Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Set to Resume Soon

Why in the News ?

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has announced the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra after a four-year break. Suspended since 2020 due to Covid-19 and India-China tensions, the Yatra’s revival signals improving bilateral relations.

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Set to Resume Soon

Background: Suspension and Diplomatic Progress

  • The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra was halted in 2020, first due to the pandemic, and later because of India-China border tensions, especially post the Galwan clash.
  • Since 2024, both nations have taken steps to ease tensions, including troop disengagement at friction points and leadership-level meetings.
  • Talks for the Yatra’s resumption began during high-level meetings between Indian and Chinese diplomats in late 2024 and early 2025.

Available Routes for the Yatra:

  • Lipulekh Pass (Uttarakhand): High-altitude route involving 200 km of trekking, operational since 1961.
  • Nathu La Pass (Sikkim): Less strenuous, mostly motorable, requires only 35-40 km trekking around Mount Kailash.
  • A third unofficial route via Nepal also exists but is costly and less common for Indian pilgrims.

About the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra:

●      Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar lie in Tibet’s Ngari region and are sacred to Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers.

●      The MEA used to organize this pilgrimage between June-September for Indian passport holders aged 18-70.

●      Pilgrims undergo a medical test and the journey typically lasts 23-25 days, costing over ₹2 lakh.