Amarnath Yatra 2025: 5 Essentials You Must Carry or You Might Regret It on the Trek
The Amarnath Yatra 2025 has officially started and thousands of devotees are heading towards the snow covered Amarnath cave to catch a glimpse of the holy ice Shiva Lingam. But before you begin your climb to this sacred place here is one simple truth what you carry in your bag will either help you or trouble you later.
This journey is not like your regular trip. You will be walking through tough mountains facing sudden rain or snow and dealing with lower oxygen levels as you climb higher.“I thought I was prepared,” says 29 year old Ankit Mehra from Lucknow. “But just five hours in my shoes were wet and my phone had already died. I learned the hard way.”So what should you pack for this year’s yatra? Based on what experienced yatris and officials say, here are five things you should not leave behind.
1. Rain Protection and Waterproof Shoes
The weather in the mountains changes quickly. One moment the sun is out and the next you may be walking in heavy rain. “It rained for hours when we reached Baltal” said Neha Jain from Jaipur. “I have a poncho and good shoes, so I coped but many others couldn’t.”So be sure to bring with you a raincoat or a poncho waterproof footwear, and an extra pair of socks, to remain dry and warm on the battleground.
2. Valid ID and Emergency Info
You will pass many security points and you must carry a government approved photo ID. Also keep a small slip in your pocket that has your name, your emergency contact and any health issues.“In case someone faints or goes missing that small slip can really help us” said a CRPF officer posted on the route.
3. Oxygen Spray or Altitude Tablets
Once you reach above 12000 feet the air gets thinner and some people feel dizzy or short of breath. “I felt weak just before reaching the cave” said 52 year old Sumita Rao from Nagpur. “Another pilgrim gave me an oxygen spray and it helped a lot.”You can buy oxygen sprays or altitude tablets from medical stores in Jammu or Srinagar before the trek.
4. Sunscreen Cold Cream and Lip Balm
Even though it is cold your skin still gets exposed to harsh sun and cold wind. “My lips were dry and cracked by the second day” said Rajeev Bhatnagar who has done the yatra three times.So carry sunscreen a cold cream and a lip balm to protect your skin throughout the journey.
5. Dry Fruits Energy Bars and ORS
While free meals are served along the route you might have to walk for long hours before you reach the next langar. In that case dry fruits energy bars and ORS can be a lifesaver.Try not to carry oily or heavy snacks because they can upset your stomach at high altitudes.
Pack Smart Not Heavy
Tourism officials say yatri should carry light waterproof backpacks. “Don’t pack too much,” said a J&K tourism spokesperson. “The less weight you carry the easier your walk becomes.” The Amarnath Yatra is more than just a spiritual journey. It is a test of your willpower and body. Your faith will keep you going and your smart packing will make the path a little smoother.
So when you answer Baba Barfani’s call this season just remember faith may help you move mountains but good planning helps you climb them.