Amarnath Cave requires no introduction. It is one of the holiest shrines for the followers of Hinduism. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this holy cave exists in the valley of Kashmir since a long time. A sixteen-feet-tall Shivalinga, entirely made up of ice, is formed naturally during winters. Numerous devotees on a huge scale throng to this cave to seek the blessings of Baba Barfani.
It Is Known For:-
1) Amarnath Cave is a holy shrine in Jammu-Kashmir and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Each year, the ice representation of Lord Shiva in the form of a Shivalinga is formed naturally.
2) This cave is believed to be the place where Lord Mahadev revealed the secret of eternity to Goddess Parvati. He removed all his accessories including Vasuki- the snake, his trident, the moon, and the damaru. However, the lord was unaware of the presence of a couple of white pigeons.
3) Those white pigeons are said to be immortal and can be sighted inside the cave of Amarnath.
4) For a major portion of the year, this cave remains covered with the snow. The snow on the outer side of the cave melts with the onset of the holy journey and allows an access to the pilgrims.
Best Time To Visit:-
Amarnath Caves can be visited best during June-August. It is the appropriate time because the pilgrimage is made during these months. Throughout the journey, the devotees are provided with all the required facilities by the shrine board authorities.
A small regiment of The Indian Army is also deployed for ensuring the peace and safety throughout Amarnath Yatra.
Watch Out!
Amarnath Cave is a holy place and all devotees should maintain the decorum of the place. In order to maintain the divine aura in the cave, the incense sticks should be kept away from the ice Shivalinga. Moreover, you should also abstain from touching the Shivalinga in any manner.
If you have difficulty in reaching the cave on foot then the service of the mules and palanquin is available.
Reaching There:-
Pahalgam is the nearest township to Amarnath Cave. This place is well-connected to the whole Kashmir via major highways, railheads, and airways. It can be reached from anywhere in Kashmir via these means. Commuting within the town of Pahalgam can be done via local buses, taxis, autos, and horse-carts.
Nearest Railway Station:- Jammu Railway Station
Nearest Airport:- Srinagar Airport