In March 628, Muhammad saw himself in a dream performing the Umrah (lesser pilgrimage[36]), and so prepared to travel with his followers to Mecca in the hopes of fulfilling this vision. He set out with a group of around 1,400 pilgrims (in the traditional Ihram garb[37]), although it was not soon until Mecca had discovered these arrangements.[clarification needed] On hearing of the Muslims travelling to Mecca for pilgrimage, the Quraysh sent out a force of 200 fighters in order to halt the approaching party. In no position to fight, Muhammad evaded the cavalry by taking a more difficult route, thereby reaching al-Hudaybiyya, just outside Mecca.[38]