After a five-year suspension, the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via the Nathula Pass in Sikkim resumed on Friday, marking a significant milestone in spiritual travel and international cooperation. The first batch of 33 pilgrims, accompanied by two nodal officers and a doctor from the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), was ceremonially flagged off by Sikkim Governor Om Prakash Mathur.
The Governor expressed pride in the revival of this sacred journey, highlighting Sikkim’s role in facilitating the passage and thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his efforts in restoring the pilgrimage. He also acknowledged the coordinated efforts of the Sikkim government, Indian Army, and ITBP in ensuring the yatra’s smooth operation. Ahead of their departure, the Governor interacted with the pilgrims and extended wishes for their safety and well-being.
Sikkim Tourism Minister Tshering Thendup Bhutia described the occasion as historic, noting the return of pilgrims to the region after the yatra was halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He also emphasized the significance of Nathula Pass in promoting tourism in Sikkim and the potential boost the pilgrimage could provide to the local economy.
The pilgrims underwent strict medical evaluations and completed a two-stage acclimatisation process at 18th Mile and Sherathang to prepare for the high-altitude conditions. An Indian Army official confirmed that all members had been medically cleared for the journey.
Participants expressed gratitude for the arrangements made by the Indian authorities. Pilgrim Shalanda Sharma highlighted the collaboration between India and China in resuming the route, while Indar Sharma praised the logistical and medical support provided by the Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation and associated agencies.
By mid-morning, the group was scheduled to cross into China through Nathula, where immigration formalities would be completed before they proceeded to Mount Kailash and Mansarovar Lake.
The yatra is being jointly organised by the Ministry of External Affairs, the Government of Sikkim, the Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation, and the ITBP, with all efforts focused on ensuring a safe and enriching experience for the pilgrims.