Nepal has formally raised objections to the planned Kailash Mansarovar Yatra route through Lipulekh Pass, stating that the area falls within its territory and that it was not consulted on the decision. The government reiterated its longstanding claim that Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh, and Kalapani, located east of the Mahakali River, are integral parts of Nepal based on the Treaty of 1816.

The issue resurfaced after India announced that this year’s pilgrimage would take place between June and August through two routes, including Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand and Nathu La in Sikkim. Nepal emphasized that activities such as road construction, border trade, and pilgrimage operations in the disputed region have previously been raised as concerns with India.

Kathmandu stated that it remains committed to resolving the border issue through diplomatic dialogue, referencing historical agreements, maps, and evidence. The government underscored the importance of maintaining strong bilateral relations while addressing territorial disagreements through peaceful means.

The dispute over Lipulekh and surrounding areas has persisted for years, with tensions rising in 2020 when Nepal updated its official map to include the contested territories. This move followed India’s inauguration of a road connecting Dharchula to Lipulekh Pass, a key access point for the pilgrimage route to Mount Kailash and Mansarovar Lake in Tibet.

India has rejected Nepal’s claims, maintaining that its position on the boundary remains consistent. Officials stated that Lipulekh has been used as a traditional route for the pilgrimage since the mid-20th century and that the current plans do not represent a new development. India also expressed willingness to engage in constructive discussions with Nepal to address outstanding boundary issues through established diplomatic channels.