India Embassy Inspects Kailash Yatra Routes, Advises Pilgrims on Altitude Risks

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By TRH World Desk

India Envoy Vikram Doraiswami Urges Kailash Mansarovar Pilgrims to Prepare for High-Altitude Challenges

New Delhi, June 21, 2026 — India’s Ambassador to China, Vikram Doraiswami, has urged pilgrims undertaking the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra to prepare thoroughly for the challenges of high-altitude travel. In a video statement, he assured the pilgrims that extensive arrangements have been made in coordination with Chinese authorities for the sacred pilgrimage.

Doraiswami said officials from the Embassy of India had completed the parikrama around Mount Kailash and inspected facilities along the pilgrimage routes, including entry points, accommodation, kitchens and medical facilities.

“Preparations are as complete as we can try and make them in coordination with our partners in the Chinese government,” he said, describing the pilgrimage as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

The ambassador said embassy officials had visited both official entry routes for Indian pilgrims — through Nathu La Pass and Lipulekh Pass — and reviewed arrangements for yatris.

Highlighting the spiritual significance of the pilgrimage, Doraiswami said pilgrims would witness the sacred beauty of Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar. He noted that the region is expected to witness heavy footfall this year because it is considered a special year in the Chinese and traditional Tibetan calendar.

At the same time, he cautioned pilgrims about the harsh conditions in the high-altitude Tibetan plateau. According to the ambassador, pilgrims will spend most of their journey above 3,500 metres above sea level, while the Kailash Kora reaches nearly 5,605 metres.

“Oxygen scarcity is a real thing,” Doraiswami warned, advising pilgrims to immediately report symptoms of altitude sickness and follow medical advice available along the route.

He urged travellers to carry waterproof footwear, layered clothing, warm jackets, headgear and protection against ultraviolet radiation. The ambassador also advised those with pre-existing medical conditions, particularly cardiac and diabetic patients, to consult doctors before travelling and carry all prescribed medicines.

Doraiswami noted that while medical facilities are available along the route, they are basic due to the remoteness of the region. He also appealed to pilgrims to help preserve the fragile environment around Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar by maintaining cleanliness and being prepared for limited public facilities.

Calling the pilgrimage “the journey of a lifetime,” the ambassador encouraged yatris to arrive well-prepared to safely complete one of Hinduism’s most revered spiritual journeys.