Amarnath Yatra 2025: Start Date, Registration Details, Helicopter Availability And All You Need To Know

Thousands of devotees undertake the annual Amarnath Yatra to the Amarnath Cave in Jammu and Kashmir, located over 12,700 feet above sea level. The cave houses a naturally formed ice Shivling, revered as a symbol of Lord Shiva. Managed by the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB), the Yatra is a spiritual journey that tests faith, endurance and resolve.

This year, the Yatra is scheduled to begin on July 3 and will continue until Aug. 9. Only those aged between 13 and 70 years are permitted to undertake the Yatra, with restrictions in place for those with heart, lung or other serious health conditions. To ensure pilgrim safety, according to reports, the CRPF has implemented a multi-layered security plan along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44), featuring intensified patrolling, K-9 dog squads and surveillance in high-risk areas like Udhampur. The first batch of pilgrims will depart from the Jammu base camp on July 2.

Route Options

The Amarnath shrine can be accessed through two routes:

• Pahalgam route: Approximately 32 km long, starting from Nunwan Base Camp in Anantnag District, about 90 km from Srinagar.

• Baltal route: Approximately 14 km long, starting from Baltal Base Camp near Sonamarg in Ganderbal District, around 95 km from Srinagar.

Online Registration:

• Head to the registration page at https://jksasb.nic.in/.

• Here, enter the route on the date you want to undertake the yatra and all other personal details sought.

• Pay a fee of Rs 220 and download the permit

Offline Registration:

• Collect a token slip three days before your Yatra date from designated locations in Jammu.

• Undergo a medical examination the following day.

• Complete Aadhaar and biometric verification to obtain the RFID card.

There will be no helicopter service available for Amarnath Yatra 2025. The Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) has declared all Yatra routes as 'No Flying Zones' from July 1 to Aug. 10, 2025. Consequently, pilgrims must travel on foot or use ponies and palkis to reach the Holy Cave. Devotees are advised to take note of this restriction while planning their journey.

• Every pilgrim must wear their RFID card around their neck for the entire duration of the Yatra. Entry past the Access Control Gates (ACGs) is strictly prohibited without the RFID card.

• Consult a doctor and undergo a full medical check-up before travelling.

• Registration is only possible with a valid Compulsory Health Certificate (CHC) issued by an authorised medical professional.

• Prepare for the high-altitude trek with deep breathing exercises and by drinking plenty of water.

• Suitable trekking gear is essential, including sturdy shoes, woollen clothing, raincoats and umbrellas.

• Pregnant women over six weeks are advised not to undertake the journey.

• Only post-paid SIM cards from BSNL, Jio and Airtel will function in the Yatra area.

• Ascend slowly, rest regularly and descend if symptoms of altitude sickness appear.

• Do not start the journey on an empty stomach, and avoid overexertion.

• Travel in groups, and ensure ponies or porters remain in your line of sight.

• Avoid shortcuts and only use marked trails. Heed all warning signs.

• Free food services (langars) are available throughout the route. A high-carbohydrate diet is recommended.

• Given the altitude of around 12,800 feet at the Holy Cave, overnight stays are discouraged due to the risk of altitude sickness.

• Refrain from consuming alcohol, caffeine or tobacco products.

• In emergencies, contact the nearest Camp Director, Mountain Rescue Team (MRT), or Control Room.