The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra involving the pilgrimage to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar is one of the most spiritually significant journeys in the world. With it being a challenging journey requires careful preparation and awareness.

Given that, the following answers some of the most frequently asked questions to help you better understand the Yatra, its difficulties, necessary preparations, and what to expect during your journey to this sacred destination. It includes various sections; religious and cultural aspects, routes and logistics, health and preparation, documents and permits, accommodation and facilities, safety and contingencies. 

Religious and Cultural Aspects:

1. Why is Mount Kailash so sacred?

Mount Kailash, at an elevation of 6,638 metres, is a significant site in cultural and religious aspects. It presents different sacredness and faith among various religions. 

• Hindu- The mountain is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva. 
• Buddhist- The mountain is associated with Demchok (Chakrashamvara), representing supreme bliss. 
• Bon- This special four-faced peak is considered to be the axis of the universe. 
• Jains- It is regarded as the place where their first Trithankara, Padmasambhava, attained liberation. 

2. What is the significance of Lake Mansarovar?

Lake Mansarovar, nearby to the holy Mount Kailash, is often associated with the mountain. According to Hindu mythology, it was created by Lord Brahma and is thus symbolic of purity, clarity, and enlightenment. Whereas, in Buddhist mythology, the lake is considered to be the sacred lake of Anotatta, where Queen Maya Devi is believed to have bathed to cleanse her body before conceiving Siddhartha Gautam, who later became Gautam Buddha. 

It is said that pilgrims who bathe in its waters are cleansed of any past sins, whilst those who drink its waters are believed to have gained spiritual merit.

3. What is the purpose of the Parikrama (Kora)?

The Parikrama or Kora, is a sacred circumambulation of Mount Kailash covering around 52 kilometers. Devotees believe this circumambulation will cleanse lifetimes of sins and will take one nearer to liberation. One full Parikrama is equal to the merit of countless religious rituals, while 108 such circumambulations lead to ultimate spiritual salvation.

4. What is the best time to go for a clear darshan and manage the weather?

The best time to visit Kailash Mansarovar is between May and September, when the weather conditions are relatively on the better side. 

There would be generally clear skies between May and June with no disturbances in the view of the supreme peak, though temperatures remain rather cool. July and August are warmer; however, the chances of showers might be expected occasionally. September proves to be the perfect month when there is stable weather coupled with crisp air and great chances of an early darshan. 

However, please note that the weather on the Tibetan side is quite unpredictable so one needs to be prepared for unexpected weather changes like sudden rain or snow.

5. What are the specific rituals to perform at Mansarovar Lake and at the Kailash Parvat?

At Lake Mansarovar, the pilgrims usually perform their rites, which involve bathing with the water from the lake or the sprinkling of water on their heads, thus offering prayers to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati along with reciting the mantras and contemplating on the shores.

Other rites performed include lighting lamps, holding small pujas, or even conducting havan rites to honor the divine power of the place. Simpler tantric rituals are undertaken at Kailash Parvat, which are no less sacred, including bowing with reverence, touching the ground, some also chanting mantras like "Om Namah Shivaya" and performing Parikrama, which is considered to be the supreme worship act.

6. Can we take a holy dip in Lake Mansarovar? How cold is the water? Are there changing facilities?

No, taking a dip in Lake Mansarovar is not allowed. Sometimes, if allowed, one can bring a bucket of water and take a shower nearby the lake (Please note that the shower tent is subject to permission of the local police authority). 

The water is freezing, usually remaining 5 to 10 degrees celsius during the daytime while being almost at freezing point during the mornings and evenings. If the shower tent is allowed by the tour operator, the changing place will be the same; however, if not, then there are no locally fixed changing facilities. 

7. Will we have enough time for meditation and prayer, or is the itinerary too rushed?

Most itineraries are designed to make a balance between travel, trekking, and spiritual practices. Whilst the pilgrims are generally given quite a time for meditation and prayers, primarily at the Mansarovar Lake and while halting during the Parikrama, schedules sometimes make them feel rushed because of the altitude, weather, and logistical challenges. 

Especially during the full moon time the pilgrims might feel rushed. However, generally, pilgrims are allowed with ample time for personal reflection and meditation, thus fostering more profound spiritual experiences.

The Routes and Logistics via Nepal:

1. Why are people going through Nepal instead of the Lipulekh Pass route? What are the advantages?

Many pilgrims prefer to pass through Nepal because from there transport is easy to acquire, with flexible tour options to choose from, while the Lipulekh Pass route is strenuous and rigid in nature. 

The Nepal routes by way of Hilsa and Kyirong allow the pilgrimage to Kailash to be done by road or helicopter with a minimum of 9 days and a maximum of 17 days.

While in contrast the Lipulekh route is comparatively longer. This is suitable for senior citizens or those with limited physical stamina. Most importantly, the tour via this route is the Indian Government-run route, which allows limited batches only. 

The real spiritual advantage in traveling via Nepal is at the very beginning, where one can get blessings at Pashupatinath Temple while also visiting other sightseeing locations in Kathmandu.

2. What are the different routes to Kailash Mansarovar from Nepal?

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra from Nepal can be undertaken along three major routes. 

The Kyirong route, being overland to and from Kathmandu to the Tibet border, is much more reliable and comfortable. (Note: In case of unforeseen situations like landslides or floods, sometimes alternative routes like the Tatopani route are used.)

The Hilsa route is the shortest and quickest, involving flights from Kathmandu to Simikot and then a helicopter ride to Hilsa, but the whole process is severely weather-dependent. 

And the last one being the Lhasa route which is the longest yet culturally immersing route which involves flight to Lhasa, capital of Tibet and drive towards Kailash Mansarovar. 

3. What are the advantages and disadvantages while traveling via Kyirong and Hilsa Route?

Each route to Kailash Mansarovar has its perks and challenges.

• Kyirong Route: It offers greater reliability since it involves an all land journey by road from Kathmandu to the Tibet border and then to Kailash, hardly affected by flight cancellations but needing more travel days with long-distance drives. 
• Hilsa Route: The route from Hilsa is the fastest and most time-efficient way, being a combination of a flight from Kathmandu to Simikot followed by a short helicopter ride to Hilsa; however, it suffers from a heavy dependence on weather conditions and frequent delays caused by unpredictable mountain winds.

The decision on which way to go thus depends largely on the health condition, time in hand, and budget of a pilgrim, with Hilsa being the choice of preference for speed and Kyirong for reliability. 

Physical Preparation and Health:

1. Is this Yatra suitable for everyone?

The yatra might not be suitable for everyone. As the journey is high-altitude travel, long drives, and rigorous trekking. It is, thus, better suited to those who are in good health and with fair physical fitness. 

People having any serious heart, lung, or chronic health condition are advised not to proceed with the yatra. A medical fitness certificate issued by a registered medical practitioner to make sure that the participants are okay to travel high altitude is mandatory for Indian pilgrims participating in the journey. 

2. What is the maximum age limit?

There is no official age limit for visiting Mount Kailash. However, for Indian citizens, as it is a physically demanding journey that includes parikrama around Mount Kailash in a high altitude environment, the general guidelines state an age limit of 12 to 70 years. In some conditions, age limits can be imposed for NRIs and foreign nationals depending on the situation, with the final decision upon the authorities.

3. How difficult is the parikrama (kora)? What is the altitude, and how do I prepare physically?

Mount Kailash Parikrama or Kora, is a challenging trek covering around 52 km, undertaken in three days. The ascent on Dolma La Pass at 5,600 meters is recognized to be the most gruesome part. 

This high altitude, coupled with rugged terrain, makes it physically demanding for anyone to traverse; still, every year, thousands of devotees do it with some form of preparation. 

Preparation includes increasing stamina by regular walking or jogging, doing breathing exercises to strengthen lung power and engaging in yoga or meditation to build mental endurance. 

It is worth mentioning that use of trekking poles and walking with a slow but steady pace makes a very good difference during the climb. Here are altitudes you will encounter during the whole journey.

4. What are the real risks of Altitude Sickness (AMS) and what medical support is provided?

Altitude Sickness (AMS) is one of the grave challenges of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, for much of the journey lies beyond 4,500 meters. Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, loss of appetite, and shortness of breath. Most pilgrims suffer mild discomfort with the condition, but severe AMS could prove fatal if it is ignored.

Regarding the medical facilities during the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, it is either limited/basic due to the remote location. The places like Derapuk and Zuthulpuk don't even have basic health posts. 

However, as a tour operator, our first aid and professional guide are there to assist you in case you might need any medical help. They will regularly check your oxygen levels from the altitude of 3000 m, and will provide you Diamox (altitude tablet) in the morning and evening accordingly. Also, portable oxygen cans will be provided to each pilgrim to carry during the parikrama time.

Documentation and Permits:

1. What documents are required for Indian citizens?

To enter Nepal, Indian travelers do not need a passport. A valid identification such as a Voter ID or Birth certificate (in the case of Minor) is sufficient and it is accepted by Nepal Immigration to grant permission for travel inside Nepal.

For the China/Tibet part of the yatra, however, a valid passport, visa, and a special permit (Tibet Travel Permit) are a must. These documents are required for the Indian nationals for entering and trekking into the Kailash region, adhering to Chinese rules. 

2. Do we need a Chinese Visa?

Yes, not an individual but a group visa needs to be applied for a minimum number of 4 for a private group and 20 for a group joining through a registered travel agency authorised by Tibet. It needs to be obtained from the Tibetan government agencies for which we have direct access and contacts to make your travel experience easier and more convenient. 

You must keep in touch at least 1 month prior to your trip to Kathmandu, and we’ll arrange the further procedure after getting confirmation of your tour. 

3. How long in advance do we need to book to ensure all permits are processed?

Generally speaking, it is recommended to book the trip at least five months in advance so that there is time enough for all the preparations, including documentation, filing for visas, and special permits for entering Tibet, as these are essential. 

The earlier the booking, the better the chance to select travel dates and routes because the group size is constrained and there is usually a high demand for travel during pilgrimage periods.

4. Is a passport mandatory? Can we use any other ID?

For the Nepal side, a passport is not mandatory if you’re an Indian citizen. Indian nationals can freely travel to Nepal using the Voter Id or brith certificate in case of minors. However, all the other nationals, including NRIs, irrespective of age, will require a passport to travel to Nepal.

For the Tibetan side, every national will require a passport; no other form of ID is accepted. Passports must be valid for at least six months from the date of travel and must have ample blank pages available for visa and permit stamping.

Accommodation and Facilities:

1. What is the standard of available accommodation?

While pilgrims can get the accommodation of their choice from a 3 to 5 star hotel on the Nepal side, the accommodation on the Tibet side ranges from local 3 star hotels to guesthouses depending on the location. 

During the entire trip, the accommodation will be on twin/double/triple sharing basis and at some points 4-5 people have to share the common rooms together. 

Talking about the facilities, while in most places on the trip you will get modest amenities, in remote places like Derapuk and Zuthulpuk, there are no extra amenities, with problems regarding restrooms as well. As temporary toilet tent is also not allowed in this area, you need to be well prepared for it. Here are the accommodation options for locations in various routes. 

2. What kind of food is provided? Is it vegetarian? Will we get Indian food?

During the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, you can expect simple yet wholesome vegetarian food from tour operators such as ours. 

A regular food tends to be based upon essentials like rice, dal (lentils), chapati (roti), fruits, and an array of vegetables; most of the foods being the mix of Indian and Nepali style. Lunch is a packed variety for the parikrama part since there are no hotels in between the yatra.

If you have specific dietary restrictions or allergies, it's best to let us know beforehand. While we do try to accommodate you, it's advisable to carry some personal snacks or dietary supplements.

3. Are there proper toilet facilities during the trek and parikrama?

No, there are no proper toilet facilities during the trek, as the parikrama revolves around an average altitude of 5000 m. In Derapuk you might find a public toilet outside the hotel but it is not maintained and basically can’t be used. However, in Zuthulpuk, even finding a public toilet is difficult. So in these places during the parikrama, you will have to go out in nature.

4. Is there mobile network connectivity or internet access during the yatra?

Once inside Tibet, normally international SIMs stop working, and only Chinese SIM cards function. However, if you do want to use your SIM network in Tibet  you can activate international roaming, which is quite reliable. (Note: The cost for international roaming depends on your service provider.)

If not for ease, one can add an chinese eSIM to their mobile phone through sites like Get nomad or Klook. You can get a data pack of around 20 GB for USD 20 which will be sufficient during your yatra days.

Cost and Inclusions:

1. What is the detailed breakdown of the cost? What is included and, more importantly, what is NOT included?

Here’s the detailed breakdown of the cost with exclusion and inclusion:

Cost Breakdown

• Itinerary/Route
• Travel Style
• Accommodation
• Mode of Transport
• Package Inclusions

Package Inclusion

• Accommodation on sharing basis
• Vegetarian meals as per itinerary
• Transportation on sharing basis as per the group size within itinerary
• Flights as mentioned itinerary
• Nepali, Tibetan guides and support team
• Tibet Travel Permit, Group Tibet visa
• Basic first aid and medical support

Package Exclusion

• Extra nights due to delays or illness
• Special dietary items, extra snacks
• Flights or other transport outside itinerary
• Tips to guides, sherpas, and drivers
• Delays or rejection of permits requiring extra stay
• Personal medicines, high-altitude medicines, oxygen cylinders
• Travel insurance, personal medical evacuation
• Ponies (4000 CNY/person), Porters (1200–1500 CNY/person)

2. Does the package cost include the charges for ponies and porters?

The pilgrims should know that ponies and porters are not part of the package; they should be paid by the pilgrims themselves out of their own pocket in case of need. If the pilgrims want to hire a pony, it comes in a set with a porter at about 4000 CNY per person, and only porters at 1200-1500 CNY per person. Please note that once a pony is booked it is non-transferable and the amount paid is non-refundable.

3. Are there any hidden costs we should be aware of?

There are no hidden costs in the package itself, but emergencies might call for extra spending, changes in currency rates might affect the total cost, unexpected weather or permit delays might force more nights in a hotel, and extra expenses can come from renting trekking gear (like jackets, sleeping bags, or trekking poles) if you didn't bring these items.

Safety and Contingencies:

1. What is the backup plan in case of bad weather, especially for helicopter flights?

Helicopter flights for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, particularly via Hilsa, are very weather dependent. In case of unfavorable weather, strong winds, or low visibility, flights have to be delayed or canceled for safety reasons.

In such cases, as there is no alternative way, extending the stay in Simikot or Hilsa until conditions improve is the best alternative. We usually keep close watch on weather forecasts and keep in touch with pilgrims for smooth handling of any change, but travelers should have a plan in mind for a possible change in the schedule. 

2. What is the tour operator's experience and safety record? How many groups have they successfully led?

We, KailashYatra.travel have been conducting Kailash Mansarovar Yatra since 2013 as a professional and experienced yatra operator. We have successfully operated more than 100 different groups and more than 3000 people with a 0% fatality rate. Along with that, our guides and support team have experience travelling to Kailash 10 to 20 times which makes us stronger in logistical aspects as well. 

3. Is the group accompanied by a Nepalese/Tibetan guide who speaks Hindi/English?

Yes, generally the whole group is accompanied by a support team with one Nepalese guide from the Nepal side and a Tibetan guide once you reach the Tibetan side.

The whole logistical arrangement on the Tibetan side during the yatra will be done by the Tibetan guide. Normally the Nepalese guide can speak both English and Hindi; some can speak Tibetan as well. However, for a Tibetan guide, they can speak English but Hindi is not sure. It depends upon the guide themselves.

4. What happens if a pilgrim cannot complete the parikrama due to health issues? What is the evacuation procedure?

Normally, the itinerary is made aiming for the pilgrims to be able to complete the yatra. However, if a pilgrim is unable to complete the full parikrama due to physical, environmental, or health-related reasons, first and foremost medical assistance will be given by our medical personnel. Even if the condition does not improve, the primary evacuation procedure is to descend to Darchen as early as possible.

The following are the conditions that apply if pilgrims are doing the parikrama by foot. 

Condition I

If the pilgrim has started the parikrama from Yamadwar but is unable to reach Derapuk and needs to return from midway due to physical inability or any other reason:

Additional Cost

• Emergency return transportation:

               Sharing basis: 500 Yuan

               Private arrangement: 2000 Yuan

• Accommodation cost at Darchen (return base point)

Condition II

If he/she has successfully reached Derapuk and is unable to proceed with the parikrama the preceding morning due to deterioration of health or altitude sickness:

Additional Cost

• Emergency return transportation:

               Sharing basis: 500 Yuan

               Private arrangement: 2000 Yuan

• Accommodation cost at Darchen (return base point)

Condition III

If a pilgrim manages to cross high-altitude Dolma La Pass but becomes unable to continue physically descending or trekking further. 

Additional Cost

• Emergency return transportation:

               Sharing basis: 2000 Yuan

               Private arrangement: 8000 Yuan

• Accommodation cost at Darchen (return base point)

If the pilgrims are doing parikrama by horse and wish to return midway following conditions apply. 

• Once the horse/yak is confirmed and paid for, the booking shall be non-refundable irrespective of non-usage or early return.
• The horse/yak assigned to the booking shall be non-transferable and shall only be used by and for the person for whom it was originally booked.

• Horse services are available only for a single trip, that is a one way journey from Yamadwar to Darchen. The same horse can’t return if pilgrims wish to return midway.

Packing and Preparation:

1. What is the recommended packing list? What kind of shoes and clothing are essential?

Packing for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is to prepare for high altitude, extreme cold, and uncertain weather. Important clothing includes thermals, fleece or woolen sweaters, down or insulated jackets, trekking pants, waterproof raincoats, gloves, woolen socks, and a cozy cap or muffler for the neck. Layering is a must, as temperatures vary greatly between day and night. 

A good set of waterproof trekking shoes provided with ankle support will remain your buddies; the other pair can be sandals or slippers for evenings and light walks. Some other items to carry are UV-protected sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, thermos flask, trekking poles, a flashlight, wet wipes, and energy-giving snacks.

2. What kind of medical kit should we carry personally?

Generally, our team will have the basic medical kit, however, a personal one can be taken along by every pilgrim, containing essential medicines. 

These include any prescription medicines, medicines for high-altitude sickness such as Diamox (only if prescribed), pills for fever and pain relief, antacids for acid indigestion, medicines for diarrhea, ORS for dehydration, and any antibiotics prescribed by a doctor.

Other valuable items include allergy tablets, cough lozenges, throat spray, band-aids, antiseptic cream, nasal spray, moisturizer, and petroleum jelly. 

3. Can we carry Prasad from India? Are there any restrictions on what we can bring into Tibet?

Ladoos, dry fruits, and dry or packaged prasad should generally be allowed. Packaged Indian snacks such as biscuits, namkeen, and so forth are allowed too. Small religious books like the Gita are generally acceptable. 

However, any items related to the Dalai Lama are strictly prohibited and you might get turned back from the border if found, even if it is found as a photo in a mobile phone.

4. How much Chinese currency (CNY) should we carry for personal expenses? Is it accepted in Tibet?

The Chinese Yuan (CNY) is the official currency in Tibet and is accepted as currency in trade. In contrast, Indian Rupees and the US Dollar cannot be used directly. Daily personal expenses (for tea, snacks, bottled water, and other small purchases) are about 30–50 CNY per day. Additional fees will be charged for optional services such as hiring ponies, porters. 

So, all together you need to carry at least 5000 CNY per person for day use, hiring a pony or porter (if needed) or emergency expenses.

Ideally, currency exchange should be done in Kathmandu before crossing the border, as the availability after crossing the border can be difficult. Additionally, the remaining amount can be changed back before crossing the border if left.