INDIA, June 20, 2025 (India Today): 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. The first batch of yatris (pilgrims) was flagged off today from the Indo-China border point at Nathula in East Sikkim, marking a historic moment for everyone present. 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.”
The arrangements made for the yatra have been widely praised by the pilgrims and officials alike. A liaison officer who is accompanying the group expressed his satisfaction with the preparations made by both the Sikkim government and the Uttar Pradesh government. “We had excellent arrangements made for us in Gangtok, 17 Mile, and Siratha. The government of Sikkim really took care of everything, and we are very happy and satisfied. Now that we are crossing over to the other side, we believe that the yatra is truly starting. The yatris are very, very excited,” the liaison officer said. He also emphasized the seriousness of his responsibility. “It is a big responsibility. There are yatris of different age groups—from 21 to people who are approaching 70. I am briefing them on clothing, movement in high altitudes, and general precautions. Everyone is well-equipped with warm clothing like body warmers, jackets, shoes, socks, and headgear. We are hopeful that all yatris will complete the yatra successfully.”
More at source.
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HPI note: these routes from India are only for Indian citizens. Other nationalities (as well as Indians) can go via Nepal (using Nepalese tour operators) or Lhasa (using Chinese tour operators).