Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026: First Batch of Pilgrims Depart from Nathu La Pass

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026 Begins

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026: The inaugural group of the sacred pilgrimage for followers of Sanatan Dharma has commenced its journey through the Nathu La route into the Tibet Autonomous Region. This group consists of 41 pilgrims, who were enthusiastically sent off by Governor Om Prakash Mathur, amidst chants of 'Bam Bam'. The contingent includes 44 individuals, comprising three doctors and two liaison officers, with a demographic of 32 men and 12 women. Pilgrims hail from various regions across India, primarily from Delhi, Haryana, and Maharashtra, along with participants from Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Karnataka, and other states.

The ages of the pilgrims range from 30 to 70 years. They began their journey on June 11 from New Delhi and reached Gangtok by June 15. Starting June 16, they have been acclimatizing at the Hangu Lake Acclimatization Center, located near Nathu La, in preparation for this high-altitude pilgrimage.

This year, a total of 500 pilgrims will undertake the journey via the Nathu La route, organized into ten groups of 50 each. The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra holds immense spiritual significance for Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains alike.

Mount Kailash is revered as the abode of Lord Shiva, while Lake Manasarovar is regarded as one of the holiest lakes in the world.