Badrinath Yatra

Badrinath is guarded on either side by two mountains – Nar and Narayan and has the famous Badrinath temple which houses the abode of Lord Vishnu. There is a “Tapt Kund", a bath in which is very refreshing to all travelers facing the temple at the bank of the Alokananda river. The temple remains closed during the winters. There are Dharmasalas and rest houses to meet the accommodation needs of the tourists. The nearest airport is at Jolly Grant, which is 314 km from Badrinath. Haridwar is connected by rail service from Kolkata, Mumbai, Delhi and Lucknow. The nearest railhead is at Haridwar, which is about 297 km from the temple.

Kedarnath Yatra

The Kedarnath Shrine is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and is situated at an altitude of about 3581m. The temple was built in the 8th Century AD by Adi Shankaracharya. The temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is more than 1000 years old and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Kedarnath is accessible by roads, rail and air. The nearest airport is at Jolly Grant which is 239 km away. Rishikesh Railway Station which is 221 km from Kedarnath is the nearest station. Besides, Kedarnath is well connected by roads from Gaurikund and Ukhimath from where one can come to Kedarnath on Horseback, Dandies and Ponies. There are rest houses for the tourist to meet their lodging needs.

Yamunotri Yatra

It is in the 6315 m high Bandarpunchh Peak of the Garhwal Himalayas and has a temple devoted to goddess Yamuna. There are also the holy thermal springs at Jankichatti which is about 7 km away. For reaching Yamunotri one has to undertake a journey of 220 km from Rishikesh to Hanumanchatti. From Hanumanchatti one has to undertake another 13 km journey on foot. The temple remains closed in winters and so the best time to visit the temple is between May to October. The nearest railhead is at Rishikesh and the nearest airport is at Jollygrant. There are Dharmasalas and rest houses at Yamunotri, to meet the accommodation needs of the tourists.

Chardham Yatra Tour

Chardham is a combination of four religious destinations for the Hindus in the Garhwal range of the Majestic Himalayas in the state of Uttaranchal. The Chardham has been the destination of thousands of Hindu pilgrims for Centuries. It is said that the journey to these four holy destinations will not only wash away the sins, that the person has committed in his life, but also will relieve him from the circles of birth and death. The Chardham or the four sacred places include Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri and Yamunotri. The journey usually starts from Yamunotri and proceed forward to Gangotri, Kedarnath, and finally ending at Badrinath

About Kumbh

The Largest gathering Festival
Kumbh's history originates from the beginning of the Creation. All devtas were under the influence of a curse that made them weak and coward, Brahma, (the creator God) advised them to churn the ocean for Amrit (Nectar), intake of which will make them immortal, devtas sough the help of demons for the purpose. gods and demons made a temporary agreement to work together in obtaining amrita (the nectar of immortality) from the Milky Ocean, and to share this equally.The Mandara Mountain was used as a churning rod, and Vasuki, the king of serpents, became the rope for churning. With the demigods at Vasuki's tail and the demons at his head, they churned the ocean for a 1,000 years. However,Dhanwantari, the divine healer, appeared with the "Kumbh" containing nectar in his palms, when the Kumbha (pot) containing the amrita appeared, the demons ran away with the pot and were chased by the gods. By their joint churning Amrit was one of the resultants, found in the last. A battle ensured.For twelve days and twelve nights (equivalent to twelve human years) the gods and demons fought in the sky for the possession of this pot of amrita. It is said that during the battle, drops of amrita fell on to four places : Prayag, Haridwar, Ujjain and Nasik. Kumbha mela is observed at these four locations where the nectar fell.

Maha Kumbh helds after every twelve years, which is once in life time event, if some how your have missed maha kumbh than other option of similar significance is Ardh Kumbh which helf after every 6 years. Allahabad will host next Kumbh in Jan 2007 during the months of Jan - Feb.

The combined sanctity of the three holy rivers, coupled with the spiritual powers obtained from the pot of nectar of immortality has earned Prayag as tirtharaja ( the king of holy places). The confluence of India's three most sacred rivers at Allahabad , Besides the Ganges, there are also two other sacred rivers located at Allahabad, the Yamuna and the Saraswati . Ganges & yamuna has its earthly origin in the Himalayas. Whereas Saraswati, is a mystical river which has no physical form. Its is believed that the Saraswati exists only on the spiritual plane and is not visible to the human eye.

Prayag (near the city of Allahabad, in the state of Uttar Pradesh) at the confluence of three rivers Ganga (Ganges), Yamuna and Saraswati.

Haridwar (in the state of uttaranchal pradesh) where the river Ganga enters the plains from Himalayas

Ujjain (in Madhya Pradesh), on the banks of Ksipra river, and

Nasik (in Maharashtra) on the banks of Godavari river.

About Kailash Parvat

The very fact one thought of proceeding to Kailash and Mansarovar is a “call from within”. Thousands of Sages, ordinary mortals, philosophers and even the Gods had submerged in blissful trance at the very Bight of this divine grandeur. It is the MERU, SUMERU, SUSHUMNA, HEMADRI (golden mountain), RATNASANU (jewel peak), KARNIKACHALA (lotus mount), AMARADRI, DEVA PARVATHA (summit of gods), GANA PARVATHA, RAJATADRI (silver mountain). It was the SWAYAMBU - the self-created one. Kailasa and Mansarovar are as old as the creation. Everything emanates from there are finally return there. It is the centre of creation and the Universe.

It is the abode of LORD SHIVA and his divine consort PARVATHI. It expounds the phi­losophy of PURUSHA and PRAKRITI - SHIVA and SHAKTI. The radiant SILVERY summit is the throne of TRUTH, WISDOM and BLISS-SACHIDANANDAM. The premordial sound AUM (NADABINDU) from the tinkling anklets of LALITA PRAKRITI created the visible patterns of the universe and the VIBRATIONS (DVPANI) from the feet of Shiva (NATARAJA) weaved the essence of ATMAN - the ultimate truth. The spreading resonance and limitless patterns constitute the grosser forms of all matters to accurate scale. This is the cosmic dance (THANDAV) visualized in millions of forms by the devotees. The silvery mount is the apex where the sound (NADA) and the lights merges and the true Yogi transcends both these and merges into OM. Mind is the knot tying consciousness and matter this is set free here. This is the heart of Indian Philosophy and civilization and the grand Mansarovar reflects the total Indian consciousness.

Kalpa Viruksha tree is supposed to adorn the slopes. The south face is described as Saphire, East the crystal, west as Ruby and the North as Gold. The city of KUBERA is situated here. Ganga after originating from the toe of Mahavishnu entered the lunar circle and descended on peak of Kailasa. Shiva quelled her furiousness by receiving her on his matted locks. Ganga, it is believed descends further from Kailash and after circuiting Kailasa seven times divides herself as four rivers. The major rivers of India and Nepal originate in this area Brahmaputra (Lohita) Indus (Sindhu) Sutlej (Shatadru) and Karnali.

Kailash ParvatEvery object in this area is sanctified and each one is related to gripping legends. As one ascends through PARIKRAMA one encounters holy peak of RAVANA PARVAT, HANUMAN PARVAT, PADMASAMBHAVA, MANJUSRI, VAJRADHARA, AVALOKITESWARA, JAMBEYANG, SHAVARI, NORSENG etc. the learned address five of them as PANCHABUDHAS. The track takes one through Dhira Puk, Sbi4asthalandfmally to DOLMA (The highest point). This pass belongs to DEVI - PARVATI and is an important point of worship. This point is considered as the point of spiritual renaissance. One can have the best view of Mansarovar and Ravana Tel from the south west point of Kailash during Parikrama.

The grand view of Gulra Mandhata, Mansarovar and Ravana Lake hypnotises the onlooker into subliminal aura. Ravana is claimed to have prayed at this lake (Ravana Tal / Rakshas Tal) and had the audience with Shiva. Mansarovar was created by Brahma at the request; of the great Rishis. This mind born lake contains the essence of all the Vedas. This is the place for holy ceremonial bath: oblations to the ancestors are offered here. Both the lakes are full of swans.

The scriptures reiterate that that who take the holy dip at Manasarovar and carry out the Parikrama around Kailash are absolved of their sins through generations and is ab­sorbed into the Supreme Finality. To him, there is no rebirth, sorrows or joys: he is one with the ultimate - He is one with Shiva: He becomes the Shiva. SHIVOHAM. SHIVOHAM.

This is one of the most important pilgrim centres for the Buddhists. They worship DEMCHOK (BUDDHA in fierceful form) seated on the summit of Kailasa. It is also called Dharmapala - one version quotes the deity as a form of Shiva’s manifestation. The descrip­tions of the deity are more or less like Shiva. Devi is also given a similar form like Parvathi. They adore Kailash as KANG RINPOCHE and Manasarovar as TSO MAPHAM. Guru Rinpoche (the great Indian Master PADMASAMBHAVA who introduced Buddhism) and Saint Milerapa are greatly revered here by pilgrims. Since TANTRISM runs through the main core of Buddhism here, their customs and practices would be found running close and parallel to Hindu traditions. Like the Indians, they also consider DOLMA (DEVI) and GAURI KUND (Thuki Zingbu) as holiest spots. Buddhists strongly believe that pilgrimage to this place liberates them to NIRVANA. Many of their legends when interpreted rationally would find commonality with Indian approach.

Kailash ParvatThe Jains acknowledge Kailash as ASHTAPADA and PADAMA HRADA. It is believed that ADINATI VRISHABDEVA, the first Tirtankara attained Nirvana here. A few claim that GURU NANAK meditated here. Across the river CHU, there on the Nyanri range stands an impressive temple. Inside this monastry there is a marble statue radiating peace and compassion. This statute is claimed to be that of Guru Nanak. A few call it Guru Rinpoche. Interpretations vary. The entire area echoes with spiritual vibrations. Even the agnostics shall discover new Balance amidst that fathomless serenity. One has to experience it. The common belief is that those who are ordained only could be there.

About Mansarovar

About Mansarovar

Lake Manasa Sarovar Hindi Tibetan, Mapham Yutso) is a fresh-water lake in Tibet 2,000 km from Lhasa. It is the highest freshwater lake in the world. To the west of Lake Manasarovar is Lake Rakshastal and towards the north is Mount Kailash, known in Tibetan as Khang Rinpoche.

The sight of a huge lake with a reflection of snow-capped mountains in its lucid waters is jaw dropping. Be prepared for a feast for the eyes. Manasarovar Lake lies at 4,556 m above mean sea level. It is relatively round in shape and its circumference is 88 km, depth is 90 m and it occupies a total area of 320 square kilometres.

The lake freezes in winter and melts only in spring.
The Sutlej River, the Brahmaputra River, the Indus River, and the Karnali River all trace their sources to its close vicinity.

Cultural significance

Like Mount Kailash, Lake Manasarovar is a place of pilgrimage, attracting religious people from India, Tibet and the neighbouring countries. Bathing in the lake and drinking its water is believed to cleanse all sins. Pilgrimage tours are organised regularly, especially from India, the most famous of which is the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra, which takes place every year. Pilgrims come to take ceremonial bathes in the cleansing waters of the lake.

According to Hindu legend, the lake was first created in the mind of the Lord Brahma. Hence, in Sanskrit it is called Manasarovar, which is a combination of the words Manas (mind) and Sarovar (lake). The lake, in Hindu mythology, is also supposed to be the summer abode of swans, which are considered to be judicious and sacred birds. It is also believed the Devas (Gods) descend to bathe in the lake between 3 and 5 am. This time of the day is known as Brahma Muhurta (moment). Buddhists also associate the lake to the legendary lake known as Anavatapta in Sanskrit and Anotatta in Pali, where Queen Maya is believed to have conceived Buddha. The lake has a few beautiful monasteries on its shores.

The most notable of which is the ancient
Chiu Gompa Monastery,
which has been built right onto a steep hill.
It looks as if it has been carved right out of the rock.
The Jains and the Bonpas of Tibet equally revere this
spot with great enthusiasm.

Amarnath Yatra 2011 - Opening Dates

Amarnath Yatra 2011 Starting from June 29 to August 13, 2011

Annual pilgrimage to Holy Cave Shrine of Shri Amarnath ji in South Kashmir Himalayas would start on June 29, 2011 and conclude on August 13, 2011 on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan and Shravan Purnima. A decision to this effect was taken in a meeting of Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) held in New Delhi today. Governor, Jammu & Kashmir Shri. N N Vohra, who happens to be chairman of the SASB, chaired the meeting that lasted three and a half hours.

In another significant decision, the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board decided to enhance Heli capacity for the pilgrims during Amarnath Yatra 2011 and reduced one way fare from Pahalgam to Panjtarni from last year's Rs 3800 to Rs 3495 this year per adult passenger and from Rs 1900 to Rs 1745 for children in the age group of two to 12 years.

"Enhancement in heli-capacity for Pahalgam-Panjtarni sector would further boost economic benefits to local stake holders including the tourism, travel, transport, hotel and restaurant owners associations'', official sources said, adding that last year, about 5000 yatris had availed the helicopter facility on Pahalgam-Panjtarni route.

The meeting was attended by the Board Members, Sri Sri Ravi Shanker, Dr. Kapila Vatsyayan, Justice (Rtd.) G. D. Sharma, Dr. (Ms.) Sunita Narayan, Shri Vijay Dhar and Dr. (Prof.) Ved Kumari Ghai. Besides, Shri R. K. Goyal, Chief Executive Officer and Shri Saugat Biswas, Addl. Chief Executive Officer, attended the meeting.

The Board expressed satisfaction about the arrangements made for the conduct of Shri Amarnathji Yatra 2010 and particularly appreciated the measures taken for environmental protection, including the operation of two Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs), based on the eco-friendly biological treatment, at the Baltal and Nunwan Base Camps. The Board desired that these protection measures should be sustained and progressively upgraded for the future Yatras. The Board was informed that a Comprehensive Plan had been drawn up in this regard, in consultation with an eminent Environmentalist and

Director, Centre for Science and Environment, Delhi, who is also a a member of the Board. Referring to the helicopter service from Pahalgam to Panjtarni, which was started in 2009 on experimental basis for about two weeks before the conclusion of Yatra, the Board noted with satisfaction that the heli service on the Pahalgam - Panjtarni route, during Amarnath Yatra 2011, had generated an encouraging response from over 5000 Yatris, who availed of this service. Based on this experience and to satisfy the increasing demand, it has been decided to enhance the available Heli-capacity for Amarnath Yatra 2011 and, simultaneously, the one way fare from Pahalgam to Panjtarni stands reduced from Rs. 3800/- to Rs. 3495/- per adult passenger and for children of 2-12 years of age is reduced from Rs.1900/- to Rs.1745/-. It was observed that the enhancement in the heli-capacity for the Pahalgam-Panjtarni sector would further boost the economic benefits to the local stake holders.

While deliberating the need for evolving a pragmatic schedule for the annual Amarnath Yatra 2011, the Board took note of the fact that while Shravan Purnima / Raksha Bandhan fell on 24th August in 2011, it falls on 13th August in 2011. The Board noted that during the 2010 Yatra, despite vigorous efforts to carry out snow clearance operations on the Chandanwari – Sheshnag – MG Top – Panjtarni – Holy Cave axis, the route could become fit for movement only around end June. It was also noted that during Yatra 2009, despite sustained hectic efforts to clear the tracks of snows, the Yatris had faced severe difficulties for the initial 10-12 days, particularly on the Chandanwari route. The Board also took note that the annual schedule of the Yatra in the past 15 years had varied from 15 to 60 days and that about 85% of the pilgrims complete the Yatra within 30 days of the commencement date.

Once the snow-melt had commenced, the J&K State Police, Central Police Forces, Army and each of the concerned J&K State Government Departments would require adequate time to establish the required security and logistical support arrangements for the Yatra, the Chief Executive Officer of the Board was desired to timely commence the registration of pilgrims and ensure the effective management of the Yatra which would commence on 29th June and conclude on 13th August 2011.

The Board noted that a good number of pilgrims lose their lives every year owing to medical reasons, particularly due to Cardiac failure, during the annual Shri Amarnathji pilgrimage 45 and 68 persons lost their lives in the 2009 and 2010 Yatras, respectively. The Board desired that a very strong advisory should be issued to the intending Yatris to undergo a proper medical check-up to assess their fitness for undertaking the arduous Amarnath Yatra 2011.

The Board desired the Chief Executive Officer to generate adequate awareness amongst the people about the difficult nature of the Yatra through appropriate features in the print and electronic media. In this context, the Board urged all sections of media to provide whole hearted support, in the larger interest of the pilgrimage.

The Board also stressed the need for propagating greater awareness, among the people at large, about the requirement of securing prior registration before embarking on the pilgrimage. It was observed that the Registration process should commence timely, well ahead of the commencement date of the Yatra.

The Board noted with satisfaction that the initiatives taken during 2010 Yatra in regard to the Group Insurance Cover to Yatris, Ponywallahs, labourers, Dandiwallahs and Ponies are being taken forward for this year's Yatra. In this context, the Chief Executive Officer informed that each Registered Yatri, Labourer, Ponywallah and Dandiwallah is being extended a Group Accident Insurance Cover for Rs. one lakh and necessary arrangements have since been firmed up with M/s New India Assurance Company. The Board was further informed that on the directions of the Governor, the amount of Insurance Cover for the ponies has been enhanced from Rs. 20,000/- in 2010 to Rs. 25,000/- this year, for the benefit of the ponywallahs who loose their animals in accidents during the Yatra.

The Board was apprised of the efforts being made to suitably upgrade the telecommunication facilities in the Yatra area this year. In this context, at the instance of the Governor, the Union Secretary, Department of Telecommunications had chaired a high level meeting last month to finalise an Action Plan, for providing improved mobile connectivity in the entire Yatra area this year.

Over 80,000 get registered for Amarnath pilgrimage

Srinagar: More than 80,000 pilgrims have registered themselves for the upcoming annual Amarnath yatra in the Himalayas in Jammu and Kashmir in the four days since the registration process began.

"A total of 43,435 people have opted for the traditional Pahalgam route and 36,878 have secured registration for the Baltal route," chief executive officer of Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board RK Goyal said.

Srinagar: More than 80,000 pilgrims have registered themselves for the upcoming annual Amarnath yatra in the Himalayas in Jammu and Kashmir in the four days since the registration process began.

"A total of 43,435 people have opted for the traditional Pahalgam route and 36,878 have secured registration for the Baltal route," chief executive officer of Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board RK Goyal said.

PTI

Over 80,000 get registered for Amarnath pilgrimage

Srinagar, May 15 (PTI) More than 80,000 pilgrims have registered themselves for the upcoming annual Amarnath yatra in the Himalayas in Jammu and Kashmir in the four days since the registration process began. "A total of 43,435 people have opted for the traditional Pahalgam route and 36,878 have secured registration for the Baltal route," Chief Executive Officer of Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board R K Goyal said. The registration for the yatra had began on May 10. "Yatra permits have been secured through internet based e-registration facility and 149 bank branches spread across various states during the first four days," Goyal said. PTI

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra Guidebook for 2011

READ KAILASH MANASAROVAR YATRA GUIDEBOOK FOR 2011

HISTORY OF THE AMARNATH PILGRIMAGE

The separatists in Kashmir and their “secular” supporters are trying to spread the myth that the Amaranth Yatra is of a recent origin. They claim that it started only after a Muslim shepherd of Batakot, a certain Buta Malik, originally”discovered” the Amarnath cave when he lost his flock and found that it had strayed into the sacred spot some 150 years ago. There is no documentary proof of this so-called discovery, the story having probably been concocted to give credit to Muslims for having started the most popular Hindu pilgrimage of Kashmir.

There is ample and conclusive historical evidence, on the other hand, to prove that the holy cave and the ice lingam were known to the people since very ancient times and have been continuously and regularly visited by pilgrims not only from Kashmir but also from different parts of India.

“While the earliest reference to Amarnath can be seen in the Nilamata Purana (v.1324), a 6th century Sanskrit text which depicts the religious and cultural life of early Kashmiris and gives Kashmir’s own creation myth, the pilgrimage to the holy cave has been described with full topographical details in the Bhringish Samhita and the Amarnatha Mahatmya, both ancient texts said to have been composed even earlier.”

References to Amarnath, known have also been made in historical chronicles like the Rajatarangini and its sequels and several Western travellers’ accounts also leaving no doubt about the fact that the holy cave has been known to people for centuries. The original name of the tirtha, as given in the ancient texts, is of course Amareshwara, Amarnath being a name given later to it.

Giving the legend of the Naga Sushruvas, who in his fury burnt to ashes the kingdom of King Nara when he tried to abduct his daughter already married to a Brahmin youth, and after the carnage took his abode in the lake now known as Sheshnag (Kashmiri Sushramnag), Kalahana writes:

“The lake of dazzling whiteness [resembling] a sea of milk (Sheshnag), which he created [for himself as residence] on a far off mountain, is to the present day seen by the people on the pilgrimage to Amareshwara.”(Rajatarangini, Book I v. 267.Translation: M. A. Stein).

This makes it very clear that pilgrims continued to visit the holy Amarnath cave in the 12th century, for Kalhana wrote his chronicle in the years1148-49.

At another place in the Rajatarangini (Book II v. 138), Kalhana says that King Samdhimat Aryaraja (34 BCE-17CE) used to spend “the most delightful Kashmir summer” in worshiping a linga formed of snow “in the regions above the forests”. This too appears to be a reference to the ice linga at Amarnath. There is yet another reference to Amareshwara or Amarnath in the Rajatarangini (Book VII v.183). According to Kalhana, Queen Suryamati, the wife of King Ananta (1028-1063), “granted under her husband’s name agraharas at Amareshwara, and arranged for the consecration of trishulas, banalingas and other [sacred emblems]“.

In his Chronicle of Kashmir, a sequel to Kalhana’s Rajatarangini, Jonaraja relates that that Sultan Zainu’l-abidin (1420-1470) paid a visit to the sacred tirtha of Amarnath while constructing a canal on the left bank of the river Lidder (vv.1232-1234). The canal is now known as Shah Kol.

In the Fourth Chronicle named Rajavalipataka, which was begun by Prjayabhatta and completed by Shuka, there is a clear and detailed reference to the pilgrimage to the sacred site (v.841,vv. 847-849). According to it, in a reply to Akbar’s query about Kashmir Yusuf Khan, the Mughal governor of Kashmir at that time, described among other things the Amarnath Yatra in full detail. His description shows that the not only was the pilgrimage in vogue in Akbar’s time – Akbar annexed Kashmir in 1586 – but the phenomenon of waxing and waning of the ice linga was also well known.

Amareshwar (Amarnath) was a famous pilgrimage place in the time of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan also. In his eulogy of Shah Jahan’s father-in-law Asif Khan, titled “Asaf Vilas”, the famous Sanskrit scholar and aesthete Panditraj Jagannath makes clear mention of Amareshwara (Amarnath) while describing the Mughal garden Nishat laid out by Asif Khan. The King of gods Indra himself, he says, comes here to pay obeisance to Lord Shiva”.

As we well know Francois Bernier, a French physician accompanied Emperor Aurangzeb during his visit to Kashmir in 1663. In his book “Travels in Mughal Empire” he writes while giving an account the places he visited in Kashmir that he was “pursuing journey to a grotto full of wonderful congelations, two days journey from Sangsafed” when he “received intelligence that my Nawab felt very impatient and uneasy on account of my long absence”. The “grotto” he refers to is obviously the Amarnath cave as the editor of the second edition of the English translation of the book, Vincient A. Smith makes clear in his introduction. He writes: “The grotto full of wonderful congelations is the Amarnath cave, where blocks of ice, stalagmites formed by dripping water from the roof are worshipped by many Hindus who resort here as images of Shiva…..”

Another traveler, Vigne, in his book “Travels in Kashmir, Ladakh and Iskardu” writes about the pilgrimage to the sacred spot in detail, clearly mentioning that “the ceremony at the cave of Amarnath takes place on the 15th of the Hindoo month of Sawan” and that “not only Hindoos of every rank and caste can be seen collecting together and traveling up the valley of Liddar towards the celebrated cave……” Vigne visited Kashmir after his return from Ladakh in 1840-41 and published his book in 1842. His book makes it very clear that the Amarnath Yatra drew pilgrims from the whole of India in his time and was undertaken with great enthusiasm.

Again, the great Sikh Guru Arjan Dev is said to have granted land in Amritsar for the ceremonial departure of Chari, the holy mace of Lord Shiva which marks the beginning of the Yatra to the Holy Cave. In 1819, the year in which the Afghan rule came to an end in Kashmir, Pandit Hardas Tiku “founded the Chhawni Anmarnath at Ram Bagh in Srinagar where the Sadhus from the plains assembled and where he gave them free rations for the journey, both ways from his own private resources”, as the noted Kashmiri naturalist Pandit Samsar Chand Kaul has pointed out in his booklet titled “The Mysterious cave of Amarnath”.

Not only this, Amarnath is deeply enshrined in the Kashmiri folklore also as stories like that of Soda Wony clearly show. One can, therefore, conclude without any doubt that the Amaranth Yatra has been going on continuously for centuries along the traditional route of the Lidder valley and not a century and a half affair. May be during the Afghan rule when religious persecution of the Kashmiri Hindus was at its height and they were not allowed to visit their places of worship the pilgrimage was discontinued for about fifty or sixty years and during this period the flock of some shepherd may have strayed into the holy cave, but that in no way makes it of a recent origin or a show window of so-called Kashmiriat.

http://thekashmir.wordpress.com/2008/07/05/amarnath/

SASB Slates Amarnath Yatra From June 29

Srinagar, May 03, KONS: The Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board on Tuesday notified dates for the annual Amarnath Yatra to the Kashmir Himalayas, saying that the pilgrimage would begin on June 29 and end on August 13.

The Board has designated 149 branches of various banks – including 121 branches of the J and K Bank - for the registration of pilgrims, asking devotees to access its website for more information.
Originally a fifteen-day schedule, the yatra had been extended to two months despite opposition from religious heads citing holy scripture about its prescribed timing and duration, with vested interests winning the day through former J and K governor, Lt Gen (retd) SK Sinha in commercialising an act of pure devotion.

The present governor, NN Vohra, who is currently the Board chairman, has reduced the yatra period by a fortnight, earning the ire of the right-wing Vishwa Hindu Parishad which has threatened to commence the pilgrimage on June 15.

Announcing the official yatra dates for this year today, the chief executive officer of the shrine board, RK Goel, said that registration of pilgrims at the designated bank branches would begin from May 10 and continue till August 10.

Prospective pilgrims would have to fill up special forms and deposit Rs 15 while registering, and ‘yatra permits’ would be issued after thorough scrutiny of the documents, he said.

According to Goel, an insurance scheme of Rs 1 lakh already approved by the Board would remain in force for pilgrims to compensate for accidents.

http://www.kashmirobserver.net/

Amarnath Yatra registration to begin from May 10

Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB) on Tuesday said the registration for the annual Amarnath pilgrimage would begin from May 10.

"The process of Amarnath yatra registration for this year in Jammu and Kashmir shall commence on 10th May, 2011," Chief Executive Officer of SASB, R K Goyal said.

Registration of the pilgrims will commence from counters established in 121 designated branches of the Jammu and Kashmir bank, 24 branches of the Yes Bank and 4 district cooperative banks, Goyal said.

With the curtailment in the annual Amarnath yatra by 15 days, the shrine board in its meeting held on 18th February, this year decided that pilgrimage shall commence simultaneously, along both the Baltal and Chandanwari routes on 29th June and culminate on 13th August.

The SASB has succeeded, this year to increase the number of registration counters from 121 in 2010 to 149 this year by securing support from other banks in various states, he said, adding the counters in the state of Bihar shall remain open from 3 pm to 6 pm on all weekdays and 1 pm to 4 pm on all Saturdays during the period of registration, upto August 10.


The registration form can be collected from any of the designated branches of the banks or downloaded from SASB's official website, he said.

Registration will be done through a yatra permit which will be issued on the submission of the form, along with the payment of handling charges of Rs 15 per pilgrim, Goyal said.

He also said every registered pilgrim has been provided, an accidental insurance cover of Rs one lakh at the cost of the shrine board.

Indian exprress

Online registration for Amarnath yatra this year

This year's annual pilgrimage to the cave shrine of Amarnath nestled in the Himalayas in south Kashmir is slated to begin from June 29. The month and a half long yatra shall end on August 13, coinciding with the 'Raksha Bandan' festival.

According to an official handout, the registration of the intending yatris shall begin on May 10 across the country and shall be made on first-come-first-served basis. The branches of the Jammu and Kashmir [ Images ] bank shall as usual act as registration centre for the pilgrimage.

According to R K Goyal, chief executive officer of the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, the registration will be done through a yatra permit which will be issued on the submission of the application form, duly filled in, along with the payment of handling charges of Rs15 per yatri.

Goyal cautioned the pilgrims against undertaking this arduous yatra without securing a permit.

He stressed that for 'effective security and arrangements along the difficult tracks, only those yatris will be allowed to enter and proceed beyond the base camps who are in possession of the permit which is valid for a specified date and route.

Goyal appealed to all those who intend to undertake the pilgrimage to early complete the necessary formalities for registration and timely obtain the permit, in their own interest, so that no inconvenience is faced by any yatri.

Goyal stated that the interested yatris can reserve their helicopter seats through the web-based online reservation system, by logging on to the Shrine Board's website, from May 10 onwards.

It was further informed that special emphasis is being laid on the preservation of the ecology and environment of the yatra area.

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How to reach Amaranath

Reach Amaranath by Air: The nearest aerodrome is Srinagar. Srinagar is a beautiful valley having world famous sights to see, such as Dal Lake, Nagina Lake, Shankaracharya Temple, Mughal Gardens and what not. It is the most sought after tourist place. It is also known as "Paradise on earth". Srinagar is summer capital of Jammu & Kashmir. There are daily flights to Srinagar from Delhi and Jammu. On some week days flights also pickup passengers from Chandigarh and Amritsar .

Reach Amaranath by Rail: Jammu is the nearest Railway Station . Jammu is winter Capital of Jammu & Kashmir. Jammu is a beautiful city and is also known as "CITY OF TEMPLES". One may visit old temples such as Raghunath Temple , Mahadev Mandir and other temples . It is well connected with all stations of India.The various trains coming to Jammu are listed here below.

Reach Amaranath by Road: Jammu and Srinagar are also connected through road. Buses and Taxies are also available for this part of the journey .These can be hired on daily as well as full tour basis.

Amarnath Yatra

The Himalayan pilgrimages are the oldest organised travel system, evolved over time by Hindu sages and embodying the spirit of wander, adventure and spirituality"

Shiva, in the form of a lingam, is formed naturally of an ice - stalagmite One of the holy trinity, Shiva is a living god. The most ancient and sacred book of India, the Rig Veda evokes his presence in its hymns. Vedic myths, ritual and even astronomy testify to his existence from the dawn of time.

Shiva is known to have made his home in the Himalayas. He built no house nor shelter, not for himself or his bride. He was an ascetic, and yet married; he could be both for "he was the wild god sporting in the forest or taking his ease on a cloud."

Legend has it that Shiva recounted to Parvati the secret of creation in the Amarnathji cave. Unknown to them, a pair of mating pigeons eavesdropped on this conversation and having learned the secret, are reborn again and again, and have made the cave their eternal abode. Many pilgrims report seeing the pigeons-pair when they trek the arduous route to pay obeisance before the ice-lingam (the phallic symbol of Shiva).

2011 Char Dham Yatra Season has Started

Keen to be cleansed of your sins, and be liberated from the cycle of death and rebirth? Join the hundreds of thousands of pilgrims visiting the Char Dham (four temples) at the foothills of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand. The yatra (pilgrimage) season got underway on Akshaya Tritiya on Friday, with the opening of the Gangotri and Yamunotri temples. Kedarnath temple opens today and Badrinath is open .


How Can the Char Dham be Reached?

A Char Dham yatra isn't easy. Pilgrims really need to earn the benefits bestowed, as only two of the temples (Badrinath and Gangotri) are accessible by vehicle. The remaining two (Yamunotri and Kedarnath) require treks. Kedarnath has the lengthiest trek.

Where are the Char Dham Located?

Badrinath and Gangotri -- are both directly reachable by road from Haridwar, Rishikesh, Kotdwar, and Dehradun.

Yamunotri -- the trek starts from Janki Chatti, 225 kilometers from Rishikesh.

Kedarnath -- the trek starts from Gaurikund, 207 kilometers from Rishikesh

Char Dham Of Garhwal

The sources of two rivers, Gangotri and Yamunotri are devoted to the female dities – Ganga and Yamuna. They both, along with Badrinath and Kedarnath form the Char Dham of the Garhwal, the four most hallowed shrines in the Himalayas.

The Ganga, especially, is the river of India, beloved of her people, around which are entwined her memories, her hopes and fears, her songs of triumph, her victories and defeats. She has been the symbol of India’s age long culture and civilization, ever-changing, ever-flowing and yet ever the same Ganga.

Ancient India gave countless names to the Ganga. Among them is Loknadi or River of the World. In its most prisitine form, Goddess Ganga as she is reverentially known,first descended to Earth from Heaven at Gangotri where Lord Shiva received her into his matted locks to counter the immense impact of her fall From there ; the one which commenced from Yamunotri was termed Yamuna, from Gangotri – Bhagirathi from Kedarnath – Mandakini and the one which commenced from Badrinath was termed Alaknanda.


BADRINATH

KEDARNATH

GANGOTRI

YAMUNOTRI

Char Dham Yatra

According to Hindu mythologies and myths, Char Dham signifies the journey to the moksha and a divine life after that. Chardham can be split into Char that means 4 (four) and Dham meaning piligrimage place (destination). These four piligrimage destinations are Gangotri the source of ancient river Ganga, Yamunotri, Kedarnath ji and Sri Badrinath ji, are considered to be the door to the spirituality and eternity. These 4 piligrimage pleace are placed at Himalayan region in Uttrakhand India.

Our revolutionary team made a new millstone in providing cheap and best services and made us one of the biggest online portal for chardham yatra. Our team brings you every selected chardham yatra packages. We have also hotels in every spot of chardham destination. To book and for more information contact us. We make your tour special.

Chardham Tour

According to Hindu mythologies and myths, Chardham signifies the journey to the moksha and a divine life after that. Chardham can be split into Char that means four and dham meaning destinations. These four destinations that are Gangotri the source of ancient river Ganga, Yamunotri, Kedarnath ji and Badrinath ji, are considered to be the door to the spirituality and eternity.

Apart from religious beliefs, these dhams are majestic and very much mirror to the enriched Indian culture, ethos and traditions. Two holy and divine rivers Ganga and Mandakini add to the entire ambience. Standing tall Himalayas is always there to add on to a picturesque and perfect memory.

Come and visit Chardham to experience the fabulous and incredible India.

Shri Gangotri Dham

Shri Yamunotri Dham

Shri Kedarnath Dham

Shri Badrinath Dham

Chardham Yatra 2011

Do you know the importance of Chardham Yatra in Hinduism? Do you know why the Char Dham is so auspicious that even today these scared sites are visited by over 250,000 unique tourists every year?

Considered to be the most religious tours of Hindus, Chardham tour take you to four pilgrimage sites namely, Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri. Each of these places has its own importance in Hinduism and visiting them can be unforgettable experience.

Settled in the majestic Himalayas, your tour to Chardham will be surely challenging and soul stirring. With the scenic ambience and devotees chanting the names of God together, the entire atmosphere of the place becomes one that of divineness possessing all the qualities of cleansing the hatred of your soul. Thus, Chardham Tour will definitely provide great solace in mind.

It’s believed that a journey to these pilgrim sites washes away sins of a human being. Chardham tour packages involve visiting one Shaivite (named after lord Shiva) and three Vaishnavite (named after lord Vishnu) sites. The Lord Shiva and the Lord Vishnu are considered as God’s with supreme powers in Hinduism.

Badrinath was honored and given so much importance because as per certain beliefs of Hinduism Saint Adi Shankaracharya also attained Moksha (incarnation) here. Moving on Chardham yatra, Badrinath temple acts a getaway on this pilgrimage tour. Next, Kedarnath is known for popular Shri Kedarnathji temple, which is splendid stone known for being home to Lord Shiva. All these pilgrimage sites have some other Hindu temples as well that you can also visit during Chardham tour. Adding to this, the holy rivers Ganges and Yamuna immensely known for their historical importance, originated from two of the Chardham sites, namely Gangotri and Yamunotri. You will find loads of ancient Hindu literatures in reference to the holistic importance of these rivers.

So, when looking for that eternal peace and spiritual break, head toward divine Chardham tour. Explore the heavenly land of Uttarakhand with Chardham tour packages. Chardham tours mainly starts in the month of April-May end and lasts till November every year. MakeMyTrip.com, a leading travel portal offers a wide range of

Chardham tour packages to cater the needs of all classes of travellers.

About Chardham Pilgrimage Tours


Badrinath: Badrinath is considered the holiest of the four important shrines in Garhwal

Kedarnath: The majestic Kedarnath range stands one of the twelve 'Jyotirlingas' of Kedar or Lord Shiva.

Gangotri: Be it man's urge to placate the Gods above or to quench his desire for adventure, Gangotri is an ideal location not only for Yatra but also for spending vacations.

Yamnotri: The Garhwal Himalayas have been blessed with some of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage sites and Yamunotri is one such. chardham yatra 2010, chardham travel guide, char dham pilgrimage tour, kedarnath badrinath yamunotri gangotri dham.