History:

Amarnath Temple is a Hindu shrine located in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is one of the most important and sacred temples in Hinduism. The temple is located on the south side of the Lidder River valley, surrounded by snow-covered mountains. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and houses an ice stalagmite that is believed to be a symbol of Lord Shiva. Every year, thousands of Hindu devotees undertake a pilgrimage to Amarnath to seek the blessings of the Lord. The temple is open for a few days in the month of July-August on special occasions like Shivratri or Amavas. During this time, a special ceremony is performed to honor Lord Shiva. The legend associated with the temple dates back to 18th century, when Sage Bhrigu visited the Amarnath cave in search of Lord Shiva. According to the legend, the ice symbolized Lord Shiva and since then, the Amarnath cave has been an important pilgrimage destination for Hindus. It is one of the best temple in Jammu-and-Kashmir which you must visit.

Facts:

1. The Amarnath temple is a Hindu shrine situated at an altitude of 3,888 meters, in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, India. 2. It is dedicated to the Lord Shiva and is one of the holiest shrines of Hinduism. 3. Located inside a cave on the bank of the Amarnath stream, it is a pilgrimage highly revered by Hindus and is visited by thousands of devotees every year. 4. Inside the cave, there is a Lingam (an iconic representation of Lord Shiva) which is said to represent the Lord himself. 5. The ice Lingam is formed naturally due to freezing of water droplets that trickle down from the roof of the cave. 6. The pilgrimage usually begins in the months of June and July during the holy month of Shravana according to the Hindu calendar. 7. Devotees of the Amarnath shrine undertake the journey on foot, horseback, Palanquins, and vehicles, depending on their preferences. 8. Pilgrims after completing the pilgrimage of Amarnath Temple gather at a place called 'Panchtara', 5 km away from the main shrine, to have the holy sight of a rising full moon. Here are some facts about the Jammu-and-Kashmir temple.These facts will help you understand why it is oldest temple list of the best temples in Jammu-and-Kashmir

Worship Method:

The worship of the deity Lord Shiva at the Amarnath temple is a centuries-old practice. Worshippers of Lord Shiva visit the temple during the annual Amarnath yatra in July-August. The yatra is undertaken when the underground stalagmite Shiva Linga is formed naturally by freezing of water and it is considered as the manifestation of Lord Shiva. The puja begins with a ritual called the Chadayam (offering of milk), and devotees offer prayers and hymns in the cave shrine. After the puja has been performed, a priest performs an Arti, where a small light is lit on the base of the Shiv Ling, and the devotees circumambulate the Lingam. This is believed to be a source of divine blessings and inner peace. Along with chanting of mantras devotees also perform Abhishek with water, milk, flower and kheer. Worshippers of Lord Shiva also offer bel leaves to placate the deity and seek his blessings. Along with these offerings, devotees also participate in the aarti that is performed daily by a Pandit at the shrine. It is believed that by participating in these rituals a devotee is able to get boons and blessings from Lord Shiva. This most visited temple in Jammu-and-Kashmir

Opening Timing:

The Amarnath Temple opens every year from the month of Shravan (usually July - August) according to the Hindu calendar. It is open for a period of 45 days and the exact opening date of the temple varies every year depending upon the position of the moon. This year (2021) the temple will open on 28th June 2021 and close on 26th August 2021. top temples in Jammu-and-Kashmir

How to reach:

The best way to reach Amarnath Temple in Jammu-and-Kashmir is by road. The journey begins from Jammu to Pahalgam, a distance of around 96 km. Buses and Taxis run regularly from Jammu to Pahalgam, and the journey can also be made via train. From Pahalgam, the trek passes through Sheshnag, Mahagunas, and Panchtarni to reach the Amarnath Temple. Trekking is the only way to reach the temple, and can take anywhere from 4 to 8 days. famous temples in Jammu-and-Kashmir