Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a 13-day spiritual pilgrimage, starting and ending in Kathmandu, Nepal. The journey includes visits to iconic spiritual landmarks like Pashupatinath Temple, Lake Mansarovar, and Mount Kailash, along with a 3-day Outer Parikrama (Kora) of the mountain. These 13 days include rest and acclimatization stops, extensive overland travel through Tibet, guided rituals, and sacred trekking—designed for both spiritual depth and physical safety.

The highest point of the Yatra is Dolma-La Pass, which rises to an altitude of 5,630 meters (18,471 ft). This is crossed on Day 2 of the Parikrama and is the most physically demanding part of the trek, both in terms of elevation and terrain. It’s essential to prepare well for this segment due to the thin air and cold conditions.

We are taking the Overland Route via the Kerung Border (Nepal-Tibet), which is considered safer and more reliable than the older Nathu La and Lipulekh routes. Starting from Kathmandu, we cross into Tibet via Kerung, then travel overland through Saga, Lake Mansarovar, and Darchen, before beginning the 3-day Kora of Mount Kailash.

The Outer Parikrama of Mount Kailash spans approximately 52 kilometers and is completed over 3 days on foot.

• Day 1: Darchen to Dirapuk (18 km)

• Day 2: Dirapuk to Zutulpuk via Dolma-La Pass (22 km)

• Day 3: Zutulpuk to Darchen (12 km)
  The trek is challenging due to high altitude and rocky terrain, but it is also spiritually rewarding and visually stunning.

Yes, the Parikrama is optional and can be skipped for health or personal reasons. If you choose to opt out, you’ll stay in Darchen, the base village of the Kailash Kora. Please inform us at least 30 days in advance so that alternate accommodation can be arranged. Emergency exit options (via pony or vehicle) are also available mid-Kora in case of sudden health issues.

Yes, Charan Sparsh is possible on the day you trek to Dirapuk, where the north face of Mount Kailash is visible up close. Depending on weather and your physical capacity, you may get close enough to touch or prostrate near the base rock of the mountain. However, climbing the mountain is strictly prohibited as it is considered sacred by multiple religions.

The Outer Kora is part of the main Yatra itinerary. The Inner Kora (a more rigorous and spiritually intense route) is optional and can be attempted from Darchen only if weather permits and you are physically capable. Additional charges apply, and permissions may be required.

Direct bathing in the lake is prohibited by Chinese regulations to preserve its sanctity and ecology. However, pilgrims are allowed to collect water in copper vessels or bottles and perform ceremonial ablutions or rituals on the lake’s shore. Puja rituals and meditation are allowed and encouraged at sunrise or sunset.

The terrain includes rocky trails, moraine fields, glacial streams, and steep mountain passes. Most of the Kora is at altitudes above 4,800 meters, with Dolma-La being the highest point. The second day of the Kora is the toughest due to the combination of steep ascents and descents in low-oxygen conditions. Trekking poles and good shoes are essential.

Roads range from well-paved highways to rugged gravel paths, especially in remote areas like Mansarovar and Dirapuk. Vehicles used are selected for high-altitude reliability and comfort. Expect long travel hours (6–9 hours per day) during driving days. Roads are generally safe but can be affected by landslides or snow, requiring flexibility in itinerary.

No, the Chinese visa is not included. Our team will facilitate the group visa process in Kathmandu, which usually takes 3 working days. You’ll need to arrive with your original passport and photographs.

Hiring a pony or porter is optional, but highly recommended if you are unsure of your stamina at high altitudes. Charges are:

• Pony: Approx. USD 250–350 for the full Kora

• Porter: Approx. USD 150–200
  (Note: The pony man cannot double as a porter without additional charge.)

No. However, a high-quality down jacket and sleeping bag are availabel on rental for use during the trip. These are returned at the end of the Yatra.

You will not be eligible for a refund, but we will arrange for your stay in Darchen with meals and basic amenities, provided we are informed at least 30 days in advance.

Extra nights at Dirapuk (if needed due to weather or fatigue) cost USD 50/night, which includes food and shared accommodation.

Tipping is optional but customary in Nepal and Tibet. A general guideline is:

• Nepali/Tibetan guide: USD 40–50

• Cook/Driver: USD 20–30

• Porters: USD 10–20
  Tips are pooled and appreciated as a gesture of gratitude.

Carry Chinese Yuan (RMB) or USD (which can be exchanged at Lhasa or in Kathmandu).

• Credit cards/UPI/ATM access are not reliable in Tibet

• Carry sufficient cash for personal expenses and emergencies

• SIM, ponies, porters, and tips are paid in cash only

You don’t need to be an athlete, but you must be physically fit and medically stable. The Kailash Parikrama involves walking at altitudes above 5,000 meters, so even basic tasks can feel strenuous. You should be able to:

• Walk 10–15 km a day on uneven terrain

• Climb gentle slopes for hours without exhaustion

• Tolerate cold, dry weather with limited oxygen

Regular cardio (brisk walking, stair climbing), strength training, and short treks are strongly recommended before the Yatra.

• Begin training 1–3 months before the Yatra

• Do daily 30–45 min brisk walks or hill climbs

• Practice trekking with a backpack to build endurance

• Sleep at 2,000–3,000m elevation for 1–2 days if possible

• Avoid alcohol, stay hydrated, and eat light during the trip

Acclimatization days are built into the itinerary (in Kerung) to help your body adjust before the trek begins.

Yes, travel insurance is compulsory for this Yatra. Your policy should cover:

• High-altitude medical care and evacuation

• Trip cancellations and delays

• Personal injury or illness

• Loss of baggage and documents

• Emergency rescue (including helicopter)

Proof of insurance must be submitted before your trip begins.

Yes, but only in specific towns:

• Available in: Kerung, Saga, Darchen (basic to moderate care)

• Not available in: Mansarovar, Dirapuk, Zutulpuk
  We carry basic medical kits and oxygen cylinders. Participants must carry their own prescribed medicines and altitude-related drugs (e.g., Diamox, ORS, etc.).

Yes, a fitness certificate is mandatory, especially if you are over 60 years old or have pre-existing health conditions.
The certificate should state that you are fit for high-altitude trekking above 5,000 meters. You must submit this at least 15 days before departure.

Only after medical clearance. Those with:

• Uncontrolled diabetes

• Heart problems

• Severe asthma or COPD

• Recent strokes or surgeries

...are strongly advised not to join, as high altitude can worsen such conditions. Always consult your doctor and share full details with us.

Yes. Each participant receives a waterproof duffle bag to store gear carried during the Yatra. You’ll also need a small daypack (backpack) for personal items during drives and treks.

Yes, trekking shops in Kathmandu offer gear rentals (jackets, poles, sleeping bags). However:

• We provide jackets, sleeping bags, and poles

• Personal gear like shoes, gloves, and base layers should be purchased and broken in well in advance

You can carry up to 12–15 kg in your main duffel bag.
A 5–7 kg daypack is useful for carrying snacks, water, rainwear, and small valuables. Excess luggage can be left in Kathmandu at the hotel.

Essential medicines include:

• Diamox (for acclimatization)

• Paracetamol or Ibuprofen

• Cough and cold medication

• Anti-diarrheal and antacids

• ORS (electrolytes)

• Your regular medications (with spares)

• Band-aids, antiseptic, and basic first aid

Consult your doctor at least 2 weeks before departure for guidance.

• Hot water is limited and irregular, especially in guesthouses (Dirapuk, Zutulpuk).

• Room heaters are rare or not functional due to electricity constraints at high altitudes.
  Carry wet wipes, warm sleeping layers, and a thermos for comfort.

You can buy a Chinese SIM card (China Unicom/Mobile) at the airport or major cities. However:

• Social apps like WhatsApp, Instagram, YouTube, Gmail are blocked

• Internet is slow or unreliable in remote areas

• VPNs often don’t work
  It's best to inform family you’ll be largely offline except in Saga or Darchen.

Yes, you may carry sacred Jal (water) from Lake Mansarovar in a bottle or copper vessel for puja at home. Many pilgrims also sanctify it with Rudraksha or chant mantras while collecting it.

Yes, you are welcome to bring your own copper kalash, incense, diya, ghee, or rudraksha. Our guides will assist in setting up a puja spot near the lake, especially during sunrise or sunset.

Yes. A special Hawan and Rudra Abhishek is organized at Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu, led by experienced priests. It purifies your intention and invokes blessings before departure.

No. Chinese authorities strictly prohibit carrying:

• Religious texts (e.g., Bhagavad Gita, Quran, Bible)

• Photos or images of the Dalai Lama or other exiled leaders

• Political maps or flags
  Such items may be confiscated at the border. Carry only basic devotional items like rudraksha mala, copper lota, or prayer beads.

• Walk clockwise around sacred sites (never anti-clockwise)

• Remove shoes and hats before entering temples

• Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees)

• Do not touch or climb on statues or chortens

• Ask before taking photos, especially of monks

• Maintain silence or speak softly during puja
  Respect for the land, people, and beliefs is a crucial part of this pilgrimage.

We understand that plans can change, and we try to keep our cancellation policy fair and transparent. Depending on how close to the departure date you cancel, partial refunds are possible, and we also offer options to transfer your booking to a future trip in certain cases.

For the full breakdown of timelines, conditions, and refund details, please check out our complete cancellation policy here:

outdoorwhisperer.com/cancellation-policy