File photo of Kailash Mansarovar Parbat. (Image: Canva) Also Read: What Is An F Visa? Eligibility, Application Process, Documents Required And Other Important Details A website for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is currently functional. It states: "It is undertaken by hundreds of people every year. Being significant to Hindus as the abode of Lord Shiva, it holds religious importance also for the Jains and Buddhists. The KMY is open to eligible Indian citizens holding valid Indian passports who wish to proceed to Kailash-Manasarovar for religious purposes." Also Read: Night Tourism Is The Travel Trend Helping Tourists Beat The Heat And Crowds A total of 10 batches, consisting 50 yatris each, are scheduled to travel through Uttarakhand state crossing over at Lipulekh Pass and another 10 batches, each consisting of 50 yatris, through Sikkim state crossing over at Nathu La Pass. Details, as per the official website, mention that the estimated cost per person via the Lipulekh Pass route (Uttarakhand) will be ?2.09 lakh. The cost per person via the Nathu La route (Sikkim) will be ?3.31 lakh. Earlier ahead of the Yatra, Sikkim Chief Secretary R Telang reviewed the logistical arrangements. This includes hospitality, medical facilities, power and water supply, road conditions, traffic management, network connectivity, customs clearance and media coverage. The review was conducted in coordination with senior officers of line departments to ensure the smooth execution of the pilgrimage. He also informed that all the pilgrims cleared the final medical examination ahead of the Yatra. As per him, the visitors should also expect to see large crowds this year. The timing of the yatra coincides with a special year in the traditional Tibetan and Chinese calendars, making the pilgrimage even more significant and attracting additional visitors to the region. While speaking about the experience, Doraiswami also repeatedly reminded pilgrims that Kailash Mansarovar is not an easy trip to take. The entire Tibet Autonomous Region sits at very high elevation. Most of the journey takes place above 3,500 metres, while the Parikrama itself climbs to nearly 5,600 metres and in some places approaches 6,000 metres above sea level. One of the most important points he highlighted was the risk of high-altitude sickness. He advised pilgrims to immediately seek help if they feel unwell and to carefully follow the instructions of medical professionals. With this, he also advised pilgrims against carrying open footwear, saying the cold temperatures and difficult terrain make proper shoes essential Travel News - Find latest news and tips based on Indian and World travel including top 10 travel destination, tourism information, how to reach visit and more at Times Now. Senior Copy Editor at Times Network, Akanksha Arora covers Lifestyle, Culture and everything that falls under its big umbrella. When not writing, she ... View More