After a five-year hiatus, the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is likely to resume this year. Signals of this came from a meeting held by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in Delhi. Kirti Chandra, District Tourism Officer of Pithoragarh, stated that preparations are in full swing, and the pilgrimage could begin in May 2025.
Preparations Underway
- The road from Darchula to Lipulekh Pass is now ready.
- Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam (KMVN) has set up huts and resting facilities for pilgrims along the route.
- The state government and tourism department are making necessary arrangements to ensure a smooth journey.
Yatra Suspended Since the Pandemic
The sacred pilgrimage to Mount Kailash in Tibet, China, a major religious site for Lord Shiva devotees, has been closed since 2019 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and strained India-China relations. The Indian government has now initiated talks to resume the yatra, raising hopes among pilgrims.
India-China Trade Still Halted
Alongside the yatra, Indo-China border trade, which was disrupted during the pandemic, remains suspended. Indian traders face losses as their goods remain stuck in Taklakot market, Tibet. The resumption of the yatra could also pave the way for restoring bilateral
