Yu Jing, spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in India, welcomed the revival of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra on Friday, describing it as an important step in strengthening cultural and spiritual ties. She announced that China will facilitate the travel of 1,000 Indian pilgrims for the yatra this year. Highlighting its deep religious and cultural importance, she noted that the pilgrimage holds special significance for Hindus, who regard Mount Kailash as the abode of Lord Shiva, as well as for followers of Jainism and Buddhism. Each year, hundreds of devotees undertake this sacred journey.

Yu Jing expressed optimism about the resumption of the pilgrimage to Kangrinboqe Feng and Mapam Yuco in China’s Xizang Autonomous Region in 2026. She said China is pleased to support 1,000 Indian pilgrims this year and hoped the yatra would serve as a symbol of faith, friendship, and stronger people-to-people connections between the two nations.

On April 30, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that the pilgrimage, organized in coordination with the Chinese government, will take place between June and August 2026. According to the MEA, a total of 20 batches will be arranged this year, each consisting of 50 pilgrims. Ten batches will travel via the Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand, while the remaining ten will take the Nathu La Pass route in Sikkim. The official website has been opened for applications, and pilgrims will be selected through a transparent, computerized, random, and gender-balanced process.

The ministry emphasized that the entire application and selection procedure is fully digital. Interested applicants can register online, submit their forms, and track updates through the website, without the need for offline communication. Queries and suggestions can also be shared through the platform.

Applicants have the option to choose one or both routes based on preference. The deadline for registration has been set for May 19, 2026. The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, conducted annually by the MEA between June and August or September, remains one of the most revered pilgrimages for Indian citizens holding valid passports, who undertake the journey for spiritual purposes.