Amarnath Yatra 2024: Why This Is One Of The Most Challenging Pilgrimages, Know Things To Keep In Mind

Amarnath Yatra: At a height of approximately 13,000 ft from sea level, this shrine draws hundreds of pilgrims every year, especially because of its ice-encased Shivalinga.

Amarnath Yatra: Thousands of devotees take this pilgrimage every year to seek the blessings of the ice encased Shivalinga in Amarnath Cave

Source : Tourism Of India

Amarnath Yatra, one of the most sought-after pilgrimages, is set to begin from June 29, registrations of which have already begun from April 15. At a height of approximately 13,000 ft from sea level, this shrine remains covered with snow and inaccessible for most of the year. Devotees can access the cave for only a few weeks in summer when the stalagmite reaches the peak of its waxing phase. This yatra draws hundreds of pilgrims every year, especially because of its ice-encased Shivalinga and people take this strenous 52-day long yatra to seek blessings of Lord Shiva. 

Why This Is One Of The Toughest Pilgrimages:

Each year, under the high security of CRPF personnel, the Amarnath Yatra takes place from July to August. Devotees of Lord Shiva and trekking enthusiasts participate in this journey with zeal and dedication. Apart from the breathtaking view at the final destination and blessings of Lord Shiva, this yatra also provides a visual treat as it takes you through small villages, frosty peaks, small glaciars, lush greenery, and beautiful terrains.

If you are planning to visit Amarnath cave, be prepared as this journey will asses you both physically and mentally. 

Located in the high altitude of the Himalayan range, this trek involves rocky paths, snow patches, and other constraints. The major reason that makes it risky is its longer duration and extreme cold. As you gain elevation, the air becomes thinner, and trekkers start facing breathing issues. The cold also becomes unbearable making your body numb which can even lead to Altitude Sickness and Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). 

Apart from this, there is always a risk of natural disasters such as continuous rainfall, snowfall and landslides. Black ice increases the difficulty level of the trek as it makes the route more slippery. Since, the height is13,000 ft, walking for only 500 meters can be difficult for some people. Hence, being physically fit and mentally prepared with prior trekking experience is a must.

14 km long Amarnath Yatra route via Baltal has a high difficulty level as it involves steeper ascents and descents, tough-to-climb terrains, and shortcuts that can drain your energy soon. (Image Source: Tourism Of India)

 

Points To Be Noted Before The Journey:

To embark on your rigorous high-altitude annual pilgrimage, first register yourself on the official website of the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board. As mentioned on the website of Tourism Of India, the registration fee will cost you Rs 150. If you wish to travel by helicopter, register for the helicopter on the same website. You don't have to register for the yatra separately. Make sure to register at least a month before, so you can start working on your physical strength. Online registration for this year begins on April 15, 2024.

Do not forget to carry all the essential documents such as your Adhar card and keep them handy all the time during the journey.

Start running or walking at least 5-6 kilometers daily and try to carry a bag on your shoulder. If you can’t go outside, use the stairs and do at least 40 to 50 repetitions of up-down on all the floors you have. Start doing yoga and other breathing exercises to improve the oxygen efficiency of your body.

If possible, take 1 or 2 trekking experiences to understand how your body can react during the trek.

Start consuming protein-rich foods like dry fruits, chana, and other nuts.

It is common to feel sick due to physical exertion and high altitudes. Therefore, it is advised to keep a first aid box containing medicines for nausea, dizziness, fatigue, and other symptoms associated with high altitude sickness.

Despite summer in most of the country's regions, it will be cold up there, so keep your warm clothes for layering.

Due to the uncertain weather, it can rain anytime, so keep waterproof trekking shoes and a raincoat.

Carry a moisturiser and sunscreen with you to protect your face and hands from sunburn.

Moreover, it is also essential to carry portable oxygen as breathing difficulties are commonly encountered. You can also keep camphor to smell for the time when you feel mild issues in breathing.

Children below 13 years and the elderly above 75 years aren’t allowed to take the yatra. Also, pregnant ladies for more than 6 months are not allowed.