Amarnath Cave Shrine is a holy site for Hindus. Inside, a naturally formed ice lingam, revered as Lord Shiva, awaits pilgrims during a brief summer window, here are some things to know.
1
The most prominent feature of the Amarnath Cave Shrine is the naturally formed ice stalagmite, worshipped as the holy Shivalinga.
2
The cave is situated at an altitude of 3,888 meters (12,756 ft) in the Himalayas, making it a challenging yet rewarding pilgrimage for devotees.
3
One popular belief is that Lord Shiva narrated the secrets of immortality and creation to his consort, Parvati, here.
4
Due to the snow-covered conditions for most of the year, the cave is only accessible to pilgrims for a short window between July and August.
5
The Amarnath Cave Shrine is one of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage sites, considered one of the 12 Jyotirlingas or revered Shiva shrines.
6
The journey to the cave is a physically demanding trek, requiring a good level of fitness from pilgrims.
7
The Amarnath Cave Shrine has attracted pilgrims and visitors of, historical figures like Swami Vivekananda and Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.