Amarnath caves is one of the most legendary of Hindu temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Sonmarg, Jammu and Kashmir. It is at a height of about 4000 metres. Because of this height, the cave is covered with snow for most of the year. Still devotees from all over the country go for a spiritual yatra to Amarnathji cave. This time the journey to faith commence on 20th June 2008.
The cave is a holy place for Hindu pilgrims, because of its ice content. One very characteristic pillar of ice is believed to be an ice lingam, the phallic symbol of Lord Shiva. Two smaller ice stalagmites represent Parvati, his wife, and Ganesha, his son. The Hindu pilgrims also believe, that the height of the lingam increases and decreases with the phases of the moon. In the month of Shravan, on the full moon in August, thousands of Hindus go on a pilgrimage up to the cave. At this time the lingam reaches its biggest size.
The pilgrimage begins from Srinagar, the capital city of Kashmir, 140 kilometers from the shrine. One can reach the spiritual cave via Baltal or via Phalgam. The route passes through Pahalgam, Chandanwari, Sheshnag and Panchtarni, each of these places being intricately woven in the legend that signifies the importance of this shrine. Helicopter rental service is also provided for the devotees to reach amarnathji cave.
To be a part of this spiritual pilgrimage, visit http://www.kashmirhotravel.com for more information and tour to the holy cave.
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