Amarnath connection – The Economic Times

The Amarnath yatra, a pilgrimage to the holy cave in Kashmir, is held annually during July-August. Every year, thousands of devotees go to the cave, situated at a height of 12,750 ft, covering 36-48 km on foot. This cave is a sacred place for Hindus and is associated with Shiv. Shiv, Parvati and Ganesh are believed to have lived in this cave thousands of years ago. Many devotees believe Shiv mostly lived in Kashi, Kailash Mansarovar and Amarnath.The legend says Amarnath gufa, cave, is a Shakti peeth, a centre of spiritual power, where Shiv imparted the sacred text Vijnan Bhairav Tantra, comprising 112 meditation methods, to Parvati. Vijnan Bhairav means the ‘Spiritual Science of Shiv’, and tantra means technique, method. Shiv has given mankind 112 methods of meditation to cover psychological and spiritual needs.

Just as scientists discover secrets of matter in laboratories, yogis also discover spiritual secrets in caves during deep meditation and samadhi. Thousands of yogis, saints and mystics have meditated in this blessed and hallowed cave over centuries. Amarnath gufa is also famous for the ice lingam, which forms naturally.

It is common for all religions to encourage their followers to embark on yatras, pilgrimages, to their respective holy places and shrines. These spiritual journeys bestow profound benefits and foster a deeper connection with the Divine.