ndia to Resume Kailash Manasarovar Yatra in 2025: Everything You Need to Know

The Government of India has officially announced the resumption of the revered Kailash Manasarovar Yatra in 2025. After a five-year pause due to geopolitical tensions and the COVID-19 pandemic, Indian pilgrims will once again have the opportunity to travel to the sacred peaks of Mount Kailash and the tranquil waters of Lake Manasarovar in Tibet. The journey, deeply spiritual for both Hindus and Buddhists, is now set to begin between June and August 2025.

This long-awaited announcement has generated enthusiasm among spiritual seekers, scholars, and cross-border trade communities. It also marks a key moment in the normalization of India-China diplomatic relations.

Let’s take a closer look at the complete details of the 2025 Kailash Manasarovar pilgrimage, the routes, costs, registration process, and its greater geopolitical and spiritual significance.

Historical and Religious Significance of the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra

Mount Kailash, rising 6,638 meters above sea level in the Trans-Himalayas, is considered one of the holiest mountains in the world. In Hinduism, it is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva and Parvati. In Buddhism, it is associated with Demchok (Chakrasamvara), a wrathful manifestation of Buddha, and is regarded as the axis mundi — the center of the universe.

Similarly, Lake Manasarovar, located at the base of Mount Kailash, is one of the world’s highest freshwater lakes and holds immense religious significance. Pilgrims believe that bathing in its waters cleanses sins and brings spiritual merit.

For centuries, the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra has been a once-in-a-lifetime journey undertaken by saints, monks, and lay pilgrims, often under challenging physical conditions and high altitudes.

2025 Resumption: Official Announcement by the Indian Government

On April 26, 2025, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) released an official notice confirming the resumption of the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra. The government will organize two separate pilgrimage routes between June and August 2025:

1. Nathu La Pass Route (via Sikkim)
2. Lipulekh Pass Route (via Uttarakhand)

Each route will cater to different batches of Indian pilgrims, totaling 15 groups, with each group consisting of 50 people.

Route Details for Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2025

1. Nathu La Pass Route (Sikkim)

• Batches: 10
• Duration: 21 days
• Group Size: 50 pilgrims per batch
• Cost: ₹283,000 per person
• Route Advantage: This route is suitable for those who prefer a motorable journey, with less trekking involved.
• Region Covered: Gangtok → Nathu La → Yadong → Shigatse → Saga → Darchen → Mount Kailash & Lake Manasarovar

2. Lipulekh Pass Route (Uttarakhand)

• Batches: 5
• Duration: 22 days
• Group Size: 50 pilgrims per batch
• Cost: ₹174,000 per person
• Route Advantage: Traditional trekking route; more physically challenging but popular for its spiritual ambience.
• Region Covered: Delhi → Almora → Dharchula → Gunji → Lipulekh → Taklakot → Mount Kailash & Lake Manasarovar

How to Apply for the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2025

Applications must be submitted through the official Kailash Manasarovar Yatra portal managed by the Ministry of External Affairs. Here are the key steps:

1. Online Registration:
   • Visit the MEA Yatra portal.
   • Submit your personal and passport details.
   • Upload a scanned copy of your passport (valid for at least 6 months).
2. Selection Process:
   • Pilgrims will be selected through a computer-generated random draw.
   • Applicants must be Indian citizens, aged between 18 to 70 years, and physically fit.
3. Application Deadline:
   • The final date to apply for the 2025 Yatra is May 13, 2025.
4. Medical Fitness:
   • Applicants must undergo medical tests at designated centers.
   • A physical endurance test (like a treadmill test) is mandatory for high-altitude clearance.

Border Permit & Travel Requirements for Entering Tibet

Since Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar are located in China’s Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR), special permits are required to enter the region. These include:

• Tibet Travel Permit (TTP): Required for all foreigners visiting TAR.
• Chinese Visa: Arranged in coordination with authorized travel operators.
• Border Defense Permit: Since Kailash is near the border, additional documentation is needed.

According to the Tibet Culture and Tourism Department, the Kailash-Manasarovar scenic area officially opened for 2025 travel on April 25. Tourists are reminded that this region is a border-sensitive zone, and permits must be acquired before travel.

Ideal Time to Visit Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar

While the pilgrimage season is officially from June to August, the best time to trek around Mount Kailash is from July to September. During these months:

• The weather is relatively stable.
• Snow melts from the mountain paths, making trekking easier.
• Scenic beauty is at its peak with clear skies, making for a spiritually immersive and visually stunning experience.

India-China Diplomacy and the Return of the Yatra

A Turning Point in Bilateral Relations

According to The Indian Express, the resumption of the Kailash Yatra reflects a major step forward in India-China diplomatic normalization. Tensions that began with the 2020 border clashes have gradually de-escalated.

In January 2025, India’s Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra visited China, where the two sides held high-level talks on confidence-building measures and cross-border engagements. One of the key agreements was to revive the long-standing tradition of the Kailash Manasarovar pilgrimage.

This pilgrimage is now seen as a symbol of trust and cultural diplomacy between the two Asian powers.

Economic and Cultural Benefits of the Pilgrimage Route

According to India Today, reopening the pilgrimage routes will have a positive economic impact, especially in the Indian states of Sikkim and Uttarakhand, and towns like Pithoragarh, Almora, and Gangtok.

• Boost in Local Tourism: Hotels, homestays, guides, and transport services are likely to benefit from the influx of pilgrims.
• Revival of Border Trade: The reopening of Nathu La Pass after five years rekindles cross-border business hopes.
• Employment Generation: Local youth may find seasonal work as porters, cooks, and logistics coordinators.

As reported by ETVBharat, the pilgrimage’s revival is not merely an economic opportunity but also a cultural reawakening. Pilgrims feel spiritually elevated, and local communities feel empowered.

Voices from the Indian Strategic Community

Pandya, the CEO of the Usanas Foundation, emphasized that the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra’s revival demonstrates the historical friendship between India and China. He remarked:

“This pilgrimage is rooted in our shared civilizational heritage. Reopening it reflects mutual trust and spiritual diplomacy.”

Indian scholar Youmi added:

“While the pilgrimage may not yield massive economic returns, it helps reduce hostility and builds empathy between the two nations’ peoples.”

Travel Tips for Pilgrims: What to Expect and How to Prepare

If you’re planning to undertake the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra in 2025, here are some important tips:

Physical Fitness

• Begin training at least 2–3 months prior.
• Include cardio, yoga, and altitude training exercises.

Essential Packing List

• Thermal clothes and windproof jackets
• Sturdy trekking shoes
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, and lip balm
• First aid kit and prescribed medications
• Portable oxygen cans for emergencies
• High-energy snacks, dry fruits, and water purification tablets

Acclimatization

• Allow time for altitude adjustment in Gangtok or Dharchula.
• Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol or smoking.

Environmental Responsibility During the Pilgrimage

Due to the fragile Himalayan ecosystem, authorities urge pilgrims to follow eco-friendly practices:

• Avoid plastic and carry reusable water bottles.
• Do not litter along the sacred kora (circuit) of Mount Kailash.
• Respect wildlife and natural surroundings.
• Follow designated trekking paths and safety instructions.

Spiritual Experience: The Kailash Kora

One of the most sacred aspects of the pilgrimage is the Kora — the 52-kilometer circumambulation around Mount Kailash. Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon practitioners perform this ritual to cleanse past karma and attain spiritual liberation.

• Darchen is the starting point of the Kora.
• Most pilgrims take 2 to 3 days to complete it.
• Key spots include Dirapuk Monastery, Dolma La Pass (5,630 m), and Zuthulpuk Monastery.

Completing the Kora even once is considered a divine accomplishment, while 108 circumambulations are said to lead to nirvana.

Conclusion: A Sacred Journey Returns in 2025

The return of the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra in 2025 is not just a travel announcement — it’s a profound spiritual and geopolitical milestone. It reflects centuries of shared culture, rising goodwill between India and China, and a renewed opportunity for pilgrims to experience the divine energy of Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar.

Whether you’re a devout Hindu, a practicing Buddhist, a spiritual seeker, or simply an adventurer, this once-in-a-lifetime journey in 2025 will be unforgettable.

FAQs: Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2025

1. Is the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra open in 2025?
Yes, the Indian government has officially announced its resumption from June to August 2025.

2. How can I apply for the Yatra?
Apply through the official MEA Yatra portal before May 13, 2025.

3. Which is the better route — Nathu La or Lipulekh?
Nathu La is motorable and less physically demanding. Lipulekh involves trekking and is more traditional.

4. Do I need a visa or permit to enter Tibet?
Yes, a Chinese visa, Tibet Travel Permit, and border defense permit are required.

5. What’s the best time to go?
July to September is ideal for weather and trekking conditions.