Lipulekh Pass

June 14, 2024

Indian traders involved in border trade with China through the Lipulekh pass have requested the central government to take up the issue of resumption of border trade through this route.

About Lipulekh Pass:

It is a high-altitude mountain pass located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, near the tri junction 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).
The pass is renowned for its challenging terrain, marked by steep ascents and rugged landscapes.
Its elevation and strategic location make it a gateway to the higher reaches of the Himalayas.
Ancient Trade Route: It 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.
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.