Sushma Swaraj to flag-off first batch of Kailash Mansarovar yatris today

New Delhi: External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will flag off the first batch of Kailash Mansarovar yatris on Saturday.

The Ministry of External Affairs has reportedly already received 1,400 applications for the yatra.

Out of these, 350 pilgrims will reach Kailash Mansarovar via Nathula Pass in Sikkim. The remaining yatris will travel via Pithoragarh and Lipulekh Pass, which is at an altitude of 17,500 feet.

The Ministry of External Affairs organises the yatra during June to September every year through two different routes – Lipulekh Pass (Uttarakhand) and Nathu La Pass (Sikkim).

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra (KMY) is known for its religious value, cultural significance, physical beauty and thrilling nature.

It is undertaken by hundreds of people every year. Holding significance for Hindus as the abode of Lord Shiva, it holds religious importance also for the Jains and the Buddhists.

The Kailash Manasarovar Yatra has been recognised by the Indian Mountaineering Foundation as a trekking expedition. (ANI)