NEW DELHI: The Ministry of External Affairs has invited online applications for the annual pilgrimmage to Kailash Manasarovar planned for a period from June 12 to September 9, 2016 through both Lipulekh and Nathu La. Interested and eligible pilgrims can apply on the website: http://kmy.gov.in which provides guidelines in Hindi and English languages.

The route via Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand, which involves extensive trekking of about 200 km, is estimated to cost about Rs 1.6 lakh per person. It will be conducted in 18 batches of 60 pilgrims each. (SEE: Two routes to Kailash Manasarovar)

The Nathu La Pass (Sikkim) route is motorable and is estimated to cost about Rs 2 lakh per person. It will be conducted in 7 batches of 50 pilgrims each.

The applicants should be between 18 and 70 years of age as on January 1, 2016. Applicants can opt for either of the routes. Senior citizens will be given priority on the Nathu La route. First time applicants and medical doctors will be given priority for both yatras.

The selection is based on a computer-generated, gender-balanced process.

For information and status of application contact IVRS helpline No: 011-24300655.