For every religious tour, we design many packages β and the same is true for the Amarnath Yatra. You can choose from many itineraries including: Amarnath Helicopter Tour, Amarnath with Srinagar, Amarnath with Jammu and Kashmir, Amarnath with Vaishno Devi, Amarnath Yatra by helicopter from Baltal with Leh, Amarnath Yatra by helicopter from Pahalgam, and Amarnath Yatra with Vaishno Devi.
All packages differ in the places covered on the trip along with the holy cave of the ice stalagmite, accommodation type, and package price.
If you choose the Amarnath Yatra with Vaishno Devi, you get to experience two of the most revered pilgrimages of India together β Amarnath, the cave shrine of Lord Shiva, and Vaishno Devi, where you seek the blessings of the incarnation of Goddess Durga.
If you select the Amarnath Yatra by helicopter from Pahalgam, you get the opportunity to see the incredible beauty of Pahalgam and the other regions of the Kashmir Valley.
The holy cave of Baba Barfani draws lakhs of devotees every yatra season, especially senior citizens who have long carried this pilgrimage as a deeply held wish.
Once you browse our packages and confirm the booking, the rest is entirely on us β you just need to pack the right items for this high-altitude pilgrimage.
Quick Information
- Yatra Opens: 3 July 2026
- Yatra Closes: 28 August 2026
- Registration Begins: April 2026
- Cave Altitude: 3,888 m
- Pahalgam Route: 48 km trek
- Baltal Route: 14 km trek (shorter route)
Amarnath Tour Packages 2026 - At a Glance
| Package Name | Duration | Starting From | Route / Highlights |
|---|
| Amarnath Yatra by Helicopter from Baltal | 3 Days / 2 Nights | βΉ21,500 | Srinagar β Sonamarg β Baltal β Panchtarni β Amarnath Cave |
| Amarnath Yatra Package from Srinagar | 3 Days / 2 Nights | βΉ16,500 | Srinagar β Sonamarg β Amarnath Cave |
| Amarnath Yatra Package from Jammu | 3 Days / 2 Nights | βΉ16,500 | Jammu β Srinagar β Amarnath Cave |
| Amarnath Yatra by Helicopter | 4 Days / 3 Nights | βΉ24,500 | Srinagar β Sonmarg β Neelgrath β Panchtarni β Amarnath Cave |
| Amarnath Yatra from Delhi | 4 Days / 3 Nights | βΉ18,500 | Delhi β Srinagar β Amarnath Cave |
| Amarnath Yatra from Hyderabad | 6 Days / 5 Nights | βΉ22,500 | Hyderabad β Srinagar β Amarnath Cave |
| Amarnath Yatra by Helicopter with Kashmir | 9 Days / 8 Nights | βΉ45,500 | Srinagar β Baltal β Amarnath β Kashmir sightseeing |
| Amarnath Yatra with Vaishno Devi | 11 Days / 10 Nights | βΉ35,900 | Delhi β Srinagar β Amarnath Cave β Vaishno Devi |
About Amarnath - The Holy Cave of Baba Barfani
| Category | Details |
|---|
| Location | Lidder Valley, near Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir |
| Altitude | 3,888 metres (12,756 feet) above sea level |
| Main Deity | Lord Shiva β worshipped as the naturally formed ice Shivling (stalagmite) |
| Mythology | Lord Shiva told Goddess Parvati the secrets of immortality (Amar Katha) at this cave. The story finds mention in Hindu texts including the Puranas. |
| Ice Shivling | Forms naturally β not sculpted. Waxes and wanes with the lunar cycle. Tallest during Shravan month (JulyβAugust). |
| Yatra Season 2026 | 3 July β 28 August 2026 (approx. 56 days) |
| Registration | Mandatory β Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board portal: sasb.nic.in |
| Routes | Pahalgam route (traditional, ~48 km trek, 4β5 days) and Baltal route (shorter, ~14 km trek, 1β2 days) |
| Helicopter | Available from Baltal helipad and Neelgrath helipad |
| Security | CRPF and Indian Army deployed on both routes throughout the yatra season |
Two Routes to Amarnath Cave
Route 1 β Pahalgam Route (Traditional Route)
Distance: ~48 km one way | Duration: 4β5 days round trip | Difficulty: Moderate
The Pahalgam route is the older of the two and passes through Chandanwari, Sheshnag Lake, Pissu Top, and Panchtarni before reaching the cave. Much of the route follows the Lidder River valley. The trek is longer but not as steep as Baltal β a better option for pilgrims who want the full trekking experience. Pony and palki services are available throughout. Helicopter service from Neelgrath helipad covers the Baltal-side approach in 20β25 minutes to Panchtarni.
Route 2 β Baltal Route (Short Route)
Distance: ~14 km one way | Duration: 1β2 days round trip | Difficulty: Steep but short
The Baltal route is the shorter option β steeper than Pahalgam but doable in a single day by reasonably fit pilgrims. Helicopter from Baltal helipad reaches Panchtarni in 10β12 minutes. Best for pilgrims with limited time or those opting for the helicopter package.
Amarnath Yatra by Helicopter β Key Details
| Route | Flight Time | Helipad | Best For |
|---|
| Baltal β Panchtarni | 10β12 minutes | Baltal (via Sonmarg side) | Pilgrims starting from Srinagar/Sonmarg |
| Neelgrath (Baltal) β Panchtarni | 20β25 minutes | Neelgrath, Baltal side | Pilgrims starting from Jammu/Pahalgam |
| Panchtarni β Amarnath Cave | 4β5 km walk or pony ride | Both routes converge here | All helicopter pilgrims |
Helicopter slots are limited and fill up quickly β especially in July. Book well in advance. SASB-approved helicopter operators manage this service; slots can be booked via the SASB portal or through our packages. Priority darshan is generally included in helicopter packages.
Best Time for Amarnath Yatra
| Month | Weather | Ice Shivling Size | Verdict |
|---|
| Early July (Opening) | 10β20Β°C day; 0β7Β°C night | Growing towards peak | β
Good β yatra just begins |
| MidβLate July | Stable; some rain possible | At its tallest | β
Best β most auspicious period |
| August | Cooler, wetter towards closing | Starts reducing | β
Good β last window |
| After 28 Aug 2026 | Cave closes for season | Shivling size greatly reduced | β Yatra closed |
The Shivling is naturally at its tallest during Shravan month β mid-July to mid-August β which is why this period is considered the most auspicious. The yatra begins on Skandashashti (Pratham Pujan) and closes on Raksha Bandhan (28 August 2026). Night temperatures on both trek routes can fall to 0Β°C β carry warm clothing throughout.
Amarnath Yatra Registration 2026 β Mandatory
Registration with the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) is mandatory. Without a valid yatra permit, pilgrims are stopped at the checkpoints on both routes.
- Registration portal: sasb.nic.in β expected to open April 2026
- Can also register at designated bank branches: PNB, J&K Bank, YES Bank
- Compulsory Health Certificate (CHC) from an SASB-approved doctor is required for all pilgrims
- Children below 13 years and pregnant women are not permitted on the yatra
- SASB sets a daily pilgrim limit for both routes β register early, slots fill fast
- Carry original Aadhaar/Passport β must match registration details exactly
Note: Registration can fill up within days of opening. Our team assists with the process as part of all packages.
Kashmir Sightseeing Covered in Amarnath Packages
| Location | What to See | Included In |
|---|
| Srinagar | Dal Lake (Shikara ride), Mughal Gardens (Nishat, Shalimar), Shankaracharya Temple, Hazratbal Mosque | Most packages β 2 nights Srinagar stay is standard |
| Sonamarg / Sonmarg | Sindh River valley, Thajiwas Glacier views, meadows | Baltal route packages, helicopter packages |
| Pahalgam | Aru Valley, Betaab Valley, Chandanwari, Lidder River | Pahalgam route packages |
| Gulmarg (Optional) | Gondola ride (highest cable car in world), mountain meadows | 9-day Kashmir + Amarnath packages |
| Patnitop | Hill station, pine forests, cable car on Jammu side | Jammu-start and Vaishno Devi combo packages |
| Vaishno Devi, Katra | Vaishno Devi Temple β Goddess Durga shrine in Trikuta Hills | Amarnath + Vaishno Devi combo packages |
Accommodation & Food on the Route
Hotel Stays (Package Basis)
Our packages include hotel stays in Srinagar, Pahalgam, or Sonamarg depending on the chosen route. For overnight trekkers on the Pahalgam route, tented accommodation is arranged at Sheshnag and Panchtarni.
Langars β Free Community Kitchens
Various religious organisations and trusts run langars along both routes throughout the yatra season β serving free vegetarian meals, tea, and snacks around the clock. Key langar points on the Pahalgam route: Chandanwari, Sheshnag, Panchtarni. On the Baltal route: Baltal, Domali, Barari Marg. These langars are well-run and a dependable food source for pilgrims on foot.
Medical Camps
SASB maintains medical camps and dispensaries at all base camps and key points on both routes. Oxygen cylinders are available at high-altitude points. Army and CRPF are present throughout. Our packages include a basic medical kit and altitude sickness guidance for all pilgrims.
What to Pack for Amarnath Yatra
| Category | Items |
|---|
| Warm Clothing | 2β3 thermals, 2β3 fleece jackets, 1 waterproof windcheater, woolen cap, gloves, warm socks Γ 3β4 pairs, light shawl |
| Footwear | High-ankle trekking shoes (broken in before the trip), extra woollen socks, sandals for camp use |
| Trek Gear | Trekking pole (very useful on the steep Baltal descent), daypack (5β7 kg), headlamp + spare batteries, rain poncho |
| Documents | Aadhaar/Passport original, yatra registration permit (printed), Compulsory Health Certificate, emergency contact card |
| Medicines | Paracetamol, Diamox (doctor-advised only), antacid, cold medicine, antiseptic + bandage, ORS packets |
| Essentials | 1-litre reusable water bottle, power bank, sunscreen SPF 50+, lip balm, UV sunglasses, hand sanitiser |
| Puja Items | Small thali, flowers, incense sticks β available near the cave but bring basics from home |
Why Choose Pilgrimage Tour India for Amarnath Yatra?
The Amarnath Yatra runs for just 56 days a year. Within that window, you need SASB registration, a medical certificate, helicopter slot booking, high-altitude accommodation, and security coordination β all confirmed in advance. This is what our team manages for you:
- SASB permit and Compulsory Health Certificate β assistance included in all packages
- Helicopter slot booking on both Baltal and Pahalgam (Neelgrath) routes
- Accommodation at verified hotels in Srinagar, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg
- AC vehicles for all transfers; drivers experienced on Kashmir mountain roads
- 24/7 phone and WhatsApp support throughout the trip
- Special arrangements for wheelchair users and senior citizens
- Multi-lingual guides available on request
- Regional associate offices in Srinagar, Delhi, Haridwar, and other cities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. When does Amarnath Yatra 2026 start and end?
Ans: Amarnath Yatra 2026 opens on 3 July 2026 and closes on 28 August 2026 (Raksha Bandhan). The yatra runs for approximately 56 days. SASB registration is expected to open in April 2026. Always verify final dates at sasb.nic.in before booking.
Q2. What are the two routes to Amarnath Cave?
Ans: The Pahalgam route is the traditional, longer option (~48 km one way, 4β5 days, moderate difficulty) passing through Chandanwari, Sheshnag, Pissu Top, and Panchtarni. The Baltal route is shorter (~14 km one way, 1β2 days, steep). Helicopter services are available on both routes.
Q3. How long is the Amarnath helicopter ride?
Ans: From Baltal helipad to Panchtarni: approximately 10β12 minutes. From Neelgrath helipad to Panchtarni: approximately 20β25 minutes. From Panchtarni, the cave is a further 4β5 km on foot or by pony.
Q4. Is Amarnath Yatra registration mandatory?
Ans: Yes. Registration with SASB is mandatory for all pilgrims. A Compulsory Health Certificate (CHC) from an SASB-approved doctor is required. Children below 13 and pregnant women are not permitted. Daily quotas apply for both routes β register as early as possible once the portal opens in April 2026.
Q5. What is the altitude of the Amarnath Cave?
Ans: The cave is at 3,888 metres (12,756 feet) above sea level. Altitude sickness is common. Acclimatise for at least one day at Pahalgam or Srinagar before starting the trek. Consult your doctor about Diamox if you have experienced altitude problems before.
Q6. Can senior citizens do the Amarnath Yatra?
Ans: Yes. Senior citizens most commonly use the helicopter package to avoid the long trek. Pony and palki services are also available on both routes. A medical fitness certificate is required for all pilgrims, so a thorough doctor's assessment is especially important for those with heart or blood pressure conditions.
Q7. What is included in the Amarnath Yatra package?
Ans: Standard packages include accommodation (Srinagar/Pahalgam/Sonamarg), daily meals, AC vehicle transfers, driver charges, SASB registration assistance, and medical certificate support. Helicopter charges are included in helicopter packages. Personal expenses, insurance, and pony/palki charges are typically not included.
Q8. What is the best Amarnath Yatra package for a first-time pilgrim?
Ans: The Amarnath Yatra from Delhi (4 Days / 3 Nights, βΉ18,500) is a good starting point β it covers Srinagar hotel stay, Baltal transfer, and darshan by helicopter or trek. For a fuller Kashmir experience, the Amarnath by Helicopter with Kashmir (9 Days / 8 Nights, βΉ45,500) adds Sonamarg and sightseeing in Srinagar.
Q9. Are langars available on the Amarnath route?
Ans: Yes. Langars run by religious trusts and organisations operate 24 hours on both routes during the entire yatra season. On the Pahalgam route: Chandanwari, Sheshnag, Panchtarni. On the Baltal route: Baltal, Domali, Barari Marg. Free vegetarian meals, tea, and snacks are served to all pilgrims.
Q10. Why does the Amarnath ice Shivling wax and wane?
Ans: The ice Shivling inside the cave is a naturally formed stalagmite β not sculpted. It grows and shrinks with the lunar cycle, reaching its maximum size around the full moon during Shravan month (mid-July to mid-August) and reducing towards the new moon. This is a natural phenomenon tied to the cave's humidity and temperature conditions, and is considered sacred by devotees who see it as a living representation of Lord Shiva.