Introduction
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is considered the most sacred pilgrimage for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers around the world. Located in Tibet at an altitude of 6,638 meters, Mount Kailash is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva, while Lake Mansarovar represents purity, spiritual enlightenment, and divine energy. Every year, thousands of devotees undertake this challenging yet life-changing journey to seek blessings and inner peace.
In this detailed guide, you will find everything you need to know about the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra—routes, itinerary, cost, eligibility, permits, best time, and essential travel tips.
🌄 What Makes Kailash Mansarovar Yatra So Sacred?
- Mount Kailash is believed to be the home of Lord Shiva
- Lake Mansarovar is considered a sacred lake of purification
- Circumambulation (Parikrama) washes away past sins
- Revered by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon communities
- The energy around Kailash is believed to elevate spiritual consciousness
- Rare opportunity to trek in the mystical Ngari region of Tibet
🛣️ Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Route Options
1. Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lipulekh Pass (India Government Route)
- Trekking route through Uttarakhand
- Dharchula → Gunji → Navidhang → Lipulekh Pass
- Requires high physical fitness
- Operated by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)
2. Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Kathmandu (Nepal Route)
- Most popular route
- Kathmandu → Lhasa → Mansarovar → Kailash Parikrama
- Comfortable & ideal for seniors
3. Kailash Mansarovar Helicopter Yatra via Lucknow
Minimal trekking; suitable for elderly yatris
Lucknow → Nepalgunj → Simikot → Hilsa → Purang
Short duration
🏔️ Complete 10–12 Day Kailash Mansarovar Itinerary (Kathmandu Route)
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Temple visit and briefing.
Day 2: Fly to Lhasa (Tibet)
Acclimatization and sightseeing.
Day 3: Lhasa to Shigatse
Scenic drive through Tibetan highlands.
Day 4: Shigatse → Saga
Stay near the Brahmaputra River.
Day 5: Saga → Lake Mansarovar
Spiritual puja, holy dip, and meditation at Mansarovar.
Day 6: Mansarovar → Darchen
Prepare for the Kailash Parikrama.
Day 7: Parikrama Day 1 – Darchen → Dirapuk
Trek with stunning north face views of Mount Kailash.
Day 8: Parikrama Day 2 – Dirapuk → Dolma La Pass → Zutulpuk
Most challenging day; cross Dolma La Pass (18,600 ft).
Day 9: Parikrama Day 3 – Zutulpuk → Darchen
Complete the holy circumambulation.
Day 10–12: Return Journey via Saga → Shigatse → Lhasa → Kathmandu
Best Time to Visit
| Month | Weather & Experience |
|---|---|
| May–June | Stable weather, good visibility |
| July–August | Occasional rain, green landscapes |
| September | Clear skies, best for parikrama |
| October | Cold but peaceful |
🛂 Permits Required
To enter Tibet for the yatra, you need:
- Tibet Travel Permit
- Alien Travel Permit
- Kailash & Mansarovar Entry Permit
- Group Visa (Issued from Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu)
Operators usually arrange all permits.
💰 Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Cost
The cost depends on the route:
- Kathmandu Route: ₹1,80,000 – ₹2,20,000
- Helicopter Route via Nepalgunj: ₹2,60,000 – ₹3,10,000
- Lipulekh Pass (Govt Route): Subsidized, but very limited slots
The package usually includes:
✔ Accommodation
✔ Meals
✔ Transportation (Bus/Jeep)
✔ Oxygen support
✔ Sherpa support
✔ Permits
✔ Guide & coordinator
🎒 Essential Things to Carry
- Warm layers + thermal wear
- Windproof & waterproof jacket
- Good trekking shoes
- Sunglasses & sunscreen
- Cap, muffler, gloves
- Personal medicines
- Energy bars & dry fruits
- Passport (required for China visa)
🙏 Spiritual Benefits of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
- Helps achieve inner peace
- Considered a journey of liberation (Moksha)
- Boosts spiritual awareness
- Creates a deep sense of connection with the divine
- Cleanses mind and soul
https://uttarakhandtourism.gov.in/destination/dharchula
🙌 Why Travel with Exploring Wings?
- Experienced pilgrimage travel specialists
- Smooth coordination and guidance
- Best safety standards
- Comfortable stay arrangements
- 24×7 support during the yatra
- Thousands of happy pilgrims
https://exploringwings.in/kedarkantha-trek-winter-guide/
🧭 Final Words
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is not just a journey—it is a sacred experience that transforms the soul. The mountains, the energy of Lake Mansarovar, and the divine presence of Lord Shiva make this pilgrimage truly life-changing.
If you are planning the Yatra, Exploring Wings is here to guide you every step of the way.