The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, one of the most significant spiritual journeys for Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains, and followers of the Bon or Yungdrung religion, is set to resume in the summer of 2025. The pilgrimage, which had been suspended for five years due to the COVID-19 pandemic and heightened tensions between India and China, is finally being restored following bilateral discussions between the two countries.
The decision to restart the yatra has brought joy to devotees across India. Many Indians have been eagerly awaiting the opportunity to undertake this once in a lifetime spiritual journey.
Key developments in the Yatra’s resumption
After multiple rounds of talks, India and China have agreed to resume the pilgrimage with improved facilities and routes. Direct flights between India and China will also be introduced to make travel more convenient for pilgrims. The Ministry of External Affairs in India is coordinating with Chinese authorities to finalise the details, including safety measures and routes for the journey.
While traditional routes through the Lipulekh Pass (Uttarakhand) and the Nathula Pass (Sikkim) are likely to remain operational, new alternatives are being explored to ensure a seamless experience for pilgrims. Physical fitness requirements will be strictly enforced due to the challenging nature of the high altitude terrain.
Know about Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra holds profound spiritual importance. Mount Kailash, a 6,638-metre peak located in the Tibet Autonomous Region, is revered as the abode of Lord Shiva in Hinduism. It is also a sacred site for Buddhists, who associate it with Mount Meru, the centre of the universe. Jains regard it as the place where their first Tirthankara, Shri Rishabhdev, attained enlightenment, while Bon practitioners consider it a spiritual axis.
The journey involves two key elements:
- Circumambulating Mount Kailash (Kora): Pilgrims walk approximately 52 kilometres around the mountain, a task considered to cleanse sins and lead to spiritual liberation.
- Bathing in Lake Mansarovar: This pristine freshwater lake is believed to absolve devotees of their sins and bring peace to the soul.
The pilgrimage is not only a test of faith but also of endurance, as participants traverse rugged terrain and high altitude passes under extreme weather conditions.
Preparations and guidelines: The Ministry of External Affairs has announced that preparations are underway to ensure a safe and efficient pilgrimage. Prospective participants will need to adhere to the following guidelines:
- Health check-up: All pilgrims must submit a fitness certificate, as the high altitude conditions can pose significant health challenges.
- Route options: Pilgrims can choose from different routes, including Lipulekh, Nathula, or other newly identified paths.
- Application process: Detailed application procedures and requirements will be released soon.
- Support facilities: Medical teams, oxygen supplies, and rescue services will be stationed along the route to assist pilgrims in emergencies.
The resumption of the yatra is also expected to involve digital systems to streamline the application and registration process, ensuring transparency and ease for participants.
Challenges and opportunities: The five year suspension of the yatra due to the pandemic and border tensions had disrupted one of India’s most cherished spiritual traditions. Its resumption symbolises a thaw in relations between India and China, opening doors for renewed cultural exchanges.
However, challenges such as ensuring the safety of pilgrims, managing the high volume of applications, and maintaining environmental sustainability remain critical. Authorities are also focused on preserving the fragile ecosystem of the Kailash Mansarovar region, which has faced environmental pressures due to increasing footfall.
Historical and Cultural Context: The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra has a long history, with references found in ancient Hindu scriptures like the Skanda Purana and Vishnu Purana. The mountain is described as a cosmic pillar that connects heaven and earth, with its four faces symbolising the cardinal directions.
Lake Mansarovar, located at an altitude of 4,590 metres, is equally significant. Its crystal clear waters are believed to have been created by Lord Brahma, and it serves as a source of the Brahmaputra, Sutlej, Indus, and Karnali rivers.
The pilgrimage has also been a cornerstone of India-China cultural relations, with thousands of devotees visiting the region annually before the suspension.
What Pilgrims Need to Know
- Duration: The yatra typically lasts 10-20 days, depending on the chosen route.
- Best time to visit: The summer months of May to September are ideal for the pilgrimage.
- Costs: While exact costs for the 2025 yatra are yet to be announced, previous yatras ranged between ₹1.5 lakh to ₹2 lakh per person, including travel and accommodation.
A sacred journey reimagined: The resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in 2025 marks a significant milestone in restoring a vital spiritual and cultural tradition. As thousands prepare to embark on this sacred journey, it symbolises hope, unity, and the enduring power of faith.
Useful Links: For those planning to undertake the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, the following links provide essential updates and announcements. These resources will help pilgrims prepare effectively, plan their journey in advance, and ensure compliance with government regulations.
Here are the links:
Ministry of External Affairs website: https://www.mea.gov.in/apply-online-kmy.htm
Government of India website: https://www.india.gov.in/kailash-manasarovar-yatra-2015
