Beijing | March 26, 2025:
In a fresh round of diplomatic engagement, India and China have signaled cautious optimism over the possible resumption of the sacred Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra, which has remained suspended since the pandemic and border tensions escalated.
This development emerged from recent discussions at the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) on India-China Border Affairs, held in Beijing. The high-level meeting was aimed at addressing long-standing border issues, enhancing cross-border cooperation, and restoring normalcy in bilateral ties.
🕊️ Key Focus: Border Peace and Diplomatic Normalization
During the dialogue, both sides reiterated their commitment to maintaining peace and stability along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) — a prerequisite for any further normalization of diplomatic and trade ties.
Indian officials emphasized that “restoring peace at the border is critical to resuming people-to-people exchanges and rebuilding strategic trust.” In response, the Chinese delegation expressed readiness to support initiatives that enhance mutual confidence and connectivity.
🛕 Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra: A Sacred and Strategic Route
The Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra, a centuries-old Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage, involves travel to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. Before the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2020 Galwan Valley clash, thousands of Indian pilgrims participated in the annual Yatra via two official routes — through Uttarakhand’s Lipulekh Pass and Sikkim’s Nathu La Pass.
The suspension of the Yatra had not only affected religious travelers but also symbolized the larger freeze in bilateral cultural exchanges. The recent discussions hint at a possible revival of the pilgrimage, provided progress is made on de-escalation and confidence-building measures at the border.
🔄 Cross-Border Cooperation and Future Dialogue
Apart from the Yatra, both nations also explored:
- Enhanced communication between border personnel
- Improved crisis management mechanisms
- Potential for reopening other cross-border routes for trade and tourism
While no formal timeline has been announced for the Yatra’s resumption, officials described the talks as “constructive” and “focused on rebuilding the foundation for long-term stability.”
