Why in News? 

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. 

About Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is an annual government-organized pilgrimage that allows Indian citizens to visit Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar in the Tibet Autonomous Region, China. This pilgrimage holds profound religious significance for several faiths: 

• Hindus view Mount Kailash as the sacred abode of Lord Shiva. 
• Buddhists consider it the dwelling place of Buddha Demchok. 
• Jains believe that Mount Kailash is where their first Tirthankara attained liberation. 
• Followers of the Bon religion worship it as a sacred mountain. 

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra offers two official routes for pilgrims 

• Lipulekh Pass (Uttarakhand): The traditional route, which has been operational since 1981. 
• Nathu La Pass (Sikkim): A motorable route introduced in 2015, offering a more accessible way for travellers.