New Delhi: In a major breakthrough and headway towards normalising ties, India and China decided to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra this summer and also restart direct flights as the neighbouring countries vowed to rebuild bilateral relations in the coming months following the disengagement of their forces in eastern Ladakh.
The decisions were announced on Monday following comprehensive discussions between Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong in Beijing. The Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage between and India and China was suspended in 2020 following the military standoff in Ladakh.
Additionally, both sides decided to convene an early meeting of the India-China expert-level mechanism to discuss the resumption of hydrological data sharing and further cooperation on trans-border rivers, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
What is Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a spiritual pilgrimage that involves devotees primarily visiting Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar in the Tibet administrative region of China. It holds immense religious, cultural, and spiritual significance, particularly for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and followers of Bon religion.
Mount Kailash, revered as the abode of Lord Shiva in Hinduism, holds immense spiritual significance across various religions. In Tibetan Buddhism, it is considered the centre of the universe, while in Jainism, it is associated with the spiritual leader Rishabhdev and regarded as the place of liberation (Moksha).
In Bon religion, Mount Kailash is sacred as the seat of all spiritual power. The nearby Mansarovar Lake is believed to have been created by Lord Brahma, the Hindu god of creation and is regarded as a source of spiritual purification for those who bathe in its waters, making it a key site of spiritual devotion for millions.
How India and China manage Kailash Mansarovar Yatra logistics
Transportation: Pilgrims travel from Delhi to the Lipulekh Pass through Kathgodam, Dharchula and the Nathu La Pass in Sikkim using a mix of AC and non-AC coaches. Beyond the Lipulekh Pass, the Chinese authorities manage transport and logistics within Tibet, according to the MEA.
The Indian government, through the Ministry of External Affairs, manages the Indian leg, including briefings, medical tests, and transport arrangements. Chinese authorities handle logistics, accommodation, and transport within Tibet after the pilgrims cross the Lipulekh Pass.
Medical tests and documentation: Pilgrims undergo medical tests in India before the journey. Indian authorities complete passport verification and visa formalities before crossing into China.
Facilities and infrastructure: India and China have developed infrastructure like roads, night halts, and camping sites along the route. The Chinese side provides facilities for the Kailash Mansarovar Parikrama and accommodations in Taklakot and other regions.
Safety and support: Indian authorities provide support by Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) in mountain sections, while the Chinese side ensures security within Tibet. Both governments work closely to ensure the safety and well-being of pilgrims.
Communication and batches: Both countries follow a predefined protocol with regular communication channels. The pilgrimage is organised in batches with fixed schedules and stops for efficient resource management.
