Starting July 3, the Amarnath Yatra 2025 begins, drawing hundreds of devotees annually to witness the sacred ice Shiva Lingam, Baba Barfani. Registrations open months in advance due to its immense popularity. Although the recent Pahalgam attack instilled some fear, rest assured, the administration has implemented robust safety measures for a secure and peaceful journey.
Both Baltal and Pahalgam routes offer access to the Amarnath cave shrine. For air travel, direct flights to Srinagar are available, and trains operate regularly to Jammu from major cities across the country. From Jammu, public transportation such as buses is provided to Baltal or Pahalgam with fares starting at INR 700. Alternatively, taxis from Srinagar Airport to these locations are a convenient option.
Read more: 2.35 lakh registered, but only 85,000 confirmed post-Pahalgam attack.
Shared taxis to Baltal or Pahalgam charge between INR 800 and INR 1000, while a private car may cost around INR 4000. Accommodation in Baltal includes shared tents priced at INR 500, though free lodging options are available. The distance from Baltal to the Amarnath cave is approximately 14 kilometers with the entry point at Domel Gate, whereas it's about 32 kilometers from Pahalgam's Chandanwadi. An RFID card, mandatory for the journey at a fee of INR 250, can be obtained at the start of your trip.
Source: aajtak
A complimentary battery rickshaw and bus service from Baltal to Domel reduces walking distance by about 2 kilometers. Entries at Domel Gate are between 4 AM to 10 AM, marking the start of your pilgrimage. Along the route, several Bhandaras offer free meals. If you prefer horseback riding, expect to pay between INR 4000 to INR 5000. Palki services, for a round trip, cost INR 8000. However, both the horse and palki will drop you about a kilometer short of the shrine, the remainder of which is on foot. Starting early morning is advisable for a leisurely darshan.
Read more: Registration figures drop; security heightened post Pahalgam terrorist attack.
Although the Amarnath Yatra officially starts in July, preparations begin in April with mandatory medical certification ensuring fitness for the journey. The registration process involves uploading your medical certificate upon form submission to complete your registration.
Source: aajtak
The primary expenses for the Amarnath Yatra revolve around reaching Baltal or Pahalgam. Once there, food and accommodations are primarily complimentary, except for minimal tent charges. Opting for a pedestrian journey cuts down on costs, whereas horseback or palki services incur additional fees.
Read more: Amarnath Yatra 2025: Complete registration process explained.
Traditionally lasting two months, this year's Amarnath Yatra is condensed into a 38-day period due to security concerns following the April terrorist attack in Pahalgam. The impact has seen a reduction in participants, with original registrations at 2.35 lakh, now down to confirmed 85,000 pilgrims.
