The long wait for Shiva devotees is finally over. After approximately 6 years, the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra resumes today (June 30). It was initially halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic followed by tensions at the Galwan Valley between India and China. However, this year, with improved relations, devotees have been granted permission once more. This pilgrimage leads to the revered Kailash Mansarovar located in China's Tibet Autonomous Region.
Legend has it that Mansarovar was created from the mind of Brahma, and it is from this lake that major rivers like the Sarayu, Sutlej, Indus, and Brahmaputra originate. Situated at an altitude of approximately 15,100 feet, this freshwater lake has its main source at Kailash. Here are some essential details about this journey.
Organized by the Ministry of External Affairs, the Kailash Yatra is conducted every year from June to September along two distinct routes. The first route traverses through the Lipulekh Pass (Uttarakhand) while the second passes through Nathu La (Sikkim). Pilgrims must choose one path. Known for its spiritual and cultural significance, the trek holds immense importance for Hindus as the abode of Lord Shiva, as well as for Jains and Buddhists for its sacredness.
Route 1
Lipulekh Pass (Uttarakhand)
Total batches: 5
Duration: Approximately 22 days
Estimated cost per person: INR 1.74 lakh
Source: aajtak
Route 2
Nathu La (Sikkim)
Total batches: 10
Duration: Approximately 21 days
Cost per person: INR 2.83 lakh
Source: aajtak
Eligibility
Applicants must possess a valid Indian passport valid for at least 6 months.
Age must be between 18 and 70 years as of January 1 of the current year.
Body Mass Index (BMI) should be 25 or below.
Applicants should be physically fit and medically qualified.
Foreign nationals are not eligible to apply.
Required Documents for Online Application
Scanned copy of passport-size photograph
Scanned copy of the passport
Selection Process
A fair computerized draw system selects the applicants post-application.
Successful applicants will be notified via their registered email ID or mobile number.
Important Documents Post-Selection
Chosen pilgrims must carry certain documents when arriving in Delhi for the journey.
Indian passport
6 passport-size photographs
Indemnity bond, non-judicial stamp paper of INR 100 or as applicable locally, certified by a First-Class Magistrate or Notary Public
Undertaking for emergency helicopter evacuation
Consent letter for cremation in case of an unfortunate event in Chinese territory
Aspiring pilgrims can apply at http://kmy.gov.in. The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a challenging pilgrimage, where devotees perform 'Kailash Parikrama' or 'Circumambulation', taking nearly three days. It is a test of endurance and respect for Lord Shiva's power. The journey is extremely challenging, with high altitudes and weather conditions often posing difficulties for the pilgrims.
