Trip To Kailash: A Detailed Guide To Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

Trip to Kailash is one of the most spiritually significant and challenging treks for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bonpo followers. The Kailash Mansarovar trek involves high altitudes, unpredictable weather, and physical challenges.
Before embarking on the challenging yet rewarding Kailash Parvat trip, it’s important to know all the details about the tour. To help you with that, we have prepared this detailed guide. Let’s dive in!

What is the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?

The Kailash Mansarovar yatra is a sacred pilgrimage to Mount Kailash and the holy Lake Mansarovar located in Tibet. Every year, thousands of pilgrims and visitors take this trip to experience the spiritual atmosphere and inner peace. Let’s look at some of the sacred and beautiful sites in the Kailash Mansarovar area:

• Mount Kailash stands 6,638 meters tall and acts as a source of some of the longest rivers in Asia. Mount Kailash is considered “Axis Mundi,” or the spiritual center of the Earth.
• Asthapath refers to the eight sacred steps that symbolize the spiritual journey toward enlightenment.
• Atmalingam means the soul’s Lingam. It is a sacred representation of Lord Shiva.
• Lake Mansarovar lies at the foot of Mount Kailash. People believe that the lake’s water purifies sins.
• Rakshastal (lake of the demon) is located west of Mansarovar. It is associated with Ravana.
• Yam Dwar is known as the “Gateway of the God of Death.” It is the starting point for the Kailash Parikrama.
• Gauri Kund is linked to the Goddess Parvati.
• Dolma La Pass is the highest point on the Parikrama.
• Shivasthal is a sacred site near Dolma La Pass where pilgrims leave offerings. It symbolizes renunciation and the cycle of life and death.
• Nandi Parvat is a mountain that looks like a bull (vehicle of Lord Shiva and gatekeeper of Kailash.
• Saptarishi caves are considered the meditation site of Sapta Rishis of Hinduism.
• Om Parvat is a sacred mountain with a natural snow formation resembling the “Om” symbol.
• Gurla Mandhata is another Himalayan peak to the south of Lake Mansarovar.

Importance of Mount Kailash in different religions

 A trip to Kailash is the most desired religious tour for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and the Bon community. 

Hindus consider Kailash Parvat as the home of Lord Shiva and Lake Mansarovar as the sacred lake whose water can cleanse sins. 

Buddhists perceive Mount Kailash as Mount Meru; Mt. Meru is considered the mountain central to their cosmology. Also, Mt Kailash is considered to be the home of Buddha Demchok.

The Jain community considers Kailash Parvat as Mount Ashtapada. Mount Astapada is the place where Rishabhadeva (the first Jain spiritual guru) attained Nirvana. 

Mount Kailash is a sacred site for the Bon followers. They call Mount Kailash “Tise.” Tise is the sacred residence of the Sky goddess.

When to take a trip to Kailash?

The best time to take a trip to Kailash is from May to June and September to October. During these months, the sky is clear and the weather is warm and pleasant.

Another great time to take the Kailash Parvat trip is July and August. This time offers rain, which makes Kailash Parbat appear more mysterious in light rain and mist.

November to April are the cold months. During this time, the temperature is cold, roads can be snow-blocked, and strong winds blow. Thus, it is not recommended to take the Kailash trip at this time.

Travel routes for the trip to Kailash

To make a trip to Kailash, you can travel from India or Nepal. Let’s look into various routes from each country.

Kailash Trip via India (Government of India Routes)

Mount Kailash trip from India can be done via two popular routes. These routes are roadway-based.

a. Lipulekh Pass (Uttarakhand) Route

It is a traditional route for Indians looking to make a tour to the Kailash region. This route starts from Delhi, passes through Dharchula, and ascends to Lipulekh Pass. Within 19 to 25 days, you can complete the Kailash Parvat trip via the Lipulekh route.

b. Nathu La Pass (Sikkim) Route

Those who prefer minimal trekking or have physical constraints can choose the Nathu La Pass route. This route begins in Delhi, goes through Gangtok, and reaches Nathu La Pass (Tibet). Kailash tour through Nathu La pass can be completed within 22 to 23 days. 

Read More: Kailash Parikrama Reopens for Indian Passport Holders After 5 Years!

Trip to Kailash via Nepal

Those interested in the Kailash trip also have the flexibility to travel via Nepal. They can choose to travel via roadway or airway( helicopter).

A. Kailash Mansarovar Tour with Everest Base Camp (EBC) from Lhasa

The Mount Kailash trip via EBC is a popular, private, and affordable route to Mount Kailash. It can be completed within 14 to 16 days.

In this route, pilgrims can travel by road to the Nepal-Tibet border at Rasuwa Gadhi, cross into Tibet at Keyrong, and continue by vehicle to Lake Mansarovar and Mount Kailash. 

B. Trip to Kailash Mansarovar by Helicopter from Hilsa

Kailash Mansarovar tour by helicopter is the fastest, most convenient, and least physically demanding. 

This route starts with a flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa, followed by a road journey through major Tibetan cities and onward to Kailash and Mansarovar. Kailash tour via helicopter ride can be completed in approximately 9 to 14 days.

C. Trip to Kailash via Lhasa Route (Tibet, via Nepal)

Kailash tour via the Lhasa route starts with a flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa, followed by a road journey through major Tibetan cities, and onward to Kailash and Mansarovar. Kailash trip via the Lhasa route can be completed within 14 days.

Day-by-Day itinerary for trip to Kailash Mansarovar region

Let’s look into a day-by-day itinerary for the Kailash Mansarovar yatra via roadway in Nepal.

Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing. You can also begin the Tibet visa process and yatra briefing.

Day 3: Prepare for the journey & continue visa processing.

Day 4: Drive to Syabrubesi/Timure.

Day 5: Drive to Rasuwagadhi (Nepal-Tibet border), walk to Friendship Bridge, cross into Tibet, and drive to Kerung (Kyirong) village.

Day 6: Acclimatization in Kerung.

Day 7: Drive to Saga.

Day 8: Drive to Lake Mansarovar.

Day 9: Perform puja at Mansarovar.

           Take a holy dip at Lake Mansarovar.

           Visit Chiu Gompa (monastery) and drive to Darchen, base for Kailash Parikrama.

Day 10: Rest at Darchen and prepare for the Kailash Parikrama.

Day 11: Start Kailash Parikrama; Begin trek to Dirapuk.

Day 12: Trek to Zutulphuk via Dolma La Pass.

Day 13: Complete Kailash Parikrama; Drive to Saga

Day 14: Drive to Kerung.

Day 15: Cross the border and drive back to Kathmandu.

Day 16: Make your departure to the place you have come from.

Documents required for the trip to Kailash Parvat

Taking a trip to Kailash means traveling to another country. Thus, some legal documents are required. Let’s learn about the various documents needed.

For Indian Citizens:

• Valid Indian passport with at least 6 months’ validity from the date of departure or as specified by the government.
• Passport-size photographs.
  Recent colored photos, usually 6 copies, passport size.
• A medical fitness certificate issued by a registered medical practitioner. This certificate confirms physical and mental fitness to undertake a high-altitude pilgrimage.
• Indemnity Bond, which is executed on non-judicial stamp paper (usually Rs 100).
• Consent for emergency/helicopter evacuation in case of medical emergencies.
• Consent form for cremation on the Chinese side if death occurs during the trip.
• PAN (Permanent Account Number) Card.
• Complete the registration form on the official portal (kmy.gov.in).

For Nepalese Citizens:

• Valid Nepalese Passport with at least 6 months’ validity.
• Chinese Group Visa for Kailash yatra, which is arranged through authorized agencies.
• Medical fitness certificate
• Other Documents, such as voter ID or other identity proofs.
• Nepal Visa in case of NRN (Non-Resident Nepalese).

For NRIs (Non-Resident Indians) and Foreign Nationals:

• Valid passport of the resident country with at least 6 months’ validity.
• An Indian visa is required to enter India for the tour.
• Nepal visa to enter Nepal.
• Chinese group visa for Tibet.
• Medical fitness certificate as per the Indian and Nepalese pilgrims.
• Additional documents, permits, or clearances, depending on nationality.

What to pack for the trip to Kailash?

Check out the list of Kailash trip essentials:

• Clothing such as wool thermal underwear, fleece jacket, or wool sweater for insulation, waterproof and windproof jacket and pants, down jacket, trekking pants, T-shirts, socks, gloves, hats, scarf, etc.
• Trekking poles, hiking boots, gaiters, and lightweight trail running shoes.
• Backpack, sleeping bag, water bottles, headlamp, polarized sunglasses with sunscreen & lip balm.
• Medication for altitude sickness, painkillers, basic first aid, and personal hygiene supplies.
• Camera & chargers with portable power bank.
• Energy bars, nuts, dried fruits, and electrolyte tablets for trekking days.

What is the cost of a trip to Kailash Mansarovar?

The cost range of the Kailash Mansarovar trip for Nepal pilgrims takes around NPR 150,000, whereas it takes between INR 2,00,000 to INR 4,50,000 for an Indian citizen. The cost for NRIs or foreign nationals can be between USD 2,750 to USD 3,500.

The cost of the Kailash Mansarovar trip depends on the following factors:

•  Permits and visas (Tibet Travel Permit, Chinese group visa)
•  Duration of Kailash tour
•  Transportation (road, helicopter if applicable)
•  Accommodation
•  Meals during the yatra
• Kailash tour guide and support staff fees
• Medical and emergency support
• Miscellaneous facilities.

What to do during Mount Kailash Darshan?

As a Hindu visiting Mount Kailash, you can do the following activities:

• Perform Kailash Parikrama (circumambulation) clockwise around the mountain.
• Offer prayers at Yama Dwar, the gateway of the God of Death, seeking protection and blessings.
• Perform Charan Sparsh (touching the base of Mt. Kailash) at the north face to receive Shiva’s blessings.
• Take a holy dip in Lake Mansarovar to purify past Karma.
• Visit sacred spots and offer flowers, incense, and fruits.

As a Buddhist pilgrim in the Kailash region, you can 

• Undertake the Kora (circumambulation) clockwise
• Visit and meditate in caves 
• Chant mantras and perform prayers
• Respect the mountain as a source of cosmic energy.

Jain followers, upon reaching the Mount Kailash area, can perform the following activities:

• Perform circumambulation of the mountain as a mark of devotion.
• Offer prayers and meditate to honor Rishabhanatha’s enlightenment.
• Visit sacred Jain sites near the mountain.
• Seek spiritual purification and liberation through devotion.

If you follow Bon Religion, you can:

• Perform counterclockwise circumambulation (unlike the clockwise direction of Hindus and Buddhists).
• Conduct rituals and prayers to honor the Sky Goddess and ancestral spirits.
• Visit the Bon monasteries and sacred sites around Kailash.
• Engage in offerings and ceremonies to maintain cosmic harmony.

How to ensure a safe trip to the Kailash Mansarovar region?

When embarking on the religious yet challenging Kailash Mansarovar trip, you would need to consider the safety factors. Here are the 10 essential factors to consider to make your Kailash trip safe:

1. Ensure you fall within the age range of 18 to 70 years before planning the trip.
2. Have a detailed medical checkup and fitness to confirm that you are physically fit for high-altitude trekking.
3. Select the Trip to Kailash Package, which includes proper acclimatization days and resting centers.
4. Carry appropriate clothing (layered warm clothes, waterproof jackets), trekking poles, sturdy boots, a headlamp, and a well-stocked first aid kit.
5. Maintain adequate hydration and carry high-energy snacks to sustain energy levels.
6. Carry all necessary permits, visas, identification, and medical certificates as required by Indian and Tibetan authorities.
7. Have travel insurance to cover high-altitude health risks, emergency evacuations, trip cancellations, and unexpected travel disruption.
8. Choose the best Kailash tour agency that provides proper logistics, guides, and emergency support.
9. Engage in physical fitness exercises and endurance training before the trip to handle the demanding trek and altitude.
10. Stay informed about weather conditions and follow safety instructions to avoid accidents in rugged and unpredictable terrain.
11. Respect local customs and the environment. Do not litter the place.

Final Thoughts

Mount Kailash is a holy place that many Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers hope to visit at least once in their lives. Pilgrims and visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Kailash, Lake Mansarovar, caves, and many more. Those who have taken this trip have hearts filled and spirits satisfied.  

Are you looking forward to taking a trip to Kailash via Nepal? Searching for a reliable Kailash tour agency? Your search ends with a Trip to Kailash. 

Trip to Kailash is an active and reliable Kailash tour agency, catering to Nepalese, NRN, Indian, NRIs, and even international travelers. Contact us for any queries or further information on our exclusive Kailash Tour Packages.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Is Kailash Parvat in India?

No. Kailash Parvat lies in Tibet.

• Why is climbing Kailash Mountain forbidden?

Climbing Mount Kailash is not allowed because this mountain is a religious site for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon people.

• Does Lord Shiva Live in Mount Kailash?

According to the Hindu religion, Lord Shiva resides at Mount Kailash with his better half, Goddess Parvati.

• Is Kailash the Center of the Earth?

No. According to the ancient texts, Mt. Kailash is the spiritual center of the Earth. But the science doesn’t have any proof in regards to this.

• How crowded is the Kailash Mansarovar trek during the best seasons?

May to September is considered the peak season of trekking in the Kailash region. In such a time, a moderate crowd of pilgrims and trekkers can be seen.

• Why is the specialtythe  Kailash Manasarovar Yatra trek?

Kailash Manasarovar yatra trek is a sacred site for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers. Not just that, this trek offers views of stunning and remote landscapes.

• How to prepare for a Trip to Kailash Manasarovar?

To prepare for the Kailash Manasarovar trek, you should:

• Build physical endurance
• Get altitude sickness training
• Arrange travel permits and necessary documents
• Pack warm clothing
• Carry simple and yet nutritionally essential food items.

• What type of accommodations are available at Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?

Accommodations such as guesthouses, tents, and dorm-style lodges are available in the Kailas Manas Sarovar yatra.

• What kinds of foods are available at Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Trek?

During the trip to Kailash Mansarovar, vegetarian meals like rice, dal, noodles, soup, and tea are available.

• What are the common myths about Mt. Kailash?

The common myths about Mt Kailash are as follows:

• Mount Kailash is believed to have been made by people.
• A person can’t climb Mount Kailash due to divine intervention.
• Mount Kailash moves and shifts its position.
• The area under Mount Kailash has hidden underground cities.
• The Swastika and Om symbols appear on the mountain.

• Can I take a solo trip to Kailash?

No. Solo trekking is not permitted in the Kailash Mansarovar region. Travelers must join a group organized by authorized travel agencies.