Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar combinedly offer a once in a lifetime spiritual experience to pilgrims from all across the world via the sacred Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
Every year thousands of people visit here being attracted by the spiritual energy and the natural beauty of this region. However, embarking on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra requires proper research and preparation.
Visitors might end up having a bad experience without knowledge about certain aspects of this journey. Therefore, in this blog, we have compiled the things to know before visiting Kailash Mansarovar.
Understanding Kailash and Mansarovar
Located in the Transhimalaya range of the Tibet autonomous region of China, Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar are some of the most common names when it comes to adventures linked with spirituality.
Mount Kailash
A part of the majestic Kailash range stretching from India, all the way to Tibet, Mount Kailash is a 6,638 meters (21,778 ft) tall peak located in the remote western part of the Tibetan plateau.
It is one of the most revered spiritual sites of people belonging to various religious groups including Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, as well as people from Bon religion.

While the Hindus believe it to be the home of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, the Buddhists think of it as the cosmic center of the universe, i.e. the axis mundi. Either ways, this sacred peak holds immense spiritual significance for devotees across the world.
Mansarovar Lake
Located near the base of the holy Mount Kailash, Mansarovar Lake is also a pristine lake which is regarded of high spiritual value and is also regarded as the holiest water body in Hinduism.

Devotees believe that this lake has healing properties and it offers a serene environment for spiritual reflection. Therefore, every devotee visiting Mount Kailash also takes a holy dip in the Mansarovar Lake.
Understanding Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
A perfect blend of adventure and spirituality, the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is the journey undertaken by thousands of pilgrims each year to visit Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar.
It is not just any other trek but it is a pilgrimage that holds immense spiritual significance amidst many devotees across the world. It includes paying a visit to Mt. Kailash as well as Lake Mansarovar.

This yatra usually includes circumambulating around the mountain, also known as Kailash Parikrama or Kora, starting from Darchen, and taking a dip in the holy Mansarovar lake.
While open to all the visitors, the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is usually recommended to be undertaken by physically fit individuals as you will be coming across many challenges during this trek.
Best Time to Visit Kailash Mansarovar
Similar to the Himalayas of Nepal, the climatic conditions during the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra are highly fluctuating and you can never really predict what the weather will look like in the next hour.
However, based on seasons and months, the best time for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is usually during the months of May to September (Summers) as you will find comparatively better climatic conditions at this time.

The temperatures will be moderate and easier to trek in while the skies will be clear, and you will be able to bask in the fascinating views of Mount Kailash and the surrounding peaks.
For the more religious pilgrims, you can also visit during the Saga Dawa Festival, a Tibetan Buddhist celebration held in May or June, marking the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha. This will enhance your experience ten folds.
Routes
There are many routes that one can take for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Based on your ease of access, you can either embark on this tour from Nepal, India, or Tibet.
Travel from Nepal
Nepal serves as one of the primary gateways for pilgrims and travelers heading for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra as it offers both overland travel and trekking options.
The most preferred Kailash Mansarovar Yatra route is now via Kyirong as it provides easier accessibility and a smoother travel experience. Starting from Kathmandu, travelers drive to Kyirong via the Rasuwagadhi border.
After completing the necessary formalities at the border, the overland journey continues from Kyirong through Tibetan villages, passing Saga, Mansarovar Lake, and finally reaching Mount Kailash.
For those seeking a more thrilling option, you can take the route via Simikot and Hilsa. This route begins with a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, followed by a connecting flight to Simikot.
From there, trekkers embark on a 5–6-day trek through the rugged and remote Humla district of Nepal. Then you make your way to the last village on the Nepal-Tibet border- Hilsa from where you cross the Karnali River via a suspension bridge.
After completing the documentation and formalities here, you officially enter Tibet, and the journey continues to Taklakot (Purang) before heading to Mount Kailash base.
Travel from Lhasa, Tibet
Trekkers can also go directly from Lhasa where an overland journey begins by crossing through Tibetan cities like Shigatse, Saga, and Darchen, which is the final stop before starting Kailash Parikrama (also known as Kora).
Travel from India
For people traveling from India, the most common route is via the Lipulekh Pass. Starting from the state of Uttarakhand in India, pilgrims travel to the town of Dharchula.
From here they go to Gunji and then the Lipulekh Pass which is the border between India and Tibet. After that, the overland journey continues in Tibet via towns like Taklakot.
Another relatively new route has also been established via Sikkim where the pilgrims travel to the border post at Nathu La from where they can cross in to Tibet.
After entering Tibet, an overland journey follows through Tibetan towns like Shigatse and Saga before reaching Darchen from where the Kailash Parikrama officially begins.
Documentation Required for Visit
Among the things to know before visiting Kailash and Mansarovar, knowledge regarding the permits and documentations required for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is one of the most important ones.
Given the remote nature of the trek, sensitive political situation of the country, and the high altitude of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, trekkers are required to carry many permits without which they are not given an entry into the trek.
For foreign nationals who are visiting Tibet for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, the following permits and documents are mandatory:
- A Chinese Visa is mandatory, which should be obtained before applying for any permits related to the trek. It is best to obtain the visa at least 3 to 4 weeks in advance.
- If you are going for the trek from Nepal and you are not an Indian citizen, you also need to obtain a visit visa for entering Nepal.
- Tibet Travel Permit: Issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau and required for all foreigners entering Tibet.
- Aliens’ Travel Permit: Issued by the Public Security Bureau once you arrive in Tibet and necessary for travel outside Lhasa.
- Military Permit: Required for visits to remote and sensitive areas such as Mount Kailash.
- Indemnity Bond: It should be signed by all the visitors, and it states that they are undertaking the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra at their own risk.
- Travel Insurance: It’s mandatory to have travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuations. The region is remote, and medical facilities are limited.
- Health Certificate: Some pilgrimage routes require a medical fitness certificate, especially for older travelers or those with medical conditions.
Processing all these permits is a quite lengthy process. Therefore, it is recommended that you get your visa early so that you can apply for these permits on time.
Also, the entire process of securing the different permits required can be quite hectic. So, it is best to choose a reliable tour operator like Ace the Himalaya who can handle and speed up the permit and documentation process for you under expert guidance.
Physical Preparation
During the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, you will be navigating some of the most challenging conditions including rugged terrains, challenging Himalayan landscapes, as well as a high-altitude adventure going beyond 5,600 meters.
Therefore, physical preparation becomes of utmost importance to tackle the challenges of the trek and have a successful and comparatively smooth experience.
Start preparing well in advance and engage in proper workout routines at least 3 months before the trek. To deal with the steep ascents and descents on many parts of the trek, especially while crossing the Dolma La Pass, work on your legs.

Do strength training and focus on your core muscles, calf muscles, shoulder, and your back to make long hours of walking easier. Also do cardio workout and activities like dancing, swimming, running, and climbing and getting down the stairs.
This makes your cardiovascular system and respiratory system much stronger and trains it to adapt to the challenging high-altitude conditions of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.

Along with proper research about altitude sickness during Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, it is also important to acclimatize well during the trek. Make sure that you are eating a nutritious diet.
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.” If you notice any symptoms related to altitude sickness, immediately descend and rest well.
Packing Essentials for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
Your Kailash Mansarovar Yatra can be enhanced or ruined based on your packing list for the journey. Therefore, it is very important to create an appropriate packing list for the trek while ensuring that you don’t over pack.
The most important thing to pack is various layers of clothing to deal with the unstable and frequently changing temperatures of the Himalayas of Tibet. So, you should carry thin as well as thick layers of clothing.
The basic mantra is to stick to a thermal base layer, middle layer, and a thick and preferably waterproof outer layer like a fleece jacket. Raincoats and waterproof jackets can be a good addition too.
Besides that, make sure that you have a good pair of trekking shoes that you have worn and well broken in before the trek to avoid any kind of blisters and sores during the trek.
Besides that, items like rain cover, trekking poles, sunglasses (for UV protection at high altitudes), sunscreen, a well-stocked first-aid kit, and personal toiletries are an important addition to your backpack.
A good quality backpack is important to store all your essentials and documents. It is also a good option to carry a portable water filter or water purification tablets.
Accommodation Options
Located in a rather remote corner of Tibet, the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra can be deemed a trek with basic yet limited facilities. While you do have accommodation options along the trek, do not expect ones with much luxury.
You will see lots of dormitories, guest houses, and basic hotels that will offer basic facilities like a washroom, often shared, and a warm meal. Electricity is quite scarce here.

Depending on your preferences, you can even choose to stay in a tent or camp during the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. So, it is best to carry supplies like power bank and personal hygiene items during the trek.
Cultural Etiquette
While on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, it is important that you respect the local customs as this is a journey where most of the trekkers are pilgrims from different religions across the world.
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 and maintain silence during any prayers.
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.
Also be careful regarding your diet as items like meat and beef are not available here and asking for them can be quite offensive as most of the visitors here are pilgrims.
Avoid doing activities that might be troublesome to others like touching any religious artifacts, disturbing the rituals, making loud noise, public display of affection, or any other behavior that might disturb the peace.