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**Headline: Kailash Manasarovar Yatra Resumes After Six-Year Hiatus, Pilgrims Depart Via Nathula Pass**
**Gangtok, June 20, 2025** – The Kailash Manasarovar Yatra, a pilgrimage of deep religious and cultural significance for many Indians, officially resumed today after a six-year suspension. The first group of 33 pilgrims, accompanied by two liaison officers, departed from Nathula Pass in Sikkim, marking the beginning of the journey.
Sikkim Governor Om Prakash Mathur inaugurated the yatra at a ceremony held at the Sino-Indian frontier. He credited the Central government’s consistent efforts for the successful reopening of the pilgrimage route. Additional Chief Secretary C.S. Rao, representing the Sikkim government, welcomed the pilgrims and assured them of the state’s commitment to their safety and comfort. He highlighted the coordinated efforts between state departments and paramilitary forces to ensure a smooth passage.
Governor Mathur praised the people of Sikkim for embodying the principle of “Atithi Devo Bhava” (guest is god) by showing respect and hospitality to the pilgrims. He also advised the pilgrims to prioritize their health during the demanding journey.
This year, a total of 750 Indian pilgrims have been selected for the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra. 500 will travel in 10 groups via the Nathula Pass route, while the remaining 250 will journey through the Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand.
First Piper 