After a hiatus of five years, India on Saturday announced that the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra would resume from June, signalling a step forward in efforts to improve ties with China.
The resumption of the pilgrimage follows the completion of disengagement at the remaining friction points of Demchok and Depsang, under an agreement sealed between the two countries in October last year.
“Kailash Manasarovar Yatra organised by Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is set to take place during June to August 2025,” a statement from the government maintained.
The sacred pilgrimage had remained suspended since 2020, largely due to the COVID-19 pandemic and heightened border tensions.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, “This year, five batches, each consisting of 50 Yatris, and 10 batches, each consisting of 50 Yatris, are scheduled to travel through Uttarakhand State crossing over at Lipulekh Pass, and through Sikkim state crossing over at Nathu La Pass, respectively.”
Applications for the Yatra can be submitted online via the portal kmy.gov.in, the Ministry said.
“The Yatris will be selected from among applicants through a fair, computer-generated, random and gender-balanced selection process,” the MEA clarified.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is regarded as one of the most sacred pilgrimages for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and followers of the Bon religion. Situated in Tibet's Ngari region, Mount Kailash, standing at 6,638 metres, is revered as the abode of Lord Shiva. Adjacent to it lies the pristine Lake Mansarovar, believed to have been created by Lord Brahma.
The arduous journey, often undertaken through rugged terrains and high altitudes, is seen as a path to spiritual purification. Traditionally, pilgrims undertake circumambulation, or 'parikrama', of Mount Kailash, a ritual believed to cleanse the soul of sins and bring salvation.
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