Discover the essential guide for embarking on the transformative Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, one of the world’s holiest pilgrimages.
Best Time for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
The optimal time for visiting Kailash varies based on individual preferences. Typically, spring and autumn are the most favorable seasons. Spring extends from April to June, while autumn spans September to October, both offering pleasant weather, moderate temperatures, and clear skies. Alternatively, summer, from July to August, marks peak tourism but tends to attract larger crowds.
Where Does Your Kailash Journey Begin?
Your journey commences in Kathmandu, the picturesque capital of Nepal and a significant gateway to Tibet. Visitors can explore the city’s rich cultural and historical sites, such as the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Pashupatinath Temple and Swayambhu Stupa, before proceeding to Kailash.
Navigate the Route to Kailash Mansarovar
There are four primary routes to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar, with three originating in Nepal. The only Indian route is currently under construction. Below is an overview of the accessible routes:
1. Rashuwagadhi, Nepal
This route is currently available and spans approximately two weeks. The trail includes:
- Kathmandu
- Dhunche
- Rasuwagadhi
- Kerung
- Saga
- Lake Mansarovar
- Darchen
- Mount Kailash
2. Tatopani-Kodari, Nepal
This route remains closed due to substantial damage from the 2015 earthquake. Currently, it can only be traversed by locals and is not open to foreign visitors.
3. Simikot Route, Nepal
This popular 20-day trek leads through stunning regions of western Nepal. However, this route is also currently restricted by Tibetan authorities.
4. Darchula-Lipulekh Road, India
As the newest route, this option is not entirely constructed yet. Permission from Tibetan authorities is still pending, which has caused delays.
Updated Itinerary Plan for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
With the current access to Kailash via Kerung, an updated itinerary has been formulated, emphasizing cultural and spiritual experiences along the journey. The comprehensive itinerary from Kathmandu to Kailash is outlined below:
| Itinerary | Maximum Altitude | Walking/Hiking |
|---|---|---|
| Day 01: Arrive in Kathmandu | 1,350m/4,429ft | |
| Day 02: Pashupatinath Darshan, Boudhnath Stupa and Patan Visit | 1,350m/4,429ft | |
| Day 03: Kathmandu to Nepal-Tibet Border at Rasuwa Ghadhi | 1,800 m/5,905 ft | 6-7 hrs |
| Day 04: Easy day to Kerung to acclimatize | 2,700m/8,858ft | |
| Day 05: Drive from Kerung to Saga | 4,600m/15,093ft | 5-6 hrs |
| Day 06: Drive from Saga to Manasarovar | 4,590m/15,060ft | 8-9 hrs |
| Day 07: Travel to Darchen – The Gateway to Mount Kailash | 4,700m/15,420ft | 4 hrs |
| Day 08: Parikrama to Dehara Puk | 5,100m/16,732ft | 4-6 hrs |
| Day 09: A Day Hike to Charansprash (Optional) | 5,500m/18,044ft | 8-9 hrs |
| Day 10: Parikrama to Dolma-La Pass – The Most Challenging and Sacred Day of our Pilgrimage Yatra | 5,650m/18,536ft | 10-12 hrs |
| Day 11: Conclusion of Parikrama and Return to Saga | 4,600m/15,093ft | 3 hrs |
| Day 12: Return to Kathmandu from Saga via Kerung | 1,350m/4,429ft | 11-12 hrs |
| Day 13: Contingency Day – Preparing for the Unexpected | 1,350m/4,429ft | |
| Day 14: Fly Home Sweet Home – A Journey’s End | 1,350m/4,429ft |
How to Prepare Your Body and Mind for the Journey?
The success of your Kailash Yatra largely hinges on your physical preparation for the demanding Himalayan terrain. Here are critical preparation strategies:
- Follow a consistent exercise regimen, including cardio and strength training, for 3 to 6 months prior to departure.
- Focus on endurance and stamina development through long walks in rocky conditions.
- Participate in short hikes or treks to build physical readiness.
- Prioritize acclimatization to higher altitudes by ascending gradually during the trip.
- Practice mindfulness or meditation to enhance your spiritual readiness.
- Undergo a comprehensive health assessment before embarking on the journey.
Packing Guide for Kailash Yatra
Preparing for a challenging high-altitude journey necessitates a meticulously curated packing list. Essential items to consider include:
- Warm clothing
- Extra socks and gloves
- Travel attire, including cargo pants and waterproof garments
- Sunglasses
- High-quality hiking boots
- Hats
- Headlamps
- Hot water bottle
- Trekking poles
- Trekking bag
- Travel documents
- First aid supplies and medications
- Toiletries
Transportation
For the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, land transportation remains the only available option. Travel from Kathmandu to the Nepal-Tibet border may be facilitated by jeep or helicopter, depending on your preferences and budget. Following border crossing, bus transport is utilized to navigate Tibetan territory.
Food
Food preferences are catered to during the Kailash journey, ensuring that meals align with individual dietary needs. For many Indian pilgrims, personal chefs prepare familiar dishes throughout the trip, while vegetarian options dominate the menu. Local Tibetan cuisine, including dishes such as tsampa and thukpa, is also available for those looking to explore regional flavors.
Accommodations
Accommodation during the journey consists of well-appointed hotels in major locations, though services may vary at progressively remote sites near Kailash. Guesthouses with essential services are the norm as one approaches Kailash, ensuring comfortable night stays.
Guides and Staffs
Your journey is overseen by experienced guides and dedicated staff, including expert tour guides and chefs. These professionals ensure safety, provide assistance, and enhance your overall experience during the pilgrimage.
Experience the Fascinating Kailash Kora
The Kailash Kora, or circumambulation of Mount Kailash, is a distinctive feature of the pilgrimage, holding immense spiritual significance. Key aspects include:
- The Kora spans approximately 52 km (32 miles) and generally takes three days to complete.
- It commences at Yam Dwar, leading pilgrims in a clockwise direction around Mount Kailash.
- The course is challenging, with rugged trails and steep climbs.
- This sacred walk encourages reflection and devotion.
- Participants engage in prayers and rituals throughout the Kora.
Dates and Cost Details for 2025
The travel season for Tibet is rapidly approaching. Here are the relevant dates and associated costs for the upcoming Kailash Yatra, designed to assist you in your planning:
Day 01 |
Apr 6 | May 5 | Jun 2 | Jul 2 | Aug 3 | Aug 17 | Sep 7 | Sep 14 |
Day 02 |
Apr 7 | May 6 | Jun 3 | Jul 3 | Aug 4 | Aug 18 | Sep 8 | Sep 15 |
Day 03 |
Apr 8 | May 7 | Jun 4 | Jul 4 | Aug 5 | Aug 19 | Sep 9 | Sep 16 |
Day 04 |
Apr 9 | May 8 | Jun 5 | Jul 5 | Aug 6 | Aug 20 | Sep 10 | Sep 17 |
Day 05 |
Apr 10 | May 9 | Jun 6 | Jul 6 | Aug 7 | Aug 21 | Sep 11 | Sep 18 |
Day 06 |
Apr 11 | May 10 | Jun 7 | Jul 7 | Aug 8 | Aug 22 | Sep 12 | Sep 19 |
Day 07 |
Apr 12 | May 11 | Jun 8 | Jul 8 | Aug 9 | Aug 23 | Sep 13 | Sep 20 |
Day 08 |
Apr 13(full moon) | May 12(full moon) | Jun 9(full moon) | Jul 9 | Aug 10(full moon) | Aug 24 | Sep 14 | Sep 21 |
Day 09 |
Apr 14 | May 13 | Jun 10 | Jul 10 | Aug 11 | Aug 25 | Sep 15 | Sep 22 |
Day 10 |
Apr 15 | May 14 | Jun 11 | Jul 11(full moon) | Aug 12 | Aug 26 | Sep 16 | Sep 23 |
Day 11 |
Apr 16 | May 15 | Jun 12 | Jul 12 | Aug 13 | Aug 27 | Sep 17 | Sep 24 |
Day 12 |
Apr 17 | May 16 | Jun 13 | Jul 13 | Aug 14 | Aug 28 | Sep 18 | Sep 25 |
Day 13 |
Apr 18 | May 17 | Jun 14 | Jul 14 | Aug 15 | Aug 29 | Sep 19 | Sep 26 |
Day 14 |
Apr 19 | May 18 | Jun 15 | Jul 15 | Aug 16 | Aug 30 | Sep 20 | Sep 27 |
Day 15 |
Apr 20 | May 19 | Jun 16 | Jul 16 | Aug 17 | Aug 31 | Sep 21 | Sep 28 |
Day 16 |
Apr 21 | May 20 | Jun 17 | Jul 17 | Aug 18 | Sep 1 | Sep 22 | Sep 29 |
Day 17 |
Jul 18 | |||||||
Day 18 |
Jul 19 |
What are the Permit Procedures for Kailash Yatra?
The prompt acquisition of necessary permits is essential for a successful Kailash Yatra. Detailed procedures include:
- Allow three business days for the permit process, requiring your presence in Nepal.
- Submit a copy of your passport to your travel operator.
- Your operator will present your passport to the Chinese embassy for the Tibet permit application.
- Attendance is required at the embassy for biometrics on the initial day of the process.
- Your travel operator will finalize the permit and process the Chinese visa.
- Your operator will collect the visa on the third day, allowing for departure.
Essential Guidelines of Kailash Mansarovar Journey
To facilitate a smooth journey, it is crucial to adhere to certain guidelines:
Do’s
- Prepare mentally and physically before embarking on the journey.
- Carry all essential travel documents, including visas and permits.
- Respect the cultural sensitivities of Tibet by dressing appropriately.
- Stay hydrated and wear suitable clothing for high altitude.
- Follow your guide’s instructions and adhere to local guidelines for safety.
Don’ts
- Take necessary precautions to acclimatize to prevent altitude sickness.
- Avoid any disrespectful behavior at sacred sites and remain considerate.
- Respect the customs and practices of locals and fellow pilgrims.
- Be an environmentally conscious tourist by preventing littering and waste.
- Abstain from consuming alcohol and engaging in disruptive behavior.
How Hard is Kailash Kora?
The Kailash Kora involves a trek of 32 miles over 2 to 3 days, culminating at the Dolma La Pass. Unlike many high-altitude treks, the Kora is manageable with proper fitness and health preparations. Our tours maintain a success rate of 98%, ensuring a rewarding experience for participants.
Is Bathing or Snan Allowed at Mansarovar Lake?
Pilgrims are traditionally permitted to bathe in Mansarovar Lake, embarking on a purification process that holds spiritual significance. However, recent years have seen restrictions imposed by Tibetan authorities against bathing in the lake.
Can We Use Horse During Kailash Kora?
Ponies are typically available along the Kora for those who require assistance, such as elderly or unwell travelers. However, they are reserved for emergencies and are discouraged for those who are physically able to complete the trek. Ponies are primarily used for carrying goods and support during ascents.
Choosing the Best Kailash Tour Operator
Selecting a reputable tour operator is crucial for a seamless Kailash pilgrimage. Consider the following when making your choice:
- Experience and expertise in managing Kailash trips
- Comprehensive itineraries and services offered
- Safety protocols and measures
- Client reviews and testimonials evaluating the services
