The annual pilgrimage to the revered Amarnath Cave Shrine, located in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir, is set to commence on Thursday, July 3. The trip, which is taken by lakhs of devotees every year, is one of the most spiritually significant journeys among Hindus.

The holy cave shrine, an abode of Lord Shiva, is situated at an altitude of around 13,000 feet from the sea level, and pilgrims have to undergo an arduous trek to reach the temple. This year, helicopter services for Amarnath yatra have been suspended for security reasons, and devotees will have to cover the journey on foot or by ponies or palkis (palanquins).

Given the challenging terrain that one has to cross to reach the shrine, it is extremely important to be physically fit and follow some health essentials to ensure safety and well-being.