Trip Info
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Kathmandu, Nepal
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May - September
Overview
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a revered pilgrimage for Hindus, Jains and Buddhists. It also serves as an alluring spiritual adventure in Asia. While the terrain is difficult, modern road systems and transportation facilities have made it comparatively easier to access with Kailash Manasarovar overland tours. This 14 day trip kicks off in Kathmandu and continues through Rasuwagadi-the Nepal Border; all the way to Kyirong. The black top roads of Tibet take you through breathtaking snow capped mountains and Tibetan meadows to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar.
Itinerary
Day 1 :
Arrival in Kathmandu (Max. Elevation: 1400m)
As soon as you arrive at Kathmandu international airport, a Max Holidays representative will greet you and provide you with a transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day will be free. Dinner and night will be spent at the hotel. Included meals are: Veg Dinner at the hotel,
OVERNIGHT: 3* equivalent hotel sharing basis
Day 2 :
Sightseeing in Kathmandu (Max elevation: 1,400m)
At 8.00am, the tour to Pashupatinath Temple will commence. Our aim is to arrive before 9:00am and attend aarti at the main temple in addition to visiting the small and large temples in the complex. After visiting Pashupatinath, we will proceed to the Jal Narayan Temple and Guheshwari Mata Temple thereafter. Upon our return to the hotel, there will be sufficient time to get ready for tomorrow's expedition to Nepal-China border. If you wish to buy anything related to your journey, a visit can be made to Thamel's well-known market which features an array of trekking and adventure goods. In the evening, an informative briefing session will occur with all group members subsequently being introduced.
OVERNIGHT: 3* equivalent hotel on a sharing basis shall follow along with meals consisting of breakfast, lunch and dinner throughout the day whilst we cover.
Day 3 :
Drive to Syabrubesi (Maximum elevation: 2380m)
After breakfast, the group will set off by bus to Syabru Besi (2380m). Though not a long journey in terms of distance, the poor road conditions and traffic can make it a tiring, uncomfortable and slow-paced trip. It's estimated that the bus will take around 7-8 hours to cover the 148 km stretch. Upon arrival at Syabru Besi, accommodation will be provided at a lodge and dinner will be served. Meals are included in the package with veg breakfast, lunch and dinner.
OVERNIGHT: Guests
Day 4 :
Cross Border and Drive to Kyirong (Max. Elevation: 2700m)
The group is set to enter China, so we will be leaving early in order to avoid the rush of pilgrims at the border immigration counter. We will drive 15kms (01 hour) to the Nepalese border Rasuwagadhi (1850m). After completing the necessary formalities, we will have to travel across the border on foot before being transferred onto Chinese coaches for a 110km journey toward Kyirong (2700m). During this trip, we will travel in sturdy and comfortable vehicles that are controlled and guided by Tibetans with our Nepalese Sherpas following behind loading luggage and other supplies. Upon arrival, we can take a rest in our guesthouse before venturing out around the vicinity or going for a walk in nearby markets. Dinner will be served between 7-8pm from meals prepared by our Nepalese chef that includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.
NOTES: It is important to note that since you are at high altitude for now, you may experience some effects of unease with your health, so it is advised that all travelers drink liquids as much as possible, including soup, juice, tea, coffee or hot water. They will be able to rehydrate as well as improve their breathing system as a result of this.
OVERNIGHT: Dormitory style accommodation at Keyrong
Day 5 :
Acclimatization in Kyirong Town
This day is reserved for acclimatization in Tibet's tough climatic conditions. To prepare for Tibet's high altitude, our tour manager will take you on a short hike in Keyrong. Additionally, you can chant Bhajan or Katha in the guesthouse. Please note that if conditions permit, the guides may take the group to Saga for a night stay. Meals included: Veg Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner,
OVERNIGHT: Dormitory style accommodation at Keyrong
Day 6 :
Drive to Saga (Max. Elevation: 4640m)
Travelling from Keyrong to Saga provides a wonderous view of the mountains and plains of Tibet. After crossing the Yarlung Zangpo (Brahmaputra River), travellers can turn north and arrive in the stunning town of Saga (4640m). Here, one can find good quality hotels or guesthouses, delicious local restaurants, as well as markets for some leisurely sightseeing. Veg Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner are included on this experience, covering a distance of 105kms to Saga.
OVERNIGHT: 3* equivalent hotel is provided on a shared basis.
Day 7 :
Heading to Mansarovar (Max. Elevation: 4590m)
Today, we will embark on a long journey to Lake Mansarovar as we need to pass through several check points. We plan to leave at 07.00 am and before Mayumla Pass (4900m), we'll stop at the check post. Later, upon reaching Lake Mansarovar, you will be able to view Mount Kailash! The route is good conditions and offers scenic views of the surroundings. After arriving, you will proceed to your accommodation - a guesthouse where dinner and stay are provided. All meals - breakfast, lunch and dinner - are vegetarian. In total, you can expect a drive of 461 km today.
NOTES: Travelers may visit Lake Mansarovar at night to see its beauty under the moonlight. Even though it is safe to visit a lake at night, it is advisable to go in a group and bring a Nepalese Sherpa with you for assistance if needed. It is important to wear warm clothes and a blanket as the temperature outside will be chilly. Bring a torch and whistle with you as well.
Day 8 :
Puja at Lake Mansarovar, then Drive to Darchen (Max. Elevation: 4575m)
Early morning at Lake Mansarovar, devotees perform Puja, Hawan and other rituals accordingly. The view of Mount Kailash from the lake is stunning, though the water is cold. Tibetan government has restricted dip bath in the lake and categorizes it as a punishable offence, so ask sherpas for the water in a bucket for bathing. Then the group proceeds to Darchen driving through Rakshasa Taal and Chiu Gompa, completing 70% parikrama of the lake. The rest will be done on their return from Darchen after kora of Mount Kailash. Upon arriving at Darchen one can relax for the remainder of the day before continuing with the next day's kora, meals included being breakfast, lunch and dinner.
OVERNIGHT: 3* hotel on a sharing basis
Day 9 :
First Day Kora/Parakrama of Mt. Kailash, 12km trek to Dirapuk (Max. Elevation: 5210m)
We wake up early and take a light breakfast before going to Tarboche, where we must be sure to fill our water bottles. Pilgrims have the opportunity to visit Yama Dwar prior to beginning the kora. At Tarboche it is possible to hire horses/ponies or employ a porter; the local Union and Kailash yatra trip operators establish the cost and availability. Moving along, we reach Yama Dwar, which marks the start of the twelve-kilometer trek on foot towards Dirapuk - this journey can be taxing due to reduced oxygen at high altitudes. Along the way there are some small shops and tea stalls that provide brief respite during this venture as we marvel at Mount Kailash in all its grandeur. After arriving at Dirapuk's guesthouse near the monastery, we enjoy a quick and light dinner of Khichdi or soup before retreating for a good night's rest in temperatures below zero degree Celsius.
It is IMPORTANT to NOTE that group members who are not interested in trekking can visit Yam Dwar and return to their hotel at Taklakot if they wish to alter their schedule. The guide will be able to arrange for their additional hotel stay in Darchen and they will be able to pay their hotel and other expenses directly to the guide.
Day 10 :
Second Day Kora/Parakrama of Mt. Kailash, 22km trek to Zultrulpuk (Max. Elevation: 5630m)
Rise before the sun and be one of the first to bask in the golden rays that drench Mt. Kailash. Preparing for the challenge ahead, fill your flask with hot water and don't forget to pack your snacks for lunch. Your journey will take you steeply up to the Dolma-La pass (5630 m) where you can find colourful flags and items left behind in a place known as Shiva Tsal or Shiva Sthal, said to represent leaving behind a life of suffering for a better existence. The total distance travelled today will be 22 km and your final destination shall be Zuthulpuk Gompa for night stay. This includes Veg Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner on a sharing basis in a lodge.
Day 11 :
Third Day Parikrama to Darchen, then Drive to Saga (Max. Elevation: 4640m)
This is the last day of our Mount Kailash trek. We'll begin with a light breakfast, then continue our trek down to reach Darchen. We'll walk at an even pace for around 6 kilometres and make it to the spot where the vehicles await our arrival. From there, we'll be driven to Darchen, where our other group mates will be waiting. After a bit of time for recuperation, we'll set off in the vehicles for Saga, completing roughly 30% of the Lake Manasarovar parikrama along the way. We'll spend some time relaxing at a guesthouse in Saga before tucking into meals made up of vegetarian breakfast, lunch and dinner. This leg of our journey covers a total distance of 492km and accommodation is on a sharing basis in hotels equivalent to three-star standards.
Day 12 :
Headback to Kyirong (Elevation: 2700m)
We start our journey towards Keyrung after breakfast. We cross the beautiful Brahmaputra River and continue our journey across the vast Tibetan plains. It offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, especially Shishapangma and Pieko-Tso Lake. On well-pitched roads and mountainous terrain, we reach Keyrung for night stay. Meals included: Veg breakfast, lunch, dinner, Distance covered: 105kms
OVERNIGHT: 3* equivalent hotel sharing basis
Day 13 :
Via Rasuwagadhi, Kyirong to Kathmandu (Elevation: 1400m)
After breakfast, we will drive towards Keyrong border. Here, walking to the Nepalese immigration control in Rasuwagadi allows us to complete the necessary entry procedures. We are then transferred back to our vehicle and continue to Kathmandu. A bus journey of around 7-8 hours is required for this drive, however due to road and traffic conditions it may take longer. At night, dinner and accommodation will be provided in a 3* equivalent hotel on a sharing basis. This tour covers a distance of 262km with meals included (breakfast, lunch and dinner).
Day 14 :
From Kathmandu, fly home
A vegetarian breakfast is included. Intime you will be transferred to Kathmandu Tribhuvan International airport to board your flight back to your next destination.
Service
Service Includes
- All necessary Tibet travel permits and government taxes
- Tibet group visa (Visa to China)
- Kathmandu airport pick up and drop off service
- Full Transportation from Kathmandu - Kyirong - Kailash with tourist Bus (29 Seaters)
- Trucks support to carry kitchen maters and food material
- Yaks to carry food and kitchen matters during Kailash Parikrama
- All entrance fees to sights per listed in the itinerary
- Accommodation per listed (2-3beds in hotels and guesthouses) Those who are not going to Parikrama will be arranged in a guesthouse until the group arrive back
- Full-board meal + tea & coffee
- Sherpa cooks starting from Saga – Kailash – Kyirong Border
- Hot drinking water
- Duffle bags and down jackets for the trip (refundable)
- Professional tour guides
- Camera, Video man, Drones, Pictures to capture our Kailash Yatra for memory sake
- First aid kit and health check-up
- A Doctor, Medical bags & oxygen cylinders
Service Excludes
- Travel insurance (Have your insurance where it is trusted or where usually you buy)
- Rescue jeep expenses if required
- Extra activities
- Any private expenses
- Horse or porter for Kailash Parikrama (Please let us know in advance if you need a porter or a horse for Parikrama)
- Those who want to go inner kora will charge extra cost for special equipment’s and guide. Please let us know in advance
- Natural or political disturbance which beyond our control
- Tipping for staffs (keep aside $100)
FAQS
Does the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra have an age restriction?
Kailash Yatra is recommended for those between the ages of 14 and 70, though we have taken kids younger than 4 and elderly people over 72 on this trip. While it is not officially approved for people over 60 to do the kora of Mount Kailash, the local guide and authority will make their own decision based on an individual’s health. The Mount Kailash Kora can be included in typical packages, but may be refused if there are any issues with a person’s health or permission from the authorities. There are no refunds or other compensation if this occurs; instead those who cannot take part in the trek must pay an extra fee to stay at Darchen for two nights when the other group members complete the kora.
How do I apply for Kailash Yatra Registration? What documents are required?
Your passport is the most essential document for visiting Mt. Kailash and Lake Mansarovar in Tibet, China. Irrespective of nationality, everyone travelling there must have a valid passport that is valid for at least six months from the time of entry into Tibetan territory. Indian citizens who do not yet possess a passport can apply online through the ‘Passport Seva’ link: https://www.passportindia.gov.in/AppOnlineProject/welcomeLink. Please be aware that handwritten passports are now no longer accepted.
What exercises should I do to prepare for the Yatra?
The best way to ensure your safety is to get yourself medically examined by a doctor, and to prepare in advance by walking briskly, exercising, or perhaps practicing yoga asanas and pranayama. For most people, the Kailash parikrama is an act of faith and a sense of connection with the Almighty helps a traveller a lot.
