Kailash Mansarovar Tour Package | Kailash Yatra Fixed Departure.

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Introduction: Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar

Hidden deep within the remote expanse of the western Tibetan Plateau, Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar have captured the imagination and reverence of spiritual seekers for thousands of years. Towering above the surrounding landscape, Mount Kailash rises to an altitude of 6,638 meters (21,778 feet), its snow-covered pyramid-like summit gleaming in the sunlight. Just south of the peak lies the stunning Lake Mansarovar, a vast freshwater lake whose crystal-clear waters are believed to cleanse the soul. Together, these two sacred sites form a spiritual epicenter that draws pilgrims from multiple religions and cultures. For many, the journey to Kailash and Mansarovar is not merely a physical trek—it is a transformative pilgrimage believed to offer liberation, enlightenment, and inner peace.


Mount Kailash: A Sacred Mountain for Multiple Faiths


What makes Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar truly unique is their multi-religious significance. They are sacred to Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and followers of the Bon religion—a rare convergence in the spiritual geography of the world.

In Hinduism

Hindus believe Mount Kailash to be the abode of Lord Shiva, the god of destruction and transformation, who resides there with his consort Parvati. The mountain is described in ancient Hindu scriptures as Mount Meru, the mythical axis of the universe and the spiritual center of all physical, metaphysical, and spiritual realms. According to Hindu mythology, circumambulating Mount Kailash (called parikrama) washes away the sins of a lifetime and brings one closer to moksha (liberation from the cycle of rebirth).

Lake Mansarovar holds equal importance. According to the Puranas, it was created by Lord Brahma in his mind before manifesting in the physical world—hence the name "Manas" (mind) and "Sarovar" (lake). Bathing in its sacred waters and drinking from the lake are considered acts of great merit and spiritual cleansing.

In Buddhism

For Tibetan Buddhists, Mount Kailash is believed to be the home of Demchok (Chakrasamvara), a wrathful manifestation of the Buddha representing supreme bliss. The mountain is also associated with Milarepa, a revered Tibetan yogi who is said to have performed miracles and meditated here. The kora (circumambulation) of Kailash is a vital religious practice, often completed in one to three days depending on one’s physical capacity. Many pilgrims chant mantras and offer prayers during their journey, believing it helps remove negative karma and attain spiritual realization.

In Jainism

For Jains, the mountain is known as Ashtapada, where the first Tirthankara, Rishabhadeva, is believed to have attained moksha (liberation). As such, it is among the most sacred places in Jain cosmology, though the physical pilgrimage is less common due to its remoteness.

In Bon Religion

The indigenous Bon religion, which predates Buddhism in Tibet, considers Mount Kailash the seat of the sky god Sipaimen and the spiritual center of the world. According to Bon mythology, the founder Tonpa Shenrab descended here from heaven, making the mountain sacred to Bon followers. Their ritual circumambulation is done in a counterclockwise direction, unlike that of Hindus and Buddhists, who go clockwise.

The Kailash Kora: Pilgrimage Around the Sacred Peak

The kora or circumambulation around Mount Kailash is a core aspect of the pilgrimage. This 52-kilometer (32-mile) path begins and ends at the small Tibetan settlement of Darchen, located at the southern base of the mountain. Most pilgrims complete the circuit in three days, although some attempt it in a single day—a feat of both physical endurance and spiritual devotion.

The trail ascends to Dolma La Pass, the highest point of the trek at 5,630 meters (18,471 feet), before descending into the valley beyond. This pass is symbolic of the crossing from the material world into the spiritual, with pilgrims often leaving offerings of prayer flags, personal items, or hair as a symbolic gesture of letting go of past sins.

Completing a single kora is said to wash away the sins of a lifetime. Thirteen koras are believed to remove all karmic debts, and 108 koras may lead to complete spiritual liberation. Some devout individuals perform the kora by full-body prostration, measuring the mountain with their bodies in a deeply humbling act of devotion that can take weeks or even months.

 

Lake Mansarovar: A Purifying Mirror

Lake Mansarovar is not just a natural wonder but a spiritual sanctuary. Pilgrims often take ritual baths in its cold, clear waters despite the high altitude and icy temperatures, believing it will purify their minds and bodies. Monasteries such as Chiu Monastery, perched above the lake, offer panoramic views and spiritual refuge for pilgrims.

At sunrise and sunset, the lake reflects the colors of the sky in spectacular fashion, and many report feeling a deep sense of peace and connection just being in its presence. Meditation on its banks is believed to be particularly powerful, with legends stating that even the gods bathe in Mansarovar during auspicious times.

The Journey Itself

Reaching Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar is not easy. It requires weeks of preparation, physical endurance, and often a guided tour due to restricted access to the Tibetan Autonomous Region. Most travelers approach via Nepal, often flying into Kathmandu, then moving overland to Simikot and entering Tibet through Hilsa. Alternatively, there are pilgrimage routes organized by the Indian government through Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand or Nathu La in Sikkim.

Travelers must contend with high altitude, extreme weather, and limited medical facilities. Despite these challenges, thousands undertake this journey every year, driven by deep faith and a desire for spiritual growth.

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Package

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is one of the most sacred pilgrimages in the world, drawing thousands of spiritual seekers, adventure travelers, and cultural enthusiasts to the remote and mystical landscapes of Tibet. Centered around Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar, this journey is not only a test of physical endurance but also a deeply transformative spiritual experience. Revered by four major religions—Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon—Mount Kailash is considered the spiritual axis of the world, while the pristine waters of Lake Mansarovar are believed to purify the soul.

In response to growing interest from global pilgrims, a variety of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra tour packages are now available, offering structured, guided travel experiences ranging from luxury helicopter tours to rugged overland treks. These packages cater to different budgets, comfort levels, and travel durations, allowing pilgrims to choose the route that best suits their needs.

Why Choose the Kailash Mansarovar Tour Package?

Due to the high altitude, restricted access, and logistical complexity of traveling to the Tibetan Plateau, independent travel is not permitted for foreign nationals. Tour packages provide a safe, organized, and culturally sensitive way to undertake the journey. These packages are managed by experienced operators who arrange for everything, including:

  • Tibet travel permits and Chinese visa support
  • Transport (flights, helicopters, or overland vehicles)
  • Accommodation in Kathmandu, Nepalgunj, Simikot, and Tibetan guesthouses
  • Experienced guides, cooks, porters, and medical support
  • Spiritual rituals and support from priests or monks (in some packages)

Choosing a tour package not only ensures compliance with regional regulations but also provides peace of mind, allowing you to focus on the spiritual essence of the pilgrimage.

 


Mount Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is Suitable for?

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is ideal for a wide range of travelers who are drawn by faith, culture, or the spirit of adventure. However, due to its remote location and high-altitude terrain, it suits those who are reasonably fit, spiritually inclined, and open to travel in challenging conditions. Here’s a breakdown of who will benefit most from this journey:

Spiritual Seekers and Devotees

  • Hindus who wish to visit the abode of Lord Shiva and perform the sacred kora.
  • Buddhists who honor Kailash as the home of Demchok and seek spiritual merit.
  • Jains who revere the mountain as Ashtapada, where the first Tirthankara attained nirvana.
  • Bon followers who consider Kailash the seat of spiritual power.
  • Individuals seeking moksha, blessings, or karmic purification.

Senior Pilgrims (with Helicopter Option)

  • Those who may not have the stamina for long overland journeys can opt for shorter helicopter tours, offering a comfortable experience with fewer days of travel and less physical strain.

Adventure Enthusiasts and Trekking Lovers

  • Trekkers interested in high-altitude walking and Himalayan landscapes will find the kora around Mount Kailash a physically and spiritually rewarding route.
  • Ideal for those who enjoy remote, off-the-grid experiences in nature and culture-rich settings.

Families and Small Groups

  • Families (with members above age 12–15) looking for a shared spiritual or cultural experience.
  • Religious groups or communities planning a collective pilgrimage.

International Travelers and Cultural Explorers

  • Curious global travelers fascinated by Tibetan culture, Himalayan geography, and multi-religious heritage.
  • People interested in photography, meditation, and Himalayan monastic traditions.

Not suitable for:

  • Children under 10
  • Individuals with serious heart or respiratory conditions
  • Those who cannot handle high-altitude environments (above 4,500 m)


Best Route For Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 


The sacred Kailash Mansarovar Yatra can be undertaken through several routes and modes of travel, depending on your budget, physical fitness, time availability, and level of comfort. Below are the most commonly offered yatra packages:


1. Overland Yatra via Kathmandu (Nepal Route)

Overview:

This is the most traditional and widely chosen route. It involves road travel from Kathmandu to the Tibet border and onward to Mount Kailash.

  • Duration: 13 to 15 days
  • Mode: Bus/Jeep travel
  • Route: Kathmandu → Syabrubesi → Kerung → Saga → Mansarovar → Darchen → Mount Kailash (Kora)

Features:

  • Gradual altitude gain (good for acclimatization)
  • Scenic drive through Nepal and the Tibetan Plateau
  • Economical compared to air routes
  • Includes full circumambulation (kora) of Mount Kailash and visit to Lake Mansarovar

Best For:

  • Budget-conscious travelers
  • Pilgrims with moderate fitness
  • Those preferring a slower pace to acclimatize

 

Helicopter Yatra via Simikot (Nepalgunj Route)

Overview:

This route uses helicopters and short flights to reduce travel time. It begins in Nepal and enters Tibet through the remote Hilsa border.

  • Duration: 9 to 11 days
  • Mode: Flight + Helicopter + Jeep
  • Route: Kathmandu → Nepalgunj → Simikot → Hilsa → Taklakot (Tibet) → Mansarovar → Mount Kailash

Features:

  • Faster and more comfortable
  • Suitable for senior citizens or those with time constraints
  • Includes spiritual rituals, kora, and holy bath
  • More expensive than overland routes

Best For:

  • Elderly pilgrims
  • Time-limited travelers
  • Those seeking a comfortable experience

 

3. Overland Yatra via Lipulekh Pass (Indian Govt. Route)

Overview:

Organized by the Ministry of External Affairs (India), this yatra starts in Uttarakhand, India, and involves trekking and road travel.

  • Duration: 23 to 25 days
  • Mode: Bus + Trek
  • Route: Delhi → Dharchula → Lipulekh Pass → Tibet → Kailash

Features:

  • Requires physical fitness (involves 4–5 days of trekking)
  • Subsidized cost by the Indian government
  • Limited slots, selected by lottery
  • Fully escorted by government-appointed guides and medical teams

Best For:

  • Indian citizens seeking an authentic pilgrimage experience
  • Physically fit individuals
  • Budget travelers with time flexibility

 

4. Yatra via Nathu La Pass (Sikkim Route - India Govt. Route)

Overview:

Another Indian government route for the yatra, through Sikkim, with no trekking involved.

  • Duration: 21 to 23 days
  • Mode: Bus/Jeep (No trekking)
  • Route: Delhi → Gangtok → Nathu La → Lhasa → Kailash

Features:

  • Less physically demanding
  • High in comfort and safety
  • Well-suited for older pilgrims
  • Limited batch sizes, entry via lottery system

Best For:

  • Indian citizens with senior family members
  • Devotees preferring minimal walking
  • Those wanting full government support

 

5. Full Moon Mount Kailash Kora Packages

Overview:

Many private operators offer yatra packages that align the Mount Kailash Kora with auspicious Full Moon nights, believed to bring greater spiritual merit.

  • Available With: All major routes (overland or helicopter)
  • Special Rituals: Pujas, meditation, and havan at Lake Mansarovar during full moon
  • Higher demand, limited availability

Best For:

  • Spiritually focused travelers
  • Groups planning sacred rituals
  • Devotees observing lunar spiritual cycles

 

Each of these routes offers a unique experience, blending adventure, devotion, and cultural immersion. Your choice should depend on your physical capability, time availability, and spiritual goals.

 


Kailash Tour Package for Indian Passport Holder ( Important Note and Tips)


China has now opened the border for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, and Indian pilgrims can take part in this holy journey in 2025. At Guru Travels Ltd., we feel proud to organize this spiritual trip with full care, comfort, and respect for your faith.

1. Passport Requirements

  • Valid Passport: A passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of travel is mandatory.
  • Original Passport Submission: Indian citizens must submit their original passport (not a copy) at least 7 working days before the scheduled departure for Chinese group visa processing.
  • No Other ID Accepted: Aadhaar card, voter ID, or driving license cannot replace the passport. Only Indian passport holders are eligible for Indian citizen packages.

 

2. Visa and Permits

  • Chinese Group Visa: Indian pilgrims are issued a group tourist visa through the Chinese Embassy.
  • Tibet Travel Permit: The tour operator arranges the special permit required to enter Tibet.
  • Important: Once submitted for group visa, you cannot withdraw your passport until the visa is issued. Plan your other international travel accordingly.

 

3. Health and Fitness

  • High Altitude Travel: The yatra reaches elevations of over 5,600 meters (especially at Dolma La Pass). Risk of altitude sickness is real and common.
  • Pre-Yatra Health Check: It is strongly advised to consult your doctor before booking, especially if you have conditions like:
    • High blood pressure
    • Asthma or other respiratory problems
    • Heart issues
    • Diabetes
  • Physical Readiness: Basic stamina and mobility are required for walking 2–3 days around Mount Kailash (the kora), even with pony support.

 

4. Travel Insurance

  • Not Mandatory but Highly Recommended: Opt for a comprehensive travel and medical insurance policy covering emergency evacuation, cancellations, and high-altitude sickness.
  • Some tour operators offer basic insurance, but check the policy terms carefully.

 

5. Route Selection

Choose a route that matches your fitness level, age, and travel preference:

  • Helicopter route (via Simikot/Hilsa) is easier and faster—ideal for senior citizens or those with less time.
  • Overland route (via Kathmandu) offers more scenic experience and better acclimatization but involves longer road journeys.

 

6. Packing Essentials

  • Passport-size photographs (with white background) – usually 4 to 6 copies
  • Warm layered clothing (including gloves, woolen cap, thermal innerwear)
  • High-quality trekking shoes
  • Essential medicines (altitude sickness, fever, cold, digestion, etc.)
  • Sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses, water bottle
  • Torch/headlamp, power bank
  • Snacks, energy bars, ORS packets

 

7. Currency and Expenses

  • Carry Chinese Yuan (CNY) for use in Tibet (Indian Rupees not accepted).
  • You can exchange money in Kathmandu or at border towns.
  • Approximate extra expenses may include:
    • Personal pony or porter (if not included in package)
    • Extra food or bottled water
    • Tips and donations

 

8. Mobile & Connectivity

  • Indian SIMs do not work in Tibet.
  • Some operators provide Chinese SIM cards or Wi-Fi access in select areas.
  • Satellite phones may be available for emergency communication.

 

9. Altitude Acclimatization

  • Consider arriving 2–3 days early in Kathmandu or staying in Nepalgunj/Simikot for better adjustment to altitude.
  • Avoid strenuous activity in the first few days.
  • Drink plenty of water, and avoid alcohol and smoking.

 

10. Respect for Local Customs

  • Mount Kailash is considered sacred and unclimbable—climbing is strictly prohibited.
  • Follow the kora path clockwise (Hindus and Buddhists) or anti-clockwise (Bon tradition).
  • Avoid loud behavior, photography inside monasteries, or disturbing local rituals.

 

What’s Included in Most Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Packages

Though the specifics may vary, a standard Kailash Mansarovar Yatra package typically includes:

  • Airport transfers and internal transport
  • Hotel stays in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj (usually 3–5 star)
  • Guesthouse accommodation in Tibet
  • All vegetarian meals
  • Guided kora (circumambulation) around Mount Kailash
  • Sacred bath at Lake Mansarovar
  • Chinese group visa and Tibet permits
  • Oxygen cylinders and first-aid support
  • Duffel bags, jackets, and essential gear (in some packages)

 

The Spiritual and Physical Journey

The journey itself is both physically challenging and spiritually uplifting. The high-altitude terrain, especially the Dolma La Pass (5,630 meters), tests one’s endurance and willpower. Yet, it is this very test that enhances the pilgrimage’s meaning. Every step taken around Mount Kailash during the kora, and every drop of Lake Mansarovar’s water, is believed to wash away sins and bring one closer to liberation (moksha or nirvana).

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is not just a trip—it is a life-changing pilgrimage. Whether you seek divine connection, cultural discovery, or personal reflection, a guided tour package ensures that this sacred journey is accessible, safe, and deeply enriching.

 

Geography and Setting of Mount Kailash Mansarovar Lake

Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar are located in the far western region of the Tibetan Plateau, in what is now part of the Ngari Prefecture in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. This high-altitude desert-like landscape is one of the most remote, rugged, and spiritually significant areas in the world. Despite its desolate and harsh environment, the region is home to some of the most awe-inspiring natural formations on Earth, revered for both their beauty and religious symbolism.

Mount Kailash: The Celestial Peak

Rising to an elevation of 6,638 meters (21,778 feet), Mount Kailash is a strikingly symmetrical, snow-capped peak that dominates the landscape. What makes Kailash unique, apart from its height and symmetry, is that it has never been climbed. The mountain is considered sacred and inviolable, and even the most seasoned mountaineers have respected this belief, refraining from attempts to summit it. Climbing is strictly forbidden by both local custom and official regulation.

Kailash is situated near the source of some of the most important rivers in Asia:

  • The Indus River, which flows through Pakistan,
  • The Sutlej River, a major tributary of the Indus,
  • The Brahmaputra River (Yarlung Tsangpo), which flows into India and Bangladesh,
  • The Karnali River, a major tributary of the Ganges.

This unique positioning has led many ancient cultures to view Mount Kailash as the axis mundi—the cosmic center of the universe.

Geologically, Kailash belongs to the Transhimalaya range, which lies north of the main Himalayas and runs parallel to it. The mountain itself is composed mainly of gneiss and limestone, with a distinct four-sided pyramid-like structure that has led to symbolic associations in various religious traditions. Each face of the mountain is aligned with one of the cardinal directions.

Lake Mansarovar: The Sacred Mirror

Just 32 kilometers (20 miles) southeast of Mount Kailash lies Lake Mansarovar, at an elevation of approximately 4,590 meters (15,060 feet). It is one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world. The lake spans an area of about 320 square kilometers, with a maximum depth of 90 meters (295 feet). Its water is crystal clear and turquoise in color, reflecting the surrounding snow-capped peaks with remarkable clarity.

The lake is nearly perfectly round, which enhances its mystical aura. According to Hindu and Buddhist cosmology, its shape symbolizes completeness, eternity, and the infinite nature of the divine. The waters of Mansarovar are fed by the nearby glaciers of Mount Kailash and are revered as purifying and life-giving. Pilgrims often perform ritual baths and drink the sacred water to cleanse their bodies and spirits.

Mansarovar is surrounded by grassy plains and gentle hills, with several small monasteries and hermitages along its shores. Among these, the Chiu Monastery, perched on a rocky hill near the northwest shore, offers panoramic views of the lake and is a popular spiritual retreat for monks and pilgrims alike.

Lake Rakshastal: The Shadow Twin

Adjacent to Lake Mansarovar, separated only by a narrow isthmus, lies Lake Rakshastal, a saline lake with a very different character. In stark contrast to the circular and serene Mansarovar, Rakshastal has an irregular, crescent shape and is often associated with darkness or demonic forces in mythology. Its name means "Lake of the Demon" in Sanskrit and is linked in Hindu mythology to Ravana, the demon king of Lanka, who is said to have meditated here to gain supernatural powers from Lord Shiva.

Because Rakshastal is saline, it does not support aquatic life or vegetation along its banks. The visual and symbolic contrast between the two lakes—freshwater and saltwater, purity and darkness, spiritual and material—adds a profound duality to the geography of the region, reflecting the spiritual philosophies of balance and dualism.

Climate and Environment of Kailash Mansarovar

The region around Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar is characterized by an arid, high-altitude desert climate. The air is thin, UV radiation is intense, and temperatures can range from -20°C to 20°C depending on the season. Summers (May to September) are relatively mild and represent the best window for pilgrimage. Winters are harsh, with snowstorms and freezing conditions that make travel virtually impossible.

Vegetation is sparse, consisting mainly of alpine grasses, shrubs, and some medicinal plants used in traditional Tibetan healing practices. Wildlife in the area includes species adapted to high altitudes, such as wild asses (kiangs), Tibetan antelope, Himalayan marmots, and bar-headed geese, particularly near Mansarovar’s shores.

Accessibility

Due to its remoteness and political sensitivity, access to the Mount Kailash region is limited and highly regulated. Most pilgrims and tourists enter through Tibet via Nepal or participate in government-authorized Indian pilgrimages. The nearest major town is Darchen, located at the southern base of Mount Kailash, which serves as the starting point for the sacred kora (circumambulation) around the mountain.

Modern infrastructure in the region is minimal, with basic roads and facilities. Accommodations range from modest guesthouses to monasteries, and amenities are often limited to the essentials. Because of the high elevation and rugged terrain, visitors are advised to spend several days acclimatizing and to travel with experienced guides.

 

Fixed Departure Dates for Kailash Mansarovar Tour (Yatra) Package – 2025

To help you plan ahead, Guru Travels Ltd. has announced Fixed Departure Dates for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2025:

·       7th June 2025

·       6th July 2025

·       25th July 2025

·       3rd September 2025

These dates are thoughtfully selected to align with favorable weather and route conditions, ensuring a smooth and fulfilling experience for all participants.

 

Conclusion: Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

The journey to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar is more than a trek across rugged terrain—it is a path into the heart of human spirituality. Revered by multiple faiths and protected by centuries of myth and reverence, this sacred region remains one of the last untouched holy sites in the world. For those who answer its call, the experience can be deeply transformative. The towering presence of Kailash and the serene beauty of Mansarovar invite introspection, devotion, and the possibility of awakening something timeless within. To know more about the journey, please visit our Kailash Mansarovar video. It shows the full travel experience. Watch now

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