Union Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways Harsh Malhotra on Saturday, 16 May, reviewed the ongoing road development works from Gunji to Lipulekh Pass near the India-China border during his visit to Nabidang in Uttarakhand.
The minister said the sanctioned road project towards Nabidang and Lipulekh is now underway and will significantly improve connectivity in the region.
The review comes ahead of the 2026 Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, which is scheduled to take place between June and August this year.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, 10 batches consisting of 50 yatris each will travel through Uttarakhand via Lipulekh Pass, while another 10 batches of 50 yatris each will travel through Sikkim via Nathu La Pass.
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The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra route through Uttarakhand begins from Pithoragarh and proceeds through Dharchula, Bundi, Gunji, Kali Ganga Udgam Sthal, Nabidang and Lipulekh Pass before reaching the border point.
Beyond Lipulekh lies the sacred Mansarovar Lake, located around 80 Km away.
The Ministry of External Affairs has opened the portal kmy.gov.in for online applications for the yatra.
Applicants can select either one route or both routes with priority preference.
The ministry said yatris will be selected through a computer-generated, random and gender-balanced process. The last date for registration is 19 May 2026.
Malhotra said the ongoing road project reflects the government’s approach of “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi”, aimed at making the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra route more accessible, smoother and convenient while preserving spiritual and cultural heritage.
The Gunji-Nabidang-Lipulekh stretch is strategically important as it lies close to the India-China border and serves as a key access route for pilgrims and local movement in the high-altitude region of Pithoragarh district.
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