Nepal has again raised territorial concerns with India and China over the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra route through Lipulekh, an area Kathmandu considers Nepali territory. India rejected the claim, saying pilgrims have used the route for decades.
According to a statement from Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Government of Nepal has communicated its “clear stance and concerns” to both India and China through diplomatic channels over the proposed pilgrimage route.
Nepal’s Foreign Ministry said the government remains firm that Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh and Kalapani, located east of the Mahakali River, are integral parts of Nepali territory under the Sugauli Treaty of 1816.
“The Government of Nepal has consistently requested the Government of India to refrain from any activities in that area, including road construction or expansion, border trade, and pilgrimage,” the statement said.
The ministry said China has also been officially informed that Nepal considers the Lipulekh region to be Nepali territory.
India responded in a separate statement from the Ministry of External Affairs. Official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India’s position “had been consistent and clear.”
“Lipulekh Pass has been a long-standing route for the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra since 1954, and the Yatra through this route has been going on for decades,” Jaiswal said. “This is not a new development.”
India also rejected Nepal’s territorial claim, saying such claims are not justified or based on historical facts and evidence.
“Such unilateral artificial enlargement of territorial claims is untenable,” Jaiswal said.
The Indian statement said India remains open to constructive engagement with Nepal on bilateral issues, including agreed outstanding boundary matters, through dialogue and diplomacy.
The exchange followed India’s April 30 announcement launching the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra 2026. According to that announcement, 10 batches of 50 yatris each are scheduled to travel through Uttarakhand, crossing at Lipulekh Pass, while another 10 batches of 50 yatris each are scheduled to travel through Sikkim, crossing at Nathu La Pass.
The pilgrimage is scheduled to take place from June to August 2026. Applications are open through May 19, according to India’s announcement.
Nepal’s statement said the government remains committed to resolving border issues through diplomatic means, based on historical treaties, facts, maps and evidence.
A global media for the latest news, entertainment, music fashion, and more.
