The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has formally released the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra (KMY) 2026 itinerary. KMY is a very auspicious pilgrimage that will be jointly organised by the Indian government in collaboration with China from June to August 2026, according to News18.
KMY 2026 is well-known for its scenic locations and religious importance, as it allows pilgrims to view the majestic mountain ranges and exotic flora of Kumaon and Sikkim.
When does the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026 begin?
KMY 2026 will begin in June 2026 and end in August 2026. Selection will be done through a completely computerized and random process known as the Electronic Draw.
Important dates to remember:
Registration deadline is reportedly on May 19, 2026.
Yatra duration is approximately 23 to 25 days, depending on the chosen route.
Routes for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
The pilgrims have two options in terms of the routes that they want to follow; both provide unique landscapes.
Route 1: Lipulekh Pass (Uttarakhand): Travelling through Uttarakhand by entering China from the Lipulekh Pass.
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Capacity: 10 batches, each comprising 50 pilgrims.
Departure Locations: Delhi or Dharchula.
Route 2: Nathu La Pass (Sikkim): Crossing Sikkim, where one travels over the Nathu La Pass.
Capacity: 10 batches, each comprising 50 pilgrims.
Departure Locations: Delhi or Gangtok.
Eligibility Criteria for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
There are strict criteria regarding who is qualified to participate in the Yatra due to the extremely high altitude of the region.
Nationality: An applicant has to be an Indian citizen with a valid Indian passport for at least 6 months as of September 1, 2026.
Age: Applicants have to be within the range of 18-70 years as of January 1, 2026.
Body Mass Index (BMI): Must be 25 or less.
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Health Conditions: People suffering from hypertension, diabetes, asthma, heart disease, or epilepsy cannot take part.
Ineligible: OCI & PIO cardholders are ineligible.
How to apply for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026?
The registration process will happen completely online through the official website portal: kmy.gov.in. Offline registration is not allowed.
Online Registration: Register yourself on the official website.
Document Submission: Prepare scanned copies of your photograph in JPG format (maximum file size 300 KB) and passport in PDF format (maximum file size 500 KB).
Preference Selection: Choose your preferred route and starting location (Delhi, Dharchula, or Gangtok).
Group Registrations: You may register up to two individuals using a single account if you want to travel in the same group.
Who Can Participate in the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?
The eligibility requirements for the pilgrimage journey are very high to ensure the safety of pilgrims in such high altitudes.
Citizenship: Only citizens of India holding a valid ordinary Indian passport that remains valid for a minimum of six months from September 1, 2026, are eligible to register.
Age Restriction: The applicant should be within the age range of 18-70 as of January 1, 2026.
Fitness Test: Body Mass Index (BMI) of less than 25 is mandatory.
Ineligibility Criteria: People suffering from ailments like high blood pressure, diabetes, asthma, heart problems, and epilepsy will not qualify.
Ineligible Candidates: OCI and PIO card holders cannot apply for the Yatra.
