The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra will take place between June and August 2026. Organised by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in coordination with the Government
of China, the Yatra this year will be via two routes according to the MEA: Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand and Nathu La in Sikkim. It is often said that one does not choose to travel to Mount Kailash, but rather that Mount Kailash chooses those who are meant to go. The mountain is sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists. In Hinduism, it is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva. According to tradition, anyone who takes a dip in Lake Mansarovar is absolved of all past sins. For Buddhists, Mount Kailash is known as Mount Meru and is regarded as one of the most important pilgrimage sites. A website for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by the MEA has been opened. It states: “It is undertaken by hundreds of people every year. Being significant to Hindus as the abode of Lord Shiva, it holds religious importance also for the Jains and Buddhists. The KMY is open to eligible Indian citizens holding valid Indian passports who wish to proceed to Kailash-Manasarovar for religious purposes.” The MEA also said in a statement that “10 batches, each consisting of 50 yatris, are scheduled to travel through Uttarakhand state crossing over at Lipulekh Pass and another 10 batches, each consisting of 50 yatris, through Sikkim state crossing over at Nathu La Pass.” Details according to the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra website mention that the estimated cost per person via the Lipulekh Pass route (Uttarakhand) will be ₹2.09 lakh. The cost per person via the Nathu La route (Sikkim) will be ₹3.31 lakh. Applications for the Yatra can be submitted through the website, and selected applicants will be informed via automated messages to their registered email ID or mobile number following a computerised draw of lots. Status updates may also be accessed through the helpline 011-23088214. Registrations are open and can be made through kmy.gov.in.
