Sikkim’s Nathu La Pass Undergoes Infrastructure Upgrade Ahead of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
Why in News?
- The Sikkim government has accelerated infrastructure development at Nathu La Pass in preparation for the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in June 2025, following a five-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic and India-China border tensions.
Important Key Points:
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Infrastructure Enhancements:
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Acclimatisation Centres: Two centres are being established between Gangtok and Nathu La to assist pilgrims in adjusting to high-altitude conditions.
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Sanitation Facilities: Functional toilets and other travel-related infrastructure are being developed to improve the pilgrimage experience.
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Route Improvements: The Nathu La route offers good road connectivity, providing a safer and more comfortable journey for pilgrims.
Yatra Details:
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Resumption Period: The pilgrimage is scheduled to take place from June to August 2025.
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Routes: Pilgrims can undertake the journey via two routes: Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand and Nathu La Pass in Sikkim.
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Batch Allocation: Ten batches of 50 pilgrims each will travel through Nathu La Pass, while five batches of 50 pilgrims each will proceed via Lipulekh Pass.
India-China Relations:
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The resumption of the Yatra follows the disengagement of troops at Demchok and Depsang, and diplomatic talks between Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Chinese counterpart Sun Weidong in January 2025.
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