Border crossings for Indian pilgrims on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Nepal are operational again. The Indian Embassy in Beijing confirmed safe passage after Nepal unrest disrupted travel, thanking Chinese and Tibetan authorities for their assistance.
The much-revered Kailash Mansarovar Yatra has resumed smooth passage for Indian pilgrims as the border crossings in the Tibet Autonomous Region became operational again, allowing yatris to return to India via Nepal. The Indian Embassy in Beijing confirmed the development on Thursday, thanking the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the local authorities in Tibet for extending prompt assistance to ensure the safe return of pilgrims.
In a statement posted on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the Indian Embassy announced, “It is learnt that the border crossings are now operational and Indian pilgrims undertaking Kailash Mansarovar Yatra are able to return to India via Nepal in a safe and smooth manner. We thank the local authorities in the Tibet Autonomous Region and China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs for their prompt assistance. Our helpline numbers continue to be operational.”
This update came just a day after the Embassy had issued an advisory for Indian nationals stranded in the Tibet Autonomous Region due to disruptions linked to unrest in Nepal.
Background of the Advisory
The Embassy of India in Beijing, on Wednesday, cautioned Indian pilgrims undertaking the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, especially those traveling through arrangements made by private tour operators via Nepal. The advisory was issued after widespread protests erupted in Nepal, leading to violent clashes that claimed more than two dozen lives in and around Kathmandu earlier this week.
The Embassy noted that the unstable situation in Nepal had directly affected the travel arrangements of Indian citizens participating in the yatra. In light of these developments, Indian nationals were urged to remain vigilant and adhere to guidance from both local authorities and Indian diplomatic missions.
The advisory further emphasized the physical challenges associated with the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Given the high-altitude terrain and extreme weather conditions in the region, pilgrims were strongly advised to prioritize their health and well-being. They were also urged to remain in close contact with the Indian Embassies in Beijing and Kathmandu for real-time updates and support.
Embassy’s Support and Helplines
As part of its safety measures, the Indian Embassy in Beijing re-issued helpline numbers for stranded citizens who might require urgent assistance. This initiative sought to reassure pilgrims and their families back home that the government was closely monitoring the situation and actively coordinating with both Chinese and Nepalese authorities.
Diplomatic sources suggest that swift intervention by the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the authorities in Tibet ensured that border points critical for the yatra were reopened without significant delays. Their cooperation has allowed stranded pilgrims to continue their journey home safely.
Significance of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra holds immense religious significance for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and followers of Bon. Mount Kailash, considered the abode of Lord Shiva, and Lake Mansarovar, believed to be a sacred source of purity, attract thousands of pilgrims every year. While the official yatra is organized through arrangements between the Indian and Chinese governments, several private tour operators also facilitate travel via Nepal.
However, political unrest, coupled with the geographic challenges of the Himalayas, often makes the pilgrimage unpredictable. The current situation underscores the importance of staying updated through official advisories and maintaining contingency plans.
Way Forward for Pilgrims
With border crossings now operational again, pilgrims are expected to gradually return to India. The Indian Embassy has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of its nationals abroad and continues to coordinate closely with all stakeholders.
Travel experts have advised future yatris to strictly follow health guidelines, carry sufficient emergency supplies, and remain in touch with official agencies to avoid being stranded in unforeseen circumstances.
| Also Read: Gaurav Gogoi calls Assam CM Sarma a “Flop Leader” |
For now, the resumption of operational border crossings comes as a relief to hundreds of Indian pilgrims who were left uncertain about their return journey in the wake of political unrest in Nepal. The incident also highlights the importance of regional cooperation and timely diplomatic intervention in safeguarding the interests of religious pilgrims.
