Kailash Mansarovar yatra: Sikkim Guv flags off first batch; ITBP deployed for safety

Sikkim Governor Om Prakash Mathur, on June 20, flagged off the first batch of pilgrims for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2025, marking the resumption of the sacred journey after a five-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
 

Amid risk of weather and transportation hurdles, each batch will be accompanied by two ITBP personnel.

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, Governor Mathur reaffirmed that all necessary arrangements have been made. 

He told reporters, “It is my good fortune that after five years, I got the opportunity to flag off this holy journey. The central government was keen to resume the yatra as soon as possible. This pilgrimage will continue till August, and all devotees should take care of their health.”

Meanwhile, Sikkim Tourism Minister T T Bhutia called the event “historic” and said, “After five years, history is being created as devotees from across India gather here to begin the Mansarovar Yatra. This also helps in promoting Sikkim's Nathu La route and adds value to Sikkim tourism.”

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, considered one of the most sacred pilgrimages in Hinduism, resumes from the Nathu La pass route in Sikkim, offering a shorter and more accessible alternative to the traditional Lipulekh route in Uttarakhand. The second batch of pilgrims is scheduled to depart soon.