The Nepal government has expressed worries to both India and China regarding the utilization of the disputed Lipulekh Pass for Indian tourists’ pilgrimage to Kailash Mansarovar. Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs conveyed its stance to both nations through diplomatic channels concerning the proposed pilgrimage route via Lipulekh. China’s recent announcement to facilitate 1,000 Indian pilgrims for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in 2026 has sparked bilateral cooperation and religious exchange.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs confirmed the pilgrimage plan through two routes, including Lipulekh Pass and Sikkim’s Nathu La Pass, with 10 batches of 50 pilgrims each. The sacred Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, significant for Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains, is scheduled between June and August 2026. Nepal has persistently claimed the Lipulekh Pass territory, asserting that decisions on its use cannot be made without its consent.
Nepal incorporated Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh, and Kalapani into its official map in 2020, based on the 1816 Treaty of Sugauli. Despite Nepal’s claims, India has maintained control over these areas. The ongoing border dispute has strained Nepal-India relations, with Nepal emphasizing that the disputed territories are integral parts of Nepal. Nepal has urged India to refrain from activities in the area and remains committed to resolving border issues diplomatically.
