GANGTOK, Sikkim, June 20 — The first batch of pilgrims undertaking the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026 crossed into China through the India-China border at Nathu La Pass on Saturday, marking the start of their journey to the sacred Kailash Mansarovar region.
The group was flagged off by Sikkim Governor Om Prakash Mathur in the presence of Tourism Minister Tshering Thendup Bhutia and officials of the Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation (STDC).
The first batch comprises 44 pilgrims, including four liaison officers and one medical officer. The group includes 32 men and 12 women from several states and union territories, including Bihar, Haryana, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Delhi, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Odisha.
Ahead of the pilgrimage, Sikkim Chief Secretary R. Telang reviewed the logistical arrangements, including hospitality services, medical facilities, power and water supply, road conditions, traffic management, network connectivity, customs clearance, and media coordination.
The review was conducted in coordination with senior officials from various departments to ensure the smooth execution of the pilgrimage.
Telang said all pilgrims successfully cleared their final medical examinations before the journey.
“Our responsibilities include providing security cover, medical facilities, and facilitating the crossing of the border,” he told ANI.
He added that the pilgrims come from across the country and range in age from 30 to 70 years.
Speaking to the media, Governor Mathur wished the pilgrims a safe and successful journey and expressed hope that they would share their experiences of Sikkim’s hospitality upon returning home.
Pilgrims praised the arrangements made by government agencies and local authorities.
“It has been a wonderful journey. They have made it very smooth for all of us. I am looking forward to the darshan of Lord Shiva,” one pilgrim said.
Sikkim Tourism Minister Tshering Thendup Bhutia said the pilgrims were filled with enthusiasm and energy as they embarked on the spiritual journey.
The Ministry of External Affairs organizes the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra annually between June and August or September through two routes: Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand and Nathu La Pass in Sikkim.
The pilgrimage is renowned for its religious and cultural significance. Revered by Hindus as the abode of Lord Shiva, it also holds spiritual importance for followers of Jainism and Buddhism.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is open to eligible Indian citizens holding valid Indian passports who wish to undertake the pilgrimage for religious purposes. (ANI)
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