Why in News?

  • Pilgrims undertaking the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra were not permitted to take a holy dip in Lake Mansarovar, as Chinese authorities continued the ban on bathing in the lake.
  • Pilgrims also highlighted the shortage of toilet facilities along the Kailash Parikrama

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

Ban on Holy Dip in Lake Mansarovar
  • Chinese authorities continued the prohibition on bathing in Lake Mansarovar.
  • The restriction has been in place since 2018 to prevent pollution of the lake.
  • Chinese security personnel and guides maintained strict vigil along the lake, preventing pilgrims from entering the water.
Alternative Arrangement for Pilgrims
  • Pilgrims were allowed to:
    • Draw water from the lake using buckets.
    • Bathe at a short distance from the lake.
  • This arrangement enabled pilgrims to perform their religious rituals while complying with Chinese regulations.
Shortage of Toilet Facilities
  • Pilgrims reported inadequate toilet facilities along the Kailash Parikrama route, particularly at:
    • Derapuk.
    • Jhunjhupui.
  • The shortage caused significant inconvenience, especially for women pilgrims.
Demand Raised by Pilgrims
  • Pilgrims urged the Government of India to take up the issue with the Chinese authorities.
  • They requested the provision of:
    • Adequate toilet facilities.
    • Clean sanitation facilities.
    • Better basic amenities along the parikrama route.
Facilities on the Indian Side
  • Pilgrims stated that arrangements made by the Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam (KMVN) on the Indian side were satisfactory.

ABOUT KAILASH MANSAROVAR YATRA

Route
  • The pilgrimage begins from Delhi.
  • Total distance: Approximately 1,738 km.
    • Road journey: Approximately 1,690 km.
    • Trekking: Approximately 38 km.
Recent Improvement
  • Before 2019, pilgrims had to trek around 60 km.
  • Construction of roads on both the Indian and Chinese sides has reduced the trekking distance to 38 km, making the pilgrimage comparatively easier.

SIGNIFICANCE

  • Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is one of the world's most significant religious pilgrimages.
  • The issue highlights the importance of:
    • Providing adequate basic amenities for pilgrims.
    • Ensuring better sanitation facilities along the pilgrimage route.
    • Facilitating religious practices while complying with local regulations.