Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

Overview

Kailash Mansarovar yatra is one of the most popular pilgrimages for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and followers of the Bon Religion. This pilgrimage takes you to the sacred freshwater lake, Kailash Mansarovar and the nearby Mount Kailash. This pilgrimage is popular because, according to Hindu mythology, Mount Kailash is believed to be the home of Lord Shiva

The Kailash Mansarovar yatra itinerary is of 12 days long and involves trekking, traveling via jeep, and taking you to an altitude of 5630 m. The total distance that you will travel on foot is around 110 km. The official journey starts from the drive to Darchen, from where you will start the trek. 

The reason behind the name of the Mansarovar Kailash Yatra is the two sacred spots of the journey, Kailash and Mansarovar. These two destinations hold great importance in Hindu mythology as well as other religions, including Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhs and Bon religion followers. 

The major activity of the Mansarovar yatra is the Circumambulation (kora) of Mount Kailash and visit to the sacred lake Mansarovar. It is considered a spiritual purification ritual. In addition, you will cross one of the high mountain passes situated at an elevation of over 5,600 m. 

This Kailash Mansarovar yatra 2025 from Nepal is an amazing journey to the sacred place. This yatra is a challenging and physically demanding pilgrimage. The factors that contribute to the difficulty level of the yatra are its high altitude, strenuous trekking, extreme weather conditions, remoteness of the region and physical fitness requirements. 

The best time to go for the Kailash Mansarovar yatra from Nepal is during the summer season. The temperatures are mild and the snow and ice are also melted during this season. The best part of the season is the religious festival Saga Dawa which comes during this season. 

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Package Prices are $3,000 to $5,000 per person. The price highly depends upon the duration and amenities. The Kailash Mansarovar yatra's lowest cost is $3000. And if you want to know about the in-depth kailash Mansarovar yatra cost or specifically kailash Mansarovar yatra cost from Nepal, call us anytime. 

Yatra highlights

  • Kora of Mount Kailash
  • Visit to the sacred lakes, including Lake Mansarovar, Gauri Kund and Rakshas Tal
  • Crossing high Mountain passes like Dolma pass (5,600 m)
  • Trek through stunning glaciers and alpine meadows
  • Visit to the ancient monasteries, temples and sacred sites

Sacred destinations of the yatra

  • Mount Kailash

Mount Kailash is the main attraction of the yatra. It stands at an elevation of 6638 m above sea level. This mountain is the most sacred destination of the pilgrimage and is believed to be the home of the shiva. The circumambulation around Mount Kailash is the main part of the yatra. As of now, there have been no successful summits of this peak. It is due to its pyramid-like structure and harsh weather conditions. The Chinese government forbids climbing Mount Kailash due to religious beliefs and a number of failed attempts.

  • Nandi parbat

Nandi Parbat is the sacred peak located below the southern face of Mount Kailash in Tibet, China. It is famous for its iconic bull shaped formation, with its sides pointing in different cardinal directions. According to Hindu mythology, the Nandi Parbat is the gatekeeper of the sacred route leading to Mount Kailash. Its shape is similar to Lord Shiva's celestial vehicle, the bull Nandi, which is the reason behind its name.  

  • Lake Mansarovar

Lake Mansarovar is a sacred lake located near Mount Kailash in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. It is situated at an altitude of 4,590 meters and has a maximum depth of 90 meters. It is believed that if pilgrims take a holy dip in the water of the lake, then their sins are washed away.  According to Hindu mythology, Lake Mansarovar was created by Lord Brahma as a place for his sons to perform religious rituals. The water of the lake is considered as sacred water. 

  • Gauri Kund

Gauri Kund is a high-altitude lake near Mount Kailash in Tibet. It is located at an elevation of 5,608 meters. This kund is a group of small and large emerald-colored ponds rather than a single large lake. This lake was named after the goddess Parvati (Gauri). According to Hindu mythology, Goddess Parvati bathed in the lake and created the idol of Lord Ganesha from the soap lather on her body. Since then, Gauri Kund has been considered a pristine and sacred lake. 

  • Rakshas Tal

Rakshas Tal, also known as Demon’s Lake, is a high-altitude salt-water lake located near Mount Kailash in Tibet, China. It is located at an elevation of 4,575 meters. The lake has four small islands named Dola, Topserma, Lachato, and Dosharba. The reason behind the name of the lake is that demon king Ravana used to live in it. This story is mostly popular among Hindus, as the demon king was the main bad character of the holy book Ramayana. 

WHY CHOOSE MYSTIC ADVENTURE HOLIDAYS FOR THE KAILASH MANSAROVAR YATRA?

3S: Safety, Success, and Satisfaction

Booking a Kailash Mansarovar Yatra package with Mystic Adventure Holidays offers superior service and benefits. Here's why:

Planning your trip with Mystic Adventure Holidays means paying the lowest cost with no commission fees. Additionally, you'll benefit from:

  • Client Safety: Our trips are organized with the utmost safety in mind.
  • Best Price Guarantee: Ensuring you get the best value.
  • Free Transfers: Complimentary airport-to-hotel and return transfers in a private vehicle.
  • Expert Guides: Trained, government-licensed local guides with extensive route knowledge.
  • Support for Locals: Helping local communities earn a living through tourism.
  • Health Monitoring: Oximeters to monitor oxygen levels during high-altitude treks.
  • Medical Preparedness: Guides equipped with medical kits to handle any situations that may arise. 
  • Essential Gear: Arrangements for sleeping bags and down jackets.
  • Free Storage: Secure storage at our office for extra luggage during your tour.
  • Convenience: Duffel bags for transferring items to be carried during the journey.
  • Porter Service: A free porter to help carry your heavy bags.

By choosing Mystic Adventure Holidays, you ensure a safe, successful, and satisfying adventure in the Himalayas.
 

Itinerary

At Mystic Adventure Holidays, our intention is always to follow the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Itinerary. However, due to the nature of travel, we may need to make slight changes because of unforeseen circumstances such as weather-related cancellations or delays of domestic flights, natural disasters like landslides, newly enacted laws, political unrest, or trekkers' health issues, including altitude sickness. While the itinerary is brief and fixed, it also includes flexible areas. Therefore, we advise travelers to allow a few extra days in Nepal.

We highly recommend that you arrive one day before the trip starts to rest and purchase any necessary clothing, gear, and equipment for the hike. You can also use this extra day for a sightseeing tour in Kathmandu, acclimatizing, or rescheduling international flights in case of potential weather delays or domestic flight cancellations.

We appreciate your flexibility and look forward to providing you with an unforgettable adventure!

It is our regular day-to-day itinerary if you are looking for a customized itinerary. Don't hesitate to contact us.

Trip PlanExpand all

Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, our representative will come to receive you at the airport with a garland of flowers. Following the meeting, you will be transferred to the hotel in Kathmandu. There will be a small orientation session in the hotel to familiarize you with the area of the yatra and the Kailash Mansarovar yatra itinerary.

Following that, you will receive a detailed briefing about the important information about your trip, safety guidelines, and other relevant details from the tour operator. Afterwards, you will rest in the hotel rooms. If you want, you can explore the surroundings at your own pace. 
 

Max Altitude: 1400 m Meals: Welcome DinnerAccommodation: Apsara Boutique HotelDuration: 20-35 minDistance: 6 km

Following breakfast, we will drive to Nyalam. Nyalam is a small town located in Tibet, near the Nepal border. The route follows the Araniko highway, towards the border town of Kodari on the Nepal-Tibet border. After that, we will go through the customs and immigration procedures at the Nepal-China border. 

Thereafter, we will cross the border and enter the Tibetan autonomous region of China. Our drive continues towards Nyalam town, crossing the Zhangmu (Zham) customs town. Upon reaching Nyalam, we will go towards the guesthouse where we are staying. 

Max Altitude: 3750m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest House or LodgeDuration: 7-8 hrsDistance: 145 km

This is the rest/aacclimatization day. Following breakfast, we will do some light exercises and stretches in the hotel. It will help in waking up the muscles and promoting proper circulation of the blood. Afterwards, we will go for a short hike around Nayalam, visit the nearby monastery and explore some unique Tibetan architecture and local shops. 

After having lunch, we will do some light activities, including breathing exercises, meditation or yoga, local interactions, and so on. In the evening, we will have dinner at a guest house and prepare for the next day's journey.
 

Max Altitude: 3750m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest House or LodgeDuration: Full Day

After having breakfast, we will drive towards the Lalung La Pass through the G318 highway. The route goes through rugged terrain and sparse vegetation and passes through several small Tibetan villages. We will stop for a while to admire the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and plains. 

Later, we will drive towards the saga, which is the final destination for the day. The route passes through wide open spaces and river crossings (seasonal). Along the way, you will also get to see the nomadic herders with their livestock. Upon our arrival in Saga, we will go to the guest house. You will be spending the night there. 
 

Max Altitude: 4450m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest House or LodgeDuration: 7-8 hrsDistance: 280 km

Early in the morning, we will drive towards Paryang town through the Tibetan Plateau. Along the route, we will pass through the Tibetan plateau, enjoying the views of the mountains and plains. Upon reaching Paryang, we will stop for a while for lunch. 

Thereafter, we will drive to Lake Mansarovar. You will see the change from barren plains to more rugged terrain as you approach the lake. The road sections are well paved in some sections, while others are rough and unpaved. We will stay at one of the guest houses in the village near Mansarovar. 
 

Max Altitude: 4558m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest House or LodgeDuration: 8-9 hrsDistance: 450 km

Following lunch, we will start our journey to Darchen from the lake Mansarovar. This day is for the preparation of the trek (Kora) around Mount Kailash. Along the way, you will get to see the stunning landscape of Mount Kailash.

The route follows the paved road through the uneven landscapes of western Tibet. Upon reaching Darchen, the starting point of Kora around Mount Kailash, we will go to the guest house and rest there. 
 

Max Altitude: 4575m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest House or LodgeDuration: 1-2 hrsDistance: 40 km

Following breakfast, we will start our journey to Dirapuk by foot. This marks the first phase of the trek to circumambulate Mount Kailash. Basically, the paths are graveled paths and are easier to walk than on the muddy roads. 

As we ascend from Darchen to Dirapuk, you can see the landscape transitioning from plains to rocky terrain. Upon reaching Dirapuk, we will go to our booked accommodation for overnight stays.
 

Max Altitude: 4920m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest House or TentDuration: 6-7 hrsDistance: 20 km

After having breakfast, we will resume our kora of Mount Kailash. We will start to trek to Zuthulphuk. The route includes steep ascents, steep descents, and possibly some snow at higher elevations around the Dolma La Pass. 

After crossing the Dolma La Pass, we will descend into the valley towards the final destination of our day, Zuthulphuk. Upon arriving at Zuthulphuk, we will straight away go to the guesthouse and rest there. 
 

Max Altitude: 5630m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest House or TentDuration: 8-9 hrsDistance: 22 km

Following breakfast, we will start our trek to Darchen. The route includes ascents and descents and passes through stunning landscapes. Upon reaching Darchen, we will take a rest and prepare for the road journey ahead. 

After the rest, we will drive to the saga from Darchen. The route passes through small towns and villages. It will take 7-8 hours to reach Saga. 
 

Max Altitude: 4450m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest House or LodgeDuration: 3-4 hrs trek and 7-8 hrs driveDistance: 288 km

Early in the morning, we will have breakfast and leave for Nyalam. The route is characterized by wide open spaces, barren landscapes, and occasional villages. On the way, you will get to see the views of the snow-capped peaks, rugged terrain, and Tibetan antelope or yaks (wildlife).

The night stay will be in one of the guest houses in the Tibetan town of Nyalam. So, it may be a great opportunity for you to gain insights into the local Tibetan culture and lifestyle. 
 

Max Altitude: 3750m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest House or LodgeDuration: 7-8 hrsDistance: 280 km

After having breakfast, we will drive back to Kathmandu city. The route will take us to the Tibetan plateau, which is towards the Nepal border. We will cross the border into Nepal at Rasuwagadhi. The necessary immigration and customs procedures will be completed there. 

After completing the necessary procedures, we will resume our journey to Kathmandu. Along the journey, you will get to see the stunning hills, forests, and rural villages. Upon reaching Kathmandu, we will stay at the hotel overnight.
 

Max Altitude: 1400 m Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and DinnerAccommodation: Guest House or LodgeDuration: 7-8 hrsDistance: 145 km

Early in the morning, you will have your breakfast. Thereafter, you will be transferred to the airport and then you will fly to your desired destination.

Max Altitude: 1400 m Meals: BreakfastDuration: 20-35 minDistance: 6 km
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Essential Info

Accommodations and Food

The guesthouses in towns like Purang and Darchen offer simple rooms with basic amenities like normal beds, blankets and shared bathrooms. These guest houses operate on a dormitory system in which several pilgrims share a large room with basic facilities. The pilgrims need to carry their own towels and toiletries. 

If you want comfortable stays, you can choose the hotels in the cities and towns. These hotels offer a higher level of amenities, like private washrooms and hot water. In previous eras, camping was popular due to the lack of guest houses and hotels. 

In contrast, the food during the yatra is mostly vegetarian. The reason behind the vegetarian food is that the yatra is a spiritual and religious journey. The vegetarian dishes include rice, lentils, vegetables, and chapatis. 

The packed meals, including energy bars and bottled waters, are provided during the Kailash Parikrama. In small tea houses in some towns, you can get basic snacks and tea. The basic breakfast, launch and dinner cost are covered in the kailash Mansarovar yatra package. 

Best season to go

The best season to book the kailash Mansarovar tour package is during the summer season. The weather conditions are favorable during this time, with moderate temperatures and clear trekking routes. The daytime temperature ranges from 15°C to 25°C. The problems of path blockage by ices and snows are lessened as ice and snow have melted during the summer season. 

The night will still be cold, which can be overcome by wearing warm clothes. In addition, the summer months coincide with the Saga Dawa and Guru Purnima Festivals, which is celebrated in the vicinity of Kailash Mansarovar. 

Passes and Permits

There are various permits and passes required for the yatra, which are given below. 

  • Chinese Visa

The majority of the yatra involves traveling through Tibet (China), so you will need a Chinese visa. You can obtain the visa from the Chinese embassy or consulate in your home country or in Nepal. 

  • Tibet Travel Permit

This permit is required to enter tibet autonomous region. Without this permit, traveling to tibet is considered as illegal. It is also known as the Tibet Entry Permit. You can get this permit from the Tibet tourism Bureau office. 

  • Alien’s Travel Permit

As the Kailash Mansarovar package includes traveling to areas outside Lhasa, you will need Alien’s travel permit. The permit is necessary to travel to certain restricted areas in Tibet, like Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar. You can get this permit with the help of a government-registered travel agency. 

  • Military permit

If the route passes through certain areas in Tibet, you may require a military permit. It becomes necessary while traveling near the border with India and Nepal. You will need a government-registered travel agency to get this permit. 

  • Entry Permit for Nepal

If you are starting the Mansarovar kailash yatra from Nepal, you will need a permit to enter Nepal. You can obtain this permit at Kathmandu airport and at other entry points in Nepal. 

  • Yatra Permit

This permit is for Indian citizens. If any Indian citizen wants to go for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, then you will need a Yatra permit. The Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, issues this permit on the request of the traveller.

Difficulty of the Yatra

The difficulty level of the yatra is challenging and physically demanding. Although the majority of the travel depends on the vehicle, it involves traveling to high-altitude areas. Also, the kora of Mount Kailash is physically demanding. The yatra involves crossing Dolma La Pass, which is located at 5630 m. Also, the trek part involves long hours of walking with steep ascents and descents. The exposure to the Tibetan climate makes things more difficult.  

Altitude sickness concerns and Acclimatization

Altitude sickness is the major concern when going for the yatra to Mount Kailash. The journey involves long hours of high-altitude walking, steep ascents and descents and exposure to the harsh Tibetan climate conditions. 

Some of the symptoms that you shouldn’t ignore are headaches, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, loss of appetite, shortness of breath, and muscle fatigue. These are the initial symptoms that need to be treated immediately. 

The primary strategy to prevent altitude-related problems is to acclimate gradually. You should avoid rapid ascents. Drinking plenty of water, taking rest breaks, taking painkillers for headaches, and doing a slow and gradual ascent are the keys to preventing altitude-related problems. Also, avoiding heavy meals can help a little bit. 

Tips to make the journey successful

  • Get engaged in regular exercise and stamina-building activities like walking, jogging, and hiking before the trip
  • Practice Yoga and pranayama exercises to improve your physical fitness and endurance
  • Ascent gradually and slowly with rest and hydration to avoid altitude related issues
  • Pack essential items, including warm clothing, sturdy trekking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and a first aid kit
  • Keep your luggage
  • Be respectful to the local customs and traditions
  • Buy travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and evacuation services
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