First batch of Kailash Manasarovar Yatra with 60 pilgrims flagged-off
What's the story
The first batch of Kailash Manasarovar Yatra-2018 was flagged off today in Delhi by Union Minister of State for External Affairs VK Singh.
Singh also counseled pilgrims to remain physically fit and establish communion with nature.
The first batch comprising 60 pilgrims will reach Kailash Manasarovar via Lipulekh. There are two routes for Yatra through Lipulekh pass (Uttarakhand) and through Nathu La pass (Sikkim).
Details
Around 1,500 pilgrims selected for the Yatra
The Union Minister said out of 3,734 applications received around 1,500 were selected.
Pilgrims will reach Kailash Manasarovar via Lipulekh in eighteen RPT batches of 60 pilgrims each. Ten batches of 50 pilgrims each will reach there via Nathu La, he said.
The duration of the Yatra via Lipulekh is 24 days for each batch including three days in Delhi for preparatory work.
A picturesque journey
Both routes pass through scenic sites like Hangu lake
The Lipulekh route passes through sites like Narayan Ashram and Patal Bhuvaneshwar.
The Nathu La pass route is motorable and suitable for senior citizens unable to undertake arduous trekking.
From Gangtok, the route passes through scenic places like Hangu lake, and through the vast landscape of the Tibetan plateau.
Duration of this route is 21 days including three days in Delhi for preparatory work.
Pilgrim services
Two experienced liaison officers to take care of elderly
Singh said two experienced liaison officers, who have better knowledge of routes and are able to take care of the elderly, will be with the pilgrims.
An applicant for the Yatra requires to be in the age group 18-70 years.
Apart from the External Affairs Ministry, the Home and Defense ministries and the governments of Delhi and Sikkim also make arrangements for the pilgrimage.