consider spending a few days in Srinagar. It is one of the prime tourist destinations in the Union Territory, featuring stunning attractions like the Dal Lake, Shikara ride, Shalimar Vagh, Tulip Garden, Shankaracharya Temple, and so on. Hence, if you and your spouse are interested in a Srinagar honeymoon stay, look for Amarnath packages featuring it on SOTC. 

Sonmarg

Located approximately 14 km from Baltal, Sonmarg is a fascinating honeymoon destination in J&K that you can visit on your Amarnath yatra. Dotted with clear blue lakes, slanting valleys and towering mountains, Sonmarg offers picture-perfect scenery that words can’t do justice when describing. On your visit, you and your significant other can check out its major tourist attractions, such as the Thajiwas Glacier, Baltal Valley, Nichinai Pass, Zoji La, Krishnasar Lake, etc.

What to shop in Amarnath

There are plenty of regional products that you can buy as gifts or souvenirs on your trip to Amarnath. Some of the most popular items for shopping include;

Pashmina Shawls 

No matter where you are in Jammu and Kashmir, you are bound to find shops selling good quality Pashmina shawls and stoles in all price categories. They are made from fine cashmere wool that really speaks luxury with how they look and feel to touch. For authentic, high-quality Pashmina products with intricate designs and vibrant colours, you will have to spend the big bucks. If you are visiting in peak season, make sure to complete your Amarnath Yatra booking weeks in advance.

Where to buy: For Pashmina shawl shopping on your Amarnath trip, check out the shops in Pahalgam’s main market area.

Dry Fruits

On your Amarnath visit, make sure to buy some high-quality Kashmiri dry fruits for your home or as a nutritious gift for your family members and friends. You can find all kinds of dry fruits, including walnuts, apricots, almonds and more. You can also keep some with you as snacks to munch on during your trek to Amarnath.

Where to buy: You can find dry fruits at most shops and stores in Pahalgam and along the routes to Amarnath.

Kangri

If you are looking for utility products or regional speciality items, consider purchasing a Kangri. It is a traditional portable heater made of earthenware, which is filled with glowing embers and shrouded in a functional handmade wicket basket for portability. It helps keep your hands and, to some extent, your body warm against the region’s harsh chilliness. The starting Amarnath Yatra package price on SOTC is INR 17,900. 

Where to buy: You can find Kangri on your Amarnath trip at the main market of Pahalgam. 

Saffron

Also called “Kashmiri Gold”, Saffron is an expensive spice derived from the flower of the Crocus sativus. The crimson-cloured, fine thread-like saffron is a popular culinary delight and is also believed to have several benefits for one’s body and health.

Where to buy: You can get yourself some saffron on your Amarnath trip at any major market in Kashmir.

Interesting facts about Amarnath 

For your Amarnath trip, here are some interesting and lesser-known facts that will broaden your idea about the destination;

• According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that the Amarnath Cave is the place where Lord Shiva revealed the Amar Katha or the secret of his immortality and the story of the creation of the universe to Goddess Parvati. 
• The Amarnath Cave temple is believed to be over 5000 years old, which makes it the oldest cave shrine in the world.
• There are two routes to the revered Amarnath Cave shrine. The route from Pahalgam is longer but easier for most visitors, while the route from Baltal is shorter but very challenging due to its steepness.
• Tales also suggest that when a ball of fire originating from Lord Shiva’s third eye struck a hill slope, a chasm was created, which later became the cave of the Amarnath temple.
• The dripping water from the cave roof reaches the ground and freezes over time. The constant accumulation of dripping water creates an upward frozen formation, creating the ice stalagmite that resembles the Shiva Lingam. So, complete your Amarnath Yatra booking in advance and set out for the holy journey to witness this wonder.
• A popular story suggests that the Amarnath Cave was once re-discovered by a Muslim shepherd from Batakot named Buta Malik.
• The holy Amarnath temple yatra usually begins around the months of July and August. The month of Shravan, as per the Hindu calendar, marks the beginning of this pilgrimage. If you want to catch a glimpse of the fully-formed ice Shiva Lingam, you’ll need to visit Amarnath on Shravan Poornima Day. As the cave and the route leading to it remain inaccessible due to rough weather and geographical conditions for most of the year, make sure to pick a time during this month for your visit.
• The Amarnath Yatra charges per person is INR 150 as registration fee. Also, if you want to learn more about the yatra and the temple, consider hiring a local Amarnath tour guide.

Amarnath souvenir 

Wondering what souvenirs to look out for on your holy Amarnath trip? Go through the following pointers to get some idea;

Rudraksha bracelet 

One of the most popular souvenirs to buy on an Amarnath yatra is a bracelet made of Rudraksha beads. They hold tremendous spiritual significance in Hinduism and are considered a symbol of protection and goodwill, making a perfect gift for loved ones.

Brass Diya

Another renowned Amarnath souvenir you can consider purchasing is Diyas (miniature lamps) made of brass. These beautifully crafted diyas are traditional items used as decorative pieces or in various religious rituals. The brass diyas available in the region contain intricate designs and carvings and are offered at a very reasonable price point. Similar to noting down what to buy during the trip in advance, make sure to complete the Amarnath Yatra booking in advance. 

Holy water

If you want a souvenir that encaptures the spirit and essence of the divine Amarnath journey, then get some holy water. You can collect some in a small container directly from the Amarnath cave or from the nearby flowing streams. Many believe that sharing this sacred water with loved ones lets them get blessings from god. 

Lord Shiva idol

Miniature Lord Shiva idols are widely available at shops and stores along the way to Amarnath Cave. They make for a great souvenir item, something you can place at the altar of your home. These Lord Shiva idols are of high quality and made from either stone or metal.

Sandalwood rosary

Alongside the Rudraksha bracelet, consider buying some rosaries or malas made from sandalwood beads. They not only serve as an Amarnath souvenir but can also be used during meditation.

Spiritual books

If you are into reading, especially religious texts, consider buying spiritual books on your Amarnath yatra for yourself or as gifts for close friends. This includes everything from religious scriptures, texts, and books related to Amarnath Cave, Lord Shiva and spiritual teachings. It will enable readers to learn more about the Amarnath temple yatra and Lord Shiva and enhance their spiritual outlook.