The Amarnath Yatra, an important pilgrimage to the Amarnath cave shrine in south Kashmir, is set to commence on July 3, 2023, and will conclude on August 28, 2023, coinciding with the festival of Raksha Bandhan. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha announced that the Pratham Puja will take place on June 29 to invoke blessings for the pilgrimage. Advance registration for the yatra will begin on April 15 and will be available at 554 branches of various banks across India, including J&K Bank and State Bank of India. Each registered pilgrim will receive a ₹10 lakh ($12,000 USD) accident insurance, and provisions for both accidental and natural deaths of ponies will be covered as well. The shrine, located at a height of 3,880 meters, is known for its naturally forming ice stalagmite, revered as the Shiva Lingam. Pilgrims can choose between two trekking routes: a 36 km trek from Pahalgam or a shorter 14 km trek from Baltal. Enhanced facilities, including power supply, sanitation, and communication, will be provided along the yatra route to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for the pilgrims.