The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra isn’t just a trek; it’s a journey of faith, endurance, and self-discovery. Walking through the majestic Himalayas, witnessing the serene Mansarovar Lake, and standing in the presence of Mount Kailash is an experience that stays with you forever.
For many travellers, a trip is more than just visiting places—it’s about feeling something special. The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is one such journey. It takes you through breathtaking mountains, peaceful valleys, and sacred sites that hold deep meaning for many people.
As you travel, you will see the mighty Mount Kailash, a peak believed to be holy in many religions. The beautiful Mansarovar Lake shines under the open sky, and many believe its waters bring peace and blessings. The journey is challenging, with high altitudes and cold weather, but every step feels meaningful.
Some travellers come here for spiritual reasons, while others seek adventure or personal growth. Whatever your reason, this journey is truly unforgettable. It’s not just about reaching a destination—it’s about the experience, the people you meet, and the feeling of being part of something greater.
If you’re someone who enjoys travelling with a purpose, this journey is perfect. Whether you are deeply religious or just looking for an offbeat travel experience, the beauty of this place will leave you speechless. Here’s what makes this journey so special:
The best time to visit Kailash Mansarovar is from May to September, when the weather is relatively stable, making the journey safer. During these months, the temperature is manageable, and the roads are more accessible. July is the peak pilgrimage season, attracting the highest number of devotees. This period offers the best conditions for a smooth and spiritual experience at Kailash Mansarovar.
Your journey starts as you arrive in Kathmandu (4,300 ft), the capital of Nepal. After checking in at your hotel, take some time to relax and explore the city. You can visit local markets, taste delicious Nepali food, or just rest and prepare for the upcoming adventure.
Today, you will visit some of the most famous temples and spiritual places in Kathmandu. Explore the Pashupatinath Temple, a sacred site for Hindus, and visit the Boudhanath Stupa and Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple). This tour will give you a glimpse of Nepal’s rich culture and history.
Leave Kathmandu and begin a scenic 6-7 hour drive (145 km) to Syabrubesi (4,800 ft), a small town near the Nepal-Tibet border. The journey takes you through beautiful hills, rivers, and remote villages.
A short 30-minute drive (15 km) will take you to Rasuwagadhi (6,000 ft), where you will complete immigration formalities before entering Tibet. From there, you will drive 3 hours (105 km) to Kyirong County (13,500 ft). Since the altitude is higher, it’s important to rest and let your body adjust.
This day is set aside to help your body adjust to the high altitude. You can take short walks around the area, drink plenty of water, and rest to prepare for the upcoming days.
After breakfast, continue your journey with a 4-5 hour drive (180 km) to Saga County (14,700 ft). The drive takes you through breathtaking landscapes, with views of wide plains and mountains. Once you reach Saga, take the rest of the day to relax.
Today is one of the most special days of the trip. You will travel 500 km (8-9 hours) to reach the sacred Mansarovar Lake (15,100 ft). As you get closer, the first sight of the lake is truly magical. Spend time by the lake, take in the peaceful surroundings, and rest for the night.
In the morning, you can visit the lake again for prayers or a short dip in its holy waters. Later, take a 40 km drive (1-2 hours) to Darchen (15,300 ft), the base camp for the Mount Kailash Parikrama (circuit trek).
Drive 11 km (30 minutes) from Darchen to Yamdwar (15,500 ft), the starting point of the trek. From there, begin the 13 km trek (5-6 hours) to Deraphuk (16,600 ft), walking along rocky paths with amazing views of Mount Kailash.
Today, you will trek 6 km (6 hours) to Kailash Parvat Charan Sparsh (18,000 ft), the closest point where pilgrims can feel the divine presence of Mount Kailash. After spending some time here, trek 6 km (5 hours) back to Deraphuk for the night.
This is the most challenging day of the trek. Start early and trek 6 km (4 hours) to Dolma La Pass (18,500 ft), the highest point of the journey. From here, descend 13 km (6 hours) to Zuthulphuk (15,800 ft), passing by the sacred Gaurikund Lake.
Complete the final 6 km trek (3 hours) to Chongdo (15,300 ft), where vehicles will be waiting. From here, drive 9-10 hours (545 km) back to Saga County (14,700 ft) for an overnight stay.
Enjoy a relaxed 4-5 hour drive (180 km) back to Kyirong County (13,500 ft), retracing your route through Tibet.
Cross the border and travel 11 hours (265 km) back to Kathmandu (4,300 ft). Upon arrival, you can rest or explore the city before your departure.
Your spiritual journey comes to an end. Depending on your schedule, you can take some time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing before heading to the airport for your departure.
Your journey begins in Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital. Here, you visit the famous Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most important temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and thousands of pilgrims visit it every day to seek blessings before heading toward Kailash.
Tip: Spend a day exploring the vibrant streets of Thamel, trying Nepali food, and preparing for the long journey ahead.
From Kathmandu, you drive toward the Nepal-Tibet border. The moment you cross into Tibet (China), you notice a shift in the landscape—Nepal’s green hills give way to Tibet’s vast, dry plains, surrounded by majestic mountains.
One of the biggest surprises here is how peaceful Tibet feels. With its scattered monasteries, fluttering prayer flags, and monks walking quietly, the entire region carries an air of calmness and spirituality.
After days of traveling through rugged Tibetan terrain, you finally reach the breathtaking Mansarovar Lake. Located at an altitude of 4,590 meters, this lake is believed to be the most sacred in Hinduism and Buddhism.
Why is it special?
Personal Tip: If you’re not comfortable taking a dip in the icy waters, you can simply sprinkle some water on yourself and meditate by the lake. The energy of this place is beyond words!
Next to Mansarovar lies Rakshas Tal, a saltwater lake with no aquatic life. It is believed to be the place where the demon king Ravana meditated to please Lord Shiva. Unlike Mansarovar, which is associated with positive energy, Rakshas Tal represents negative energy. Despite the legends, the lake’s deep blue waters are mesmerizing.
Next to Mansarovar lies Rakshas Tal, a saltwater lake with no aquatic life. It is believed to be the place where the demon king Ravana meditated to please Lord Shiva. Unlike Mansarovar, which is associated with positive energy, Rakshas Tal represents negative energy. Despite the legends, the lake’s deep blue waters are mesmerizing.
Finally, you reach the highlight of the journey—Mount Kailash. Towering at 6,638 meters, this sacred peak is said to be the abode of Lord Shiva. No one has ever climbed it, as it is considered too holy to be touched.
The Kailash Parikrama (Circumambulation)
One of the most important rituals of the yatra is walking around Mount Kailash, a 52-km trek that takes about three days. Pilgrims believe that completing this trek brings salvation and good karma.
The trek is challenging due to the high altitude, rocky terrain, and unpredictable weather, but it is also the most rewarding part of the journey.
At 5,636 meters, Dolma La Pass is the toughest part of the trek. This is the moment where you truly test your physical endurance and mental strength. At the top, you see thousands of prayer flags left by pilgrims, creating a colourful contrast against the snow.
After crossing Dolma La, you descend toward Gaurikund, a sacred lake believed to be where Goddess Parvati bathed.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is open to those who are 18 years or older. While first-time trekkers are welcome, having some prior trekking experience can be beneficial. Since this is a high-altitude journey, being in good physical shape is essential.
To comfortably undertake this trek, you should have a decent level of stamina. Ideally, you should be able to:
Since the yatra takes you to extreme altitudes, it’s important to assess your physical condition beforehand. If your BMI (Body Mass Index) falls outside the normal range (18-27), it’s best to consult our Trek Coordinator before booking to ensure you’re fit for the journey.
Before booking the trek, please make sure you are in good health. Here are some important health checks:
Pulse Rate – Should be between 60 to 90 beats per minute when resting.
Blood Pressure – Should be between 100-140 (systolic) and 70-90 (diastolic).
Breathing Rate – Should be 12 to 20 breaths per minute at rest.
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