The first batch of pilgrims undertaking the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026 arrived in Gangtok on Monday, June 15, ahead of their onward journey to Kailash Mansarovar via the Nathu La Pass, scheduled for June 20.
The group was formally welcomed at a local hotel by the Chairman of the Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation (STDC), Lukendra Rasaily, and Deputy General Manager Amit Kapil Chettri. Officials of the STDC and personnel from the Indo-Tibetan Border Police were also present during the reception.
This first batch comprises 44 pilgrims, including two Liaison Officers and one Medical Officer. The group includes 32 male and 12 female pilgrims representing several states across India, including Bihar, Haryana, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Delhi, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Odisha.
As part of the pre-travel arrangements, the pilgrims will undergo a four-day acclimatisation programme in Gangtok, 15th Mile, and Sherathang. The programme is designed to help them adjust to high-altitude conditions before proceeding further along the pilgrimage route.
After completing the acclimatisation process, the group is scheduled to continue its journey on June 20 via Gyangze in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China, a key transit point for pilgrims travelling to Kailash Mansarovar through the Nathu La route.
Authorities have stated that all necessary arrangements have been made to ensure a safe and smooth pilgrimage experience for the participants undertaking this spiritually significant journey.
