Pilgrims Return: First Group Begins Kailash Manasarovar Yatra After Six Years

After a six-year hiatus, the revered Kailash Manasarovar Yatra has seen its first group of 36 pilgrims arrive in Gangtok, Sikkim. They are undergoing acclimatization at the 17 Mile area before their onward journey via the Nathu La pass to Tibet's Shigatse and eventually to Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar.

The group, accompanied by Ministry of External Affairs officials, reached Gangtok on Sunday evening, having traveled from Bagdogra airport in Siliguri. The Tourism Development Corporation warmly welcomed them in Rhenock. This year, a total of 750 Indian pilgrims will partake in the yatra, with 500 travelers heading through the Nathu La route and 250 via the Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand.

The Nathu La-Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a government-to-government initiative, and the Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation will facilitate the entire journey from Gangtok to Mount Kailash and back, ensuring the pilgrims' well-being and smooth progress.

(With inputs from agencies.)