Kailash Mansarovar Yatra to Resume: A Step Towards Better India-China Relations
India and China begin Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, repairing ties following the COVID halt and LAC tensions
India-China resume Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, restoring ties after COVID pause and LAC tensions
India and China have decided to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra this summer, marking a significant step in restoring ties between the two countries. The agreement was reached during Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s visit to Beijing, three months after resolving the military standoff at the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Discussions on the details for resuming the yatra are underway, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Why is Kailash Mansarovar Special?
Mount Kailash is one of the holiest sites in the world, revered by Hindus, Jains, Buddhists, and Tibetans. Hindus consider it the abode of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, while Buddhists and Tibetans believe it is the Stairway to Heaven or the cosmic axis connecting heaven and earth. Jains view it as the place where their first Tirthankara, Rishabhanatha, attained enlightenment.
Standing at 21,778 feet, Kailash is also called the spiritual center of the Earth. It is surrounded by four rivers—the Sutlej, Brahmaputra, Kamali, and Indus—that are said to divide the Earth into four parts.
Mansarovar Lake, located at the mountain’s southern base, holds great significance. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Brahma first imagined the lake in his mind, and it later appeared on Earth. The lake is considered one of Goddess Sati’s 51 Shaktipeeths, where her hands fell.
Pilgrims perform the Kailash Kora or Kailash Parikrama, a ritual believed to bring wealth, renewal, and salvation. However, climbing the mountain is forbidden out of respect for its religious importance.
A Renewed Relationship Between India and China
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra has been on hold since the COVID-19 pandemic, and tensions following the Galwan Valley clash worsened the situation. However, recent talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping have led to positive developments.
Direct flights and visa issuance between the two nations have resumed, with additional talks planned for improving cooperation on trans-border rivers and hydrological data sharing. This decision reflects efforts by both countries to stabilize and strengthen bilateral ties through people-centric initiatives.
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