Pilgrims Witness Sacred Mount Kailash from Old Lipulekh Pass in Historic First

The first batch of five pilgrims arrived to view Mount Kailash from the old Lipulekh pass in a new pilot project. This initiative, organized by the tourism department, comprises helicopter trips and trekking. The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra was previously suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a historic first, a batch of five pilgrims has successfully arrived to view the sacred peak of Mount Kailash from the old Lipulekh pass. The unprecedented opportunity comes as part of a pilot project initiated by the tourism department.

The pilgrims embarked on their journey from Naini Saini Airport, where they were flown by helicopter to Gunji camp. They then trekked to the old Lipulekh pass, situated at an altitude of 17,500 feet, according to District Tourist Officer, Kriti Chandra Arya.

Mount Kailash, located in Tibet, has traditionally attracted pilgrims from India. However, the Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra was suspended following the COVID-19 pandemic. This new route enables pilgrims to undertake the sacred journey from within Indian territory. Fifteen more pilgrims are scheduled to make the trek over the coming days, with all logistical arrangements handled by the Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam.

(With inputs from agencies.)