The first batch of pilgrims taking the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026 to China crossed the Indo-China border at Nathu La Pass on Saturday, marking the start of their journey to the holy Kailash Mansarovar.
The batch was flagged off by Sikkim Governor Om Prakash Mathur in the presence of Tourism Minister Tshering Thendup Bhutia and officials of Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation (STDC).
The first batch includes 44 pilgrims, including four liaison officers and a doctor. They include 32 men and 12 women representing different states, including Bihar, Haryana, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Delhi, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Odisha.
Earlier before the Yatra, Sikkim Chief Secretary R Telang reviewed the logistical arrangements in place, including hospitality, medical facilities, power and water supply, road condition, traffic management, network connectivity, customs clearance and media coverage. The review was conducted in coordination with senior officials in the executive departments to ensure the smooth implementation of the Hajj.
He informed that all the pilgrims passed the final medical examination before the yatra.
“Our responsibilities include providing security cover, medical facilities and crossing the border,” he told ANI.
He said that the group of pilgrims are from different parts of the country and their ages range between 30-70 years.
While speaking to the media, the Governor wished the pilgrims a happy and safe journey and expressed his optimism that the pilgrims, after returning home, would share the hospitality they received in Sikkim.
The pilgrims praised the facilities provided to them by various government agencies and bodies.
“It has been a wonderful journey. They (authorities) have made it very smooth for all of us. I am looking forward to having darshan of Lord Shiva.”
Sikkim Tourism Minister told the media that people were full of energy and vitality as they left for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
The Ministry of External Affairs organizes the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra during the month of June to August/September every year through two different routes – Lipulekh Pass (Uttarakhand) and Nathu La Pass (Sikkim). The Kailash Manasarovar Yatra (KMY) is known for its religious value and cultural significance.
Hundreds of people do it every year. Being significant to Hindus as the abode of Lord Shiva, it also holds religious significance for Jains and Buddhists.
KMY is open to eligible Indian citizens, holding valid Indian passports, who wish to proceed to Kailash Manasarovar for religious purposes.
