India-China Talks Continue on Opening Shipki La Route for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

India Engages China on New Pilgrimage Corridor

India is holding ongoing discussions with China to assess the feasibility of opening an additional access point for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, including the potential use of the Shipki La Pass in Himachal Pradesh. The move reflects efforts to expand connectivity for pilgrims while maintaining coordination with existing operational routes.

Statement Presented in Parliament

Responding to a query in the Lok Sabha, Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh stated that diplomatic engagement with Beijing continues with the objective of improving logistical access for Indian pilgrims. He emphasised that facilitating safer and more convenient routes for the pilgrimage remains a consistent policy priority due to its religious importance across multiple faith traditions.

Current Operational Routes

The pilgrimage resumed regular operations in 2025 between June and August through two established corridors—Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand and Nathu La Pass in Sikkim. The Ministry of External Affairs managed the programme in coordination with state governments and border management agencies, ensuring medical screening, transport, accommodation and security arrangements along the route. The successful conduct of the yatra signalled restoration of normal operations after earlier interruptions caused by the pandemic and border-related constraints.

Proposal Involving Shipki La Pass

India has formally conveyed its interest in utilising Shipki La as an additional transit point. Chinese authorities have indicated that infrastructure limitations and operational challenges currently restrict the opening of new corridors. Despite these constraints, bilateral discussions on expanding route options remain active, with the proposal continuing under review.

Support Framework for Pilgrims

The pilgrimage is conducted on a self-financed model, with the government facilitating logistics such as travel coordination, lodging, food services, medical examinations and trained escorts. Safety measures include close liaison with Chinese agencies and Indian security forces, alongside contingency provisions such as helicopter evacuation within Indian territory to address emergencies at high altitude.

Exam-Focused Points

• Kailash Mansarovar Yatra holds religious significance for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains and Bon practitioners .

• Existing official routes operate via Lipulekh Pass (Uttarakhand) and Nathu La Pass (Sikkim) .

• Shipki La Pass lies in Himachal Pradesh along the India–China frontier.

• The Ministry of External Affairs organises the pilgrimage with assistance from border and state authorities.

• Emergency preparedness includes medical screening and evacuation support during the journey.