750 pilgrims shortlisted for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra resuming after 6 years

By | May 21, 2025

New Delhi, May 2025 – After a six-year break, the sacred Kailash Mansarovar Yatra will finally resume in June. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has selected 750 pilgrims through a computerized lottery. This event marks the return of one of India’s most spiritual journeys.

Spiritual Journey Restarts After Long Pause

Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar, located in Tibet, hold deep spiritual value. Many Hindus believe Mount Kailash is the home of Lord Shiva. Jains and Buddhists also revere the site.

The government had paused the Yatra in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and tensions at the India-China border. Now, officials have cleared the way for pilgrims to travel again.

Routes and Batch Details

The Yatra will include 15 batches, with 50 pilgrims in each group. They will follow two different routes:

  • Lipulekh Pass (Uttarakhand) – A trekking route through high mountains.
  • Nathu La Pass (Sikkim) – A motorable path, easier for older pilgrims.

Five groups will go through Lipulekh. The other ten will use the Nathu La route. This arrangement gives pilgrims a choice based on fitness and comfort.

Transparent and Fair Selection Process

Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, oversaw the lottery in New Delhi. Officials used a digital system to ensure fairness and gender balance. Over 10,000 people applied, but only 750 secured a spot.

“This is more than a journey. It’s a spiritual dream for many,” said Singh.

Health and Safety Measures

Before leaving Delhi, every pilgrim will undergo medical screening and training. These steps will help them adjust to high-altitude conditions.

ITBP (Indo-Tibetan Border Police) and medical staff will accompany each group. Security teams will stay alert throughout the journey. Emergency plans and evacuation tools are also ready.

A Sign of Diplomatic Progress

The Yatra’s return shows signs of improved relations between India and China. Officials say both countries worked together to make the route safe and functional.

A senior MEA official stated, “This pilgrimage revives cultural ties and shows what both nations can achieve together.”

Joy Among Pilgrims

For those selected, the moment brings deep joy and gratitude. Many had applied years ago and waited patiently.

Ramesh Trivedi, a 58-year-old pilgrim from Gujarat, shared his feelings: “I applied in 2019 and never lost hope. Seeing my name on the list felt like a blessing.”

Looking Ahead

The first group will begin the journey in June 2025. For these 750 pilgrims, this Yatra is more than travel—it’s a path to inner peace, long awaited and finally fulfilled.