Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026 Begins as First Pilgrim Batch Reaches Sikkim

The first batch of pilgrims undertaking the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026 through the Nathu La Pass route arrived in Gangtok on Monday, marking the commencement of one of India's most significant cross-border religious pilgrimages.

According to officials, the group comprises 44 members , including 32 men, 12 women, two liaison officers, and one medical officer . The pilgrims were welcomed by representatives of the Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation and state tourism authorities upon their arrival.

As part of the pilgrimage management protocol, the yatris will undergo a four-day acclimatisation programme in Gangtok to help them adapt to the high-altitude conditions of the Himalayan region. Health monitoring and medical support have been arranged to ensure the safety of participants before they proceed further along the route.

On June 20, the group will travel to Gyangze in Tibet , a key transit point for pilgrims entering the Kailash Mansarovar region through the Nathu La corridor. The route, reopened in recent years after a prolonged suspension, has become an important channel for facilitating religious tourism and people-to-people exchanges between India and China.

The yatra requires extensive coordination among tourism, health, security, and border management agencies. Authorities oversee transportation, accommodation, medical preparedness, and immigration-related procedures to ensure a smooth pilgrimage experience.

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra holds deep spiritual significance for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and followers of the Bon faith. Every year, thousands aspire to undertake the arduous journey to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar, regarded as among the holiest sites in Asia.

Officials said all necessary arrangements have been put in place to ensure the safe and efficient movement of pilgrims through the high-altitude border route.