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The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a spiritually enriching pilgrimage revered by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers. The journey to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar offers both spiritual fulfillment and a breathtaking adventure through the majestic Himalayas. Starting from the Kerung border between Nepal and Tibet, this trek provides a scenic and well-organized path to the holy sites.
In this guide, we'll cover the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra package costs for Indian, Nepali, and NRI tourists, along with essential information on food, accommodation, transportation, altitude sickness (AMS), medicaments, porter costs, horse riding costs for the Dolma La Pass, clothing, shoes, and other preparation details.
For Indian tourists, the package for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra from the Kerung border ranges from INR 1,85,000 to INR 2,15,000. This all-inclusive package covers:
For Nepali pilgrims, the cost is comparatively lower, typically between NPR 1,85,000 to NPR 2,00,000. The package includes:
For Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and other foreign tourists, the package typically ranges between USD 3,200 to USD 3,500. This cost is higher due to additional visa fees and international permits. The package includes:
During the yatra, vegetarian meals are provided, keeping in line with the spiritual nature of the pilgrimage. The diet typically includes rice, chapati, lentils (dal), vegetables, and fruits. In Tibet, you might encounter local variations of vegetarian Tibetan food, such as Thukpa (noodle soup) or momos (vegetarian dumplings). It’s advisable to carry some high-energy snacks or ready-to-eat items, especially during the trek.
Accommodations during the yatra are modest but clean. In cities like Kerung, you will stay in guesthouses, while in remote areas near Mansarovar Lake and Mount Kailash, the options are more basic. Be prepared for shared rooms and simple facilities, with fewer comforts than city hotels. Sleeping bags are recommended for colder areas.
Transportation is well-organized with luxury buses, jeeps, or vans depending on the group size. The journey begins in Kathmandu, with a drive to the Kerung border, followed by comfortable transport into Tibet. Vehicles are suited for rough Himalayan roads and are equipped for high-altitude driving. The route offers spectacular views, with necessary stops for acclimatization to prevent altitude sickness.
Altitude sickness (AMS) can occur at elevations above 3,000 meters, and during the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, you may reach altitudes of 5,600 meters at the Dolma La Pass. To manage AMS, the itinerary includes rest days for acclimatization. Basic medical support, including oxygen cylinders and first-aid kits, is provided.
You should:
Porters are available to carry your luggage during the 3-day Kailash Parikrama (circumambulation) around Mount Kailash. Hiring a porter typically costs USD 25 to USD 30 per day, which amounts to USD 75 to USD 90 for the 3-day trek.
To navigate the challenging Dolma La Pass during the parikrama, many pilgrims choose to hire a horse. The cost for horse riding ranges between USD 150 to USD 200 for the 3-day trip around Mount Kailash, depending on the horse’s owner and the difficulty of the route.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra from the Kerung border typically lasts 14 to 16 days. The schedule includes:
Staying hydrated at high altitudes is critical to prevent altitude sickness. Bottled water is available throughout the yatra but at higher costs in remote areas. It’s advisable to carry water purification tablets or a portable water filter. Drinking boiled water or filtered water at stops can also be a safer alternative.
Proper clothing and gear are essential for the success of your Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Here’s a list of essential items you should prepare:
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra from the Kerung border offers a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual and physical experience. While the journey requires careful planning and physical preparation, it is highly rewarding. By choosing Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks, you’ll receive professional support, guidance, and a well-organized itinerary that ensures your comfort and safety throughout the pilgrimage. Whether you're an Indian, Nepali, or NRI traveler, we are here to provide you with a seamless and memorable journey to the sacred Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar.
The best time for the Kailash Mansarovar Tour via Kerung is from May to September when the weather is favorable, and the roads are accessible.
The Kailash Mansarovar Tour via Kerung usually takes around 14 to 18 days, including travel, acclimatization, and exploration days.
Mount Kailash is at an altitude of 6,638 meters (21,778 feet), and Mansarovar Lake is at 4,590 meters (15,060 feet).
Yes, you need a Chinese visa and a special Tibet Travel Permit to visit Mount Kailash and Mansarovar Lake via Kerung.
The Kailash Mansarovar Tour via Kerung is considered moderate to challenging due to the high altitude and long drives.
Yes, proper acclimatization is essential to avoid altitude sickness during the Kailash Mansarovar Tour via Kerung.
In Hinduism, Mount Kailash is considered the abode of Lord Shiva, and it is a sacred site for pilgrims seeking spiritual blessings.
Yes, the parikrama (circumambulation) of Mount Kailash is traditionally completed on foot by most pilgrims.
The main attractions include Mount Kailash, Mansarovar Lake, the Tirthapuri hot springs, and the monasteries of Darchen and Tarboche.
Essential items include warm clothing, comfortable trekking shoes, a first aid kit, a water bottle, snacks, and personal identification documents.
There is no strict age limit, but it is recommended that travelers are in good health and between the ages of 18 and 70.
Yes, the itinerary can be customized according to your preferences and requirements, including adding extra acclimatization days.
The tour is safe for solo travelers, but joining a group can enhance safety and reduce costs.
Accommodations range from basic guesthouses and lodges to more comfortable hotels in larger towns like Saga.
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation is highly recommended.
Yes, vegetarian meals are available throughout the tour, especially in areas catering to Hindu pilgrims.
The tour typically involves travel by comfortable 4WD vehicles, buses, and sometimes even horses or yaks for carrying supplies.
You should be in good physical condition, with regular exercise and stamina training recommended before the tour.
It is not advisable to visit during the winter due to extreme cold, heavy snowfall, and road closures.
Cultural sites include the monasteries in Lhasa, Shigatse, and Gyantse, as well as local Tibetan villages.
Key practices include the parikrama around Mount Kailash, taking a holy dip in Mansarovar Lake, and offering prayers at various sacred sites.
Health risks include altitude sickness, dehydration, cold-related illnesses, and fatigue due to long travel distances.
Helicopter services are available for certain sections of the yatra, but they are subject to weather conditions and permits.
Besides basic trekking gear, items like walking poles, thermal wear, and a sleeping bag are recommended for comfort and safety.
Pilgrims often perform rituals such as bathing in the lake, offering prayers, and collecting holy water from Mansarovar.
While bathing in Mansarovar is a religious practice, swimming is not advisable due to the cold temperature of the lake.
The Kailash Kora is believed to cleanse sins, bring spiritual enlightenment, and earn the blessings of Lord Shiva.
The Kailash Kora typically takes 3 days to complete, depending on the individual's pace and weather conditions.
Medical facilities are limited; basic first aid is available, but major medical needs require evacuation to larger towns or cities.
The tour is not recommended for young children due to the high altitude and long travel durations.
Charging facilities are available in some guesthouses, but it’s advisable to carry a portable charger or power bank.
Chinese Yuan is the preferred currency in Tibet, and it’s recommended to carry cash as ATMs are scarce.
Mobile network coverage is limited and unreliable in remote areas; consider carrying a satellite phone for emergencies.
Photography is allowed, but it is important to respect local customs and avoid taking photos in restricted areas, such as military zones.
Gradual acclimatization, staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol, and taking altitude sickness medication can help prepare for the altitude.
Indian pilgrims require a Chinese visa, a Tibet Travel Permit, and an Indian passport valid for at least six months.
The Tibet Travel Permit is arranged through authorized travel agencies in Tibet as part of the tour package.
The food includes simple Tibetan meals, Indian vegetarian dishes, and basic Chinese cuisine.
Consult your doctor before the trip. Some medical conditions may be aggravated by high altitude, and it is crucial to get clearance from a healthcare provider.
Trekking gear can be rented in Kathmandu, but it’s advisable to bring personal equipment for better fit and comfort.
Symptoms should be monitored closely. Rest, hydrate, descend if necessary, and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.
The route from Kerung to Mount Kailash passes through Tibetan towns like Saga and Darchen, with scenic views of the Tibetan plateau.
Mansarovar Lake is considered one of the holiest lakes in Hinduism, believed to be the source of purity and enlightenment.
Required documents include a valid passport, Chinese visa, Tibet Travel Permit, and, for Indian nationals, an Inner Line Permit.
Pilgrims are allowed to carry religious items, but large quantities of religious books or materials may be scrutinized by Chinese authorities.
Communication may be limited; consider using a satellite phone or international roaming service when available.
The Kerung border is a major crossing point between Nepal and Tibet, requiring thorough immigration and customs checks.
Drinking tap water is not recommended. It is best to carry bottled water or use purification tablets.
Respect Tibetan customs by dressing modestly, asking permission before taking photos and refraining from touching religious artifacts.
Expect varying weather conditions, with cold temperatures, strong winds, and possible rain or snow at higher altitudes.
The tour is suitable for senior citizens in good health, with proper acclimatization and a slower-paced itinerary.
Safety can be ensured by traveling with a reputable tour operator, following acclimatization guidelines, and carrying emergency supplies.
Emergency evacuation may involve returning to lower altitudes or seeking helicopter services, though these are limited and expensive.
Mental preparation involves understanding the challenges, maintaining a positive attitude, and being open to spiritual experiences.
A local guide provides cultural insights, ensures safety, assists with acclimatization, and navigates through the challenging terrain.
It is possible to extend the tour to include other Tibetan landmarks like Lhasa, but it requires additional permits and planning.
A thorough medical checkup is recommended, especially for those with pre-existing conditions, to ensure they can handle high altitudes.
Yes, joining a group tour is common and can reduce costs, enhance safety, and provide companionship during the journey.
Be prepared for strict customs checks, including inspections of personal items, especially cameras, books, and electronic devices.
Tipping is appreciated by guides, drivers, and porters as a gesture of gratitude for their services.
Essential medicines include altitude sickness tablets, pain relievers, cold and flu medication, digestive aids, and personal prescriptions.
Indian citizens need to apply for a Chinese visa through authorized agencies, and the process typically includes submitting a passport, photo, and application form.
Yes, you can participate in religious ceremonies at Mansarovar Lake and Mount Kailash, often organized by local priests or guides.
The Saga Dawa Festival, held in May or June, celebrates Buddha's birth, enlightenment, and death, making it a spiritually significant time to visit Mount Kailash.
Yes, horses and yaks are available for hire during the Kora for those who may find it challenging to complete on foot.
The tour's impact includes potential environmental degradation, so it’s important to practice responsible tourism by minimizing waste and following local guidelines.
Permits include the Tibet Travel Permit, Alien Travel Permit, and Military Permit, all arranged through your tour operator.
Common spiritual practices include meditation, chanting, offering prayers, and participating in rituals at sacred sites.
English is spoken by guides, but learning a few basic Tibetan phrases can be helpful and appreciated by locals.
For Buddhists, Mount Kailash is the home of Demchok, a wrathful deity, and the yatra is a journey to attain enlightenment and merit.
Yes, the tour is open to all, including non-religious tourists interested in the cultural and natural beauty of the region.
The primary challenges include high altitude, long travel distances, unpredictable weather, and basic accommodations.
Maintain hygiene by carrying hand sanitizers, wet wipes, and personal toiletries, and by following basic cleanliness practices.
Souvenirs include Tibetan prayer flags, thangka paintings, yak wool products, and small religious artifacts.
Precautions include gradual acclimatization, staying hydrated, avoiding overexertion, and using prescribed altitude sickness medication.
Local culture is experienced through interactions with Tibetan villagers, visiting monasteries, and observing traditional Tibetan customs.
Wildlife sightings may include Tibetan antelopes, yaks, and various bird species, especially in the more remote areas of the tour.
The terrain varies from paved roads to rugged paths, with some sections requiring careful navigation due to loose rocks and steep inclines.
The cost varies depending on the tour package, duration, and services included, but it generally ranges from $2,000 to $3,000.
Ensure safety by using locks on luggage, keeping valuables with you at all times, and being vigilant in crowded areas.
Yes, special dietary requests like vegetarian or gluten-free meals can usually be accommodated with prior notice to the tour operator.
Accommodations range from basic lodges with shared facilities to more comfortable guesthouses, depending on the location.
Currency exchange is best done in Kathmandu or major Tibetan towns; it’s advisable to carry sufficient Chinese Yuan before starting the tour.
The Tirthapuri hot springs are believed to have healing properties and are a popular stop for pilgrims after completing the Kailash Kora.
Photography is allowed in most areas, but restrictions apply near military installations and some religious sites; always ask for permission before photographing people.
If you experience symptoms, descend immediately, rest, stay hydrated, and take prescribed medications; seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
Effective acclimatization involves gradual ascent, staying hydrated, avoiding alcohol, and taking rest days as needed.
Support includes logistics, permits, accommodation, meals, medical assistance, and emergency evacuation plans.
The tour is not recommended for young children due to the high altitude and physically demanding nature of the journey.
Transportation options include private jeeps, buses, and occasionally horses or yaks for the more rugged sections of the tour.
Gauri Kund is a sacred lake located on the south side of Mount Kailash, believed to be the bathing place of the goddess Parvati.
Preparation includes regular cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and practicing trekking at higher altitudes if possible.
Solo travel is not recommended due to the challenging conditions; it's safer and more enjoyable to join a group.
Challenges include long waiting times, thorough customs checks, and the need for proper documentation and permits.
Pack light but include essentials like warm clothing, trekking gear, personal medication, and a basic first aid kit.
Sturdy trekking boots with good ankle support and waterproofing are recommended for the varied terrain.
The tour offers a deep connection to nature, opportunities for reflection, and participation in ancient spiritual practices, fostering personal and spiritual growth.
Precautions include checking water temperature, avoiding long soaks at high altitudes, and being cautious of slippery rocks.
Minimize impact by following Leave No Trace principles, avoiding single-use plastics, and respecting local wildlife and habitats.
The overall experience is one of spiritual fulfillment, physical challenge, cultural immersion, and breathtaking natural beauty.
Our Kailash Mansarovar Yatra package is designed for groups and includes all meals. You will enjoy three meals daily, with Indian-style cuisine for Indian groups and international-style cuisine for foreign groups. All meals are vegetarian and prepared by our dedicated Nepali staff from Kathmandu. In Kathmandu, breakfast is provided by the hotel, while lunch and dinner are not included in the package.
You will stay in a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu for 3 nights, sharing a twin room as per the itinerary. During the 10-night stay on the Kailash tour, accommodations include 7 nights in the best available hotels with twin-sharing rooms and attached bathrooms with hot showers. For 3 nights, you will stay in basic mud guesthouses with group-sharing, non-attached rooms at Lake Mansarovar, Dirapuk, and Juthulpuk. These locations do not offer alternative accommodation options.
Transportation is provided via a private coach, adjusted to the group size. Smaller groups will use a van. Nepali transportation is provided on the Nepal side, and Tibetan transportation, with air-conditioning, is used throughout the Kailash tour. Vehicles are permitted up to the Valley of the Gods, after which they are not allowed during the Kailash Parikrama. For groups larger than 10, a small truck will transport kitchen supplies and arrive at overnight stops ahead of the group to prepare food and drinks.
Acclimatization is crucial for this high-altitude journey. Kathmandu sits at 1,400 meters, and you will first reach Kerung on the Nepal-Tibet border, which is at 2,900 meters. An overnight stay in Kerung includes fitness activities like hiking and walking to help acclimatize. The next stop is Saga at 4,550 meters, where you will stay an additional night for further acclimatization. Following this, you will stay at a similar altitude for three nights, aiding your adjustment for the 5,645-meter Dolma La pass during the Kailash Kora.
Bookings must be made at least one month before the departure date. A passport scan with at least six months of validity is required, along with a trip confirmation deposit of USD 300 per person. Additional documents include a passport-sized photo and a personal details form, which we will provide by email.
A USD 300 deposit per person is required at the time of trip confirmation. This can be paid by credit card, remittance, or bank deposit. The remaining balance is due upon arrival in Kathmandu, before the start of the Kailash tour. Payments can be made in cash, by credit card, or by bank deposit. Note that credit card payments incur a 4% surcharge.
For more detailed information or to book your Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, please contact us at Himalayan Adventure Intl Treks.
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