Lipulekh Pass

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lipulekh Pass is one of the most sacred pilgrimages of India. Lipulekh Pass is located at an elevation of 5200 metres in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. Before a prominent route to the sacred site of Mount Kailash and Mansarovar Lake, Lipulekh has been an important trade route between India and Tibet, facilitating the exchange of goods and culture for centuries. Hence, it holds a strategic, cultural, and historical importance. It is located near the Indo-Nepal-China (Tibet) border. Pilgrims often embark on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lipulekh Pass. This high-altitude mountain pass is also renowned for its breathtaking views

In recent years, Lipulekh Pass has become a vital route to the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra from India. The recent infrastructure development by the Indian government has improved accessibility to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar, a famous and sacred pilgrimage destination for Hindus, Jains, and Buddhists. This attracts thousands of pilgrims from all over India to embark on this annual pilgrimage. Overall, Lipulekh Pass is a serene destination, famous for its natural splendour, strategic importance, and spiritual significance.               

How to Reach Lipulekh Pass

Lipulekh Pass is situated at a high altitude in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. Reaching here can be challenging because of its hilly terrain. Hence, it is important to know your routes and travel options to reach Lipulekh Pass. Whether you are a pilgrim on your Kailash Mansarovar Yatra or an adventure enthusiast seeking the thrill of trekking through the Himalayas, it is important to understand the permits and the routes of Lipulekh Pass. This leads to a safe and successful journey. Here is your comprehensive guide to reaching Lipulekh Pass from the different parts of the country.

Before you begin your journey and book the flight or train tickets, it is important to know the easiest and correct way to reach Lipulekh. Tourists first have to reach Pithoragarh or Haldwani. Then they will travel to Dharchula, the gateway to the sacred pilgrimage of Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar Yatra. For this, you can use the following travel options:

By Flight: If you are traveling by flight, come to the nearest airport to Haldwani or Pithoragarh. Board a flight to Pantnagar. After arrival, you will drive to Pithoragarh, then change the conveyance to reach Dharchula. From there, start trekking to reach Lipulekh Pass.

By Train: If you choose to travel by train, then reach the nearest railway stations of Kathgodam, Haldwani, Lalkuan, and Tanakpur. Then travel by road to Pithoragarh and then reach Dharchula, the starting point of the trek to Lipulekh Pass.

From Dharchula to Lipulekh Pass

To reach Lipulekh Pass, you will drive or trek from Dharchula in Pithoragarh. Most tourists take a government bus or book a shared cab or taxi to reach Dharchula from Pithoragarh. From there, they begin their journey to Lipulekh Pass. The journey requires an overnight halt in Gunji for acclimatization.  However, the journey involves navigating winding mountain routes that make the journey very challenging due to the steep paths and narrow roads. After reaching the pass, you can witness the beauty of the Himalaya ranges with other sacred peaks of Mount Kailash and Om Parvat. This makes Lipulekh a spiritual and visually stunning destination for pilgrims and tourists alike.

Mount Kailash Darshan from Lipulekh Pass

Kailash Mansarovar is one of the most revered pilgrimages for Hindus, Jains, Buddhists, and Bons. Pilgrims embark on this spiritual journey to seek spiritual enlightenment and the Almighty’s blessings. Mount Kailash is the abode of Lord Shiva, where he resides with his entire family and Shiv Ganas (Divine attendants/companions of lord Shiva). There are several ways to reach Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar, but the Kailash Yatra via Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand and NathuLa Pass in Sikkim are the two popular routes.

Mount Kailash Yatra via Lipulekh Pass is organized by the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, with the help of central and state bodies. Every year, MEA takes only 400 pilgrims or tourists on this holy journey. Beginning your journey from Pithoragarh, you reach Dharchula and then drive or trek to reach Lipulekh Pass. Once you reach Lipulekh Pass, from its vantage point at an elevation of 5200 metres, devotees can have the stunning views of the sacred Mount Kailash. The distinct shape and serene surroundings evoke deep reverence and awe. It feels like meeting the Almighty himself. Not only does it provide the spiritual experience, but it also showcases the raw beauty of the great Himalaya. The view of Mount Kailash from Lipulekh Pass will be a memory that will stay with you forever.

Who Can Visit Lipulekh Pass

People visit Lipulekh Pass during their pilgrimage to the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. So, only Indian citizens are generally permitted to visit Lipulekh Pass for Mount Kailash and Om Parvat Darshan. Along with this, you must have a few permits and a medical fitness certificate to embark on this sacred pilgrimage. You are not allowed to take this trek as a solo traveler or trekker. Your travel must be organized by a registered tour operator. Submit the required documents, such as a valid ID proof, Inner Line Permit, and a medical certificate. Tourists must be between 18 to 70 years old and are medically fit to undertake this challenging and arduous pilgrimage.