Lipulekh Pass

About Lipulekh Pass:

• Location: It is a high-altitude mountain pass located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, near the trijunction of India, Nepal, and China.
• It links the Indian state of Uttarakhand with the Tibet region of China.
• It lies at an altitude of approximately 5,334 meters (17,500 feet).
• Its elevation and strategic location make it a gateway to the higher reaches of the Himalayas.
• The Old Lipulekh pass is situated in the Vyas valley of Pithoragarh district in Uttarakhand and it carries immense religious significance.
• It is the first Indian border post opened for trade with China in 1992.
• This was followed by the opening of Shipki La Pass, Himachal Pradesh in 1994 and Nathu La Pass, Sikkim in 2006.
• Significance
  • Ancient Trade Route: Lipulekh Pass has been utilized for centuries as a trade route, connecting the Indian subcontinent with the Tibetan plateau.
  • Religious Significance: The pass also has religious significance, being an integral part of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, a sacred pilgrimage for Hindus.
  • Devotees undertake this arduous journey to reach Mount Kailash, considered the abode of Lord Shiva, and the nearby Mansarovar Lake.

Q1: Where is Kumaon Himalaya?

 It lies between the Sutlej River in the west and the Kali River in the East. It comprises part of the Siwalik Range in the south and part of the Great Himalayas in the north, lies largely within the state of Uttarakhand, northwest of Nepal.

Source: Pilgrims get first-ever view of Kailash peak from Indian territory