New Delhi (Rajeev Sharma): The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has advised Indian citizens planning the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra to complete all visa and permit formalities before leaving the country, following reports that several pilgrims have become stranded in Nepal due to incomplete travel documentation.
In an official advisory, the ministry said it has received numerous requests for assistance from Indian nationals who were unable to continue their pilgrimage after reaching Nepal because they did not possess the necessary Chinese entry permits and visas. Many of these travellers had reportedly joined tours organised by private operators.
The MEA cautioned that beginning the pilgrimage without confirmed documentation could leave travellers stranded, resulting in avoidable financial losses and logistical difficulties. It stressed that pilgrims should not rely on assurances that permits or visas would be arranged after reaching Nepal.
Since the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra involves entry into China’s Tibet Autonomous Region, participants are required to carry all mandatory travel approvals before crossing the border. Officials said the absence of these documents makes it impossible to complete the journey, regardless of other travel arrangements.
The ministry also urged devotees to exercise due diligence while booking pilgrimage packages. Prospective travellers have been advised to verify that the tour operator is officially registered and authorised to organise the yatra and process the required documentation.
Officials noted that choosing unverified travel agencies or making payments without confirming the operator’s credentials could expose pilgrims to unnecessary risks. They recommended checking all travel documents, permits and itinerary details well in advance of departure.
The advisory comes during the pilgrimage season, when thousands of devotees travel to undertake the spiritually significant journey to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar. The route requires strict compliance with international travel regulations and border procedures laid down by the respective authorities.
The MEA reiterated that although Indian missions provide assistance to citizens facing emergencies abroad, travellers should take personal responsibility for ensuring that all paperwork is complete before commencing the pilgrimage.
By issuing the advisory, the ministry aims to prevent further cases of Indian pilgrims being stranded overseas and to encourage safer, better-planned travel for one of the country’s most revered religious pilgrimages. It has urged all intending pilgrims to verify documentation thoroughly and make travel arrangements only after receiving every required approval.
