The annual Budha Amarnath pilgrimage started on Monday
The Lieutenant Governor officially flagged off the first group of pilgrims
The route is 230 kilometres long and will take about twelve days to complete
Security forces, including police and central armed units, are escorting the travelers
Pilgrims are coming from states such as Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Delhi, Maharashtra, and Gujarat
Rest stops with food and water are set up at places like Sunderbani and Nowshera
The shrine contains a self‑manifested white stone that represents the god Lord Shiva
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha gave a blessing before the travelers left
Police and special security teams will travel with the group to keep them safe
People from many Indian states are joining and singing songs
The journey will cover 230 kilometres and last twelve days
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