New Delhi: Amarnath Yatra has begun, with thousands of pilgrims awaiting their turn to have the darshan (view) of the holy Lingam inside the Amarnath cave.The holy cave of Amarnath is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva narrated the secrets of immortality to his consort Parvati. Hndus believe a visit to this holy shrine ensures Moksha (salvation) after death. The cave is believed to have a Lingam structure made of ice. As per the religious beliefs, it has been claimed that the lingam grows and shrinks with the phases of the moon reaching its height during the summer festival. Scientists describe this as a natural phenomenon caused by the falling of icicles inside the cave during the long winter.It is believed that during the 11th century Queen Suryamati gifted trishuls, banalingas and other sacred emblems to this temple. The cave has been a place of worship since times immemorial but as per beliefs the cave was forgotten after the Middle Ages and was later discovered in 15th century by a shepherd.The Yatra to this shrine starts in July and ends in August when the ice begins to melt down in the upper Himalayas.The shrine is about 140km from Srinagar, and the journey to shrine begins from Pahalgam. The journey from Pahalgam to Chandanwari can be covered by a vehicle, but after that pilgrims have to cover the entire pilgrimage on foot. The pilgrims must be physically and mentally fit to cope with the cold weather during this Yatra as it takes around three to four days to complete the journey, which passes through steep paths across valleys, glaciers and arduous trekking route.Although the Jammu and Kashmir government and central security forces have made all arrangements for security, devotees are expected to be alert and adhere to the rules. Since the region features chill weather, it is better to pack warm woollen clothes. Prior registration is mandatory for every one to go for the Yatra.Officially, the Yatra is organised by the State Government in collaboration with the Shree Amarnath Shrine Board. . Watch the journey to this holy shrine in pics Cave Temple of Lord Amarnath Ice Lingam at Amarnath Cave Amarnath Yatra Camp Amarnath pilgrims en route the holy shrine Pilgrims Riding on Ponies on the way to Amarnath scenery on way to Amarnath Cave Pandals in service to pilgrims Helicopter service Amarnath Tent near Amarnath Cave Snow Bridge in Chandanwari
