In News:

India has rejected Nepal’s claims over Lipulekh Pass after the resumption of India–China trade through this border point. The issue has once again brought the strategic and political importance of the pass into focus.

Location & Geography

• Situated in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, near the trijunction of India, Nepal, and China.
• Altitude: ~5,334 metres (17,500 feet).
• Serves as a gateway to the higher Himalayan ranges and the Tibet Autonomous Region of China.

Historical & Trade Importance

• A traditional trade route connecting India with Tibet for centuries.
• In 1992, Lipulekh became the first Indian border post opened for official trade with China.
  • Later followed by Shipki La (Himachal Pradesh, 1994) and Nathu La (Sikkim, 2006).

Religious Significance

• Forms an integral part of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, an important Hindu pilgrimage route to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar in Tibet.

Strategic Significance

• Its geopolitical location near the trijunction makes it strategically vital for India’s border security and connectivity with Tibet.
• The dispute with Nepal underscores its sensitive nature in regional geopolitics.