One of the holiest places of the country and a visual treat for tourists, Amarnath is an enchanting destination. Located in the high altitude in the Himalayas, a trip to Amarnath is spiritually enriching and at the same time an adventurous journey through difficult and rugged terrains. Apart from the yatra and viewing of the cave and ice Shivalingam, there are a number of activities that tourists can indulge in and some of which also form a part of the journey up to the mountains. An adrenaline rush is what the entire Yatra is all about, as explained in this list of things to do in Amarnath.

The journey to Amarnath begins at Pahalgam or Baltal and entails a trek through the challenging terrains of Himalayan Kashmir. Baltal to Amarnath trek is a relatively shorter one but considered a little more dangerous. It is a 15 km trail to the cave. The other more frequented trail is the trek from Pahalgam to Amarnath which is a 45 km journey. The trek takes 3-4 days with night halts at Chandanwari, Sheshnag and Panchtarni. From Panchtarni it is just 6 km. The trek is through spectacular landscapes. Spending nights in the midst of pine-scented Himalayas is a stunning experience.

Those visiting Amarnath can also experiment with another trekking trail which is popularly known as the Gangabal Trek. The trek is flagged off at Srinagar which then moves through Sonmarg, Nichinai, Krishansar, Dubta Pani and finally reach the serene Gangabal lake. It is a mesmerising locale with amazing scenic beauty. It is less explored beauty.

While at Pahalgam, tourists can indulge in river rafting for the sake of some thrill. There are different programs that tourists can register for, with grades ranging from low difficultly to moderate difficulty. There is 2.5 km white water rafting, 5 km white water rafting and the more challenging 8 km white water rafting. There are professionally trained guides to take tourists through these journeys. It is a memorable experience.

There is much to look forward to for golf lovers. Pahalgam boasts of a nine-hole golf course at a height of 2400 meter above sea level. It is like a plateau with a club on one side serving refreshments. The golf course in the midst of such fantastic setting is a bonus for golf lovers and must not be missed.

From Baltal and Pahalgam people can choose between trekking and taking a helicopter ride to Amarnath Cave. If you have never been on a helicopter, this is the best opportunity to get on one and take an amazing ride through the mountains and stunning terrains while enjoying the aerial view of one of the most beautiful regions of the country. These helicopter journeys come with a full package which includes darshan at Amarnath cave, visits to Mughal gardens in Srinagar and a Shikara ride on Dal Lake which the capital is famous for.

Pahalgam is the official place from where Amarnath Yatra begins and ends. While there isn’t much to do high up in the Cave, tourists can explore the shops in Pahalgam. Of course in terms of choice, Srinagar has more to offer, still the main market in Pahalgam does offer Kashmiri handicrafts, Kashmiri carpets and wicker-works. Kashmir’s pashmina shawls are world famous and you can pick up one before leaving for the plains.

Eating out options in Amarnath are very limited because the place is all about the Darshan with basic amenities. If you really want to gorge on Kashmiri cuisine which is popularly referred to as ‘Wazwan’ in local language, you have to come down to Pahalgam. The fragrance of the flavourful spices used in Kashmiri cooking is mind-blowing. If you are a non-vegetarian you must try the sea food here. there are many restaurants to choose from, like Dana Pani, Trout Beat, Cafe Log Inn, Punjabi Rasoi, Nathus Rasoi, Volga Restaurant, Palestine Restaurant etc.