Sikkim Route Reopens for Kailash Mansarovar Pilgrimage, Five Years Later
** faced an interval of five years, the pilgrims embarking on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Nathula Pass are on the move again. Let's delve into the specifics of this significant journey:
Paving the Way
The Nathula Pass route traverses from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, to Tibets Shigatse region, passing through the Nathula border. This passage leads pilgrims to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar [1][3][4]. Compared to the Lipulekh Pass route in Uttarakhand, the Nathula route is considered more accessible and less strenuous, suitable for the elderly [1][3]. However, it's worth noting that the Nathula Pass journey takes roughly 21 days in total [1].
Staging Grounds
The first batch of pilgrims comprised 36 individuals aged between 21 and 70, accompanied by Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) personnel, including liaison officers, a doctor, cooks, and more [1][2]. En route, acclimatization centers have been established to aid pilgrims in safely acclimating to the altitude. Notable centers can be found at 16th Mile (around 10,000 feet) and near Hangu Lake (14,000 feet) [3].
Smooth Sailing
Improvements in infrastructure and security measures along the Nathula route have been implemented to ensure a comfortable and secure journey for the pilgrims [3]. Upon crossing the Indian border, the pilgrims are warmly received by Chinese officials as they enter the Tibetan Autonomous Region [1].
A Pilgrimage Renewed
After the challenges presented by the pandemic and border tensions in recent years, the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Nathula Pass in 2025 signifies a revived spiritual opportunity for devotees [1][3][5]. The journey is a sacred pilgrimage, drawing devotees from Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains for the spiritual circumambulation (parikrama) of Mount Kailash and visit to Mansarovar Lake [5].
A “proud moment for Sikkim and the country,” the hosting of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through Sikkim offers a unique opportunity to showcase its hospitality and infrastructure, eliciting positive feedback from the pilgrims [5]. As the pilgrimage progresses, the Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation (STDC) is working diligently to manage the yatra, ensuring the care and satisfaction of the pilgrims [5].
- As the pilgrims embark on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Nathula Pass, their journey is no longer a distant dream, instead, it offers a unique opportunity for a lifestyle change, as they travel to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar, experiencing cultures, landscapes, and spiritual practices.
- After the Yatra's indefinite halt due to pandemic and border tensions, the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Nathula Pass in 2025 intensifies the travel anticipation amongst devotees, who will not only traverse through the scenic routes but also immerse in the cultural and spiritual aspects of their journey, making for a lifetime of cherished memories.
