Revered as one of the most significant spiritual journeys in the world, the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra attracts thousands of pilgrims from all over the world every year, especially the followers of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Bon religion.
However, along with being deeply spiritual, this journey also presents unique challenges for adventurers in terms of terrain, altitude, physical endurance, as well as cultural sensitivity, and navigating these challenges can be quite tough.
Therefore, in this blog, we discuss the dos and don’ts during Kailash Mansarovar Yatra which can enhance your experience ten folds and etch this trek in your memory for a lifetime.
Do’s During the Kailash Yatra
Research Thoroughly
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a rather unique and challenging journey which can be quite harsh if you don’t do complete research about it beforehand. Proper preparation can help make your journey much more convenient and smoother.
With proper research regarding the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, you will not just get to know about the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra routes, facilities available along the way, and things to look forward to, but you can also know the challenges that you will be facing along the way.
Many routes lead to Mount Kailash, with options available from Nepal, India, and Tibet. Each route has its own set of permit and travel arrangement requirements. For instance, the route via Lhasa requires additional permits and travel preparations.
If you are embarking on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Nepal, you will need at least 4 to 5 working days to obtain the necessary Chinese visa and Tibet Travel Permit. It’s crucial to arrive in Kathmandu early for biometrics and the visa application process, so plan your trip accordingly.
Even the travel time and the amount of physical exertion varies based on the route that you have picked. Therefore, if you research thoroughly, you can easily pick a route that is best suited to cater to your needs and your level of physical fitness.
Proper research can also allow you to pick the best time for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra as not all seasons are appropriate for this tour.
Winters will feature unbearable temperatures in the Kailash region while the monsoon season features minimal rainfall in this rain-shadow area, making it one of the best times to visit, with relatively stable weather and manageable trail conditions.
With research, you can understand that the best time to visit Kailash Mansarovar is during the months of May to September when the climatic conditions will be relatively moderate as opposed to other seasons.
Pack Smart and Light
As you will be traveling in high altitude and remote regions where you most likely won’t get things easily, it is important to pack smartly and carry all the essentials that you might be needing.
However, it is also important to strike a proper balance between ensuring you have all the necessary items and packing light. The main thing to carry is proper layers of suitable clothing.
The weather in Nepal as well as Tibet can be quite unpredictable, especially around Mount Kailash. So, make sure to pack in layers—base layers (thermal innerwear), middle layers (fleece or down jacket), and outer layers (windproof and waterproof jacket).
Pack in extra woolen socks, gaiters, and trekking jackets to protect yourself from the extreme temperatures of this Himalayan region. Do not forget a good pair of waterproof trekking shoes that are well broken in before the trek to prevent blisters.
Besides that, items like rain cover, trekking poles, sunglasses (for UV protection at high altitudes), sunscreen, a first-aid kit, and personal toiletries are an important addition to your backpack.
Take Altitude Sickness Seriously
In the high-altitude Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, you will be going to an altitude beyond even 5,600 meters (18,372 ft) which is very challenging and can increase the chances of getting many issues related to altitude, ranging from basic to even life-threatening ones.
Altitude sickness during Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a common phenomenon and many trekkers go through it and have reported experiencing symptoms like nausea, dizziness, loss of appetite, and more. It can even escalate and turn to HAPE and HACE.
So, it is important to acclimatize well before going on this trek. Stay hydrated and maintain a gradual ascent. Your body needs time to acclimatize to higher altitudes, so follow the principle of “climb high, sleep low.”
Respect Local Customs and Traditions
While on the Kailash Yatra, it is important that you respect the local customs as this is a journey where most of the trekkers are pilgrims who are visiting the place which is regarded as the highest place of worship in their culture.
Therefore, they might also be performing tons of rituals and traditions during the trek. So, it is understood that you should observe the local customs and not disturb them even if you can’t be a part of it.
A simple thing that you can do to show your respect towards the customs of the pilgrims is to dress modestly while visiting any religious place like Lake Mansarovar or any monastery, maintain silence during any prayers, and always seek permission.
Whenever you are photographing any ritual and custom, make sure to seek permission as sometimes photography during rituals can be offensive. Avoid using flash photography even if you get permission to photograph them.
Follow Leave No Trace Principle
While you will be having a memorable experience during the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, it is also important to realize that you will be trekking in a fragile Himalayan ecosystem. Therefore, a big environmental responsibility lies upon you.
It is your responsibility to preserve the pristine ecosystem of Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar so that you can allow a future generation of adventurers and pilgrims to visit here and experience the spiritual essence.
The main way to ensure environmentally responsible trekking is to strictly adhere to the ‘Leave No Trace’ policy. In simple terms, you have to carry out everything that you took while going on the journey.
Some ways to ensure this is to carry bio-degradable things like reusable bottles instead of plastic bottles, biodegradable soap, and other biodegradable items instead of single use plastics.
Whatever waste you have should go only to the designated waste disposal spots along the trek. If you can, carry a bag with you and collect other trash that you spot during the journey, which can be extremely helpful for waste management.
Consider carrying a reliable water purification system or water purification tablets to minimize the usage of water bottles while on the journey. Carry solar chargers in instead of using limited local power supply which might even be unavailable at times.
Such small steps taken during your Kailash Mansarovar Yatra can go a long way in maintaining sustainable trekking practices as it helps to reduce waste, conserve resources, and support local economy.
Keep Important Documents Handy
When embarking on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, you will be required to carry several documents and permits depending on the route that you have chosen. So, keep all these documents handy to provide at any point during the journey.
Apply for these documents well in advance. If you are partnering with a reputable agency like Ace the Himalaya, consult with your tour operator and keep track of your permits and documentation.
Along with these, keep your emergency contacts handy as well just in case there is any emergency or you have to make any changes to your itinerary, so that your loved ones are always informed.
Carry physical copies of your travel documents including passport, visa (if applicable), and all your other permits just in case the battery of your phone dies.
Don’ts During the Kailash Yatra
Underestimate the Physical Preparation
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, along with being a spiritual journey, is also a physically demanding trek that requires a good amount of prior preparation as it will be taking you to regions with many challenges.
You will be traversing through the rugged Himalayan terrains which are not that well maintained that too at extremely high altitudes. And you will be coming across many significant ascents and descends, especially while crossing the Dolma La Pass.
Therefore, you need to prepare your body well in advance for all these challenges. Don’t underestimate the physical preparation when it comes to Kailash Mansarovar Trek as it can lead to significant consequences.
Make sure that you start working out at least 3 months in advance where you train your heart and lungs to adapt to the conditions of higher altitude. Indulge in cardio activities like dancing, swimming, running, and climbing and getting down the stairs.
Also do some strength training and weightlifting. Focus on your calf muscles, shoulders, back, and core strength. Try to trek in conditions as close as possible to the actual Kailash Mansarovar Yatra for better preparation.
Overpack or Carry Unnecessary Items
When on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, you will already have a lot of challenges to deal with. On top of that, you don’t need an extremely heavy backpack dragging your down.
Although it is important to carry all the essentials, you should strictly avoid over-packing. Even if you are planning to get a porter, overpacking is not the way to go as they will also be carrying the extra weight.
Regardless of your temptation to carry certain items ‘just in case’, avoid doing it as it can become a burden and slow you down. Also, strictly avoid carrying non-vegetarian food, alcohol, or tobacco products, as well as plastic bags or other non-biodegradable items.
Ignore Health Advice
If you experience any minor symptom related to altitude sickness, do not ignore it as altitude sickness can escalate quickly and turn into a life-threatening phenomenon.
Listen to your body and recognize the symptoms. Take regular breaks, and if you feel like you have any symptoms of AMS, descend immediately and rest well.
Bathing in Mansarovar Lake
Bathing in the sacred waters of Mansarovar Lake has long been a significant ritual for pilgrims on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. It is believed to cleanse one’s sins and offer spiritual purification.
However, due to environmental conservation efforts and regulations, bathing directly in the lake is now prohibited. Instead, pilgrims are allowed to collect a bucket of water from the lake and perform their bathing ritual at a designated spot nearby.
Additionally, it is not recommended to bathe on the day you arrive at Mansarovar Lake, as the high altitude can leave you feeling exhausted, and sudden exposure to cold water may increase the risk of altitude sickness.
It’s best to rest for the evening and perform the bathing ritual the following morning after your body has had some time to acclimatize.
Engage in Disrespectful Behavior
When doing the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, it is important to be extra careful and mindful of your actions as some activities which can be generally accepted, can be offensive here as it is a place of high religious significance.
It is best to avoid revealing clothing as it is considered to be disrespectful. Don’t wear sleeveless clothing, and any other revealing clothes like tank tops, for both men and women. Consult your guide for detailed info.
Avoid touching and photographing any religious artifacts in the religious places during your visit, especially without permission. If invited to participate in rituals, do so respectfully and follow the lead of the pilgrims.
It is advisable to not straight up deny if offered food or drinks by the pilgrims as they might be offering it to you just as a ‘prasad’. Be mindful of the food that you demand during the stay as many pilgrims might be on a vegetarian diet.
Asking for items like beef or meat in general in such a religious place can be offensive. Avoid doing activities that might be troublesome to others like making loud noise, public display of affection, or any other behavior that might disturb the peace.
Damage the Environment
Certain activities can lead to disrupting the rugged yet fragile ecosystem of Kailash Mansarovar area. So, refrain from engaging in them as you are destroying the experience of future trekkers.
If you spot any wildlife during the journey, do not disturb them with activities like flash photography and making loud noises, and enjoy their beauty while maintaining some distance. Also, avoid feeding them as it disrupts their natural behavior.
The trekking trails on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and well-marked to help the thousands of pilgrims who visit here every year. So, avoid straying off from the designated trail as you might end up stepping on vegetation around it and also disrupt the wildlife.
Don’t throw unnecessary waste of any kind, especially plastics as it can be extremely harmful for the fragile ecosystem. Be mindful of the resources that you are using and indulge in responsible usage as they are limited.
Don’t pick plants when you are walking through the trails as some of them might be harmful to you even. Even if you are tempted, don’t write anything on the rocks or any natural things you might find on the trek.
Over Rely on Technology
Given the remote nature of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, you will most likely not receive mobile networks in many areas, that too for extended periods of time. Therefore, you should be prepared to communicate physically with people as well.
Don’t stay over reliant on your mobile phone and enjoy the beauty of the spiritual realm that you will be traveling in too.
Power banks are useful but not always reliable if there’s no sun to recharge them. Make sure to carry physical maps and itinerary details to stay informed without depending on your phone.
Don’t Carry Dalai Lama-Related Materials
One important don’t to keep in mind during the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is not to carry any photos, posters, or other materials related to the Dalai Lama. Due to political sensitivities in the region, this can cause serious issues at immigration or security checkpoints.
If any materials related to the Dalai Lama are found during immigration checks, it could lead to complications, delays, or even the denial of entry into Tibet. To avoid any trouble, it’s best to leave such items behind when preparing for your pilgrimage.
