Tanakpur, Uttarakhand: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on July 4, 2026, flagged off the first batch of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026 from Tanakpur in Champawat district, marking the commencement of the pilgrimage's next leg through the state.
The first batch comprises 49 pilgrims, including 34 men and 15 women, accompanied by a medical officer.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister described the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra as more than a religious pilgrimage, calling it a symbol of spiritual consciousness, cultural unity and national integration. He said the annual pilgrimage also contributes significantly to the development of border regions by promoting tourism, trade and local economic activity.
Dhami appealed to the pilgrims to embrace the "Vocal for Local" initiative by purchasing locally made handicrafts and regional products during their journey, thereby supporting livelihoods in border communities.
He said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, several initiatives have been undertaken to preserve and promote Sanatan culture, including the restoration and redevelopment of ancient temples across the country. He wished all pilgrims a safe and successful journey.
Pilgrims appreciated the arrangements made by the Uttarakhand government, particularly the enhanced security and logistical support. Anil Kumar Jain, undertaking the pilgrimage for the seventh time, commended the state administration for improving facilities and ensuring a smooth travel experience.
The inaugural batch includes pilgrims from Andhra Pradesh, Delhi, Gujarat, Haryana, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Dr. Arun Kumar from Tamil Nadu is accompanying the group as the designated medical officer.
