Sikkim to host Kailash Mansarovar Yatra after 5-year hiatus –

Sikkim government is gearing up to host the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, a sacred pilgrimage to the abode of Lord Shiva, after a five-year hiatus. The yatra will commence with the arrival of the first batch of pilgrims in Gangtok on 15th June, 2025. C.S. Rao, Additional Chief Secretary, Department of Tourism & Civil Aviation, Government of Sikkim, said that Kailash Mansarovar Yatra will commence from Gangtok and proceed to Nathula, before crossing into Chinese territory to reach Kailash and Mansarovar. To ensure a smooth journey, acclimatisation centres have been established between Gangtok and Nathu La. The entire journey is expected to take around 20-21 days to complete.
 
The Yatris are scheduled to report in Delhi on 11th June, 2025, and undergo medical check-ups and obtain the necessary permits and clearances before embarking on the yatra. The yatra will be undertaken by 10 batches of 48 yatris each, accompanied by two liaison officers, cooks, and support staff. The  Government of Sikkim will be ensuring arrangements for the yatris, including a comprehensive pre-yatra program in Gangtok, featuring yoga classes, morning exercise sessions, and meditation programmes.
 
Briefing sessions are to be conducted by the Department of Tourism Development to familiarise the yatris with the route and itinerary. Additionally, officials from the Tourism Department and the India Tourism Office will interact with the yatris and address any queries or concerns they may have.
 
Sikkim government will be making all necessary arrangements for accommodation, food, medical facilities, and emergency services at various locations along the route. The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is an extraordinary adventure that demands meticulous planning and preparation. Mr. Rao said coordination with the army & Indo-Tibetan Border Police is done for comprehensive support and logistics, and the provision of hotlines at key locations to keep families informed.
 
Mr. Rao said, Sikkim’s distinct geography and climate make it an ideal destination for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Despite its modest size, spanning 7096 square kilometres, Sikkim boasts an impressive six vegetation types and a remarkable altitude range of 300 metres to 8586 metres, culminating in Mt. Kanchenjunga. Notably, within a mere 49-kilometre stretch from Gangtok to Nathula, yatris can experience 3-4 distinct vegetation types.
 
Extending a warm welcome to the yatris, Mr. Rao advised them to carry required woollen clothes and regular medicines, while normal medicines will be available; specialised medicines may not be. He further mentioned that the Sikkim government has pledged 100% wholehearted support for the yatris, ensuring their safety and well-being.