New Delhi, June 30, 2025: After a five-year suspension, the revered Kailash Mansarovar Yatra resumed today, with pilgrims beginning their journey through the Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand. The pilgrimage to the sacred Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar marks a significant spiritual event, particularly for Hindus, Jains, Buddhists, and followers of the Bon religion.
Religious Significance of Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar
Located at 6,638 metres, Mount Kailash is believed by Hindus to be the abode of Lord Shiva. Adjacent to the peak lies Lake Mansarovar, also known as Mapam Yumtso, situated at an altitude of 4,600 metres in Tibet’s Ngari Prefecture.
- Hindus believe Lord Brahma created Lake Mansarovar and that its waters have purifying powers.
- Buddhists revere Mount Kailash as Mount Meru, a source of universal spiritual energy.
- Jains associate the mountain with Mount Ashtapada, where Tirthankara Rishabdeva attained salvation.
- Followers of the Bon religion also regard the site as sacred.
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Routes Available for Indian Pilgrims
Indian pilgrims can reach the sacred site via two main routes:
1. Lipulekh Pass, Uttarakhand
- Located at the tri-junction of India, Nepal, and China.
- Requires a trek of nearly 200 kilometres.
- Terrain is rugged and demands high physical fitness.
- Suitable for experienced trekkers.
2. Nathu La Pass, Sikkim
- Motorable route, located at an altitude of 4,310 metres.
- Total distance to Mansarovar: 1,500 kilometres.
- Only 35-40 kilometres of trekking required for circumambulation (parikrama).
- Considered the easier route.
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Yatra Resumption and Logistics
The pilgrimage was suspended in 2020 following the COVID-19 pandemic and border tensions between India and China post-Galwan Valley clashes. Negotiations resumed in late 2024, resulting in both countries agreeing to reopen the route.
This year:
- 750 Indian pilgrims have been granted permission.
- The yatra will continue through June to August 2025.
- Pilgrims will travel in 15 groups, using both the Lipulekh and Nathu La routes.
“Pilgrims aged 18 to 70, holding Indian passports, are eligible. Fitness—both mental and physical—is essential for this arduous journey,” said a Ministry of External Affairs official.
Precautions and Advisory
The Ministry of External Affairs has advised:
- All pilgrims must undergo medical fitness tests.
- High-altitude training is recommended before undertaking the journey.
- Travel insurance and emergency contacts must be documented.
- Respect for cross-border regulations is mandatory.
FAQs
Q1. What is the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?
A: The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a sacred pilgrimage undertaken by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar in Tibet.
Q2. How can Indian pilgrims reach Kailash Mansarovar?
A: Indian citizens can take two routes: via the Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand or Nathu La Pass in Sikkim. The former involves a longer trek, while the latter is mostly motorable.
Q3. Who is eligible to participate in the yatra?
A: Indian citizens aged between 18 and 70 years, who are medically and physically fit, are eligible to apply. An Indian passport is mandatory.
Q4. Why was the Yatra suspended for five years?
A: The Yatra was halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and subsequent diplomatic tensions between India and China.
Q5. When will the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2025 end?
A: The yatra will be conducted from June to August 2025, accommodating pilgrims in batches across both routes.
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