Chandanwari

Chandanwari, Pahalgam Overview

Chandanwari, located in the picturesque Pahalgam valley in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir, is the starting point of the prestigious Amarnath Yatra. For centuries, Hindus have regarded Chandanwari as a significant site and for years, it has been a popular destination for devotees to start their journey to pay their respects to Lord Shiva. Situated at an altitude of 2,895 meters, Chandanwari serves as a gateway to the 6-km journey to the holy Amarnath Cave.Chandanwari is an alluring destination, with the sun-kissed snow-capped Pir Pinjal Mountains, lush green meadows, and crystal-clear streams adding to the beauty of the place. The journey begins at Pahalgam, where devotees gather before proceeding towards Chandanwari. Once the devotees reach Chandanwari, the enchanting view of the snow-capped mountains, meandering streams, and lush greenery in the backdrop will take your breath away.The starting point of Amarnath Yatra, Chandanwari is one of the most important religious sites for Hindus. The Hindu scriptures describe Chandanwari as the place ‘where the sage Valmiki is believed to have written the Ramayana’.

Many pilgrims stop by the Sheshnag temple before they proceed on their journey to the Amarnath Cave.Apart from being the gateway to the Amarnath Yatra, Chandanwari also has plenty of adventure activities to offer. Tourists can indulge in activities like mountain biking, horse riding, star gazing, and angling. A two-day trek to the beautiful Sheshnag lake is a must-do for nature lovers. To add to this, visitors can also experience the spectacular view of Pahalgam valley from the top of Chandanwari.The best time to visit Chandanwari is between April and October when the weather is pleasant and suitable for most outdoor activities. It's important to note that visitors need to take necessary precautions during the cold winter season as the terrain is very slippery and difficult to traverse.Overall, Chandanwari is an enchanting starting point for the Amarnath Yatra. What makes the place so special is the majestic landscape, spiritual significance, and the various activities that it has to offer.

Set amidst the pristine Pir Pinjal Mountains, Chandanwari promises an unforgettable experience that every devotee should cherish.