KATHMANDU-The Nepal government has reiterated its sovereignty claim over the Lipulekh Pass, stating that it has raised concerns with both India and China over the use of the disputed territory for the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage.

In a statement issued on May 3, Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it had once again conveyed its position through diplomatic channels to the governments of India and China regarding the proposed pilgrimage route via Lipulekh.

The development follows China’s recent announcement that it will facilitate travel for 1,000 Indian pilgrims for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in 2026, in a move seen as part of ongoing bilateral cooperation and religious exchange between China and India.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that the pilgrimage will be conducted in batches through two established routes — Lipulekh Pass and Sikkim’s Nathu La Pass — with 10 batches of 50 pilgrims each using both routes.

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is scheduled to take place between June and August 2026.

However, Nepal has maintained that Lipulekh Pass lies within its territory and has objected to India and China making decisions regarding its use without Kathmandu’s consent. The pass is one of three points located in the Kalapani region, which remains a disputed area between Nepal and India.

In 2020, Nepal formally incorporated Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh, and Kalapani into its official political map through a constitutional amendment, reinforcing its territorial claim. India, however, has exercised effective control over the region for decades.

“Based on the 1816 Treaty of Sugauli, all territories east of the Mahakali River — including Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh and Kalapani — belong to Nepal,” Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, adding that Kathmandu remains “fully clear and firm” on the matter.

The ministry also stated that Nepal has consistently urged India not to undertake activities in the disputed area, including road construction, border trade, or pilgrimage-related operations.

“China has also been officially informed that the Lipulekh area falls within Nepali territory,” the ministry said. (IANS)

with IW