Rasuwa: The number of pilgrims traveling to the sacred site of Mansarovar Kailash in Tibet through the Rasuwagadhi border point has significantly increased compared to the previous year. Between May 14 and September 10 this year, a total of 7,523 pilgrims embarked on the journey to the religious shrine located in China’s Tibet region.

According to Murari Niraula, Chief of the Rasuwagadhi Immigration Office in Timure, Nepali citizens made up 60% of the pilgrims, while 40% were non-resident Nepalis (NRNs) from countries such as Australia, the USA, the UK, and Canada. Additionally, around 200 tourists from other countries joined the pilgrimage, known as the Kailash Yatra.

As per Chinese regulations, pilgrims are required to travel in groups and obtain visas through authorized travel agencies. The journey to Mansarovar, located at an altitude of 5,700 meters, involves acclimatization with pilgrims staying at different locations during the 10-day trek.

The influx of pilgrims has also boosted the hotel business in Timure and Ghattekhola, where many spend a night before continuing their journey to the holy site, according to local hoteliers.