Guwahati: After a three-year suspension due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the revered Kailash Manasarovar Yatra has officially resumed, with the first batch of pilgrims beginning their sacred journey on Friday. The ceremonial flag-off was conducted by Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita, who lauded the Yatra as a powerful symbol of India’s ancient spiritual and cultural ties extending across borders.
“Honoured to flag off the first batch of KMY 2025 – a sacred journey that is a testament to India’s living civilizational connections across the borders. Wished all yatris a safe and fulfilling journey,” the minister stated in a post on X, also extending appreciation to Chinese authorities for their cooperation in facilitating the pilgrimage’s return.
The Kailash Manasarovar Yatra, deeply significant to followers of Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism, is organised annually by the Government of India and takes place via two major routes—the Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand and the Nathu La Pass in Sikkim. Both routes are now fully motorable, making the journey more accessible while preserving its spiritual essence.
The Yatra had been halted since 2020, and its resumption follows months of diplomatic efforts and logistical coordination between Indian and Chinese authorities. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, Lake Manasarovar, located at an altitude of 4,590 metres, is among the highest freshwater lakes in the world and holds immense religious significance. It is believed in Hindu theology that drinking its water absolves one of sins committed over a hundred lifetimes.
This year, a total of 750 pilgrims will embark on the journey in 15 batches, each comprising 50 yatris. While five batches will traverse the Lipulekh route, the remaining ten will proceed via Nathu La. The selection process was conducted online through a transparent, randomised system. The Ministry received 5,561 applications, reflecting enthusiastic participation from across the country and a balanced representation of both men and women.
As the 2025 edition of the Yatra begins, it rekindles not just faith and tradition but also regional ties and cross-border cooperation rooted in centuries of shared spiritual heritage.
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