Introduction to Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is one of the most revered pilgrimages in the world, where every year thousands of pilgrims travel to Tibet for the holy journey. The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026 is set to resume, offering a unique opportunity for spiritual seekers. This complete guide provides essential information on routes, permits, travel tips, the best time to go, and the profound spiritual significance of this sacred journey. The sacred Mount Kailash tour is a perfect way to witness the beauty of the sacred mountain and explore the holy lake.
Understanding the Sacredness of Kailash and Mansarovar
Mount Kailash, standing at 6,638 meters, is known as a sacred home for Lord Shiva, the Hindu god of destruction and transformation. Just beyond Kailash lies Lake Mansarovar, a sacred freshwater lake worshipped in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon. As per pilgrims, bathing in this holy water cleanses sins and brings spiritual liberation. This Lake is surrounded by impressive Himalayan beauty, with the lake’s serene reflection of the sky, creating a divine atmosphere. Many pilgrims undertake the Kailash Mansarovar journey, seeking purity, peace, and a deeper connection with the divine.
Discover Kailash Mansarovar’s Spiritual Significance Across Religions
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra holds profound spiritual importance, but also has special beliefs across Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon.
Hinduism
According to the Hindu religion, Mount Kailash is the abode of Lord Shiva, one of the important deities of the Hindus. This place is believed to be the centre of his cosmic dance (Tandav) and the ultimate place for liberation (moksha). Most pilgrims undertake the yatra to seek blessings from Lord Shiva, as attaining this helps them cleanse themselves. The nearby Lake Mansarovar is said to have been created by Brahma and is considered a holy place as it helps to cleanse sins and gain spiritual merit.
Buddhism
Mount Kailash is believed to be the sacred home of Demchok, also known as Chakrasamvara, a deity who represents the highest form of joy and peace. The mountain symbolises the power of the spirit, and completing a full pilgrimage around it is said to wash away negative karma. Pilgrims take a dip in the lake to purify their karma and get ready for their spiritual journey. The lake is also connected to many Buddhist stories.
Jainism
For Jains, Mount Kailash is believed to be where the first Tirthankara, Rishabhadeva, found freedom from the cycle of rebirth. Similarly, Lake Mansarovar is a sacred site for spiritual cleansing and meditation.
Bon
Mount Kailash is considered the sacred centre of the universe for Bon, where heaven and earth meet. Filled with ancient energy and mystical power, Bon followers make pilgrimages there, but their path winds in the opposite way from the Buddhists and Hindus. In Bon tradition, Mansarovar is a sacred cosmic lake, which helps to purify them and connect with the universe’s mystical power.
Geographical Location of Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar
Mount Kailash is a prominent snow-capped peak, situated at an altitude of 6,638 meters in the remote western region of Tibet, close to the borders of Nepal and India. Part of the Trans-Himalayan range, Mount Kailash stands alone, making it both powerful and mysterious. Even though it is not too high, no one dares to climb Mount Kailash because many religions see it as a sacred mountain. The mountain is surrounded by rough land, deep valleys, and high mountain passes, making it one of the most isolated and sacred mountains in the world. Pilgrims often take a walk for a day through hard weather and rocky trails just to see this impressive mountain.
Nearby lies Lake Mansarovar, lying at an elevation of about 4,590 meters above sea level, and just a few kilometres from Mount Kailash. This is one of the largest, pristine freshwater lakes, where the clear blue water reflects the sky and the nearby snowy mountains, creating breathtaking views. The lake is considered a sacred site, drawing pilgrims who come to bathe in its water and perform rituals, believing it to have healing and spiritual powers.
Best Time for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
The best time for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is during the summer months, from May to September. Here is the best time to visit Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar, ensuring a safe and hassle-free experience throughout the yatra.
Summer (June to August)
Summer, from June to August, is the best time to visit Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar, as during this time the weather is warm and comfortable, making travel easier with well-maintained routes. At this time, the mountain passes are usually open, allowing travellers to safely access through, along with rewarding them with clear skies and eye-catching views of the mountain and lake. However, May to September are known to be the busiest times; the predictable weather makes the journey enjoyable and memorable for every traveller.
Spring (March to May)
March to May, usually considered spring, is an ideal time as it marks the beginning of the travel season to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar. During this time, the weather starts warming up, but nights can be chilly with some snow along the road, making travel a bit challenging. However, the mesmerizing landscapes with fresh flowers and fewer pilgrims offer a peaceful experience.
Autumn (September)
Autumn, ranging from September to October, is a peaceful time to visit Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar, as the weather is cool and crisp, with clear skies. However, as winter approaches, some roads may start closing, so travel plans need to be limited and carefully selected for a better experience.
Winter (October to April)
Winter, from October to April, is the toughest time to visit Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar, as the region experiences extreme temperatures, heavy snowfall, and icy winds, making the yatra challenging in comparison to other seasons. Most roads and mountain passes are closed, making travel dangerous and impossible due to severe weather and snowy routes.
What are the different routes and ways to reach Kailash Mansarovar, and which one is the best suited for travellers?
Located in a remote region of western Tibet, Kailash Mansarovar can be reached by three main routes, usually through India or Nepal. The journey to Kailash Mansarovar usually includes a combination of flight, road travel, and trekking on foot. Below are some things on how to reach Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar.
Most Popular and Common Route via Nepal
The Nepal route is the most popular and commonly used way to reach Kailash Mansarovar, as it includes a flight to Kathmandu, then travel to Nepalgunj via flight or road, followed by another flight to Simikot. From Simikot, a helicopter takes you to Hilsa, near the Tibet border, where, after crossing the border, you travel by road to Kailash. This is one of the most scenic, less physically demanding, and ideal for international pilgrims.
Overland Route via Lhasa, Tibet
The overland route via Lhasa is a scenic and culturally rich journey to Kailash Mansarovar, where travellers first fly to Lhasa, the capital city of Tibet, and spend a few days acclimatising while exploring famous sites like the Potala Palace. Starting in Lhasa, you take a long drive across the expansive Tibetan Plateau to reach Lake Manasarovar and Mount Kailash. Although the journey is longer, it is less physically demanding and offers you beautiful views and spiritual moments.
Each route to Kailash Mansarovar is special, offering a unique experience; however, Nepal’s route is popular and accessible, whereas the route from Lhasa offers stunning views and rich cultural experiences. Therefore, choose your route based on your preferences and fitness level.
Permits Required for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
Visiting the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra requires obtaining several essential permits, ensuring a smooth and safe yatra. Below are some of the permits to be obtained for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
Tibet Travel Permit
The Tibet travel permit is a must-have permit for all foreign travellers visiting Tibet, including those heading to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar. The Tibet Travel Permit is issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau and can only be obtained through registered agencies. This permit must be obtained before entering Tibet via flight or road. To obtain this permit usually takes about 10 to 15 days, so it is important to apply well in advance.
Chinese Visa
To visit Kailash Mansarovar, foreign nationals must obtain a Chinese Visa, which is specific to the pilgrimage and cannot be used for other travel within China. The visa must be arranged through an authorised agency, as individual applications are not accepted. The visa is only valid for the duration of the Yatra and the specific route that has been approved. Indian citizens can get their visa with the help of the Ministry of External Affairs, working with trusted guides to grant the visa, often within 3 to 5 working days.
Accommodation and Food During the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
Accommodation during the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is basic, providing only essential facilities. However, in larger cities like Kathmandu and Lhasa, travellers can find nicer hotels with good amenities. But when you go to remote locations like Darchen and near Lake Mansarovar, the accommodation becomes simpler with basic amenities. Most pilgrims stay in guest houses or tents where they share rooms and bathrooms. Though the accommodations are not luxurious, they are manageable, with local staff or tour guides providing blankets and basic bedding to make the stay more comfortable.
Meals during the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra are simple and vegetarian, including Indian and Tibetan food options. However, in cities like Kathmandu and Lhasa, you are offered a variety of dishes, but once you reach remote locations, meals become basic and vegetarian. Common dishes during the yatra include rice, dal, cooked vegetables, soup, noodles, and sometimes upma or khichdi. Make sure to pack some dry fruits, snacks, and energy bars, as they can be important during tough trekking days.
Challenges and Altitude Sickness during the Yatra
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a deeply spiritual experience, where travellers should be prepared for various physical and environmental challenges along the way. During the yatra, pilgrims must be ready for high-altitude trekking, especially at the time of Mount Kailash Parikrama, where you climb above 5,600 meters at Dolma La Pass.
The terrain is rugged and remote, with limited access to medical care, simple lodging, and unpredictable weather conditions. During the yatra, one of the most serious risks is altitude sickness, which may cause headaches, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. Altitude sickness affects many travellers, even those who are physically fit; therefore, to reduce the risk, take time to get used to the altitude, stay hydrated, and avoid overexerting yourself.
Medicines such as Diamox may help prevent or ease altitude sickness, and oxygen is sometimes available. Pilgrims are strongly advised to travel with registered tour operators who provide meals, assistance, and care in case of emergencies. Even though the journey is hard, good preparation makes the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra manageable, making your yatra a truly life-changing journey.
