Introduction
The Kailash Mansarovar Tour is a rare and profound experience that goes beyond physical travel. It is a sacred expedition into the heart of the Himalayas, where ancient mythology, rugged terrain, and spiritual energy converge. Located in Tibet’s Ngari Prefecture, Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar are among the most revered pilgrimage sites on Earth. For Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers, this journey represents a passage to spiritual awakening and ultimate liberation.
Not only does the Kailash Mansarovar Tour offer panoramic vistas of untouched Himalayan beauty, but it also challenges and transforms the soul. This article provides a detailed overview of the pilgrimage, travel routes, spiritual essence, and practical aspects of planning this life-changing journey.
Sacred Importance of Kailash and Mansarovar
Mount Kailash: The Divine Axis
Mount Kailash stands at 6,638 meters (21,778 feet) and is often described as the cosmic axis or spiritual center of the universe. Hindus believe it to be the abode of Lord Shiva, the supreme ascetic and transformer. According to Vedic texts, circling Mount Kailash once (called Kora or Parikrama) absolves all sins, and completing it 108 times leads to salvation.
Lake Mansarovar: Waters of Creation
Adjacent to the mountain lies Lake Mansarovar, a crystal-clear freshwater lake formed by divine will. Hindus regard it as the origin of purity, where gods descend to bathe. Buddhists associate it with enlightenment, and Jains revere it as a sacred place linked to their first Tirthankara.
Route Options for the Kailash Mansarovar Tour
Travel to this remote and spiritually rich location can be done through multiple routes, each with its own challenges, duration, and eligibility criteria.
1. Via Nepal (Kathmandu – Kyirong – Tibet Route)
- Start Point: Kathmandu, Nepal
- Travel Mode: Drive to Kyirong Border → Mansarovar lake → Kailash parikrama → Saga→ Kyirong → Kathmandu
- Duration: 10 days
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Best for: International tourists and elderly pilgrims
Day 1. Drive to Rasuwagadi , Kyirong Nepal border 2,890 m
Day 2. cross the Kyirong border and rest day for acclimatization.
Day 3. Drive to Saga 4,400 m – 05 hrs.
Day 4. Drive to Lake Manasarover 4,588 m near Chu Gompa – 07 hours.
Day 5. At Manasarover rest day for acclimatization.
Day 6. Short drive to Taboche past Darchen 4,600 m, walk to Dhiraphuk 4,900 m – 05 hours.
Day 07. Trek to Zutul-Puk 4,760 m via Dolma-la 5, 630 m – 06 hrs
Day 08. Trek near Darchen and drive to Saga town – 07 hrs.
Day 09. Drive to Kyirong in local guesthouse – 05 hrs.
Day 10. Drive back to Kathmandu and transfer to hotel – 06 hrs.
2. Via Nepal (Kathmandu – Simikot – Hilsa – Tibet Route)
This is the most accessible and widely used international route.
- Start Point: Kathmandu, Nepal
- Travel Mode: Flight to Nepalgunj → Simikot → Helicopter to Hilsa → Drive to Kailash
- Duration: 10 to 14 days
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Best for: International tourists and elderly pilgrims
3. Via Lipulekh Pass (Indian Government MEA Route)
Organized by India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), this traditional route involves trekking and official selection.
- Start Point: Delhi → Uttarakhand (Dharchula)
- Travel Mode: Road and trek via Gunji, Kalapani, and Lipulekh
- Duration: ~24 days
- Difficulty: High – requires trekking at altitudes over 5,000 m
- Best for: Indian citizens seeking a subsidized pilgrimage
4. Lhasa Route (Overland from Tibet Capital)
An overland route that starts in Lhasa and travels across Tibet to reach Kailash.
- Start Point: Lhasa, Tibet
- Travel Mode: Flight to Lhasa → Overland drive via Shigatse and Saga
- Duration: 14 to 16 days
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Best for: Tourists wanting a cultural Tibet experience en route
The Spiritual Trek: Mount Kailash Kora
The Mount Kailash Kora or circumambulation is the spiritual climax of the journey. Pilgrims undertake this ritual walk to show reverence and seek purification.
- Total Distance: Approximately 52 km
- Duration: 3 days
- Highest Point: Dolma La Pass (5,630 meters)
- Day 1: Darchen to Dirapuk – views of Kailash’s north face
- Day 2: Dirapuk to Zuthulpuk – challenging ascent via Dolma La
- Day 3: Zuthulpuk to Darchen – descent and return
Some pilgrims perform the parikrama in a single day, while others take three. A few even perform full-body prostrations across the entire circuit, which may take weeks.
Health, Fitness, and Preparation
Due to high altitudes and limited infrastructure, preparation is essential.
Physical Conditioning
Start training 2–3 months before the journey. Recommended exercises include:
- Walking and hiking
- Cardiovascular workouts
- Breathing exercises and yoga (especially Pranayama)
Acclimatization and Medical Tips
- Spend 1–2 days in high-altitude towns (like Simikot or Purang)
- Carry AMS medication (e.g., Diamox)
- Hydrate frequently and avoid alcohol or smoking
- Have a full medical check-up before departure
Packing Essentials
Here’s what you must carry:
- Thermals, woolen socks, gloves, and waterproof jackets
- Trekking shoes with ankle support
- Personal medication and first-aid supplies
- Water purification tablets
- Energy bars and dry fruits
- Flashlight, sunglasses, sunscreen, and toiletries
Travel Documents and Permits
For most pilgrims, travel documents are arranged by tour operators. However, understanding the requirements is important.
- Valid Passport (6+ months validity)
- Chinese Group Visa (not individual visa)
- Tibet Travel Permit
- Alien’s Travel Permit for restricted regions
- For Indians via MEA: Government registration and fitness certification
Accommodation and Meals
Due to the remoteness of the area, lodging is basic but functional.
- Guesthouses or monastery accommodations in towns
- Tented camps during the Kora
- Vegetarian meals prepared by travel cooks or local facilities
- Limited access to electricity and hot water—carry power banks
Best Time to Travel
The pilgrimage is possible only during the summer months.
- Ideal Season: Late May to early September
- June–July: Warmer, but can be cloudy
- August–September: Clear skies, fewer tourists
- Avoid monsoon-heavy weeks or extreme weather alerts
Conclusion
The Kailash Mansarovar Tour is unlike any other pilgrimage in the world. It’s a powerful spiritual retreat, an intense physical challenge, and a deeply personal quest for truth and liberation. Whether you are a religious devotee, a cultural explorer, or a spiritual seeker, standing in the shadow of Mount Kailash and gazing at the serene waters of Lake Mansarovar will change your perspective on life forever.
Though the path is tough, the rewards—both visible and invisible—are priceless. Prepare well, travel mindfully, and embark on a journey that will remain etched in your soul for eternity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can anyone go on the Kailash Mansarovar Tour?
Yes, pilgrims from around the world can undertake the journey through Nepal or Tibet-based routes. Indian citizens may also apply via the MEA’s official route.
Q2: Is the trek very difficult?
The trek involves high-altitude walking and crossing a 5,600+ meter pass. It requires good fitness and mental preparation. The helicopter or overland routes reduce the physical challenge but still require acclimatization.
Q3: Are there any age restrictions?
Generally, people aged 10 to 70 can go, depending on health. However, the Indian government route has stricter criteria, often allowing ages 18–70.
Q4: Do I need to be religious to do the Kailash tour?
No. While the region is deeply spiritual, many visitors go for cultural, scenic, or personal growth reasons.
Q5: Can I bathe in Lake Mansarovar?
Yes, many pilgrims take a dip in the lake as a symbolic act of purification. However, weather and local guidelines must be considered for safety.
Q6: What is the cost of the tour?
Depending on the route and facilities, the cost ranges between USD 2,500 to 6,000+. Luxury helicopter tours are more expensive, while overland group tours are more affordable.
