Kailash Mansarovar Yatra route via Lipulekh Pass now largely vehicle-based: BRO
Dehradun, July 5
The Border Roads Organisation on Sunday said the route for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lipulekh Pass has been upgraded into a largely vehicle-based corridor following extensive road infrastructure work, improving accessibility for pilgrims and enhancing connectivity in the border region.
In a post on X, BRO said Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami flagged off the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026 on July 5, marking the beginning of this year's pilgrimage.
"Through relentless efforts in one of the world's most challenging terrains, 765 BRTF under Project Hirak @BRO has transformed the pilgrimage route via Lipulekh Pass," the BRO said.
"What was once a demanding trek has now become a vehicle-based journey largely, making the Yatra safer, faster and more accessible while enhancing strategic border connectivity and improving the lives of remote border communities," it added.
According to the organisation, the improved road infrastructure also strengthens strategic border connectivity and contributes to the development of remote border villages by improving access and mobility.
Earlier, Dhami on Sunday flagged off the first batch of pilgrims for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026 from Tanakpur.
Addressing the pilgrims, the Chief Minister said he prayed to Lord Shiva for their safe, smooth and peaceful journey, adding that the yatra is a matter of divine blessing and devotion.
He noted that in a country of 1.4 billion people, only 49 pilgrims have been selected for this rare spiritual journey, calling it a reflection of Lord Shiva's grace.
"I offer my prayers to Lord Shiva for your pleasant, smooth, and safe Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. May Mahadev bless you all. As I said at the beginning, his grace is truly upon you; otherwise, in a nation of 1.4 billion, only 49 people have received this rare opportunity. From the sacred land of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand, flagging off the first group of pilgrims is not just an administrative duty for me, but a chance to bow at the feet of Lord Shiva and remember him through you. It is a moment of great devotion," CM Dhami said.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Impressive infrastructure development, but I hope the pristine environment of the Himalayas is preserved. Vehicle traffic can increase pollution and noise in such a sacred area. Maybe more eco-friendly alternatives like electric shuttles could be considered? 🌿
Sab changa si! Finally the government is doing something concrete for religious tourism in Uttarakhand. Those who've done the trek know how difficult it was... now even my parents can go! 😊👏
Great to see the BRO's Project Hirak doing such work! The strategic importance of this route near the China border cannot be overstated. Both pilgrims and our soldiers will benefit from better connectivity. This is how we develop border areas - through development and devotion combined! 🇮🇳
As someone who's always been fascinated by Indian spirituality, this is fantastic! The fact that only 49 people get this opportunity makes it even more special. I hope the government also considers creating a more inclusive selection process so more devotees can experience this divine journey.
While I appreciate the development, 49 pilgrims from 1.4 billion people seems extremely low. Hope the government expands the yatra capacity now that the route is vehicle-friendly. Many devotees save their whole lives for this pilgrimage. Let's make it more accessible! 🚐🙏
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