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China Welcomes 1,000 Indian Pilgrims for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in 2026

China has announced it will facilitate the travel of 1,000 Indian pilgrims for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in 2026. The pilgrimage, known for its religious significance to Hindus, Jains, and Buddhists, will take place from June to August via two routes: Lipulekh Pass and Nathu La Pass. Applications are open on kmy.gov.in until May 19, 2026, with a computerized selection process ensuring fairness. Chinese Embassy spokesperson Yu Jing welcomed the resumption, calling it a bridge of faith and friendship between the two civilizations.

Key Points: China to Facilitate 1,000 Indian Pilgrims for Kailash Yatra

  • China facilitates 1,000 Indian pilgrims for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
  • Yatra resumes in 2026 via Lipulekh and Nathu La Passes
  • Applications open on kmy.gov.in until May 19, 2026
  • Computerized selection process ensures fair, gender-balanced selection
3 min read

China to facilitate travel of 1,000 Indian pilgrims for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

China announces resumption of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra for 1,000 Indian pilgrims in 2026. Applications open via kmy.gov.in for June-August journey.

"May this Yatra become a bridge of faith, friendship, and people-to-people bonds between our two great civilizations - Yu Jing"

New Delhi, May 1

Spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy in India, Yu Jing on Friday hailed the resumption of the the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra pilgrimage.

Yu said that China would facilitate the travel for 1,000 Indian pilgrims this year. Kailash Manasarovar Yatra is known for its religious value and cultural significance. 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 Jains and Buddhists.

In a post on X, she said, "Welcome the resumption of the pilgrimage for Indian friends to Kangrinboqe Feng and Mapam Yuco (Kailash Manasarovar Yatra) in Xizang Autonomous Region of China 2026! We are pleased to facilitate 1,000 Indian pilgrims this year. May this Yatra become a bridge of faith, friendship, and people-to-people bonds between our two great civilizations," she said in a post on X.

Earlier on April 30, the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement that the Yatra organised by the Ministry of External Affairs in coordination with the Government of China is set to take place during June to August 2026.

"This year, 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. The website kmy.gov.in has been opened for acceptance of applications. The Yatris will be selected from among applicants through a fair, computer-generated, random and gender-balanced selection process," the MEA said.

The MEA said that the selection of yatris and application is a computerized process, wherein those who are interested may apply online.

"The entire process for KMY commencing from on-line application till selection of Yatris is a fully computerized process. Interested applicants may login by registering on the site and submit their applications online. Applicants do not need to send letters or fax to seek information. The feedback options on the website can be used for obtaining information, registering observations or making suggestions for improvement of the yatra."

"Applicants can either select both routes indicating priority or select only one route. Last date for registration is 19 May 2026," the statement concluded.

Ministry of External Affairs organizes Kailash Manasarovar Yatra during June to August/September each year through two different routes - Lipulekh Pass (Uttarakhand), and Nathu La Pass (Sikkim). Kailash Manasarovar Yatra (KMY) is known for its religious value and cultural significance. 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 the Buddhists.

The KMY is open to eligible Indian citizens, holding valid Indian passports, who wish to proceed to Kailash-Manasarovar for religious purposes.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Finally, some good news amidst all the tensions! 😊 The Lipulekh and Nathu La routes are both challenging but rewarding. Having a computerized selection process ensures fairness, which is a big relief. I wonder if they'll provide any health support given the high altitude. Anyway, a big win for faith and cultural connections.
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Vikram M
I appreciate the diplomatic gesture, but let's not forget the bigger picture. China often uses such religious tourism as a soft power tool while ignoring human rights issues in Tibet. While facilitating the yatra is good, we must stay vigilant about China's broader intentions. Still, for the devotees, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
S
Sneha F
This is beautiful! 🤍 Faith knows no borders. I've heard the Mansarovar lake is crystal clear and the mountain is breathtaking. The MEA and Chinese coordination seems efficient this time with online applications. I hope the yatris have a safe journey and come back with amazing memories. Jai Bholenath! 🚩
R
Ravi K
I'm a bit skeptical about the timing. Why now? China is trying to project a friendly image amidst border tensions. But if genuine, good. However, the yatra should not be used for political point-scoring. Let the pilgrims have their spiritual journey without any geopolitical baggage. Also, ensure the safety of our citizens on Chinese soil.
A
Ananya R
Such a wonderful opportunity for spiritual seekers! 🕉️ The fact that both routes are being used is great—Nathu La is easier, while Lipulekh

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