Lipulekh Pass Reopens After Six Years, Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Resumes via Uttarakhand

In a major boost for spiritual tourism and cross-border pilgrimage, the Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand has reopened after six years, paving the way for the much-awaited Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through the traditional Indian route. The reopening marks the return of one of the country's most significant pilgrimage corridors after a prolonged suspension caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent logistical challenges.

The first batch of pilgrims has successfully crossed the Lipulekh Pass, located at an altitude of around 5,334 meters in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand. From here, yatris enter the Tibet Autonomous Region of China to continue their sacred journey to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar, revered by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and followers of Bon.

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lipulekh resumed in 2026 under the supervision of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam (KMVN). Pilgrims underwent health screenings, acclimatization, and mandatory documentation before beginning the high-altitude trek.

The reopening of the route is being seen as a significant milestone for thousands of devotees who have waited years for the opportunity to undertake one of the world's most spiritually revered pilgrimages. The Lipulekh route is considered one of the official Indian passages to Kailash Mansarovar and has long served as a gateway connecting India with Tibet.

Local businesses and tourism stakeholders in Uttarakhand are also expected to benefit as the resumption of the pilgrimage is likely to generate employment and revive economic activity in border regions that rely heavily on seasonal tourism.

Authorities have advised pilgrims to remain prepared for challenging weather conditions, high-altitude terrain, and strict travel protocols. Medical support teams and security personnel have been deployed along the route to ensure the safety and smooth movement of yatris.

The reopening of Lipulekh Pass not only restores a cherished pilgrimage tradition but also strengthens cultural and people-to-people ties while reviving one of India's most iconic spiritual journeys after a six-year hiatus.