Kailash Mansarovar Yatra from Lipulekh Pass (New Route to Kailash)

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Kailash Mansarovar Yatra from Lipulekh Pass (New Route to Kailash)

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra from Lipulekh Pass (New Route to Kailash)

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra from Lipulekh Pass (New Route to Kailash)

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lipulekh Pass is one of the most revered and spiritually significant pilgrimages for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and followers of the Bon religion. The new route through Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand offers a direct and scenic journey to Mount Kailash and Mansarovar Lake, passing through the remote and breathtaking landscapes of the Indian and Tibetan Himalayas. Managed by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India, this route is an alternative to the older routes through Nepal and China, providing better accessibility and an enriching cultural experience.

Significance of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

The sacred Mount Kailash (6638 m) is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva, and Mansarovar Lake is considered a divine water body where taking a holy dip is said to cleanse sins and grant salvation. The pilgrimage holds deep religious importance as it is associated with numerous Hindu scriptures, and it is also revered by Buddhists, Jains, and Bon practitioners. The journey includes the Kora (parikrama) of Mount Kailash, a challenging yet spiritually rewarding trek covering around 52 km over three days.

Overview of the New Route via Lipulekh Pass

The new route to Kailash Mansarovar via Lipulekh Pass begins from Dharchula, Uttarakhand, and passes through key locations such as Gunji, Nabi, Kalapani, and Navidhang, before reaching Lipulekh Pass (5334 m) on the India-Tibet border. After crossing into Tibet, pilgrims proceed to Taklakot (Burang) in China before heading towards Lake Mansarovar and Mount Kailash.

Key Highlights of the Journey

  • Journey through Uttarakhand’s pristine landscapes: Passing through the scenic Darma Valley, Kali River, and high-altitude villages.
  • Lipulekh Pass crossing: A historic pass used for ancient trade and pilgrimage routes.
  • Taklakot (Burang, Tibet): Acclimatization and preparation before proceeding to Mansarovar.
  • Holy Dip in Mansarovar Lake: Pilgrims perform religious rituals and puja at the sacred lake.
  • Mount Kailash Parikrama: A 3-day circumambulation of the divine mountain.

Detailed Itinerary of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lipulekh Pass

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lipulekh Pass is a spiritually enriching and physically demanding journey that unfolds over approximately 13 days, beginning from Delhi with medical checkups and orientation. Pilgrims then travel to Dharchula in Uttarakhand, followed by acclimatization halts at Gunji and Navidhang, offering mesmerizing views of Om Parvat. The trek to Lipulekh Pass (5334 m) marks the entry into Tibet, where pilgrims proceed to Taklakot (Burang) for further acclimatization. The sacred journey continues to Mansarovar Lake, where devotees perform holy rituals before heading to Darchen, the base camp for Mount Kailash Parikrama. Over three days, pilgrims undertake the 52 km parikrama, crossing the challenging Dolma La Pass (5630 m) and visiting Dirapuk and Zuthulpuk Monasteries, experiencing profound spiritual energy. After completing the pilgrimage, the return journey retraces the route via Lipulekh Pass, bringing pilgrims back to India with a sense of divine fulfillment.

Day 1: Arrival in Delhi

Pilgrims arrive in Delhi, where they undergo medical examinations and orientation programs organized by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

Day 2: Delhi to Dharchula

Fly or drive to Pithoragarh, followed by a journey to Dharchula (900 m), a town on the banks of the Kali River, which serves as the last major settlement before entering the restricted border zone.

Day 3: Dharchula to Gunji (3200 m)

Pilgrims proceed to Gunji, a high-altitude settlement where further medical tests for acclimatization are conducted.

Day 4: Gunji to Navidhang (4300 m)

Travel to Navidhang, offering breathtaking views of Om Parvat, a naturally formed snow pattern that resembles the sacred 'Om' symbol.

Day 5: Navidhang to Lipulekh Pass (5334 m) – Enter Tibet – Taklakot (Burang, 4755 m)

Early morning trek to Lipulekh Pass, the gateway to Tibet. After completing immigration formalities, pilgrims continue to Taklakot (Burang) for rest and acclimatization.

Day 6: Acclimatization at Taklakot

Pilgrims spend the day resting and preparing for the high-altitude journey ahead.

Day 7: Taklakot to Lake Mansarovar (4590 m)

Drive to the sacred Mansarovar Lake, where pilgrims take a holy dip, perform puja, and soak in the spiritual energy of the divine surroundings.

Day 8: Lake Mansarovar to Darchen (4575 m)

Proceed to Darchen, the base camp for Mount Kailash Parikrama.

Day 9: Kailash Parikrama (Dirapuk - 4900 m)

The parikrama (circumambulation) of Mount Kailash begins with a trek to Dirapuk Monastery, offering a majestic view of the North Face of Kailash.

Day 10: Dirapuk to Dolma La Pass (5630 m) – Zuthulpuk (4760 m)

The most challenging segment of the Kora crosses Dolma La Pass, the highest point of the trek, before descending towards Zuthulpuk Monastery.

Day 11: Zuthulpuk to Darchen – Return to Taklakot

Complete the Kailash Parikrama and drive back to Taklakot.

Day 12: Return via Lipulekh Pass to India

After immigration clearance, trek back to Lipulekh Pass, then travel to Navidhang – Gunji – Dharchula.

Day 13: Dharchula to Pithoragarh – Delhi

Return to Pithoragarh, followed by a flight to Delhi, marking the end of the pilgrimage.

Challenges and Considerations

  • High Altitude Sickness (AMS): The yatra involves traveling above 5000 meters, requiring proper acclimatization.
  • Physical Fitness: The journey includes long treks, requiring good endurance and physical fitness.
  • Weather Conditions: Sudden changes in temperature and unpredictable weather can pose challenges.
  • Permit and Visa Process: As the route involves crossing into China, pilgrims must obtain special permits and visas.

Best Time for the Yatra

The yatra is conducted from June to September, as these months provide the most favorable weather conditions for high-altitude travel.

Why Choose the Lipulekh Pass Route?

  1. Shortest Route from India: Compared to the Nepal and Sikkim routes, this is the most direct way to reach Mount Kailash.
  2. Scenic and Culturally Rich Journey: Experience the beauty of Kumaon Himalayas and witness the Om Parvat.
  3. Government-Organized and Secure: Managed by MEA, India, ensuring safety and proper medical assistance.
  4. Authentic Spiritual Experience: Walking in the footsteps of ancient pilgrims, experiencing divine energy at Mount Kailash.

Conclusion

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lipulekh Pass offers a life-changing spiritual journey through some of the most sacred and breathtaking landscapes on Earth. Whether seeking divine blessings, spiritual enlightenment, or an adventure in the Himalayas, this pilgrimage remains one of the most profound and revered experiences for devotees worldwide.

Special Note: As of now, we do not have any official updates from the Tibet government regarding the entry of Indian pilgrims via Lipulekh Pass or any other route for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Due to this uncertainty, we are currently not accepting any bookings for the yatra. However, our Adi Kailash and Om Parvat tour packages are open for booking, offering a spiritually enriching journey to these sacred Himalayan destinations. For more details or to plan your pilgrimage, feel free to contact us.