The dates for the grand pilgrimage to one of the most significant shrines of Lord Shiva have been released. Situated at a steep altitude of 3,888 m, the shrine and its housed iced stalagmite Shivalinga attract thousands of stout devotees each year. This holy journey to seek the blessings of the lord is one of the key events among Shaivites and is embarked upon by many despite the difficulties. The 5,000-year-old Amarnath cave is open for only three months&ndashfrom June to August&ndashwhen the stalagmite is at the apex of its waxing phase. If you are set on this journey of a lifetime, here are some essential tips you must keep in mind 

As per the official announcement, the yatra will commence on July 1 and continue till August 31. However, if you want to book a helicopter to reach the cave, the booking process will begin as early as June 1. To know more about when it begins, keep an eye out for details on the official website (https://jksasb.nic.in). 

Another important detail to keep in mind is the age limit. Devotees between 13 to 70 are allowed to embark on this journey. Pregnant women and ailing individuals are strictly not allowed. 

There are two routes for the yatra leading up to the cave. One begins at Baltal, 14 km from the cave and typically takes one or two days to complete. This route is shorter and more popular. However, it is not easy. The second route, beginning from Pahalgam, is 47 km long and takes more time. The yatra, on this route, begins at Chandanwari (16 km from the Pahalgam base camp). There are three more stops at Pissu (3 km away from Pahalgam), Shesnag (9 km from Pissu), and Panjtarni, lying 12 km ahead). This route takes almost three to five days and is physically exerting. However, availing helicopter rides to the cave are also available for pilgrims. 

During the yatra and even before bookings, pilgrims must carry essential documents, such as voter ID/passport/aadhar card, for identification purposes. Since the yatra is physically demanding, you must also obtain a medical fitness certificate authorised by the Amarnath Shrine Board&ndashthis also needs to be produced while registering for a helicopter ride to the cave. 

During the yatra, it is common to feel sick due to physical exertion and high altitudes. Therefore, it is advised to keep medicines that ease nausea, dizziness, fatigue, and other symptoms associated with high altitude sickness. Moreover, it is also essential to carry portable oxygen as breathing difficulties are commonly encountered. 

Since the yatra attracts thousands of devotees, keeping track of everybody is challenging. Therefore, there are some preventive measures put in place by the authorities and a few that the pilgrims should be mindful of. Firstly, always travel in a group&ndashsticking to a group while undertaking this extensive and difficult journey is important. It is also advised to keep a note with details about yourself, such as name, address, and contact number, in your pocket. Next, be sure to wear the radio frequency identification card provided by the authorities to registered pilgrims. These IDs help track down your location in case of emergency and can be availed across centres in Jammu and Kashmir by verifying your Aadhar card.