Lipulekh Pass: 2025 Kailash Yatra and India’s Himalayan Border Guide

Imagine trekking through the Himalayas via Lipulekh Pass, where Shiva’s divine energy meets India’s resilient mountain frontier. Lipulekh Pass is 5,334 meters high in Pithoragarh district, Uttarakhand. It is a sacred gateway for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. This pass is also a key border point near the India-Nepal-China tri-junction. This 2025 guide looks at Lipulekh’s geography, spiritual importance, and geopolitical role. It also offers travel tips for pilgrims and border fans.

Where is Lipulekh Pass Located?

Lipulekh Pass is located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, within the Dharchula sub-division of Pithoragarh district. The pass is at the end of the trek. It starts in Dharchula and goes through Gunji and Nabhidhang before reaching Lipulekh.

• State: Uttarakhand

• District: Pithoragarh

• Bordering Countries: China (Tibet Autonomous Region), Nepal

• Nearest Town: Dharchula

This pass is controlled by India. However, the area around it has caused diplomatic issues with Nepal. This is especially true since India built a new road in 2020.

Read our detailed blog: Lipulekh Pass in Which State

The Significance of Lipulekh Pass

Spiritual Importance

Lipulekh is an important path for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. This journey is organized by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam (KMVN). Pilgrims cross into Tibet to reach Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar, Shiva’s sacred abode. My uncle trekked Lipulekh in 2023 and said, “Seeing Om Parvat’s snow-carved ‘Om’ felt like Shiva’s embrace.”

Strategic and Military Role

Lipulekh is a key vantage point in India’s Himalayan defense grid. The Indian Army and ITBP patrol the pass, securing the China-Nepal border. The 2020 Dharchula-Lipulekh road strengthens supply lines for troops and pilgrims.

Trade Legacy

Historically, Lipulekh facilitated trade of salt, wool, and grains between India and Tibet. Though trade is now limited, its cultural legacy endures. Compare: Shipki La Pass vs Lipulekh

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lipulekh

The Lipulekh route is an official path for Indian pilgrims traveling to Kailash Mansarovar. It is organized by the Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam (KMVN) and the MEA.

Route Overview:

1. Kathgodam to Dharchula (by road)

2. Dharchula to Gunji (by vehicle/trek)

3. Gunji to Lipulekh Pass (trek)

4. Cross into Tibet, then proceed to Mount Kailash and Mansarovar Lake

Key Features:

• Duration: ~23 days

• Fitness: High-altitude endurance required

• Terrain: Tough and rugged

• Highlights: Om Parvat, Adi Kailash (on route), Nabhidhang

You may also like: Shipki La Pass vs Lipulekh: Strategic Border Routes Compared

Recent Developments

In 2020, India opened a new road from Dharchula to Lipulekh. This road greatly cut down travel time and effort for pilgrims and soldiers. This move sparked objections from Nepal, which claims Lipulekh lies within its territory — specifically near Kalapani and Limpiyadhura.

Despite this, the route remains open and secure for pilgrims and border patrols under Indian jurisdiction.

Permits and Access Information

• Eligibility: Indian citizens only (MEA Yatra).

• Permits: Inner Line Permit (KMVN), Tibet Travel Permit (MEA), Chinese visa.

• Documents: Valid Indian passport, medical fitness certificate, police verification.

• Process: TravelPocket streamlines permits and visa applications. Unlike Limi Lapcha’s visa-free route, Lipulekh crosses into Tibet, requiring a Chinese visa.

Best Time to Visit

• Yatra Season: June–September (clear skies, accessible routes).

• Avoid: October–May (snow blocks pass).

• Tip: June offers vibrant festivals; September is quieter with clear views.

Packing and Preparation Tips

Prepare for rugged terrain and high altitudes (3,200–5,334 m):

• Clothing: Gore-Tex jacket, thermals, woolen socks, gloves, sun hat.

• Footwear: Trekking boots with ankle support.

• Essentials: High-UV sunglasses, sunscreen (SPF 50+), lip balm, torch, power bank, water bottle.

• Medical: Diamox (altitude sickness), first aid kit, 10-day reserve of medicines.

• Spiritual Items: Puja kit (incense, diya) for Kailash and Mansarovar rituals.

• Training: Walk/jog 30 minutes daily, practice pranayama for 4–6 weeks. Get a medical checkup.

TravelPocket’s Expertise

TravelPocket, India’s pioneer of the Limi Lapcha Kailash Yatra, offers tailored Lipulekh packages:

• Expert guides with spiritual and local knowledge

• Oxygen cylinders and medical support

• Permit and visa assistance

• Comfortable stays and vegetarian meals

• Optional helicopter transfers to Gunji

Our 5-star reviews from 1,500+ pilgrims reflect our dedication. Start your journey with a visit to Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu for Shiva’s blessings.

Lipulekh’s Geopolitical Context

In 2020, India’s Dharchula-Lipulekh road eased access but sparked Nepal’s claims over Kalapani and Limpiyadhura. India maintains control, ensuring safe passage for pilgrims and patrols. Lipulekh stands as a symbol of resilience at India’s Himalayan edge.

Conclusion

Lipulekh Pass is more than just a mountain trail. It is a spiritual gateway and a symbol of strength. This path links India to the sacred areas of Kailash. Lipulekh is important for many reasons. It attracts pilgrims seeking darshan. It also interests travelers who want to learn about geopolitics and Himalayan geography. Lipulekh represents power, purpose, and peace.

Stay tuned for our next pages: "Which State is Lipulekh Pass in" and " Shipki La Pass " These will help you understand the differences better.