Kathmandu [Nepal], July 12: Pilgrims en route to the sacred site of Kailash Mansarovar are facing major disruptions after floods destroyed the Miteri Bridge near the Rasuwagadhi border, the Trekking Agencies Association of Nepal (TAAN) reported.
According to TAAN General Secretary Sonam Gyaljen Sherpa, the bridge was washed away by flooding in the Lehende River on Tuesday, halting cross-border movement at a key entry point into Tibet.
Sherpa urged the Chinese government to urgently open alternate routes—such as Tatopani, Korola, and Hilsa—to resume pilgrim access. He also called on Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to engage with the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu to simplify the visa process and allow stranded pilgrims in Kathmandu to continue their journey without further delay.
The timing is critical, as this year marks the revival of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra after a five-year suspension, with around 25,000 Indian pilgrims expected to participate. Both Nepali and foreign pilgrims frequently use the Rasuwagadhi-Kerung route due to its accessibility and cost-efficiency.
Previously a trade route, the Rasuwagadhi-Kerung checkpoint was upgraded to an international crossing in 2017 and has since become one of the most preferred paths for Indian pilgrims travelling privately via Nepal, instead of through India’s two official routes: Lipulekh and Nathu La.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra season, running from June to September, significantly contributes to Nepal’s tourism and economy, supporting hotels, restaurants, travel agencies, and local employment.
With the pilgrimage season just beginning, TAAN has urged for swift diplomatic coordination to restore access and prevent a further crisis in cross-border travel.