First batch of Kailash Mansarovar pilgrims to begin journey from Gangtok

The first batch of Kailash Mansarovar pilgrims for this year will begin their onward journey from Sikkim capital Gangtok today.

The Yatra was flagged from New Delhi yesterday. This group of fifty pilgrims will continue its onward Journey in a bus through Nathula pass at height of about 14 thousand and reach China border on June 20.

The entire journey till Mansarovar is expected to be completed in 19 days.

As per reports, the state administration has made extensive arrangements on way to Nathula for weather acclimatization as most pilgrims on board are senior citizens.

The Mansarovar yatri after spending two nights each at 15th Mile and Sherethang area will reach Nathula in four days.

All together about 350 pilgrims will make their journey in seven batches this year.

The Chinese authority will take travel and other responsibility of these pilgrims soon after they cross Nathula border on June 20.

It may be recalled that this Mansarovar route via Nathula opened since last year for the pilgrims is in addition to the existing Lipulekh pass in Uttarakhand.

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra (KMY) is known for its religious value, cultural significance, physical beauty and thrilling nature.

It is undertaken by hundreds of people every year. Holding significance for Hindus as the abode of Lord Shiva, it holds religious importance also for the Jains and the Buddhists.

The Kailash Manasarovar Yatra has been recognised by the Indian Mountaineering Foundation as a trekking expedition.