Kailash Mansarovar Yatra begins, first batch crosses into China via Nathu La pass

The annual Kailash Mansarovar Yatra has commenced with the first batch of 44 pilgrims crossing into China via the Nathu La Pass in Sikkim. This marks the beginning of their spiritual journey to the sacred site, revered by Hindus, Jains, and Buddhists.

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It has been a wonderful journey. They (authorities) have made it very smooth for all of us. I am looking forward to the darshan of Lord Shiva.

Sikkim Governor Om Prakash Mathur, along with Tourism Minister Tshering Thendup Bhutia and officials from the Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation, flagged off the group. The batch includes four Liaison Officers and a Medical Officer, with 32 men and 12 women representing various Indian states. The pilgrims' ages range from 30 to 70 years.

Logistical arrangements for the pilgrimage were thoroughly reviewed by Sikkim Chief Secretary R Telang. This included ensuring adequate hospitality, medical facilities, power and water supply, road conditions, traffic management, network connectivity, customs clearance, and media coverage. All pilgrims successfully cleared their final medical examinations prior to the Yatra.

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Our responsibilities include providing security cover, medical facilities and crossing of the border.

Pilgrims expressed satisfaction with the arrangements, with one stating, "It has been a wonderful journey. They (authorities) have made it very smooth for all of us. I am looking forward to the darshan of Lord Shiva." The Ministry of External Affairs organizes the Yatra annually between June and August/September, offering two routes: Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand and Nathu La Pass in Sikkim.

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Our responsibilities include providing security cover, medical facilities and crossing of the border.