Nepal objects to Kailash Mansarovar yatra via Lipulekh, renews territorial claim

Nepal has formally objected to a key pilgrimage route via Lipulekh, sending a protest to India and China. The move revives a long-standing border dispute, even as Kathmandu calls for dialogue.

In Short

• Kathmandu cites the 1816 Sugauli Treaty to back its territorial claim
• Calls to halt road and pilgrimage activities in disputed area
• Sends formal diplomatic messages to New Delhi and Beijing

Nepal has formally objected to the proposed Kailash Mansarovar Yatra route via Lipulekh, sending a diplomatic protest to both India and China and bringing a sensitive territorial dispute back into focus.

The move follows India’s announcement of the pilgrimage route through Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand, located near the trijunction with China.

Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it had taken note of reports about the proposed route and reiterated its long-held claim.

“The Government of Nepal remains clear and firm that, as per the 1816 Sugauli Treaty, Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh and Kalapani are integral parts of Nepal,” the ministry said.

FORMAL NOTE SENT TO INDIA AND CHINA

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lok Bahadur Paudyal Chhetri said Nepal has conveyed its position and concerns to both New Delhi and Beijing through diplomatic channels.

The ministry confirmed that both countries have been informed that the Lipulekh area falls within Nepali territory.

Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal said the step was taken after consultations with political parties, and Nepal’s official stance has now been formally communicated.

CALL TO HALT ACTIVITIES IN DISPUTED AREA

Kathmandu said it has repeatedly urged India not to undertake road construction, expansion, border trade or pilgrimage-related activities in the disputed region.

The government said it has consistently raised these concerns in the past, describing the matter as sensitive.

Nepal has, on multiple occasions, reminded both India and China of its claim and concerns regarding developments in the Lipulekh area.

The dispute centres around the Lipulekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadhura regions, which Nepal considers part of its territory under the Sugauli Treaty.

DIALOGUE STILL ON TABLE

Even as it sharpened its objection, Nepal signalled that it remains open to a diplomatic resolution.

“In keeping with the spirit of close and friendly Nepal-India relations, Nepal remains committed to resolving the boundary issue through historical facts, evidence and diplomatic dialogue,” the ministry said.

The latest protest adds a fresh layer to the ongoing boundary issue, with Kathmandu reiterating its claim while calling for talks to resolve the matter.

- Ends