The sixth batch of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra (KMY) 2026 via the historic Nathula Route was accorded a warm and traditional welcome upon its successful return to Gangtok on 30th July 2026. To commemorate the successful completion of the sacred pilgrimage, a felicitation programme was organised by the Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation (STDC).
The programme was graced by Sonam Norgay Lachungpa, Chairman, Tourism & Civil Aviation Department, Government of Sikkim, as the Chief Guest, while Lukendra Rasaily, Chairman, STDC, attended as the Guest of Honour. The programme was also attended by the Liaison Officers, Ajay Kumar Yadav and Shiv Shankar, officers from the Tourism & Civil Aviation Department, STDC officials and staff, representatives of various line departments, and other stakeholders associated with the Yatra.
This year, four support staff from Sikkim, led by Pempa Doma Bhutia, Assistant Director, Tourism & Civil Aviation Department, accompanied the pilgrims throughout the Yatra and rendered dedicated assistance in cooking, food management and other support services, ensuring the comfort and well-being of the Yatris during the pilgrimage.
During the interaction session, the returning Yatris expressed their heartfelt appreciation for the excellent arrangements and hospitality extended by STDC from New Delhi to Nathula. They stated that the entire pilgrimage was meticulously planned and executed, making their journey safe, comfortable and spiritually fulfilling. The Yatris expressed complete satisfaction with the transportation, accommodation, food and all other logistical arrangements, adding that they had no complaints throughout the Yatra.
The Yatris and the Liaison Officers specially appreciated the guidance and support of Gyurmie Yousal, Principal Chief Executive Officer, STDC, and the meticulous planning and coordination of Vijay Thapa, General Manager, STDC, which greatly contributed to the smooth and successful conduct of the pilgrimage. They also appreciated the sincere services rendered by the STDC teams stationed at 18th Mile and Hangu Lake, whose dedicated care and timely assistance ensured a safe, comfortable and memorable pilgrimage.
A special mention was made of Gyanu Pradhan, a retired Principal and the sole female pilgrim in the batch, who successfully completed the sacred Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, inspiring fellow pilgrims through her determination, devotion and spirit.
As a mark of recognition, the Chief Guest distributed Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Completion Certificates to all the pilgrims and honoured them with traditional Khadas, conveying his best wishes for their good health, happiness and the continued blessings of Lord Shiva.
Addressing the gathering, Lukendra Rasaily, Chairman, STDC, congratulated all the Yatris on the successful completion of the sacred pilgrimage. He thanked them for choosing the Nathula Route and urged them to become Brand Ambassadors of Sikkim by sharing their memorable experiences and promoting the State’s hospitality, tourism and spiritual heritage across the country. He also congratulated the Liaison Officers, support staff, and all officers and employees of STDC and the Tourism & Civil Aviation Department for their dedicated efforts in ensuring the successful conduct of the Yatra.
In his address, Sonam Norgay Lachungpa, Chairman, Tourism & Civil Aviation Department, expressed immense satisfaction after hearing the overwhelming appreciation received by STDC and the support staff from the returning pilgrims. He remarked that the dedication, sincerity and commitment displayed by the STDC team have projected a positive image of the State of Sikkim. He assured that he would apprise the Chief Minister of Sikkim of the exemplary services rendered by the officers and staff associated with the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
He further stated that STDC, being an integral part and sister concern of the Tourism & Civil Aviation Department, has made a remarkable contribution as the nodal agency in successfully organising the Yatra.
The Chief Guest also congratulated all the pilgrims for successfully completing the arduous pilgrimage and described them as a source of inspiration for people across the country. He appreciated the dedicated services of the Liaison Officers for leading pilgrims from different parts of India and ensuring their safe return with unforgettable memories of the sacred journey.
As a token of gratitude and appreciation, the returning Yatris also felicitated the support staff for their selfless service, care and unwavering assistance throughout the pilgrimage.
The programme concluded on a joyous and devotional note with prayers for the good health, happiness and prosperity of all the pilgrims. The Yatris are scheduled to depart for their respective hometowns from Bagdogra Airport, carrying with them the divine blessings of Lord Shiva and cherished memories of the sacred Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via the Nathula Route.
