Shimla: The annual Kinnaur Kailash Yatra, one of Himachal Pradesh's most revered and challenging pilgrimages, will commence on July 1 and continue till July 30 this year.
The pilgrimage attracts thousands of devotees who undertake the arduous trek to seek blessings at the sacred Kinnaur Kailash peak, situated at an altitude of about 6,050 metres and regarded as the winter abode of Lord Shiva.
To ensure the safe conduct of the pilgrimage, the state government has capped the number of daily pilgrims at 375. All devotees will be required to register at the Powari base camp before beginning the journey. Only those who pass the fitness examination will be allowed to trek.
The decision was made during a meeting chaired by revenue minister Jagat Singh Negi on Friday in Reckong Peo, which included stakeholders and representatives from the Powari, Ribba, and Purbani panchayats.
Emphasising environmental conservation, the minister said special focus would be placed on maintaining cleanliness throughout the pilgrimage route.
Local Dev Sabhas (deity councils) will play a key role in monitoring the yatra, with the administration extending all necessary support and facilities.
The government has also made registration compulsory for guides accompanying pilgrims. A standard operating procedure has been prepared to address concerns raised by Dev Sabhas. Last year, the pilgrimage began on July 15 and was scheduled to end on August 30. However, it faced repeated disruptions due to heavy rainfall, falling rocks and dense fog, forcing the authorities to suspend the yatra on several occasions. Several pilgrims had to be rescued by the ITBP and the Kinnaur district administration.
