Amarnath Yatra, a most sacred pilgrimage in India, will once again intrigue the pilgrims in 2025. The annual pilgrimage to Amarnath Cave in Jammu and Kashmir would draw thousands of Lord Shiva’s followers to see the natural ice lingam. Now, with the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) putting out some key information, everyone wants to know: On what date opens the Amarnath Yatra 2025 registration? Mark it in your calendar—opening on April 14, 2025. Here’s everything you need to know about Amarnath Yatra, starting from dates through routes and tips on how to organize your divine journey.
Amarnath Yatra 2025: Essential Dates Announced
The Amarnath Yatra 2025 will start on July 3 and end on August 9, lasting 38 days. The period, selected during the holy Shravan month, is when the ice lingam naturally forms in the cave. These dates were approved by the SASB after its 48th board meeting on March 5, 2025, presided over by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. For those pilgrims who are willing to be a part of the Amarnath Yatra, advance registration booking starts on April 14, 2025—giving you plenty of time to organize your high-altitude trek.
Why the Amarnath Yatra is Important?
The Amarnath Yatra is not a holiday—instead, it’s a religious pilgrimage. Located in the Himalayas at 3,888 meters, the Amarnath Cave is revered by Hindus. It is said that Lord Shiva shared the secret of immortality with Goddess Parvati here and hence it is a place of divine grace. Lakhs of pilgrim’s throng to the Amarnath Yatra every year, braving difficult terrain and weather conditions in order to reach moksha (salvation). It’s a test of faith, strength, and solidarity, combining adventure with spirituality.
Amarnath Yatra Registration: How to Sign Up?
Enrolment in the Amarnath Yatra is mandatory and begins on April 14, 2025. Online or offline is your choice. Online, visit the SASB site (jksasb.nic.in), fill up the form, attach a photo, ID proof, and a Compulsory Health Certificate (CHC), and pay a small fee (about INR 150-220). Offline, visit the approved banks like Punjab National Bank or Jammu & Kashmir Bank along with the same documents. Spaces are limited—10,000 pilgrims daily per route—so book ahead for the Amarnath Yatra to secure your place.
Main Routes of the Amarnath Yatra
The Amarnath Yatra has two primary routes: the shorter Baltal route and the traditional route via Pahalgam. Both take pilgrims to the sacred cave but suit different types. Here’s a breakdown of the main stops and how to get there:
Baltal: The Shortcut Route
Baltal, 15 km from Sonamarg, is the center for the shorter Amarnath Yatra route. It’s a 16-km tough ascent to the cave, ideal for those with limited time but good physical fitness.
How to reach Baltal:
By Air: Fly to Srinagar Airport (95 km), then taxi or bus.
By Train: Srinagar Railway Station (90 km) is nearest, then road trip.
By Road: 300 km from Jammu via NH44 (7-8 hours).
Pahalgam: The Scenic Way
Pahalgam, a quiet town, starts the longer 48-km Amarnath Yatra journey. It’s easier, with stops like Chandanwari and Sheshnag, best suited for leisure.
How to Reach Pahalgam:
By Air: Fly to Srinagar Airport (90 km), drive or bus it out.
By Rail: Srinagar Railway Station (85 km) connects and then take a cab.
By Road: 250 km from Jammu through NH1 (6-7 hours).
Amarnath Cave: The Final Stop
The 3,888-meter Amarnath Cave is the focal point of the Amarnath Yatra. Available only during the yatra months, it is where pilgrims catch a glimpse of the ice lingam.
How to Travel to Amarnath Cave: Either Baltal (16 km trekking) or Pahalgam (48 km trekking).
Helicopter service from Baltal or Pahalgam to Panjtarni (6 km from cave) is also provided.
Helicopter Services of the Amarnath Yatra
For pilgrims who are shunning the trek, helicopter trips make it easy to get to Amarnath Yatra. There is air connectivity between Baltal-Pahalgam and Panjtarni that cuts down traveling time. It is reserved with advance registration on April 14, 2025, online through the SASB website. It is available for INR 3,000-5,000 per person, one way. There is no further yatra permit needed—only a CHC. It is a godsend for elderly pilgrims or patients with ailments.
Preparing for the Amarnath Yatra
Amarnath Yatra requires preparation. Walk 4-5 km every day a month prior to developing stamina. Bring warm clothing, waterproof equipment, and good shoes—temperatures fall below 5°C. Obtain a CHC from an SASB-approved physician to ascertain your fitness for altitude. Bring along water, food, and a first-aid kit. The Amarnath Yatra is not easy, but with planning, it’s a worthwhile experience.
What’s New for Amarnath Yatra 2025
SASB is enhancing the Amarnath Yatra experience. Improved medical facilities, broader tracks, and improved telecom facilities on routes are in store. RFID cards, mandatory for everyone, will be issued upon biometric authentication at Jammu or Kashmir centers. Free battery car travel from Baltal to Domel is new as well, making Amarnath Yatra more accessible. All these are efforts towards a safer, smoother pilgrimage.
Why Book Early for the Amarnath Yatra
With just 10,000 permits per day per track (excluding helicopter pilgrims), the Amarnath Yatra gets filled in no time. Booking on April 14, 2025, is your chance to get your date fixed. Latecomers might be left out, especially on heavy days such as Mondays during Shravan. Early birds also avail themselves of good accommodation and transport facilities, which ensure a smooth Amarnath Yatra.
Tips for Safe Amarnath Yatra
Hydrate yourself—drink 5 liters of water daily to fight altitude sickness. Rest on halts like Chandanwari or Panchtarni. Follow SASB rules: no kids under 13 years, adults over 72, or expectant women past 6 months. Carry your RFID card everywhere for security. The Amarnath Yatra is a test of endurance, but these steps make it feasible.
