**SEO Title:** Amarnath Yatra 2023: Pilgrims Begin Journey to Sacred Shrine
**Meta Description:** The annual Amarnath Yatra has commenced, with thousands of pilgrims embarking on a journey to the revered ice-lingam cave shrine in Kashmir.
**URL Slug:** amarnath-yatra-2023-pilgrims-journey
**Headline:** Thousands of Pilgrims Set Off for the Amarnath Yatra 2023 to the Ice-Lingam Shrine
The annual Amarnath Yatra has officially begun, with the first groups of pilgrims departing from the twin base camps of Baltal and Nunwan on Thursday. This revered pilgrimage leads to the 3,880-meter-high cave shrine nestled in the south Kashmir Himalayas, known for its naturally formed ice-lingam.
Early in the morning, pilgrims set off from the traditional 48-kilometer Nunwan-Pahalgam route and the shorter 14-kilometer Baltal route. The atmosphere was charged with excitement as men, women, and sadhus gathered at the base camps in Pahalgam and Sonamarg, chanting “bum bum bole” as they were sent off by senior officials.
On Wednesday, the first batch of 5,892 yatris was flagged off from the yatra base camp in Jammu’s Bhagwati Nagar by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. Upon their arrival in the Kashmir Valley, the pilgrims were warmly welcomed by local residents and administration officials. Their journey culminates at the cave shrine, where they will pay their respects to the ice-lingam formation.
To ensure the safety and smooth conduct of the yatra, extensive security measures have been implemented. Thousands of security personnel from various forces, including the police and Central Reserve Police Force, have been deployed. Additionally, aerial surveillance will monitor the pilgrimage route.
The 38-day Amarnath Yatra is set to conclude on August 9, 2023, marking a significant event for devotees and the region alike.
**FAQ Section:**
**Q: What is the Amarnath Yatra?**
A: The Amarnath Yatra is an annual pilgrimage to the Amarnath cave shrine in Kashmir, where devotees worship a naturally occurring ice-lingam, symbolizing Lord Shiva.
