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Is Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Open for Indian Citizens?

Holidays in Nepal

Holidays to Nepal

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Kailash Mansarovar Yatra holds immense religious significance for millions of devotees, particularly among Hindus, Jains, Buddhists, and Bon followers. The pilgrimage to this holy site has long been a deeply cherished aspiration for Indian citizens, the majority of whom are Hindus and regard Kailash Mansarovar as a place of divine connection and spiritual fulfillment.

However, since 2019, the Indian citizens have not been able to participate in the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. The reopening of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra has become a subject of significant interest and concern for many, as this pilgrimage is not just a religious journey but a lifelong dream for countless Indian citizens. Hence, the blog “Is Kailash Mansarovar Yatra open for Indian Citizens” aims to provide information on the reopening of the Kailash Mansarovar for the Indian citizens given the importance of Kailash Mansarovar for them.

Through this blog, it aims to keep the readers updated regarding the situation revolving around Kailash Mansarovar so that pilgrims can prepare themselves and be ready when the opportunity arises to once again set foot on this sacred path. The blog not only informs the pilgrims about the religious significance of the Yatra but also provides updated information on the practical aspects, such as route details and yatra requirements. It will continue to provide the latest update on Yatra status to let devotees stay informed about the pilgrimage that means so much to so many.

Learn About: Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2025

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Facts

Below are some facts about the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra:

Journey

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

Trip Duration

  • Maximum - 17 Days

  • Minimum - 13 Days

Major Attractions

  • Mount Kailash (6638 m)

  • Lake Mansarovar (4650 m)

  • Kyirong Town (2850 m)

  • Yama Dwar (4750 m)

Starting Point and Ending Point

Kathmandu, Nepal

Average Elevation

4000 m

Maximum Elevation

5600 m (Dolma La Pass)

Best Season to visit

May to September

Documents required

  • Passport with 9 months validity

  • Tibet Travel Permit (TTP)

Major Routes

  • Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Kyirong

  • Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lhasa

  • Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Simikot

What is Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a pilgrimage undertaken to the sacred Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar located in the Tibet Autonomous region. This journey, which can be finished under a maximum of 17 days and minimum of 13 days, highlights major attractions such as Mount Kailash, Lake Mansarovar, Kyirong town, Gauri Kunda, Yama Dwar, and so on. The attractions also depend upon the route taken, as the yatra can be completed by three major routes. For instance, if you’re travelling via Lhasa, the yatra involves exploration of the capital town Lhasa and north Everest Base Camp. The yatra includes drive/flight and 3 days of trek, where the duration differs by the transport method used.

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Photo

The yatra is considered culturally, religiously, and spiritually significant as it is revered by four major religions, such as Hindus, Buddhists, Jain, and Bon followers. Each religion holds its own significance for the destinations. The Hindus consider Mount Kailash as the holy abode of Lord Shiva and his consort Parbati. Similarly, in Buddhism, Mount Kailash, considered to be the mythological Mount Meru, is believed to be the home of the Buddha Demchok, who represents supreme bliss. As for Jain followers, they believe Mount Kailash as the site where their first Tirthankara, Rishabhdev, attained liberation, while followers of the Bon religion see it as a spiritual axis of the world.

Beyond the religious significance, the yatra passes through various towns of Tibet where different monasteries can be seen, which showcases the cultural significance of the place. Moreover, many pilgrims undertake the yatra for being one of the challenging treks passing through rugged terrain, high altitude, and passes such as Dolma La Pass that challenge an individual's physical strength. Hence, the yatra is also renowned for being strenuous and adventurous. Additionally, the majestic landscapes and raw beauty of Tibet accompanies the 52 km, 3-day trek, making the yatra even more exciting and adventurous. Overall, the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is not only about the destination and its significance but also nature's grandeur over humans.

Learn More: Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

Kailash Yatra Requirements for Indians

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, one of the most revered sites, is spiritually rewarding yet physically very demanding. Due to the remote location and high altitude, several requirements must be met to ensure that pilgrims can undertake this sacred journey safely and successfully. Given are some basic requirements that must be fulfilled to undertake the yatra:

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Requirements

Visa and Documentation 

For anyone participating in the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, a passport is a mandatory document with a 9-month validity date. For Indian citizens, you will not require a visa to enter Nepal. However, for entering Tibet, you need to obtain a Tibet Travel Permit (TTP) along with the Chinese group visa. The visa and permits required to enter Tibet will be arranged by the tour operator you are travelling with, as you aren’t allowed to apply individually for this.

Eligibility

The yatra doesn’t have particular eligibility criteria. However, pilgrims participating are suggested to be no older than 75 years old. This is primarily due to the high-altitude trekking involved, which requires considerable stamina and endurance, something that becomes more difficult for older individuals. Pilgrims with conditions such as heart disease, respiratory disorders, uncontrolled diabetes, and high blood pressure are recommended to consult their doctor before participating and make sure that they’re okay to travel in high altitude above 4000 m.

Health and Fitness

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is recognised as a challenging trek and hence demands good health both physically and mentally. The highest point of the trek reaches around 5600 m, where the oxygen level is significantly low, making it difficult to breathe, especially for those who are not acclimated properly. Spending time at intermediate altitudes before reaching the higher elevations is strongly recommended. Additionally, the yatra involves several days of strenuous trekking, especially the Kora (circumambulation) around Mount Kailash, which is approximately 52 kilometres long and requires trekking over steep, uneven, and rocky terrain. As a result, a high level of physical endurance is necessary.

Learn More: Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Preparation

Why is Kailash Yatra not open for Indian citizens?

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimage sites, is also one of the most anticipated destinations for Indian citizens. The region has faced various restrictions and challenges leading to its restrictions for Indian citizens. The primary reason for the closure of this sacred site for Indian citizens was COVID-19, which was temporary. Later, there might seem to have been some border tension and political issues with the Chinese government, and hence they might not have been allowed to visit the destination since then.

Why is Kailash Yatra not open for Indians

Current Status: As of late 2024, the Indian citizens are not allowed to visit the destination yet since 2019. Further updates would be possible in March 2025, as the entry for Kailash has been closed for 2024. 

For Any Latest Updates: You can join our WhatsApp group for updated information about the official announcement of Kailash Mansarovar reopening for Indian citizens.

For Other Nationals: We are arranging group departures and private trips for the rest of the other nationals from Kathmandu. 

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Routes

There are various routes for Kailash Msansarovar Yatra with various transportation methods in use, including drive, flight, and helicopter ride. The most popular route is the driving route via Kyirong, whereas the route via helicopter is least used. Below are more details on the routes with the itinerary provided, respectively.

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Kyirong

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by Drive Image

Our Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by Drive via Kyirong offers a unique and enriching experience for pilgrims and adventurers. Starting in Nepal and passing through the scenic border town of Kyirong, this journey takes you through the majestic Tibetan plateau, where the sacred Mount Kailash and serene Mansarovar Lake await. With a well-planned itinerary, including acclimatization days and expert guidance, this route ensures a safe, comfortable and deeply spiritual experience amidst the breathtaking Himalayan landscapes. Given below is the outline itinerary of this route:

Outline Itinerary

DAY 01: Kathmandu Arrival.

DAY 02: Visa Application, Kathmandu Sightseeing.

DAY 03: Bhaktapur Sightseeing, Nagarkot Stay.

DAY 04: Chandragiri Sightseeing.

DAY 05: Packing and Final Preparation.

DAY 06: Drive from Kathmandu to Dhunche or Syabrubesi or Timure.

DAY 07: Drive to Kyirong. (2850 m)

DAY 08: Kyirong Acclimatisation.

DAY 09: Drive to Saga. (4500 m)

DAY 10: Drive from Saga to Lake Mansarovar. (4650 m)

DAY 11: Drive to Darchen. (4700 m)

DAY 12: Drive to Yama Dwara, Trek to Deruphuk. (5050 m)

DAY 13: Trek to Zuthulpuk. (4800 m)

DAY 14: Drive to Saga.

DAY 15: Drive back to Kyirong. (2850 m)

DAY 16: Drive to Kathmandu.

DAY 17: Transfer to Airport.

Learn More: Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Kyriong

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lhasa

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Via Lhasa with EBC Image

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lhasa with Everest Base Camp is a remarkable route that combines spiritual pilgrimage with the cultural and natural wonders of Tibet. The journey crosses into Tibet through Lhasa, the capital city of Tibet. A key highlight of this route is the opportunity to visit the North Everest Base Camp from the Tibetan side without the need for a strenuous trek. This allows pilgrims and adventurers to experience the awe-inspiring grandeur of Mount Everest from a close vantage point, one of the highest points accessible by road in the world. The outline itinerary of this route is provided below:

Outline Itinerary

DAY 01: Kathmandu Arrival.

DAY 02: Visa Application, Kathmandu Sightseeing.

Day 03: Bhaktapur Sightseeing.

DAY 04: Visa Collection, Trip Preparation.

DAY 05: Fly to Lhasa.

DAY 06: Lhasa Sightseeing.

DAY 07: Lhasa Sightseeing.

DAY 08: Drive to Shigatse, Enroute Sightseeing.

DAY 09: Drive to Tingri (4348 m), Explore Everest Base Camp.

DAY 10: Drive to Saga (4500 m)

DAY 11: Drive from Saga to Lake Mansarovar. (4650 m)

DAY 12: Drive to Darchen. (4700 m)

DAY 13: Drive to Yama Dwara, Trek to Deruphuk. (5050 m)

DAY 14: Trek to Zuthulphuk, Drive to Darchen. (4650 m)

DAY 15: Drive to Kyirong.

DAY 16: Drive to Kathmandu.

DAY 17: Departure.

Learn More: Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lhasa

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Simikot

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by Helicopter Image

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by helicopter offers a faster way to visit the sacred Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar, ideal for the elderly to avoid the long drive of other routes. The route begins with a drive to Nepalgunj, followed by a helicopter ride to Hilsa and then a drive to Lake Mansarovar. Provided is the outlined itinerary for this route:

Outline Itinerary

DAY 01: Kathmandu Arrival.

DAY 02: Visa Application, Kathmandu Sightseeing.

DAY 03: Bhaktapur Sightseeing.

Day 04: Chandragiri Sightseeing.

Day 05: Packing, Fly to Nepalgunj.

Day 06: Fly from Nepalgunj to Simikot. (2812 m)

Day 07: Simikot to Hilsa to Taklakot. (3900 m)

Day 08: Acclimatisation day at Taklakot.

Day 09: Drive from Taklakot to Lake Mansarovar. (4650 m)

Day 10: Drive to Yama Dwara, Trek to Derapuk. (5050 m)

Day 11: Trek to Zuthulpuk. (4800 m)

Day 12: Zuthulpuk to Hilsa or Simikot.

Day 13: Hilsa to Simikot, Fly back to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj.

Day 14: Departure.

Learn More: Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Simikot

Conclusion

Kailash Mansarovar has always been an anticipated destination for Indian citizens, given the location's religious and spiritual significance. This blog highlights the issues regarding the restriction of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in 2019 and talks about the possibilities of its reopening for Indian citizens. Basically, the blog intends to fulfill the curiosity of the Indian pilgrims, whether it's open or not.

It majorly highlights the cultural and religious significance of the yatra that attracts millions of devotees around the world. The other content includes the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra requirements, route details, and itineraries, each contributing to the preparedness of the pilgrims in case it reopens. It addresses the critical question of accessibility for Indian citizens, providing essential information about the Yatra’s current status, regulations, and any health and safety guidelines. Through this blog, it ensures that the pilgrims are well informed and equipped once the opportunity comes to them and wishes for a successful yatra.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

Is the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra currently open for Indian citizens?

No, as of 2024, there is no news regarding the reopening of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra for Indian citizens. For regular updates and news regarding the Yatra, you can join our WhatsApp group.

How long does the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra last for?

The duration of the yatra depends upon the route taken and also the type of transportation medium used. The yatra typically lasts for about 13 days at minimum and 17 days at maximum.

How can I register for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra as an Indian?

You can keep getting updated about the news of the reopening. As soon as the yatra reopens, you can directly register your trip through a reliable tour operator organizing the trip. Registration is typically done online, and the application process involves several steps, including document submission, visa application, and others.

When will the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra open for Indians?

As the interest of devotees for the Kailash Mansarovar keeps growing, the reopening of the region has become a subject of concern for many. While discussions regarding the opening might have been going on, there is still no official confirmation regarding the opening of the yatra.

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