Amarnath
The pious shrine of Amarnath is believed to be the abode of lord Shiva who is one of the most cenerated deities in India. One can embark in this pilgrimage by starting from Chandawari which is located 16 km from Pahalgam. The yatra commences in the month of July and August each year and attracts thousands of pilgrims from all over the country. While a major part on a flat terrain, the path becomes much steeper as one moves higher and is only accessible by ponies. From Chandawari is the mountain lake of Sheshnag after which 13 kms. Away is the last stop Panchtarni. The Amarnath cave is 6 kms away from there. During the month of Sawan an ice stalagmite forms a matural Shivling by warer deipping through the limestone roof of the cave. The ‘lingam’ waxes and wanes with the moon. Each year several thousand pilgrims start for the cave to pay obeisance on the full-moon day. The State Government makes extensive arrangements every year for the successful completion of the pilgrimage registering pony owners and dandi walas, providing camps en-route and ensuring safe, comfortable and speedy progress of the yatris. If your visit to Pahalgam is not during the period of the yatra you can still take a pony ride up to Sheshnag Lake returning late evening.
Historical
Significance:
The history of the Amarnath Cave dates back to ancient times with mentions in various Hindu scriptures, including the Puranas and the Mahabharata. According to legend it is believed that Lord Shiva chose this remote cave to reveal the secrets of immortality and creation to his consort Parvati. Since then, pilgrims have been undertaking the challenging pilgrimage to seek blessings and witness the divine presence of the ice lingam, a natural formation resembling Lord Shiva, which forms inside the cave during the summer months.
Spiritual Journey:
The pilgrimage to the Amarnath Cave is not merely a physical journey but a spiritual odyssey that tests the endurance and faith of the pilgrims. The trek, which spans over several days, takes pilgrims through rugged terrain, steep mountain passes, and unpredictable weather conditions. Despite the hardships, devotees undertake this pilgrimage with unwavering determination, driven by their deep reverence for Lord Shiva.
Cultural Diversity:
The Amarnath Yatra transcends boundaries of caste, creed, and nationality, as pilgrims from diverse backgrounds come together in pursuit of a common spiritual goal. This convergence of cultures fosters a sense of unity and brotherhood among the pilgrims, as they share their experiences, prayers and stories during the journey.
Challenges and Preparations:
The pilgrimage to the Amarnath Cave is not without its challenges. Pilgrims must undergo rigorous physical training and acclimatization to cope with the high altitude and harsh climatic conditions. Additionally, stringent security measures are put in place to ensure the safety of the pilgrims, given the sensitive geopolitical situation of the region.
Ecological Concerns:
The influx of pilgrims during the yatra season poses significant ecological challenges to the fragile ecosystem of the Himalayas. Efforts are being made to promote sustainable tourism practices and minimize the environmental impact of the pilgrimage through initiatives such as waste management, afforestation, and eco-friendly infrastructure development.
Divine Experience :
For many pilgrims, the culmination of the journey at the Amarnath Cave is a deeply transformative experience. The sight of the ice lingam, shimmering in the dimly lit cave, evokes a profound sense of awe and reverence, reaffirming their faith in the divine. It is a moment of spiritual communion, where pilgrims feel a deep connection with the cosmic energy that permeates the universe.
Sightseeing:
Kokernag :
It is famous for the curative properties of its springs. It has a botanical garden eith a variety of roses.
Verinag :
The springhere is reported to be the chief source of the river jhelum. Further to the east lies the remains of the pavilion and baths built during the Mughal period.
Daksum:
It is a forest retreat girdled by mountains. Accommodation: Tourist Bangalow. There is a local tourist office. It is possible to cross to Kishtwar in Jammu from Daksum over the simthan pass: this is a popular trek.
Charari-Sharif :
It is famous for an impressive waterfall formed by river Veshav falling from a height of 24.4 mts. Kungwattan, a charming woodland meadow just is 8 kms. Ponies can be hired to Kungwattan there is no motor able road.
Wular Lake :
This great fresh water lake the largest lake in India is an important feature of the hydrographic system of Kashmir. Acting as a flood reservoir, its dimensions vary at different times is the year. Normally it is 19 kms. By 10 kms. and is spread over an area of about 125 sq kms. Wular has a picturesque setting and is surrounded by mountains.
Yusmarg :
It is located in a small open valley in the Pir Panjal range surrounded by gaint pines and firs.
Burzahom :
The excavations at Burzahom reveal settlements dating back to about 2500 BC.
Dachigam National Park :
Originally a royal game preserve, this sanctuary is now protected and provides shelter to the Himalayan black bear, brown bear, musk deer and the hangul or Kashmir stag. Permits to enter the sanctuary can be obtained from Chief Wildlife Wander, TRC.
Ganderbal :
Situated in the banks of river Sindh (Indus), the turf banks and shady chainars affords excellent camping and mooring sites.
Manasbal :
Manasbal is a panoramic lake laden with flowering lotus plants during the summer months and is a bird-watcher’s paradise.
Conclusion:
The Amarnath Yatra is more than just a pilgrimage; it is a sacred journey of self-discovery, faith, and devotion. As pilgrims embark on this spiritual odyssey, they not only seek the blessings of Lord Shiva but also find solace and inner peace amidst the serenity of the Himalayas. In the heart of the rugged mountains lies a sanctum of divine grace, where believers come to offer their prayers and transcend the boundaries of the material world, in search of spiritual enlightenment.