Lipulekh Pass: reinforcing Nepal’s territorial assertion

Concerning Lipulekh Pass:

What is it?

A mountain pass at a high elevation in the Himalayas, traditionally utilized for trade and religious journeys between India and Tibet (China).

Location: Located in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, India, near the junction of India, Nepal, and China in the Kumaon area.

Elevation: Reaches approximately 5,334 meters (17,500 feet), positioning it as one of the highest and most crucial passes in the area.

Attributes:

Entry point for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra pilgrimage.

Serves as an essential commercial path connecting India and Tibet.

Established in 1992 as India's inaugural border trade post with China, it was subsequently joined by Shipki La in 1994 and Nathu La in 2006.

Recognized for its harsh landscape and tactical location in the Himalayas.

Importance:

Geopolitical significance stemming from its proximity to the trijunction.

Essential for trade and border administration between India and China.

A crucial aspect of the India–Nepal border conflict, particularly following Nepal's 2020 map assertion.

Concerns regarding Lipulekh Pass:

India regards Lipulekh, Kalapani, and Limpiyadhura as part of the Pithoragarh district in Uttarakhand and has exercised administrative control over these areas for many years.

Nepal asserts that the region is part of its territory and in 2020 released a new political map including these areas, integrating it into its constitution.

China considers Lipulekh a bilateral issue between India and Nepal while engaging in trade with India, steering clear of direct involvement.