Here are some facts about the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra:

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is one of the most popular religious journeys that take place in the remote Tibet region. The yatra is a circumambulation done around the holy Mount Kailash known as Kora. Besides Mount Kailash, visit to the nearby sacred lake, Mansarovar completes the Yatra. It is a challenging 52-kilometer journey that involves high altitude, rugged terrain, and harsh weather conditions requiring both physical and mental preparations. Despite these challenges, thousands of devotees around the world participate on this journey.

Mount Kailash and Mansarovar are visited because of their religious beliefs. Considered holy by the followers of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon, Mount Kailash, at an elevation of 6638 m, is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva in Hinduism and is revered as the cosmic center of the universe in several religious traditions. Pilgrims participate in the “Kora” around Mount Kailash, as it is believed to cleanse the soul and bring spiritual benefit. On the other hand, Lake Mansarovar, at an elevation of 4650 m, which is also part of the yatra, is said to have been created from the mind of Brahma. It is also believed that taking a dip in this freshwater lake washes away your sins.

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, which lasts about 11 days for Nepali pilgrims, involves a 3 days trek. It can be done through various routes that combine drive and trek. The pilgrims are required to be in the best health condition with careful preparations for a successful yatra, as the journey is not only about spiritual faith but also physical endurance.

Learn More: Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

If you’re undertaking the yatra, careful preparation is essential to ensure a safe, successful, and meaningful experience. Here are some key considerations to help you with the proper preparation of the yatra.

Visa and Documentation

It is mandatory to have a passport if you are planning to visit Kailash in Tibet. To enter China and participate in the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, one must obtain a Chinese visa with a Tibet travel permit. The remote region of Tibet, which is a restricted area, is where Kailash Mansarovar is located. Instead of giving a single person visa, the Chinese visa is given to groups. The group visa is paper-based and is intended specifically for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra for Nepali. This visa is necessary for everyone to enter China. Along with this, a Chinese government-issued Tibet Travel Permit is also necessary. All the visa-obtaining and documentation processes will be done by a tour operator like us during the time of travel.

Health and Fitness

The high-altitude region surrounding Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar is characterized by a harsh climate and challenging terrain, making the pilgrimage challenging. To reach there, it involves navigating difficult paths, requiring both physical fitness and stamina. Not everyone is prepared for such a rigorous journey. To accomplish so, you must be in decent physical condition. To ensure your body is ready for the challenges ahead, it is advisable to engage in specific physical activities before setting off on your adventure. Adding regular exercises and basic yoga into your routine can help build the strength and endurance needed to cope with the strenuous trek. By engaging in these activities, you increase your body's ability to function well under adverse weather circumstances.

Packing requirements

When preparing for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, packing light and smart is crucial to ensuring a comfortable and successful journey. Packing wisely ensures that pilgrims are well prepared both mentally and physically for the Yatra. Given are some packing essentials for this yatra:

Read More: Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Packing List Suggestion

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a pilgrimage to the holy Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar. For Nepalese pilgrims, there are various routes to travel, with the KMY drive via Kyirong being the most famous one. The itinerary given below is the plan for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by drive via Kyirong for group departures.

Note: The provided itinerary is only for fixed group departures.

Related Package: Kailash Mansarovar Yatra for Nepali

As group departure is only available for Nepali travelers for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, the total cost for the yatra is NPR 1,60,000.

Cost Breakdown

Here is a basic cost breakdown of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra for Nepali:

Learn More: How much does Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Cost

For Nepali travelers, as there are fixed group departures every year, it's better if you prebook, secure your spots, and make necessary arrangements for the yatra. Other than contacting online, it's easy for Nepali, as you can also visit our office and get more details in person. Here are a few steps you can follow to book your Kailash Mansarovar Yatra:

• Step 1: Contact us via email at kailash@holidaystonepal.com or by phone at +977-9851166779 to learn more about the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. For Nepali travelers, if you’re in Nepal, you can also visit our office for an in-person inquiry.

• Step 2: As soon as we receive your query, we will give you all the information you need to plan your trip and get an itinerary that suits your needs. To make sure your trip is exactly what you want and expect, feel free to ask any concerns and suggest customizations.

• Step 3: You can make the reservation if you're satisfied with your travel itinerary. Your desired travel dates, the specifics of your flight arrival, and the payment for your advance reservation are required to secure your spot. We provide a range of payment options, so you may select the one that works best for you.

• Step 4: After we receive your payment, we will begin making all necessary arrangements for your Yatra. This includes finalizing your itinerary, applying for a Tibet travel permit, securing hotel bookings, and preparing a revised invoice. It also requires copies of your passport and recent photographs. Once everything is in place, you’ll receive a confirmed itinerary and all other essential travel documents, ensuring you’re fully prepared for your spiritual journey to Mount Kailash.

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, considered one of the holiest spiritual attempts by Hindus, Buddhists, Jain, and Bon followers, is accessible through multiple routes from Nepal. Either you reach by air or by drive, the yatra involves trekking through high altitude and rugged terrains.

By Drive via Kyirong Border

From Kathmandu, the road access leads to the Syabrubesi. And from Syabrubesi, the drive to Kyirong and Saga will take you to the Kailash Mansarovar. The Kailash Parikrama starts from Yama Dwara; till there, the drive is accessible. Further, the trek will begin for the people who are willing to complete the Parikrama. The trek from Yamadwara takes Derapuk, Zutulphuk, and to Kyirong, following the same route back to Kathmandu.

By Heli via Simikot Hilsa

The air route to Simikot and Hilsa is an excellent option for those who prefer a faster option. The journey begins with a short flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, followed by the next flight to Simikot. From Simikot, you will take a helicopter ride to Hilsa, where the drive towards Kailash Mansarovar starts. The same route follows back to Kathmandu while returning.

By Air via Lhasa

The route through the capital of Tibet is another popular way to reach Kailash Mansarovar. Compared to the helicopter, this route is longer, which offers a chance to visit nearby heritage sites, including the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and other historic monasteries before you drive further for the parikrama. What's more is that the north Everest Base Camp can also be explored in this route without trekking. From Lhasa, it takes the route of Shigatse, Tingri, Saga, and towards Mansarovar.

Learn More: How to reach Kailash Mansarovar?

The ideal time to visit Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is the month of May to September. In certain months, the weather is significantly better with high clarity, followed by the comfortable temperature of the region. At the time of July and August, the monsoon season starts, and the light rains and fog are possible, but the mysterious Mount Kailash turns out to be good, bringing a completely new experience while trekking around. From November to March, the heavy snow and freezing cold make traveling to Kailash Mansarovar very difficult.

Learn More: Best time to visit Kailash Mansarovar

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is one of the holiest pilgrimages of the world revered by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers and is considered challenging yet a rewarding trek. This journey takes pilgrims to altitudes exceeding 5500 m, where the oxygen level is significantly lower. As you can see in the table given, you can see the increase in altitude with the days of your travel.

Another difficulty in this yatra is the physical terrain. During the 52-kilometer trek from Yamadwar to the ending point near Darchen, the route involves navigating rugged landscapes, steep ascents, and rocky trails. Dolma la Pass (5600 m), which is the highest point of the trek, is included in this three-day trek. The difficult terrain involved with the thin air makes this part even more challenging.

Additionally, the unpredictable weather conditions are also one of the challenging perspectives of this trek. The sudden drop in temperatures, snow, and hailstorm can be an obstacle during the trek. Pilgrims must be prepared for these harsh conditions both mentally and physically with proper gear, clothes, and fitness exercises.

Traveling is filled with new experiences, cultures, and environments. A few thoughtful tips can enhance your travel experience with the right information and preparation. Undertaking a Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, which takes place in the remote and higher altitude of Tibet, requires careful planning, preparation, and awareness of various travel requirements as you need to cross the border and adapt to the higher altitude. Given are some travel tips that can assist you in your long journey.

Altitude Sickness

Mansarovar Lake is situated at 4,650 m above sea level, and Mount Kailash Parikrama has its highest elevation of about 5600 m. People frequently experience Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) at such a high altitude. The impact of AMS differs from person to person, though, since some people experience a very powerful impact while others experience a minimal or insignificant one. Before going on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra for Nepali, it's vital to practice some yoga and engage in some physical activity because someone physically fit is less likely to have AMS. Breathlessness, headaches, nausea, and irregular sleeping patterns are some symptoms of altitude sickness.

Currency

For cash, it is advised to carry Chinese currency (Yuan), as it is only acceptable in that region. The currency exchange rate for Yuan in dollars is 1 Chinese Yuan = USD 0.14, and the exchange rate for Yuan in Nepalese rupees is 1 Chinese Yuan = NPR 18.94. You can exchange it before crossing the border from banks, tour operators, or at the immigration office. Carrying a changeable amount is advised for a simple and hassle-free journey. Several businesses in this area accept credit cards, although they are not always obvious, and it is difficult to find ATMs.

Transportation and Accommodation

Even though Kailash Mansarovar is located in the remote region of Tibet, the developed transportation infrastructure makes it simple to reach the region. For local travel inside Tibet's regions, buses and jeeps are conveniently available. There is also a helicopter option for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, which enables travelers to reach their destination quickly while still taking in the beautiful scenery of the area.

During the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, there are several accommodations available in different overnight stops. The places such as Kyirong, Saga, and Darchen town have good hotels, while the other stops such as Mansarovar, Derapuk, and Zuthulpuk only have guest houses with minimal amenities present.

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra holds a special place for Nepali travelers not just in spiritual context but also culturally and geographically. Our Kailash Mansarovar Yatra for Nepali explores the unique perspective of Nepali devotees, highlighting the significance of the Yatra. It covers the various aspects of the Yatra, including the religious and historical significance, the Yatra routes available for Nepali pilgrims, and the practical considerations required for those planning the journey from Nepal.

As Kailash Mansarovar requires careful planning and considerations, some logistic aspects are also mentioned in this blog so that the pilgrims are clear about the necessary preparations, including the permits, high altitude, physical challenges, and adjustments to the new environment of the region. It not only equips you with essential information but also provides them with a clear understanding of what to expect from this 11 days yatra.

The journey to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar is seen as a way to seek divine blessings, cleanse past sins, and achieve a sense of inner peace and fulfillment. As more Nepalis continue to undertake this yatra, it not only strengthens their personal faith but reminds them of their role as a living spiritual legacy. Holidays to Nepal wishes you a safe and successful Yatra through this resourceful guide.

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra for Nepali:

How can I go to Kailash Mansarovar from Nepal?

There are several ways to reach Kailash Mansarovar from Nepal. The best way to reach Kailash Mansarovar Yatra for Nepali is via the Kyirong route. The route is accessible, time and cost-efficient, and easy to travel to.

Can elderly people participate in the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?

Yes, elderly people can participate in this yatra, but there are important factors to consider. The Yatra is physically demanding and takes place at high altitudes, with the trek reaching elevations of over 5000 m. Elderly participants should undergo a thorough medical examination to assess their fitness for high-altitude trekking. Conditions like heart problems, high blood pressure, respiratory issues, or other chronic illnesses may increase the risk of complications. Regular physical training, such as walking, hiking, cardiovascular exercises, and strength training, is recommended several months before the Yatra to build endurance.

How much do I have to walk during Parikrama?

With two overnight stops at Derapuk and Zuthulpuk, the 52-kilometer Kailash journey can be completed in about three days of trekking. The Dolma La pass, which is located on the second day of the Kailash Mansarovar Kora and is approximately 5600 m above sea level, is the highest point of the trek. The trekking is generally on level land on the first and third days; however, on the second day of the trek, ascending and descending the Dolma La Pass is the most difficult part of the yatra.

Why no one can climb Mount Kailash?

Hindus believe that climbing to Mount Kailash's summit is prohibited because doing so would violate the mountain's purity and upset the divine spirits that reside there. A Tibetan folktale claims that Milarepa, a monk, once traveled far enough to ascend Mount Meru.

What kind of medical assistance will be there, if needed?

First aid supplies are available with the tour manager or guide at all times during the yatra. In case of an emergency, our team also has a limited supply of oxygen bottles. It is encouraged for pilgrims to bring enough of any medications they usually use or may be prescribed by a physician. In addition to this, having insurance will help you in case of uncertainties. We recommend you obtain one that suits the nature of travel to Mount Kailash.