The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is the most popular Travel route in Tibet, and Mount Kailash is the most popular travel destination in Tibet. This pilgrimage centers on Holy Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar in western Tibet, where devotees from different faiths come to pray, reflect, and experience the holy landscape unlike any other.
With 30 years of Tibet tourism experience, we know planning this journey takes more than choosing a departure date. As a Traveler, you need to understand the routes, impact of high altitude, Tibet Travel Permits, physical demands, and the possibility of delays.
Most pilgrimages to Kailash and Mansarovar include a visit and an overnight stay at the Lake, plus three days of trekking around Kailash (Kailash Kora Trekking), a 52 km circumambulation of the mountain with typically about 42 km of walking. This spiritual journey lasts about 8-18 days on private tours from Nepal or Mainland China, and about 21 to 25 days on Government of India MEA routes. Holy Mount Kailash and Mansarovar are open only from May to October. Weather, border connectivity, and crowd control can affect any tour and permit application process.
Route status — 27 August 2026: After the devastating landslide at the Sino-Nepal border on 26th August. The most popular and functional border crossing from Kathmandu remains closed. It is likely to remain closed for the next few years. Tatopani – Dram border is also closed; only a few local Nepali workers and trucks are reported to be able to exit China from that border. As a result, we will not open bookings for 2027 on this route. We will update the page as soon as we have more information. Kindly check our [Route & Travel Updates].
This landslide caused loss of life and extensive damage in both Nepal and Tibet, including among many yatris traveling to the region. We offer our sincere condolences and prayers for everyone affected. We share this update to help travelers plan informed trips—not to turn a tragedy into a sales message.
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra: Quick Facts
Use these facts as a starting point to understand the conditions of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. With 30 years of experience in Tibet Tourism, we have found that well-prepared pilgrims know not only where they are going, but also the altitude, trekking challenges, permits, and route conditions. After knowing these facts, you can confirm the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra details based on your nationality, route, and departure date with your operator.
Where is Mount Kailash?
How high is Mount Kailash?
How high is Lake Mansarovar?
What is the highest point on the outer kora?
How long is the Kailash Kora?
How long does the kora take?
What are the usual kora stages?
- Day 1: is from Darchen toward Dirapuk, covering 22 kms, 6-8hrs
- Day 2: crosses Dolma La and continues to Zuthulpuk, covering 22 kms, 11hrs.
- Day 3: returns toward Darchen, covering 10 kms, 3- 4 hrs.
Do pilgrims climb Mount Kailash?
When is the usual travel season?
How long does the full yatra take?
What are the main routes?
- Fly from Kathmandu to Lhasa, Beijing, or another Chinese city, then end the tour back in Lhasa, or travel overland to Kathmandu.
- Travel overland from Nepal to Lhasa and continue to Kailash, or travel directly to Kailash from Kathmandu without going to Lhasa. (This route is subject to the opening of the border, and it is highly discouraged to do this tour due to poor acclimatization.)
Can I travel independently in Tibet?
What permits or visas may be needed?
Suppose you are an Indian citizen traveling to Tibet for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. You will need to organize the Kailash Yatra through the China India Pilgrimage Service Center (CIPSC). [link]You can also organize this indirectly through a Kailash Yatra organizer in Nepal.
For non indian yatris, including NRIs and other nationals, going on the Kailash Yatra. We, as a local Tibetan Travel Agency, can help you organize the yatra.
How physically demanding is the yatra?
Are ponies or porters available?
What should I know about route status?
May 2027:
There was a huge snowfall in the Kailash region, and the government had to close the Kailash kora for up to 5 days. This led to forcing thousands of Yatris to return back.
Saga Dawa 2027:
On the 14th Day of Saga Dawa, there was another snowfall at the Drolma La Pass, and the government had to close the Kailash Kora on the 15th day of Saga Dawa, which led to changes in many yatra itineraries. Those without a flexible tour plan and backup had to return, while most of our Kailash tours had to wait one additional day in Darchen and complete the kora with an additional day in Tibet, with extra on-the-ground costs and flight rescheduling.
26th August 2027:
Rescue effort:
September 2027:
At the end of September, there was heavy snowfall in the Kailash area. During that time, heavy snowfall closed all mountain passes, and both Purang Airport and Ali Kunsha Airport were closed. Many travelers were stuck in Darchen for more than two days. All of the clients were lucky to get the flight ticket to Chengdu on the third day, yet those who didn’t get the flight ticket had to return back to Lhasa overland. Most were stuck in traffic for almost the entire night.
We are sharing these incidents not to make a profit, but to make pilgrims aware of what can happen on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Our Government and our agency are always ready to provide the right solution based on the situation.
Are the 2027 dates and prices confirmed?
A few practical points before you plan
The most important concern of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is high-altitude sickness. Pilgrims should really keep this in mind and make all the preparations months ahead of the yatra. The average sleeping altitude of this Yatra is 4500 meters (14763 feet) above sea level. The highest point is at Drolma La Pass at 5630 meters (18471 ft), which is very high.
Preparation and regular exercise in the months before the yatra date are highly recommended. Consult your doctor about high-altitude medication. Bring one from home, as you’ll need it. Most importantly, choose a Kailash Mansarovar Yatra plan with proper acclimatization. Most private operators in Nepal start the Yatra from Kathmandu, taking you to Saga (4640 meters) on the third day, which is a nightmare for acclimatization.
Consult your doctor and ask the tour operators how they handle acclimatization, emergencies, and delays. If you are an NRI or non-Indian traveler, it is highly recommended that you travel with a local, responsible travel agency like Tenzin Travel.
The MEA route is carefully crafted with acclimatization in mind, with plenty of stops in India at different altitudes before entering China. Private group tour routes depend on the travel agency you choose. Get as much as possible information about the visa, permit, travel dates, insurance, cancellation terms, and contingency plan before booking your Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
[Compare Kailash Yatra Routes] · [See Route & Travel Updates] · [Read the Kailash Kora Guide]
What is the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?
First, let’s look at what Yatra means. Yatra is a Hindi word that means a procession or pilgrimage, especially one with a religious purpose. Kailash Mansarovar Yatra means a pilgrimage to the holy Mount Kailash and Mansarovar Lake in western Tibet. Each year, hundreds of thousands of devotees visit the holy lake and mountain and circumambulate Mount Kailash, a practice commonly called the Kora (Tibetan for circumambulation).
Most Kailash Mansarovar Yatra tours include a night in Lake Mansarovar; after that, yatris spend a night in Darchen near Kailash before starting the Kailash Parikrama Kora. The standard outer kora of the holy mountain can be done in three days, with the hardest part being crossing over Drolma La pass at 5,630 m (18471 feet) above sea level. Kora doesn’t involve climbing or touching the mountain. [Touch Kailash]
If you are NRIs, you can either organize your Kailash Yatra journey with a local Tibetan Travel agency in Tibet like us (Tenzin Travel), or connect with a Kailash Yatra organizer in Nepal or elsewhere to help you arrange it. (In both cases, you will work with a local Tibet base agency for arrangements at the end).
For Indian citizens, no private travel agency in Tibet can help arrange your permit. Only the China India Pilgrimage Service Center (CIPSC) can help issue your permit. There is two ways to get the permit. You can either join a Government of India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) organized tour or connect with a private Kailash Yatra organizer in Nepal.
Please make sure you are contacting the right agency with good relations with CIPSC, as many new agencies are emerging. Only a limited number of Indian passport holders can do the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Private operators with strong connections and years of experience working with CIPSC can secure more quota spots.
MEAs Kailash Mansarovar Yatra operates routes from Lipulekh in Uttarakhand and Nathu La in Sikkim to Tibet. Private operators either use Via Nepal or other parts of China. Don’t confuse the Indian Government-organized yatra with private tours and the Kailash Yatra for Indian citizens and non-Indian citizens. [ Contact Tenzin Travel for Best Kailash Yatra arrangements] Eligibility, applications, costs, medical checks, and logistics are different in both cases.
The MEA’s yatra resumed in 2025 after multiple years of suspension. In 2026, the MEA ran the yatra on two routes. You can register through their website.
For background on the mountain and its setting, see [Mount Kailash Facts & Geography].
Why Are Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar Sacred?
In my 30 years of experience in Tibet tourism, I’ve met pilgrims coming to Kailash with very different beliefs, languages, and traditions. The most remarkable thing about Mount Kailash is that several major faiths around the world consider it sacred for completely different reasons. Each tradition and religion has its own stories, practices, and understanding of this spiritual journey to Kailash.
Below, we discuss religious beliefs about the holy Mount Kailash across traditions worldwide. These interpretations can differ among communities.
Hinduism: Shiva’s abode and Brahma’s lake
Mount Kailash for Hindus is the abode of Shiva and Parvati. It is the place of divine presence and spiritual power. This is why Kailash Parikrama has special meaning for Hindu pilgrims, who walk around Mount Kailash as an act of devotion. In Sanatan (Hindu) Tradition, the circumambulation is also associated with prayer, reflection, and spiritual purification. [how to reach Kailash][how to reach Mansarovar lake]
According to Hindu belief, the lake was first formed in the mind of Lord Brahma (the creator god) and later surfaced on Earth during creation. Another name for this lake is Manasa Sarovaram, meaning “mind” and “lake” in Sanskrit. The lake represents purity and the path to absolute salvation. A sip of water from this lake can free one from the sins committed over hundreds of lifetimes and let one stay at the abode of Shiva after death.
During the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, pilgrims stay a night at the Mansarovar lake and pray, reflect, and perform rituals at its shore before going to Kailash. During your stay at the lake, please follow the guide’s instructions and the local rules and regulations. Otherwise, it can seriously impact the entire yatra group. Most of our tours include the Mansarovar Lake parikarma by ECO Bus.
Tibetan Buddhism: Kang Rinpoche and the sacred circuit
Kang Rinpoche is the Tibetan name for Mount Kailash, and Mapam Yumtso is the Tibetan Name for Lake Manasarovar. Both are very important pilgrimage sites for Tibetan Buddhist.
For Mount Kailash, we believe it is the abode of Demchok, which is also known as Chakrasamvara, a tantric meditational deity in Vajrayana. Another Tibetan Buddhist belief is that Kailash is Mount Meru, the sacred axis or center of the universe.
Manasarovar Lake is one of Tibet’s most sacred lakes; we believe it is Lake Anavatapta, a legendary lake in Buddhist cosmology. We also believe it is the Buddha Mother, before she conceived the Buddha. Celestial beings took Queen Maya to the legendary Lake Anavatapta, where she bathed and was purified, after which she conceived the Buddha. This also shows that Buddhists believe the lake’s water purifies sin and energy.
As Buddhists, we perform kora rituals at both Kailash and Mansarovar Lake. During the kora pilgrimage, people may recite prayers and mantras, turn prayer wheels, and pay respect to these sacred places.
Besides Tibetan Buddhists, we now have many Buddhists from abroad, including Vietnam, Bhutan, Malaysia, Thailand, and Taiwan. We offer the best Kailash pilgrimage service to Buddhists worldwide.
Jainism: Ashtapada and liberation
In Jain tradition, Mount Kailash is called Ashtapada, where Rishabhadeva, the first Tirthankara, achieved enlightenment. Because of this association, Jains revere Mount Kailash as a place of spiritual discipline and liberation.
In Jainism, Ashtapada refers to the Kailash region, not Mount Kailash itself.=
Bon: a sacred center in Tibet
Bon is Tibet’s native religion before Buddhism was introduced. Mount Kailash is considered a sacred heartland, linked to the ancient Zhang Zhung kingdom, where Bön flourished. Legend says Tonpa Sherab, the main teacher and founder of the Bon religion, came from Central Asia to bless and protect this land from Negative energy arising from the five poisonous emotions of sentient beings.
According to legend. He transformed into the White Yak and entered the mountain, blessing it and its surroundings. He renamed the mountain to TISE; Ti means Water and Se means guardian deity. Four major rivers flow from the Mountain in four directions. Some Bonpo accounts describe Mount Kailash as a four-sided crystal stupa from which the four rivers flow in the four directions of Zhangzhung.
Why do pilgrims walk around Kailash?
Kora is a spiritual practice in which devotees walk around the sacred place as an act of devotion, prayer, and meditation. This practice isn’t reserved for Buddhists; Hindus and Bonpos also walk around Kailash. Kailash kora requires both physical and mental effort, especially when you cross the Drolma La Pass [link]. But the Kora’s meaning can differ from person to person. Only a few yatris can complete the Kora. Many have to stop and return to Darchen. Pilgrims should never treat the Kora as a test of devotion or worth; instead, they should celebrate the effort and sacrifice it took to reach Kailash, and recognize that, out of billions of devotees, they are one able to see and be at Kailash.
The Tibetan Year of the Horse
As per Tibetan belief, the Year of the Horse is considered very auspicious for visiting Kailash and making the Kailash Kora. It is considered that one kora made in the Year of the Horse is equal to making 13 koras around Kailash. Many people choose to come to Kailash during the Year of the Horse. The next Year of the Horse is in 2037, which is 12 years from now.
Every tradition has its own beliefs about Kailash and Lake Mansarovar. You don’t need to follow Tibetan beliefs to visit Kailash, a remote area with limited resources. We recommend that pilgrims avoid visiting Kailash during the Year of the Horse to prevent unnecessary hardship and reduce pressure on the Kailash region’s fragile ecosystem. Instead, when you visit Kailash, be considerate of fellow travelers, follow local guidance, and remember that for many pilgrims, this is a first-time journey and, for most, a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual experience.
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Routes
One of the most important decisions you will have to make in planning your Kailash yatra is choosing the right route. With 30 years of experience in Tibet tourism, I have learned that the best route to Kailash isn’t the shortest or cheapest. The best route to Kailash is the one that gives the best option to acclimatize before reaching the Kailash Area. We also need to consider your budget, nationality, eligibility, available time, and the route conditions for your Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
Below is information on the most popular route for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Not the confirmed 2027 departure dates. Border access, permit availability, weather, and transportation can change at any moment, so confirm your exact Yatra itinerary in writing before booking.
| Route | Starting point | Duration | Transportation Mode | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Flight from Nepal or Mainland China via Lhasa
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Lhasa
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Often 13–15 days
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Flight to Lhasa and overland travel to Kailash | This route is more popular with private operators. In our experience, this is the best route to Kailash, as it offers more opportunities to acclimatize. At the beginning of the tour, you will arrive in Lhasa either by flight or train from the mthe Mainland, or by flight from Nepal. |
| Nepal overland via Kyirong or Zhangmu | Kathmandu | Often 10–12 days |
Overland Road Travel
|
This is the most common and popular Kailash yatra route, with many Nepal yatra operators offering it. However, it is not ed, recommended, as this tour takes you to 4000+ meters above sea level on the second day in Tibet.
The Rasuwagadhi-Kyirong route is currently closed after the recent catastrophic flash floods and mudslides at the Sino-Nepal Border on 26th August 2026. We are not sure whether the Kodari – Dram (Zangmu) border will be open in 2027.
|
| Nepal to Purang via Simikot–Hilsa | Nepalgunj or Simikot |
Often 13–20 days
|
Domestic flights, helicopter, and road travel |
This route is a complex Kailash Mansarovar Yatra: it includes a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, a helicopter ride from Nepalgunj to Simikot, and a trek to the Sino-Nepal border in Hilsa. If you are returning back to Nepal on the same route, this is the shortest yatra in Tibet for a private Yatra.
|
| MEA route via Lipulekh |
Delhi and Uttarakhand
|
About 21-25 days | Road travel and trekking |
The Indian government’s MEA organizes this yatra, and only Indian citizens are eligible. Only 6000 applications will be accepted, and 400 People will be selected by lottery. Pilgrims must meet the current eligibility and medical requirements.
|
| MEA route via Nathu La | Delhi and Sikkim |
About 21 -22 days
|
Mostly road travel
|
As above, this route is only available to Indian citizens through the MEA process. They accept only 500 pax annually, in 10 groups of 50 people each. Applicants must meet the medical requirements and eligibility criteria. This yatra route involves heavy road travel. |
| Aerial darshan or short visit | Depends on the operator | About 2-3 days | Flight or helicopter, with limited ground travel | This yatra doesn’t enter China. In this yatra, you will take a helicopter flight from Kathmandu to the Sino-Nepal border near the Manasarovar lake, where you can see both Kailash and Manasarovar lake. It is highly recommended for elderly citizens who cannot go on the multi-week Kailash Yatra |
Route status — 27 August 2026: After the devastating landslide at the Sino-Nepal border on 26th August. The most popular and functional border crossing from Kathmandu remains closed. It is likely to remain closed for the next few years. Tatopani – Dram border is also closed; only a few local Nepali workers and trucks are reported to be able to exit China from that border. As a result, we will not open bookings for 2027 on this route. We will update the page as soon as we have more information. Kindly check our [Route & Travel Updates].
How to choose a route
If you are an Indian citizen considering the MEA Yatra:
We recommend the MEA Yatra for Indian citizens. If you aren’t selected for the MEA Yatra, you can book the Kailash Yatra through a private operator based in Nepal with a close connection to the China India Pilgrimage Service Center (CIPSC) [best private operator in Nepal].
Note: The MEA process differs from booking a private tour. You can check the official MEA application dates, eligibility rules, medical requirements, and fees for the yatra for the year you want to travel. Travelers are selected by lottery. Therefore, applying does not guarantee your place. If you are booking through a private yatra operator, choose one with a good reputation with CIPSC. Only a limited number of people are allowed to visit. CIPSC chooses operators with a good reputation and experience working with them. Therefore, we recommend you choose a Kailash Yatra operator.
If you are an NRI or non indian passport holder:
Non-Indian passport holders can arrange their Kailash Yatra with a local Travel agency in Tibet, such as Tenzin Travel. There is no limit on how many people a private travel agency in Tibet can take each year. If you are an NRI group, it is most likely your Kailash Yatra organizer from Nepal will work with local Tibetan travel agency like Tenzin travel for your Yatra if you are an NRI.
Contact a local agency directly to reduce tour costs and ensure direct communication and transparency between travelers and the local operator. The only shortcoming of the Kailash Yatra with a local Tibetan travel agency is that we can’t arrange Indian cuisine; instead, the Nepali Agency will send a cook and kitchen, with almost double the tour cost. Traveling to Kailash with a local agency in Tibet is more affordable and more responsible. We usually find Nepali agencies blaming the Tibet agency and the Tibet agency blaming the Nepali agency. Coming directly with the Tibet agency gives us full responsibility and more transparency.
If you have limited time:
We do not recommend doing the Kailash Yatra in a short time. You will need proper time to acclimatize before going to higher-altitude areas around Kailash. Please ask your yatra operators whether your Kailash Yatra schedule includes acclimatization and other services, including permits and transportation.
If you plan to complete the kora:
Most Kailash Mansarovar yatra packages include the Kailash Parikrama by default. If you plan to do the parikrama, consider a few additional things. Because it’s a high-altitude, multi-day trek, you may need support. You can hire a horse or Yak to carry your group luggage, or a porter to carry your backpack. This costs extra, and you will need sufficient cash.
Keep in mind that accommodation during the two-night Kailash parikarma is very basic. In most cases, you may share a room with 7-8 other travelers from your group. Also, you may need to pack a very light trekking bag with a minimal day pack.
If you are an NRI, OCI cardholder, or foreign national:
MEA Yatra is only for Indian passport holders and is currently not available to holders of non-Indian passports. For NRI and foreign passport holders, you can either connect with a private Kailash Yatra organizer in Nepal or a local Tibetan Travel agency to host your Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
You will need to arrange a Tibet travel permit and tour with a local agency, as with any other private tour in Tibet. A travel agency in Lhasa can offer the best value for your money, as there are no middlemen.
If you (NRI or non-Indian passport holder) book a Kailash Yatra with a Nepali Base Kailash Yatra organizer, they will arrange a cook and kitchen to prepare Indian food for the group in Tibet. But it costs almost the same price as the Yatra.
There are options to find great Indian food in Lhasa, Gyantse, Shigatse, and Saga, and in other places you can try Tibetan and Chinese cuisine while you are in Tibet.
If you are planning for a senior family member:
Don’t assume the journey to Kailash will be easy. It contains many days at very high altitude, cold nights, and limited facilities. These conditions can be hard for travelers who don’t walk much. Please consult a doctor and get high-altitude medication from home.
Going on the Kailash Yatra with a senior family member is very difficult for both the family and the senior member. Be open and listen to your tour guide if the senior member has to return to a lower altitude. Proper acclimatization and even proper planning are key to a successful Kailash yatra. The best way to bring a senior NRI parent is to arrange a private Kailash with us.
[Route Comparison] · [Helicopter Route] · [Lhasa Route] · [Route & Travel Updates]
Government MEA Yatra vs Private Tour
| Questions |
MEA
|
Private |
|---|---|---|
| Who can apply? |
This yatra is only eligible for Indian ordinary citizens who meet the MEA’s requirements. OCI, NRIs, and Foreign Nationals are not eligible for this yatra as per the MEA regulations
|
Ordinary Indian citizens can also join tours organized by private operators with CIPSC in China. NRIs and foreign nationals can also join private tours organized by a private travel agency in Tibet, such as Tenzin Travel and Tours. If you are an NRI or foreign national, it is best to work directly with us for more transparency and accountability, as we are the sole agency responsible for delivering the best Kailash Mansarovar Yatra experience within a limited budget. |
| How do you apply? | Yatris can apply for the MEA yatra directly when the registration opens via the official Kailash Mansarovar Yatra website. |
For the Kailash Mansarovar yatra with a private operator, yatris can apply directly with them or us. Each operator has its own booking terms and conditions, permit availability, and travel arrangements.
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How are Travelers selected?
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MEA uses a computerized draw of lots to select yatris for its MEA Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, as per the official process. |
We select travelers based on a first-come, first-served model. If the current group’s Kailash Yatra tour is full, we can add an additional group to host the booking. It also depends on yatra availability on the particular route and whether the region is open for yatra.
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| Who arranges the journey? | For MEA yatra inside Tibet, CIPSC organizes and arranges this yatra. | If it is a Kailash yatra for Indian citizens via a private operator in Nepal. CIPSC will organize this yatra. If you are an NRI or foreign group with no Indian citizens, a local Tibetan travel agency in Lhasa will arrange the yatra in Tibet. We arrange all our Kailash yatra without any other agency’s intervention. We can make permits in our name and manage everything in Tibet. |
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What about the Medical checks?
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For the MEA Kailash Manasrovar Yatra, a medical examination is mandatory as part of the official process. You must follow the instructions issued by MEA.
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We strongly recommend that travelers consult a doctor before booking the yatra with us. With your doctor’s approval, you can travel to Kailash Manasarovar. Other agencies may ask clients to submit a doctor’s letter and extract medical requirements. |
| What is the cost of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra? | According to the MEA Kailash Mansarovar Yatra (KMY) website, the 2026 cost is ₹2.09 lakh per person for Lipulekh and ₹3.31 lakh per person for Nathu La. These are 2026 prices, not confirmed 2027 prices. | With a private operator in Nepal, the cost for the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra is between 2400 and 2850 USD per person for a fixed-departure group tour, and about 3600 USD per person for a small private tour. Yet if you directly book the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra with a Tibet-based Tibetan Travel Agency like Tenzin Travel and Tours, the cost for the fixed-departure group tour will be between 1400 -1600 USD per person and 2000 – 2300 USD per person for a private group tour. Booking with a local Tibetan agency is more economical. |
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What are the cancellation and refund terms?
|
Please refer to the official 2027 cancellation and refund terms and schedule. |
You can find our booking, cancellation, and refund terms at this link. Each operator has their own booking and cancellation terms and conditions.
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Who can go to Kailash Mansarovar? Eligibility by traveler type
Indian citizens
Indian citizens have two options for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. You can either join the MEA Kailash Yatra or a private operator working with CIPSC.
Eligibility for the Indian Government MEA Kailash Mansarovar Yatra requires applicants to be Indian citizens with an ordinary Indian passport valid for at least 6 months. The age limit is 18 to 70 as of January of the given year (hence 2027); in addition, applicants must meet the listed health requirements, including a BMI of 25 or less. Check all 2027 conditions before applying.
Indian citizens can also apply for Kailash with CIPSC via a private operator. Each operator has different requirements; most require a health report or health certificate from your personal doctor, and many restrict applicants by age and Medical history. Confirm their requirements before booking a Yatra tour.
NRIs and OCI cardholders
NRIs and OCI cardholders are not eligible for the MEA Yatra. If you have an Indian passport, you can join the MEA Yatra. Otherwise, you will have to arrange the Kailash Yatra with a private operator like Tenzin Travel. Your document requirements and eligibility are the same as for foreign Nationals. Visa requirements may vary by passport.
Foreign nationals
Foreign nationals and NRIs with non-Indian passports can arrange the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra with a private operator or a local Travel Agency in Tibet. As long as you are healthy and willing to do the tour, there are no limitations. The Tibet Tourism Bureau requires us to sign a letter stating that members aged 80 and over take full responsibility for the tour. If you are 80+, we strongly recommend doing this tour privately.
Visa procedures depend on nationality, as 70+ countries offer free visas for up to a month. Contact us and book the tour before booking the flight.
Age, medical conditions and fitness
The limits vary by the host. For MEA Yatra and Kailash Yatra, CIPSC is the main host in Tibet for Indians. If you are not an Indian citizen, a US or local travel agency in Tibet will host you. We always recommend that people over 80 not join our group tours; instead, we offer private tours.
One of the main concerns of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is high-altitude sickness. MEA requires a certain level of fitness and a medical examination. We recommend consulting your doctor. Even if you pass the medical assessment and get the green light from your doctor to go to Kailash, it doesn’t guarantee you won’t be affected by high-altitude sickness.
[WHat is the age limit for Kailash mansarovar ] · [Indian Citizens guide to Kailash Mansarovar] · [NRI & Foreign Nationals guide to Kailash Mansarovar] · [Yatra guide for Seniors] · [Altitude & Acclimatization Guide]
Tibet Travel Permits, visas, and documents for Kailash Yatra
The travel documents and visas differ for both MEA and private groups, as well as by nationality.
Tibet travel permit for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
For MEA Kailash Yatra:
Your Tibet travel permit will be taken care of by CIPSC, and the visa will be taken care of by the Chinese Embassy in Delhi. You will need to submit your passports to the MEA, and they will handle all the documents. On arrival in Tibet, you will meet your Tibetan tour guide and driver, who will have your permit. They will assist you with check-in at China Customs.
For a Private yatra via Kathmandu:
Both Indian citizens and NRIs, as well as foreign nationals, can arrange a Kailash yatra via a private operator. In both cases, you will need to submit a copy of your passport to the Nepali agency, and they will forward it to your Tibet host, your CIPSC, or Private Travel Agency in Tibet, such as Tenzin Travel. We will prepare your permits based on the route and help send the Chinese group Visa invitation to the Chinese Embassy in Nepal. When you arrive in Tibet, your tour guide will meet you with your Tibet travel permit and assist you with check-in at Lhasa Gongkar International Airport.
For Kailash Yatra via Tibetan Travel Agency in Tibet or Tenzin Travel and Tours:
If you are an NRI or non-Indian national, you do not need to go through a private operator in Nepal. You can arrange the Kailash Yatra directly via Tenzin Travel and Tours in Lhasa. We will arrange all required permits for the Kailash Yatra and help with visa arrangements as needed. We will guide you on the visa as follows. You will meet your tour guide in Lhasa or in Kyirong, with your permit, if traveling to Tibet via Nepal. If you are coming to Tibet from Other cities in China, we will need to send the original permit to your hotel; therefore, you will need to provide your hotel information and booking details.
Chinese Visas
For MEA Yatra, MEA will handle your visa in Delhi. There is no need to worry too much about it. Otherwise, visas for NRIs and foreign nationals can be tricky. So we will discuss it one by one
Free Exemption in China
China now offers visa-free entry to citizens of more than 70 countries, allowing stays of up to 30 days. If you are a citizen of one of those countries, you do not need a Chinese visa, even if you are coming to Tibet via Nepal or other cities in China. You only need to submit a copy of your passport to us to get your Tibet travel permit. It is important to have a soft copy of the permit or a printed copy with you when you leave your home for Tibet. Sometimes, when you enter China or leave your home city, airline staff and China customs staff may ask you to see the permit.
Tourist Visa (L):
If you have a valid tourist visa in your passport. You can enter China and Tibet without any issue. Many outdated travel websites claim you need a Chinese group visa if you are heading to Tibet from Nepal. You can enter Tibet from Nepal with your tourist visa (L category) in your passport. You don’t need a group visa.
Non-Tourist Visa:
If you have any other Types of Visa, like F, M, G, Q, and so on. First, you will need to send supporting documents for that Visa, along with your passport and Visa copy, to apply for a permit. If you are in China on a student visa, you need to submit a letter from your school acknowledging your enrolment, as well as a letter from your employer, a business partner, and/or your spouse’s local community in China. If you have difficulty, we can secure permits with the visa invitation.
Chinese Group Visa:
Any Chinese embassy or consulate around the globe can issue a Chinese Group Visa if you mention you are visiting Tibet. That is why we always ask travelers not to mention Tibet as a travel destination when applying for a Chinese Visa. The group visa is on two pieces of paper: one for arrival and one for departure. It is a common visa for all group members and requires at least 5 pax. The biggest drawback of the group visa is that all group members have to enter from the same point at the same time and leave China from the same point at the same time.
If you are coming from Nepal and you don’t have a Chinese tourist visa or a passport with visa exemption, you must get a Chinese Group visa from the Chinese Embassy in Nepal. We will prepare your Tibet travel permit using only passport copies and send the visa invitation to the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu. We will arrange for a visa agency to visit your hotel to collect your passport, as we need the original passport to apply for the visa. There will be extra costs for the Visa and the visa agency service fee.
Nepal Restricted Area Permit (RAP)
Whether you are indian citizen, NRI, or Other foreign national. If you are coming to Kailash via the Nepal Ganj–Simikot–Hilsa route, you need to get a Nepal Restricted Area Permit (RAP) from Kathmandu. This permit covers designated restricted areas of Humla, including parts of this route. Nepal’s authorized trekking/tour operators issue this permit with the Department of Immigration
If you choose to do the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra with Tenzin Travel, the 30-year-old private travel agency owned and operated by a local Tibetan, we will take care of all these documents and permits.
If you are choosing to go with other operators, they should be able to explain which permit is required for your chosen route and how to obtain it. These requirements can change at any time, so ask for the current status rather than relying on outdated information online. [Check our latest Tibet travel update][Tibet travel information]
Before booking and confirming your tour, ask the following important questions:
- How much passport validity is required?
- Validity of the Tibet Travel Permit? Does your permit have enough time to cover any changes?
- Do you need to submit your original passport, and when will you get it back?
- Is the China visa a group visa for your itinerary? Or do you need to apply for the Chinese tourist visa yourself?
- Does your nationality require you to arrive in Kathmandu or another processing location in advance?
- Do you need a health certificate or medical report?
- What happens if a permit is delayed, denied, or suspended?
- Which documents must you carry during travel?
[Tibet Travel Permit 2027] · [Chinese Group Visa 2027] · [Chinese Visa exemption 2027]
Best time for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
There is no fixed best time for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. It depends on your group and your beliefs about the Yatra, and whether you want to risk going during the busiest time of the month or year. Consider the following factors to choose the best time to visit Kailash.
Closure of Kailash Mansarovar region for Winter
The Kailash and Manasarovar Lake area is closed to all international and domestic travelers from late October to early May. Snow is still possible in early May. If it does snow, the Kailash Kora will be closed to travelers, and sometimes yatris/Travelers have to return empty-handed or get stuck at Kailash and end up paying a lot to book a flight to Lhasa. Kailash closes at the end of October, and October is also a good time to visit for the low season, with fewer people at Kailash.
Raining season
July marks the start of the rainy season in Tibet, and it can bring snow or hailstorms at the highest point of the Kailash Kora. The rainy season ends in late September to early October. Landslides on the Nepal side of the border can cause major disruptions, often washing away large chunks of the road every year.
Saga Dawa Festival
Saga Dawa is the busiest time to go to Kailash Mansarovar, as hundreds of thousands of Tibetan pilgrims and domestic tourists come for the festival. The region can become overcrowded during the festival, leading to overbooked hotels in Darchen, Dirapuk, and Zuktrulpuk. Over the years, many travel agencies and tour groups have had to move pilgrims back to Darchen on the first night of Kailash Parikrama because they couldn’t secure bookings. Be careful and book your Kailash yatra with an organization with a strong customer service record.
Full Moon Day
The Kailash Mansarovar region is very busy during the full moon. Many travel agencies in Nepal and Tibet use the full moon as a marketing strategy to sell the tour. All full-moon tours are designed to reach Manasorvar Lake, Darchen, and Dirapuk on the night of the full moon. This will be the busiest time of the month to go to Kailash. Likewise, all hotels, porters, and yak and pony services will be overbooked; you may end up paying huge extra fees and still not be guaranteed availability. Avoid the Kailash region and dates that overlap with groups going to or returning from Kailash. If you must join group tours to Kailash on full moon days, book with a reputable local travel agency specializing in Kailash Yatra, such as Tenzin Travel and Tours.
[Best Time to Visit] · [Weather by Month] · [Full Moon Yatra]
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra cost
The cost of the Kailash Yatra can differ as per the route and nationality
NRIs and Foreign Nationals
If you choose to do the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra directly with Tenzin Travel, the cost per person is 2059 USD for the low season and 2229 USD for the high season. The cost of joining the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via a private organizer in Nepal would be about 2999 USD per person. This price is based on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lhasa. We believe this is the best route for proper acclimatization, and the overland route from Kathmandu to Kailash via Kyirong will be inaccessible in 2027.
Indian Citizens
the cost of the MEA yatra ₹2.09 lakh for Lipulekh and ₹3.31 lakh for Nathu La. This is the official cost for the MEA Kailash Yatra, not for the private yatra for Indian citizens. CIPSC has a fixed cost for all the different routes based on the number of people. The average cost for a CIPSC private operation via a Nepal Agency is 2500 USD per person; on top of that, there will be extra costs for arrangements like a Nepali Sherpa, Meals, and other costs in Nepal.
Be sure to check what is included and not included in the cost of the Kailash yatra tours. There will be extra costs on the yatra, like porters, Yaks, Horse/Pony sevices at Kailash, and also emergency evacuation if you get sick during the Kailash Kora.
[Kailash Yatra Cost Guide] · [Package Inclusions] · [Extra Expenses on Kailash Mansarovar] · [Kailash Packages]
Sample itinerary: how a private yatra may be structured?
The three most popular travel routes to Kailash Mansarovar are via Lhasa; via an Overland Tour from Kathmandu to Kyirong, then overland to Kailash via Simikot and Hilsa; and then on to the Kailash region. We will discuss those itineraries one by one. The Outline of the following tour plan is based on Tenzin Travel, but it may change due to the current situation and conditions in Tibet Tourism.
Kailash tour itinerary Via Lhasa
This is the best and most recommended route for the Kailash Manasarovar yatra, with minimal risk of high-altitude sickness. This route gives plenty of opportunities to acclimatize in the highlands of Tibet before reaching the Kailash region.
- Arrival in Lhasa and Acclimatization in Lhasa: Arrive in Lhasa via flights from Nepal to Lhasa, Other cities to Lhasa, or via train from major cities in China. Stay in Lhasa for the next 3 days to acclimatize while visiting Lhasa’s major attractions.
- Journey towards Everest Base Camp: The next major stop on this yatra route is Everest Base Camp before reaching Everest. You will spend a night in Shigatse. Staying a night near Everest Base Camp gives a golden opportunity to acclimatize before driving toward Kailash.
- Visit Mansarovar Lake: After Kailash, stay a night in the town of Saga, continue driving toward Kailash, and spend a night at Mansarovar Lake. Observe local rules and regulations by not bathing in the lake.
- Begin the Kailash Kora (Parikrama): The standard Kailash Kora takes three days, with overnight stops at Dirapuk and Zukturlpuk.
- Return journey: Return home via the confirmed route.
Kailash Yatra plan from Kathmandu via Kyirong
This is one of the most popular routes for tours organized by private agencies in Kathmandu. This route poses a high risk of altitude sickness, as there are few opportunities for acclimatization. We don’t usually recommend this route because, beyond the lack of acclimatization, it crosses the Sino-Nepal border and poses a huge risk of landslides during the monsoon.
- Arrival in Kathmandu: Land in Kathmandu; you will be picked up at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and transferred to the hotel. Meet the group members for briefing. Submit passports for the China Group visa.
- Visa processing: Our agency will apply for the Chinese group visa with the group visa invitation at the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu. The Group visa will take about 4-5 business days. In the meantime, you will visit Pashupatinath and other main attractions in Kathmandu. Most of the time, visits and tours can be arranged as part of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
- Travel toward the border: Depart Kathmandu for Kyirong. Enter China; you will meet your tour guide and driver at the border port.
- Acclimatization in Kyirong or Saga: You can stay either in Kyirong or Saga for an additional day for acclimatization.
- Visit Mansarovar Lake: Stay overnight at Mansarovar Lake; follow local rules and regulations by not bathing in the lake.
- Begin the Kailash Kora (Parikrama): The standard Kailash Kora takes three days, with overnight stops at Dirapuk and Zukturlpuk.
- Return journey: Return home via the confirmed route.
Kailash Yatra via Nepalgunj, Hilsa and Purang
This is a great travel route for a quick Kailash Yatra without spending many days in Tibet to reach Kailash Mansarovar. However, this route involves multiple flights and several days of trekking, depending on the tour itinerary. If you trek from Hilsa to Simikot, you get a good opportunity to acclimatize properly, but the trek is not suitable for all yatris. For those flying to simikot, most of the tour has a day before entering China for acclimatization.
- Arrival in Kathmandu: Land in Kathmandu; you will be picked up at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and transferred to the hotel. Meet the group members for briefing. Submit passports for the China Group visa.
- Visa processing: Our agency will apply for the Chinese group visa with the group visa invitation at the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu. The Group visa will take about 4-5 business days. In the meantime, you will visit Pashupatinath and other main attractions in Kathmandu. Most of the time visit and tours can be arranged with the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
- Fly to Nepalganj, then to Simikot: After the China group visa is done. You will fly to Nepalganj and stay a night there, and the next day you will fly to Simikot and stay a night in simikot.
- Helicopter ride to Hilsa: the next destination from simikot is Hilsa, which is right at the Sino-Nepal Border. You can either take a few helicopter rides to Hilsa, or do the multi-day trek from Simikot to Hilsa.
- Acclimatization in Taklakot: Stay a day in Taklakot before entering China. You can stay in Taklakot to see how your body is reacting to Tibet’s high altitude.
- Visit Mansarovar Lake: Stay overnight at Mansarovar Lake; follow local rules and regulations by not bathing in the lake.
- Begin the Kailash Kora (Parikrama): The standard Kailash Kora takes three days, with overnight stops at Dirapuk and Zukturlpuk.
- Return journey: Return home via the confirmed route.
When booking the tour, we will provide a day-to-day tour plan for Kailash Yatra with logistics information such as elevation, expected travel time and arrival time, accommodation, rest days for acclimatization, and contingency plans.