The dispute over the Lipulekh Pass has resurfaced after Nepal formally objected to its use as a route for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, prompting a firm response from India and bringing long-standing boundary tensions back into focus.
India has rejected Nepal’s objection, stating that Lipulekh has historically been used as a pilgrimage route since 1954 and that its position on the matter remains unchanged. The Ministry of External Affairs said Nepal’s claims are not supported by historical facts or evidence and described them as an unjustified expansion of territorial claims. At the same time, India said it remains open to resolving differences through dialogue and diplomacy.
Nepal has taken a formal diplomatic step by sending protest notes to both India and China, reiterating its claim over the Lipulekh, Kalapani, and Limpiyadhura regions. Referring to the Sugauli Treaty, Kathmandu maintains that these areas are part of its territory and has urged India to stop construction, trade, and pilgrimage-related activities in the disputed region.
Nepal’s Foreign Ministry said the move followed consultations with political parties, and officials confirmed that concerns were communicated through diplomatic channels. While maintaining its territorial position, Nepal also stated that it is committed to resolving the dispute through peaceful dialogue based on historical evidence.
