After nearly five years of suspension, the revered Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is set to resume this June, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced on Saturday. The pilgrimage, which holds immense spiritual significance for Hindus as the mythical abode of Lord Shiva, had been halted since 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and tensions along the India-China border.
According to the MEA, a total of 15 batches — five through the Lipulekh Pass and 10 through the Nathu La Pass — will make the journey between June and August. Each batch will comprise 50 pilgrims.
Application and Eligibility
The Yatra is open to Indian citizens with valid passports who wish to undertake the pilgrimage for religious reasons. Interested individuals can apply through the official website (http://kmy.gov.in/). Applications will be accepted until May 13, 2025, after which the portal will close. Pilgrims will be selected via a computerized lottery system, and successful applicants will be informed via their registered email and mobile number.
Travel Routes and Costs
Pilgrims can choose between two routes:
- Lipulekh Pass: 22 days; cost: ₹1.74 lakh per person
- Nathu La Pass (Sikkim): 21 days; cost: ₹2.83 lakh per person
Health and Medical Screening
Before embarking on the Yatra, selected devotees must spend three to four days in Delhi for preparatory activities and mandatory medical tests at the Delhi Heart and Lung Institute. Additional medical screenings will take place at Gunji (for the Lipulekh route) and Sherathang (for the Nathu La route) to evaluate their fitness for high-altitude conditions. Only those who clear both checks will be permitted to proceed.
Required Documents
Pilgrims must bring:
- A valid ordinary Indian passport (valid at least till September 1, 2025)
- Passport-size colour photographs
- Indemnity bond on ₹100 non-judicial stamp paper
- Undertaking for emergency evacuation by helicopter
- Consent form for cremation in China in case of death
Organising Bodies
The Yatra is coordinated by the State Governments of Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Delhi, along with support from the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam (KMVN), and Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation (STDC).
Important Advisory
The Government of India has clarified that it bears no responsibility for bringing back mortal remains from across the border in case of death. Additionally, it disclaims liability for any loss of life, injuries, or property damage during the Yatra, whether due to natural disasters or other causes.
The reopening of this sacred pilgrimage route marks a significant moment for devotees who have awaited the opportunity to undertake the spiritual journey to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar.
