Amarnath Yatra By Helicopter

Travel Tips For Amarnath Yatra By Helicopter

Getting Prepared:

• Amarnath Yatra is organized during the Shravan months of July-August (in 2018, the yatra starts on June 28) when a natural Shiva Lingam is formed of ice stalagmite. The WaytoIndia team offers assistance in completing yatra registration process.
• It is advised to get health and fitness check done at least 3 months before the yatra. Those suffering from heart problems, asthma, diabetes and abnormal blood pressure are advised not to undertake the pilgrimage.
• Apart from ID proof and other documents, medical fitness certificate from an authorized doctor is required for registration. Remember than children below 13 and those above 75 years, as well as women with 6 weeks pregnancy, are not permitted for the yatra.
• Physical fitness is important for the trek during Amarnath Yatra by helicopter. Indulge in activities like brisk walking, yoga and jogging at least a month before the tour.
• Prepare slips of names, addresses and phone numbers of important persons as well as of the accompanying yatris and keep them handy.
• BSNL provides special SIM cards for Amarnath pilgrims. Opt for them to enjoy decent mobile connectivity.
• Insurance is recommended.

Things to Pack:

• Carry enough number of woollens and warm clothes, including warm trousers, woollen socks and monkey caps. Female visitors are also advised to prefer pants and kurti/kameez over sarees.
• Blankets and shawls too are among the necessary items.
• Pack raincoats, umbrellas, windcheaters, gloves as well as waterproof shoes ideal for walking.
• Important medicines like those to combat high altitude sickness, digestion issues and headaches. Pain killers as well as sprays for pain relief too are recommended.
• Even if you plan to do Amarnath Yatra by helicopter, it is advised to carry chocolates, juices, glucose, dry fruits and other energy-giving foods, along with bottled water, as you would be trekking few km. to reach the cave.
• Cold cream/sunscreen/Vaseline/skin protection creams and lip balms are a must.
• Flashlights/torch may prove useful.

During the Yatra:

• Pack clothes, food items and other important items in waterproof carry bags as there are chances of these things getting drenched.
• Do purchase a walking stick.
• Medical assistance is available throughout the trek for free.
• Satellite phones are available at various camps along the route if you wish to call back home.
• Ponies from Panjtarni Helipad to the cave and back may cost around INR 3,000-4,000 while palanquins (palkis) may cost around INR 5,000-7,000.
• Make sure you book only registered pony and palanquin service providers.
• Look for the warning signs and don’t stay long at places prone to falling rocks.
• Warm water bottles can be purchased during the trek.
• Don’t attempt shortcuts and listen to the instructions of military men/other experts
• Langars and bhandaras offering free food are in plenty. However, don’t indulge in overeating.
• Trek paths may get narrow at places. So watch your steps.
• Refer to the prices and rates mentioned on boards at various places for different services.
• Open defecation during such holy pilgrimage is unethical.
• Smoking, alcohol, drugs and non-vegetarian foods are strictly prohibited.
• Flash cameras, incense sticks (aggarbatti) and dhoop are strictly prohibited inside the holy cave.
• The use of plastics/polythene is strictly banned.
• Amarnath Yatra by helicopter is subject to weather conditions. So, be patient.

Things to Do:

• Pray to the ice Shiva Lingam with pious mind. Amarnath Cave is the place where Lord Shiva revealed the secrets of eternity and universe creation to Goddess Parvati.
• It is believed that a pair of pigeons, which heard the secrets, can still be seen during the yatra.
• If time allows, you can visit the attractions at Pahalgam, including the captivating Betaab Valley and Aru Valley.
• Attractions at Sonamarg include Thajiwas Glacier and snow-covered valleys.
• Panjtarni is the place where Lord Shiva is believed to have left behind the five elements of life, air, water, fire, earth and sky, while heading towards the holy cave. One can see a river splitting into five branches, each representing one element, at this place.
• You can buy the authentic Kashmiri saffron, almonds, apricots and other items.