Indian Envoy’s Lipulekh Visit Defies Nepal’s Diplomatic Protest

KATHMANDU, – At a time when Nepal has been lodging diplomatic protests over the planned India-China trade and pilgrimage activities through the Lipulekh pass, Indian Ambassador to China Vikram Doraiswami has conducted an on-site inspection of the very route, in what is being viewed as a clear defiance of Nepal’s sensitivities.

The Ambassador, who travelled from Beijing to the Kailash-Mansarovar region via Tibet, completed the circumambulation of Mount Kailash before releasing a video message on social media platform X. He stated that he had inspected both the Lipulekh and Nathula passes to assess the preparations, management and infrastructure for the Kailash-Mansarovar pilgrimage, which is set to resume next month.

Under the India-China agreement, ten Indian pilgrim groups will travel via Lipulekh and another ten via Nathula this year, with 50 participants in each group. Describing it as the most unforgettable journey of his life, Doraiswami said it was his first visit to Kailash and its circumambulation. According to Indian sources, in coordination with local Chinese authorities, he visited Taklakot, Yadong and surrounding areas to review arrangements for accommodation, health services, security and other infrastructure. In the approximately five-minute video message, he offered guidance to Indian pilgrims on necessary precautions, health management in high-altitude areas and essential preparations.

Nepal’s Protest Overlooked

Nepal has already lodged a diplomatic note objecting to the India-China understanding, asserting that the area around the Lipulekh pass falls within its territory. Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal had also raised the issue during his recent visit to China. However, he reportedly made no mention of it during his earlier visit to New Delhi.

The Indian Ambassador’s personal visit to the Lipulekh area and his public message on the pilgrimage preparations are being interpreted as an attempt by India to reassure its citizens while disregarding Nepal’s concerns.

First Group Scheduled for July 6

Meanwhile, the first Indian pilgrim group travelling to Kailash-Mansarovar via Lipulekh is scheduled to arrive in Dharchula, Uttarakhand, on July 6. The Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam of the Uttarakhand government is managing the pilgrimage, while the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) has been assigned security responsibility.

A few days ago, senior ITBP officials inspected Lipulekh, Kalapani and adjoining areas. During that inspection, a report was filed from the Vyas area to security agencies stating that an Indian Army helicopter had been sighted in Nepali airspace. The matter has since remained unaddressed.