New Delhi, April 17, 2025: The sacred Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is finally set to resume this summer, ending a five-year break triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic and diplomatic strains with China. India and China have agreed in principle to restart the pilgrimage, with modalities currently being worked out.
Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh confirmed the development in Parliament, noting that discussions have been ongoing since 2024. These included meetings during the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, the Foreign Ministers’ meet in Johannesburg, and bilateral engagements in Beijing. Singh emphasized that India has consistently urged China to reopen access for Indian pilgrims via both Lipulekh in Uttarakhand and Nathu La in Sikkim.
The pilgrimage, traditionally held between June and September, is one of the most significant spiritual journeys for Hindus, Jains, Buddhists, and followers of the Bon tradition. Devotees trek to Mount Kailash and the holy Mansarovar Lake in Tibet, believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva.
Preparations are already underway on the Indian side to ensure safe and smooth travel. Authorities are focusing on infrastructure, safety protocols, and coordination with Chinese counterparts to handle logistical challenges.
This marks a major step forward in reviving a spiritual tradition interrupted since 2020, and reflects warming diplomatic ties aimed at restoring people-to-people exchanges.
