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Embarking on the Sacred Journey to Kailash Mansarovar

Every devotee aspires to undertake the revered pilgrimage to Kailash Mansarovar, the holy residence of Lord Shiva, nestled in the majestic and enigmatic Himalayan valleys. The registration for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra (KMY) has officially begun, a journey esteemed across Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist traditions.

Annually, this sacred pilgrimage is organized by the Ministry of External Affairs. For those eager to experience the *darshan* (sacred sight) of Lord Shiva's abode, the deadline for application submissions is May 19, 2026. If you are interested in participating in the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, let’s delve into essential details such as registration procedures, eligibility criteria, and the estimated costs involved.

Routes and Costs for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

Routes and Costs for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
This pilgrimage takes place annually from June to September, utilizing two primary routes:

Route 1
Lipulekh Pass (Uttarakhand): Known for its stunning natural landscapes.
Duration: Approximately 22 days.
Batches: 10 batches in total.
Cost: Around ₹2.09 lakhs per person.

Route 2
Nathu La Pass (Sikkim): This route is ideal for those who prefer less strenuous trekking.
Duration: Approximately 21 days.
Batches: 10 batches in total.
Cost: Approximately ₹3.31 lakhs per person.

Eligibility Criteria for Applicants

Who Can Apply?
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is physically demanding, leading to the establishment of strict eligibility requirements for participants:

Citizenship: Only Indian citizens with a valid Indian passport can apply.
Age Limit: Applicants must be between 18 and 70 years old as of January 1, 2026.
Health: A Body Mass Index (BMI) of 25 or lower is required, along with complete physical and mental fitness.

Application Process

How to Apply?
Applications must be submitted online through the official Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) website.

Required Documents: Applicants need to provide a passport-sized photograph (in JPG format) and scanned copies (in PDF format) of the first and last pages of their passport. Route preference must also be indicated when filling out the application form.

Upon successful registration, applicants will receive notifications via SMS and email.

Selection Process

How is Selection Conducted?
The selection is carried out through a computerized "Draw of Lots," akin to a lucky draw. To maintain gender balance, travelers and their respective batches are randomly selected using specialized software. Notifications are sent to selected travelers via email and text message.

Post-Selection Requirements

Essential Steps Following Selection
If selected, participants must complete the following:

Confirmation Fee: A non-refundable fee must be deposited into the account of either KMVN (Uttarakhand) or STDC (Sikkim).
Medical Examination: A medical check-up is required at the Heart and Lung Institute in Delhi or an ITBP hospital, followed by a second examination at high-altitude locations (Gunji or Sherathang). Those deemed medically unfit will not be allowed to continue.

Mandatory Documents: Upon reporting in Delhi, participants must bring 6 passport-sized photographs, an Indemnity Bond on ₹100 stamp paper, a consent letter for emergency helicopter rescue services, and a consent form for local last rites in case of demise during the journey in China.