Table of Contents
- History and Significance of Amarnath Yatra
- Which is the Best Route for Amarnath: Baltal or Pahalgam?
- Opening and Closing Dates of Amarnath Yatra
- How to Reach Amarnath Yatra
- What is the Best Time to Go for Amarnath Yatra
- Package of Amarnath Yatra
- Amarnath Yatra Helicopter Tickets
- Tips for Pilgrims
- How to do Registration for the Amarnath Yatra?
- Conclusion
- FAQs
History and Significance of Amarnath Yatra
The Amarnath Yatra is one of the most sacred pilgrimages for Hindus. Every year, lakhs of devotees undertake this spiritual journey to witness the naturally formed ice Shivling inside the Amarnath Cave, situated at an altitude of 3,888 meters in Jammu & Kashmir.
According to legend, Lord Shiva narrated the secret of immortality (Amar Katha) to Goddess Parvati in this very cave. This makes the Amarnath Yatra not just a journey but a spiritual awakening. For senior citizens, first-time yatris, and regular devotees, this yatra holds immense religious and cultural value.

Which is the Best Route for Amarnath: Baltal or Pahalgam?
The Yatra can be completed via two main routes:
Route | Distance | Difficulty | Duration | Suitable For |
Baltal Route | 14 km | Steep & Challenging | 1–2 Days | Physically fit pilgrims |
Pahalgam Route | 36–48 km | Gradual & Scenic | 3–5 Days | Senior citizens, families |
Baltal Route is shorter but physically demanding.
Pahalgam Route is longer but more comfortable and scenic.
If you are traveling with senior citizens or kids, Pahalgam is the better choice.
Opening and Closing Dates of Amarnath Yatra
The Amarnath Yatra 2025 is expected to open in late June and conclude in August (Shravan Purnima/Raksha Bandhan).
- Opening Date (Tentative): Last week of June 2025
- Closing Date (Tentative): Mid or Last week of August 2025
Since the cave remains accessible only for a limited time due to weather, advance planning is crucial.
How to Reach Amarnath Yatra
If you are wondering “Amarnath Yatra how to reach?” here are your options:
- By Air:
- Nearest Airport: Srinagar International Airport
- From Srinagar → Baltal (90 km) or Pahalgam (100 km) by taxi/bus
- Nearest Airport: Srinagar International Airport
- By Train:
- Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi Railway Station
- From Jammu → Srinagar (270 km) by taxi/bus
- Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi Railway Station
- By Road:
- Well connected by road from Jammu, Srinagar, and Pahalgam
- Regular buses and cabs available
- By Helicopter:
- Helicopter services operate from Baltal to Panchtarni and Pahalgam to Panchtarni.
- From Panchtarni → 6 km trek/pony ride to the holy cave.
For those with health issues or time constraints, helicopter services are the best way to reach Amarnath Yatra comfortably.
What is the Best Time to Go for Amarnath Yatra
The Amarnath Yatra best time to visit is from July to mid-August, when the weather is relatively stable.
- July: Best month – moderate weather, ideal for families.
- Early August: Crowds increase near Raksha Bandhan.
- Late August: Risk of rain and landslides.
Senior citizens should avoid peak rainy days and plan during early July for smoother travel.
Package of Amarnath Yatra
Tour operators and travel companies offer all-inclusive Amarnath Yatra packages that cover:
- Accommodation
- Food arrangements
- Pony/Palki bookings
- Amarnath helicopter ticket booking (optional)
- Ground transportation
Average package costs:
- Budget Package: ₹10,000 – ₹15,000 (road travel + basic stay)
- Helicopter Package: ₹25,000 – ₹40,000 (includes helicopter, better hotels)
Aerodivine, a trusted name in helicopter services, offers customized packages for senior citizens and families for a safe and hassle-free pilgrimage.
Amarnath Yatra Helicopter Tickets
Helicopter services make the journey much easier, especially for elderly devotees.
- Helicopter Routes:
- Baltal – Panchtarni – Baltal
- Pahalgam – Panchtarni – Pahalgam
- Baltal – Panchtarni – Baltal
- Amarnath helicopter charges:
- Baltal to Panchtarni: Approx. ₹2,500 – ₹3,000 per person (one way)
- Pahalgam to Panchtarni: Approx. ₹4,000 – ₹4,500 per person (one way)
- Booking Options:
- Online via official Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB) website
- Authorized travel agents
Early Amarnath helicopter ticket booking is highly recommended since slots get filled fast.
Tips for Pilgrims
- Carry only essentials – warm clothes, rain gear, medicines.
- Keep medical fitness certificates ready for the Amarnath Yatra registration process.
- Senior citizens should prefer helicopter services to reduce physical strain.
- Avoid plastic – follow the eco-friendly yatra guidelines.
- Carry valid ID proof at all checkpoints.
- Always check weather updates before starting the trek.
How to do Registration for the Amarnath Yatra?
The Amarnath Yatra registration process is mandatory for all devotees. Without valid registration, entry is not permitted.
Steps for Registration:
- Visit the official SASB website or authorized bank branches.
- Fill out the registration form with ID proof.
- Submit a Compulsory Health Certificate (CHC) from an authorized doctor.
- Pay the registration fee.
- Collect your Yatra Permit Card (YP).
Registration usually begins April/May every year and continues till slots are filled.
Pro Tip:
If you are opting for a helicopter, ticket booking often includes registration. Aerodivine helps simplify the entire process by combining registration, helicopter booking, and travel packages under one service.
Conclusion
The journey to the holy Amarnath Cave is not just about reaching a destination – it’s about faith, devotion, and spiritual awakening. While road routes like Baltal and Pahalgam offer traditional trekking experiences, helicopter services make the Yatra more accessible, especially for senior citizens and those short on time.
With clear planning around the Amarnath Yatra registration process, best travel time, and helicopter ticket booking, your pilgrimage can be safe, comfortable, and deeply fulfilling.
FAQs
1. What is the best time to go for Amarnath Yatra?
July is the best month, with stable weather and moderate crowds.
2. How much are Amarnath helicopter charges?
Charges range from ₹2,500 (Baltal route) to ₹4,500 (Pahalgam route) per person, one way.
3. How to reach Amarnath Yatra easily?
You can travel by road from Jammu/Srinagar or take a helicopter from Baltal/Pahalgam to Panchtarni.
4. Is Amarnath Yatra registration process compulsory?
Yes, registration is mandatory with a health certificate. Without it, entry is not allowed.
5. Can senior citizens travel safely?
Yes, especially with helicopter services. Aerodivine provides senior-friendly packages.
6. How early should I book helicopter tickets?
At least 2–3 months in advance, since slots sell out quickly.
7. Why choose Aerodivine for Amarnath Yatra?
Aerodivine ensures seamless helicopter booking, registration support, and customized packages tailored for families and senior citizens.