Gangtok: The much-awaited Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026 officially commenced its international leg on Friday as the first batch of pilgrims crossed into China through the strategically important Nathu La Pass in Sikkim.
The inaugural group was flagged off by Om Prakash Mathur, Governor of Sikkim, in the presence of Tshering Thendup Bhutia, the state’s Tourism Minister, marking the beginning of one of the most revered pilgrimages for devotees.
Sikkim Governor flags off Kailash Mansarovar Yatra; First batch of pilgrims crosses into China.#KailashMansarovarYatra #SikkimGovernor #Pilgrimage2026 #HolyYatra #IndiaChinaBorder #KailashYatra pic.twitter.com/iwYKLqhvln
— DD News Assamese (@ddnews_guwahati) June 20, 2026
The first contingent comprises 41 pilgrims, accompanied by two liaison officers, one medical officer, and four support staff, taking the total strength of the group to 47 members.
The #KailashManasarovarYatra2026, organised by the Ministry of External Affairs in coordination with the Government of the People’s Republic of China, departs Indian territory on 20 June. The Embassy team warmly welcomes all pilgrims travelling to the holy Mt Kailash and sacred… pic.twitter.com/cuJmhwzVJq
— India in China (@EOIBeijing) June 19, 2026
According to the official itinerary, the pilgrims are expected to reach Gyangze on the first day of their journey in Tibet. The sacred Mansarovar Parikrama, a key highlight of the pilgrimage, is scheduled to take place on June 27.
The group will undertake the arduous yet spiritually significant journey to the holy Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar, sites revered by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and followers of the Bon faith.
Officials said the first batch is expected to return to Gangtok on July 1, concluding the pilgrimage.
The resumption and smooth conduct of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through the Nathu La route is being viewed as a significant development for pilgrims, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges between India and China.
