India's Top 7 Challenging Pilgrimages

Rishika Baranwal

A steep, high-altitude trek to the Amarnath Cave at 3,888 meters.

Amarnath Yatra, J&K

A rigorous trek around Mount Kailash at 6,638 meters, challenging due to altitude and climate.

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, Tibet

Visits to Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath, featuring tough terrain and steep climbs.

Char Dham Yatra, Uttarakhand

A 13.5-kilometer climb to the shrine at 1,584 meters, demanding during peak seasons.

Vaishno Devi Yatra, Jammu

Trekking through dense forests and steep hills, combined with a 41-day fast.

Sabarimala, Kerala

A steep 19-kilometer trek to the Sikh shrine at 4,632 meters.

Hemkund Sahib, Uttarakhand

Pulling massive chariots in a crowded, long procession under heat and humidity.

Puri Jagannath Rath Yatra, Odisha