PITHORAGARH:
Due to unfavorable weather conditions along the route, the fourth group of pilgrims traveling from Kailash to Mansarovar was halted at Dharchula in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand. Because of the severe danger of landslides and heavy rainfall in the area, the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and the district administration made the decision to prevent the group's movement for their own safety.
38 pilgrims in all, making up the fourth group under the Ministry of External Affairs organised Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra, were expected to travel through the Lipulekh Pass in the direction of the higher reaches. However, authorities have temporarily halted travel beyond Dharchula due to slick roads and possible landslide zones caused by the continuous rains over the past two days.
“The health and safety of pilgrims remain our top priority. The weather beyond Dharchula is not favourable at the moment. Therefore, we have taken the decision to stop the batch until conditions improve,” said a senior official from the district administration.
Dharchula, located on the India-Nepal border, is a key transit point for pilgrims undertaking the sacred yatra to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar, located in Tibet. The traditional route from Uttarakhand involves a high altitude trek through rugged terrain, which becomes especially treacherous during monsoon months.
Local officials confirmed that arrangements have been made for the pilgrims’ accommodation and food. Medical teams have also been deployed to monitor the health of those waiting at Dharchula. According to authorities, all pilgrims are in good health and cooperating with the delay.
“Accommodation facilities at Dharchula have been inspected and strengthened. Pilgrims are being briefed regularly, and health check-ups are being conducted. The situation is under control,” said a local health official involved in the yatra coordination.
The Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra, which resumed this year after a suspension due to the COVID-19 pandemic and other logistical reasons, has witnessed enthusiastic participation. The pilgrimage is considered spiritually significant by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and followers of the Bon religion, with Mount Kailash believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva.
Over the next 48 hours, portions of Uttarakhand are expected to see moderate to heavy rainfall, according to the India Meteorological Department. Authorities are keeping a careful eye on the weather and will decide whether to move the halted batch when it is safe to do so.
Earlier this season, the Lipulekh Pass had been successfully traversed by the first three groups of pilgrims entering Tibet. As soon as clearance is received, the current group will set out again.
The district government has promised to continue supporting pilgrims and their families and has urged them to maintain their composure. As soon as the weather improves, more updates are anticipated.
