Sikkim Governor Om Prakash Mathur on Friday flagged off the first batch of pilgrims for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2025 from the Nathula border point in East Sikkim, marking the pilgrimage’s resumption after a five-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Addressing the gathering, Governor Mathur expressed gratitude for being part of the historic moment and assured that all logistical, medical, and safety arrangements have been made. “It is my good fortune to flag off this holy journey after five years. The Central Government was determined to restart the yatra at the earliest,” he said, urging pilgrims to prioritize their health during the high-altitude expedition. The flag-off ceremony was also attended by Sikkim’s Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister T.T. Bhutia, who welcomed the yatris warmly. “This is a significant moment for Sikkim and for all pilgrims across the country. After years of pause, the yatra resumes from Nathula Gate today. It’s a dream come true for many,” he said.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, regarded as one of the holiest pilgrimages in Hinduism, involves a journey to Mount Kailash and Mansarovar Lake in Tibet, believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva. The Nathula route, known for being more accessible and less physically taxing than the Lipulekh route in Uttarakhand, has long been favored by elderly pilgrims. In view of challenging weather and terrain, two personnel from the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) have been assigned to accompany each batch of pilgrims for safety and guidance. A liaison officer has also been designated to oversee arrangements and ensure smooth coordination between the Sikkim and Central authorities. The officer accompanying the group praised the arrangements made at Gangtok, 17 Mile, and Siratha, saying the Sikkim government had gone “above and beyond” in ensuring comfort for pilgrims. “From food and accommodation to transportation and warm clothing, everything has been taken care of. We’re entering the Tibetan side with high hopes and spirits,” he said.
The medical preparedness has also been lauded. Each batch is equipped with essential medicines and supported by a medical professional. “We have a doctor accompanying us, and several yatris are themselves medical professionals,” the liaison officer added. Pilgrims, many undertaking the sacred journey for the first time, were visibly emotional. One pilgrim shared, “We are going for our spiritual liberation. This journey is not about expectations, it’s about devotion. We’re grateful to the Government of India and the Sikkim administration for their support.”Another yatri, who began his journey from Delhi on June 11, said, “I have prepared myself spiritually more than physically. We are going to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings at Kailash Mansarovar and bring back peace and prosperity for our country.”