Every devotee dreams of undertaking the pilgrimage to Kailash Mansarovar—the sacred abode of Lord Shiva—situated amidst the rugged and mysterious valleys of the Himalayas. The registration process has now commenced for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra (KMY), a journey held in high reverence across the Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist faiths.

Every year, the Ministry of External Affairs organizes this holy pilgrimage. For devotees aspiring to seek *darshan* (sacred sight) of Lord Shiva's abode, May 19, 2026, marks the final deadline for submitting applications. If you, too, wish to embark on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, let us explore some key details regarding it—such as how to register, who is eligible to participate, and the estimated cost of the journey.

**Routes and Costs for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra**
This pilgrimage is conducted annually between June and September, utilizing two distinct routes:

**Route 1**
**Lipulekh Pass (Uttarakhand):** This route is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty.
**Duration:** Approximately 22 days.
**Batches:** A total of 10 batches.
**Cost:** Approximately ₹2.09 lakhs per person.

**Route 2**
**Nathu La Pass (Sikkim):** This route is a more suitable option for those who prefer to undertake less trekking.

**Duration:** Approximately 21 days.

**Batches:** A total of 10 batches.

**Cost:** Approximately ₹3.31 lakhs per person.

**Who Can Apply?**
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a physically demanding journey. Consequently, strict eligibility criteria have been established for those wishing to participate:

**Citizenship:** Only Indian citizens—specifically those holding an Indian passport—are eligible to apply.
**Age Limit:** Applicants must be at least 18 years old and no older than 70 years of age as of January 1, 2026.
**Health:** The applicant's Body Mass Index (BMI) must be 25 or lower. Furthermore, the applicant must be in a state of complete physical and mental fitness.

**How ​​to Apply?**
Applications can be submitted exclusively online through the official website of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

**Required Documents:** A passport-sized photograph (in JPG format) and scanned copies (in PDF format) of the first and last pages of the applicant's passport. Route Preference – While filling out the form, you must select your preferred route and your final destination (e.g., Delhi or Gangtok/Dharchula).

Confirmation Email – Upon successful registration, you will be notified via SMS and email.

How is Selection Conducted?
The selection process is entirely based on a computerized "Draw of Lots"—essentially a lucky draw. To ensure gender balance, travelers and their respective batches are selected randomly using specialized software. Selected travelers are notified via email and text message.

Essential Steps Following Selection
If you are selected, you must complete the following procedures:

Confirmation Fee – Following your selection, a fixed, non-refundable amount must be deposited into the account of either KMVN (Uttarakhand) or STDC (Sikkim).

Medical Examination – Travelers are required to undergo a medical check-up at the Heart and Lung Institute in Delhi or at an ITBP hospital. Subsequently, a second medical examination is conducted at high-altitude locations (specifically at Gunji or Sherathang). If you are deemed medically unfit, you will not be permitted to proceed further.

Mandatory Documents – When reporting in Delhi, you must bring the following: 6 passport-sized photographs, an Indemnity Bond executed on a ₹100 stamp paper, a consent letter regarding emergency helicopter rescue services, and a consent form stating that, in the event of your demise while on the journey within China, your last rites shall be performed locally in China.

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