Amarnath Yatra 2026

The Amarnath Yatra is held annually during the Hindu month of Shravan, typically across July and August, concluding on Raksha Bandhan (Shravan Purnima). The exact start and end dates for 2026 are announced by the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) a few months in advance. Always verify the official dates on jksasb.nic.in before booking travel, as the schedule and duration can vary year to year based on weather and administrative decisions.

It depends on your fitness and time. The Baltal route (~14–16 km) is shorter and steeper, allowing fit pilgrims to complete the yatra in a single day, but it is physically demanding. The Pahalgam route (~36–48 km) is longer and far more gradual, spread over 3–5 days with overnight halts at Sheshnag and Panchtarni — gentler on the body and considered the traditional path with stunning scenery. Elderly pilgrims and families often prefer Pahalgam, while time-pressed and fit pilgrims choose Baltal.

Yes. Registration through the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board is compulsory for every pilgrim. You can register online at jksasb.nic.in or in person at designated branches of partner banks (Punjab National Bank, J&K Bank, SBI, and YES Bank). A Compulsory Health Certificate (CHC) from an authorised doctor is required to complete registration. Each registration is valid for a specific date and route.

Yes. Because the cave sits at nearly 3,888 metres, a Compulsory Health Certificate (CHC) issued by an SASB-authorised doctor or medical institution is mandatory for registration. This ensures pilgrims are physically fit for the high-altitude trek. Those with heart conditions, respiratory issues, or other serious ailments should consult their doctor carefully before attempting the yatra.

Yes. Helicopter services operate on both routes — from Baltal to Panjtarni and from Pahalgam to Panjtarni. From the Panjtarni helipad, it is a short trek or pony ride of about 6 km to reach the holy cave. Helicopter tickets are limited and should be booked in advance through SASB-authorised operators on the official portal. Note that flights are weather-dependent and may be cancelled at short notice.

The SASB and various charitable organisations (langars) provide extensive facilities during the yatra, including free community kitchens serving meals, medical aid posts and emergency oxygen at regular intervals, tented accommodation at base camps and halt points, toilets, drinking water, and ponies/palanquins (pithoo, dandi, palki) for those who cannot walk. Security and rescue teams are stationed throughout. Mobile network coverage is patchy at higher altitudes.

Begin preparation at least a month before. Practise daily walking of 4–5 km, gradually increasing distance, and include deep-breathing exercises like pranayama to improve oxygen efficiency at altitude. Build leg strength with climbing stairs or hiking. Avoid alcohol and smoking before the yatra, stay well hydrated, and acclimatise at the base camp for a day if possible. Carry your prescribed medicines and never push beyond your physical limits at high altitude.

Age restrictions usually apply — registration is generally permitted for pilgrims between roughly 13 and 70 years of age, and pregnant women (typically beyond six weeks) are not allowed, due to the strenuous high-altitude conditions. Exact age criteria can change each year, so confirm the latest rules with SASB for 2026. Elderly pilgrims who qualify often choose the gentler Pahalgam route or the helicopter option with pony assistance.