For many travellers, a trip is more than just visiting places—it’s about feeling something special. The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is one such journey. It takes you through breathtaking mountains, peaceful valleys, and sacred sites that hold deep meaning for many people.
As you travel, you will see the mighty Mount Kailash, a peak believed to be holy in many religions. The beautiful Mansarovar Lake shines under the open sky, and many believe its waters bring peace and blessings. The journey is challenging, with high altitudes and cold weather, but every step feels meaningful.
Some travellers come here for spiritual reasons, while others seek adventure or personal growth. Whatever your reason, this journey is truly unforgettable. It’s not just about reaching a destination—it’s about the experience, the people you meet, and the feeling of being part of something greater.
Why Should You Go on This Yatra?
If you’re someone who enjoys travelling with a purpose, this journey is perfect. Whether you are deeply religious or just looking for an offbeat travel experience, the beauty of this place will leave you speechless. Here’s what makes this journey so special:
Spiritual Awakening – The energy around Kailash is believed to be incredibly powerful. Many say they feel a divine presence just by being there.
Breathtaking Scenery – From vast Tibetan plateaus to towering snow-capped peaks, the landscapes on this journey are surreal.
A Test of Endurance – The trek to Mount Kailash is not easy. It challenges both your physical strength and mental resilience, making the journey even more rewarding.
Cultural Experience – Walking alongside pilgrims from Nepal, India, Tibet, and other countries gives you a chance to witness different traditions and beliefs.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Kailash Mansarovar is from May to September, when the weather is relatively stable, making the journey safer. During these months, the temperature is manageable, and the roads are more accessible. July is the peak pilgrimage season, attracting the highest number of devotees. This period offers the best conditions for a smooth and spiritual experience at Kailash Mansarovar.
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Your journey starts as you arrive in Kathmandu (4,300 ft), the capital of Nepal. After checking in at your hotel, take some time to relax and explore the city. You can visit local markets, taste delicious Nepali food, or just rest and prepare for the upcoming adventure.
Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu
Today, you will visit some of the most famous temples and spiritual places in Kathmandu. Explore the Pashupatinath Temple, a sacred site for Hindus, and visit the Boudhanath Stupa and Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple). This tour will give you a glimpse of Nepal’s rich culture and history.
Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi or Timure
Leave Kathmandu and begin a scenic 6-7 hour drive (145 km) to Syabrubesi (4,800 ft), a small town near the Nepal-Tibet border. The journey takes you through beautiful hills, rivers, and remote villages.
Day 4: Cross the Nepal-Tibet Border & Reach Kyirong County
A short 30-minute drive (15 km) will take you to Rasuwagadhi (6,000 ft), where you will complete immigration formalities before entering Tibet. From there, you will drive 3 hours (105 km) to Kyirong County (13,500 ft). Since the altitude is higher, it’s important to rest and let your body adjust.
Day 5: Acclimatization Day in Kyirong County
This day is set aside to help your body adjust to the high altitude. You can take short walks around the area, drink plenty of water, and rest to prepare for the upcoming days.
Day 6: Drive to Saga County
After breakfast, continue your journey with a 4-5 hour drive (180 km) to Saga County (14,700 ft). The drive takes you through breathtaking landscapes, with views of wide plains and mountains. Once you reach Saga, take the rest of the day to relax.
Day 7: Drive to Mansarovar Lake
Today is one of the most special days of the trip. You will travel 500 km (8-9 hours) to reach the sacred Mansarovar Lake (15,100 ft). As you get closer, the first sight of the lake is truly magical. Spend time by the lake, take in the peaceful surroundings, and rest for the night.
Day 8: Short Drive to Darchen
In the morning, you can visit the lake again for prayers or a short dip in its holy waters. Later, take a 40 km drive (1-2 hours) to Darchen (15,300 ft), the base camp for the Mount Kailash Parikrama (circuit trek).
Day 9: Start Trek from Yamdwar to Deraphuk
Drive 11 km (30 minutes) from Darchen to Yamdwar (15,500 ft), the starting point of the trek. From there, begin the 13 km trek (5-6 hours) to Deraphuk (16,600 ft), walking along rocky paths with amazing views of Mount Kailash.
Day 10: Visit Kailash Parvat Charan Sparsh & Return to Deraphuk
Today, you will trek 6 km (6 hours) to Kailash Parvat Charan Sparsh (18,000 ft), the closest point where pilgrims can feel the divine presence of Mount Kailash. After spending some time here, trek 6 km (5 hours) back to Deraphuk for the night.
Day 11: Trek to Zuthulphuk via Dolma La & Gaurikund
This is the most challenging day of the trek. Start early and trek 6 km (4 hours) to Dolma La Pass (18,500 ft), the highest point of the journey. From here, descend 13 km (6 hours) to Zuthulphuk (15,800 ft), passing by the sacred Gaurikund Lake.
Day 12: Trek to Chongdo & Drive to Saga
Complete the final 6 km trek (3 hours) to Chongdo (15,300 ft), where vehicles will be waiting. From here, drive 9-10 hours (545 km) back to Saga County (14,700 ft) for an overnight stay.
Day 13: Drive from Saga to Kyirong County
Enjoy a relaxed 4-5 hour drive (180 km) back to Kyirong County (13,500 ft), retracing your route through Tibet.
Day 14: Return to Kathmandu
Cross the border and travel 11 hours (265 km) back to Kathmandu (4,300 ft). Upon arrival, you can rest or explore the city before your departure.
Day 15: Departure
Your spiritual journey comes to an end. Depending on your schedule, you can take some time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing before heading to the airport for your departure.
The Route & Major Attractions
1. Kathmandu – The Starting Point
Your journey begins in Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital. Here, you visit the famous Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most important temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and thousands of pilgrims visit it every day to seek blessings before heading toward Kailash.
Tip: Spend a day exploring the vibrant streets of Thamel, trying Nepali food, and preparing for the long journey ahead.
2. The Journey to Tibet
From Kathmandu, you drive toward the Nepal-Tibet border. The moment you cross into Tibet (China), you notice a shift in the landscape—Nepal’s green hills give way to Tibet’s vast, dry plains, surrounded by majestic mountains.
One of the biggest surprises here is how peaceful Tibet feels. With its scattered monasteries, fluttering prayer flags, and monks walking quietly, the entire region carries an air of calmness and spirituality.
3. Mansarovar Lake – A Sacred Experience
After days of traveling through rugged Tibetan terrain, you finally reach the breathtaking Mansarovar Lake. Located at an altitude of 4,590 meters, this lake is believed to be the most sacred in Hinduism and Buddhism.
Why is it special?
Hindus believe that Mansarovar was created by Lord Brahma and taking a dip in it washes away all sins.
Buddhists consider it the lake of enlightenment.
The water is so clear that it reflects the image of Mount Kailash beautifully.
Personal Tip: If you’re not comfortable taking a dip in the icy waters, you can simply sprinkle some water on yourself and meditate by the lake. The energy of this place is beyond words!
4. Rakshas Tal – The Mysterious Lake
Next to Mansarovar lies Rakshas Tal, a saltwater lake with no aquatic life. It is believed to be the place where the demon king Ravana meditated to please Lord Shiva. Unlike Mansarovar, which is associated with positive energy, Rakshas Tal represents negative energy. Despite the legends, the lake’s deep blue waters are mesmerizing.
Next to Mansarovar lies Rakshas Tal, a saltwater lake with no aquatic life. It is believed to be the place where the demon king Ravana meditated to please Lord Shiva. Unlike Mansarovar, which is associated with positive energy, Rakshas Tal represents negative energy. Despite the legends, the lake’s deep blue waters are mesmerizing.
5. The Ultimate Goal – Mount Kailash
Finally, you reach the highlight of the journey—Mount Kailash. Towering at 6,638 meters, this sacred peak is said to be the abode of Lord Shiva. No one has ever climbed it, as it is considered too holy to be touched.
The Kailash Parikrama (Circumambulation)One of the most important rituals of the yatra is walking around Mount Kailash, a 52-km trek that takes about three days. Pilgrims believe that completing this trek brings salvation and good karma.
The trek is challenging due to the high altitude, rocky terrain, and unpredictable weather, but it is also the most rewarding part of the journey.
6. Dolma La Pass – The Highest Point
At 5,636 meters, Dolma La Pass is the toughest part of the trek. This is the moment where you truly test your physical endurance and mental strength. At the top, you see thousands of prayer flags left by pilgrims, creating a colourful contrast against the snow.
After crossing Dolma La, you descend toward Gaurikund, a sacred lake believed to be where Goddess Parvati bathed.
Things to Keep in Mind
High Altitude Sickness – Since the trek reaches heights of over 5,500 meters, acclimatization is crucial. Drink plenty of water, walk slowly, and listen to your body.
Limited Food Options – Only vegetarian food is available throughout the journey. Pack energy bars, dry fruits, and instant noodles.
Basic Accommodation – Hotels and guesthouses are simple. Be prepared for shared rooms and common washrooms.
Extreme Weather Conditions – Tibet is known for its unpredictable weather. One moment, it’s sunny, and the next, you’re caught in a snowstorm. Dress in layers and carry good trekking gear.
Visa & Permits – Since Mount Kailash is in Tibet (China), special permits are required. It’s best to book your trip through a registered travel agency to handle all the paperwork.
Who Can Join This Journey?
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is open to those who are 18 years or older. While first-time trekkers are welcome, having some prior trekking experience can be beneficial. Since this is a high-altitude journey, being in good physical shape is essential.
Fitness Requirements
To comfortably undertake this trek, you should have a decent level of stamina. Ideally, you should be able to:
Jog 5 km within 30 minutes or walk 10 km in 70 minutes without feeling exhausted.
If you prefer cycling, you should be able to cover 18 km at a steady pace in 50 minutes.
If you plan to carry your backpack, ensure you can comfortably manage 10-12 kg while trekking.
If you opt for offloading (where porters carry your heavy bags), you should still be prepared to carry at least 3-5 kg of your essentials.
Important Health Considerations
Since the yatra takes you to extreme altitudes, it’s important to assess your physical condition beforehand. If your BMI (Body Mass Index) falls outside the normal range (18-27), it’s best to consult our Trek Coordinator before booking to ensure you’re fit for the journey.
Health & Safety Guidelines
Before booking the trek, please make sure you are in good health. Here are some important health checks:
Pulse Rate – Should be between 60 to 90 beats per minute when resting.Blood Pressure – Should be between 100-140 (systolic) and 70-90 (diastolic).Breathing Rate – Should be 12 to 20 breaths per minute at rest.
People with serious liver or kidney problems.
Those with diabetes, asthma, heart conditions, or high blood pressure.
If you have a pacemaker implant, this trek is not safe for you.
People with sinus issues or epilepsy should talk to the trek coordinator before booking.
If your BMI (Body Mass Index) is too high or too low, please check with the trek coordinator before confirming your trek.
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