Desk: The long wait of five years for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is finally coming to an end. Suspended since 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the spiritual pilgrimage is set to resume this year, starting from 30th June 2025. The journey will be organized by the Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam (KMVN).
This year, the pilgrimage will be conducted via the Lipulekh Pass route in Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand. A total of five groups, each comprising 50 pilgrims, will undertake the yatra.
The decision was finalized during a meeting held in New Delhi on Monday involving representatives from the Ministry of External Affairs, KMVN, Sikkim Tourism, and officials from China. KMVN officials assured that all necessary preparations will be completed by June.
The meeting was also attended by officials from the Indian Army, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), and health experts. According to KMVN officials, the Chinese representatives proposed that the yatra should begin in July instead of June, a proposal that was agreed upon.
This year, special arrangements are being made for the accommodation of pilgrims along the route. KMVN aims to ensure a safe and comfortable journey, with special lodging facilities at Tanakpur, Darchula, and Nabhidhang for those coming from Delhi.
Additionally, custom diet plans will be prepared for people of different age groups, focusing on providing nutritious and easy-to-digest meals that offer sustained energy during the high-altitude journey. Experts will be consulted to create a diet suitable for such challenging terrains.
KMVN Managing Director Vineet Tomar stated that every effort is being made to cater to the food and accommodation needs of pilgrims from all walks of life. KMVN guest houses along the route will be upgraded to host the yatris.
KMVN to Oversee Preparations First-Hand
Teams from KMVN will personally inspect the yatra route by June to ensure everything is in place. Work will be expedited in areas where facilities need improvement.
Local and Traditional Food in the Diet Plan
Special emphasis will be placed on the dietary needs of senior citizens, youth, and women. Traditional Kumaoni and local border-region cuisines will be included in the menu after consultation with nutrition experts to ensure suitability for high-altitude conditions.