Published Paper Details:

Abstract The Amarnath Cave Temple, one of the sacred Hindu sites of India located in Jammu and Kashmir embodies a deep spiritual significance for millions of devotees. It is considered as one the abodes of Lord Shiva, who took shelter in Amarnath, situated at an altitude of 3888 m. Every year lakhs of Hindu Pilgrims visit this holiest place. While the pilgrimage holds immense spiritual importance, it also plays a crucial role in shaping the socioeconomic fabric of the surrounding communities. The paper explores the dual dimension of spirituality and prosperity by analysing the socio-cultural and economic dimensions of pilgrimage tourism in Kashmir Valley, with a focus on Amarnath Yatra on local residents. By utilizing both qualitative and quantitative methodologies, It examines how the annual pilgrimage at Amarnath cave temple stimulates local employment, boosts local businesses, drives cultural exchange and helps in maintaining communal harmony. It also delves into the paradigm of sustainable tourism along with maintaining the strong cohesion between spirituality and ecology. The results indicate that although the yatra plays a substantial role in enhancing regional wealth, sustainable management strategies are crucial for maintaining a harmony between spiritual tourism and enduring socioeconomic stability.