The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026 is a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual adventure that takes you deep into the heart of the Himalayas. From the ethereal beauty of Lake Mansarovar to the mythical Mount Kailash, this pilgrimage challenges your body and uplifts your spirit. Whether you choose the Kerung route via Nepal or the Lipulekh Pass from Uttarakhand, each journey promises breathtaking views, ancient legends, and moments of true inner peace.
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, a pilgrimage revered for its spiritual significance and unparalleled natural beauty. This sacred journey symbolizes the path to spiritual enlightenment, moral values, and liberation (Moksha).
The Mount Kailash, at an elevation of 6,740 meters (22,112 ft), is the holiest peak located in the Trans-Himalayan region of Tibet. Nearby lies Lake Mansarovar, nestled between Mount Kailash and Mount Gurla Mandhata, at an elevation of 4,588 meters (15,049 ft). These sites are central to spiritual traditions of Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and the ancient Bon religion.
What is the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra & Why It’s Sacred
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a revered pilgrimage undertaken by thousands annually. Pilgrims travel to Mount Kailash (6,638m), considered the abode of Lord Shiva, and Lake Mansarovar (4,590m), a sacred freshwater lake believed to purify the soul.
Spiritual Significance – Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
- For Hindus:
- Mount Kailash is revered as the abode of Lord Shiva, representing the axis of the universe.
- A mere glimpse of the mountain is believed to absolve lifetimes of sins.
- Bathing in Lake Mansarovar purifies both the body and soul.
- For Buddhists:
- Known as Kangrinpoché, it is the place of Chakrasamvara, the god of eternal bliss.
- Lake Mansarovar is regarded as the sacred nectar created by Lord Buddha.
- For Jains:
- Associated with Rishabhdev, their first Tirthankara, who attained liberation here.
- For Bon Followers:
- Mount Kailash is the Swastika Mountain, believed to be the source of spiritual power.
FAQs – Everything You Must Know Before Your Yatra
14 Days – Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by Road (Kyirong Route)
The ultimate spiritual journey via Nepal to the abode of Lord Shiva & the Holy Lake Mansarovar. Guaranteed 2025 Departures.
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Tibet Permit & Visa — Group Visa and Tibet Travel Permit handled.
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Full Board Meals — Pure Vegetarian Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
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All Transport — Private A/C bus in Nepal, Tibetan bus in Tibet.
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Accommodation — 3/4 Star Hotels in Kathmandu & Guesthouses (Multiple Sharing) in Tibet.
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Guide & Kora Support — Professional Nepali & Tibetan Guides.
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Emergency Oxygen — Provided for the Tibet side (on-demand basis).
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International/Domestic Airfare to/from Kathmandu.
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Horse/Pony & Porter during Kailash Parikrama (Kora).
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Travel/Trekking Insurance & Emergency Rescue.
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Tips for Guides/Drivers/Staff, Personal Shopping & Expenses.
Schedule a FREE Guidance Call with Super Trekkers today!
Top Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Routes (2025 Updated)
Kerung is reliable and gradual; Simikot is faster but expensive; Lipulekh is only closed but highly spiritual.
1. Kailash Yatra via Nepal – Kerung Route (Most Popular & Active)
- Highlights:
- Begins in Kathmandu, Nepal.
- Scenic journey through the Tibetan plateau.
- Gradual acclimatization at intermediate stops.
- Currently the most reliable and popular route.
- Route:
- Kathmandu → Syabrubesi → Kerung → Saga → Lake Mansarovar → Darchen → Kailash Parikrama → Return via Saga and Kerung.
- Advantages:
- Accessible and suitable for most pilgrims.
- Picturesque landscapes and cultural encounters.
2. Kailash Mansarovar by Helicopter – Simikot-Hilsa Route
- Highlights:
- Shortest route to Kailash Mansarovar.
- Combination of fixed-wing flights and helicopter rides.
- Highly dependent on weather conditions.
- Route:
- Kathmandu → Nepalgunj → Simikot (Flight) → Hilsa (Helicopter) → Taklakot → Lake Mansarovar → Kailash Parikrama → Return via Hilsa and Simikot.
- Advantages:
- Time-efficient, ideal for those with tight schedules.
- Stunning aerial views of the Himalayas.
3. Lipulekh Pass Route via Uttarakhand, India (India Govt. Route)
Lipulekh Pass is located on western Himalayas at an elevation of 5,334 meter or 17,500 ft in Nepal. It is an international mountain path between India, China, and Nepal. The pass connects India (Uttarakhand) and Nepal with major Tibet (China) trading town- Taklakot (Purang).
Lipulekh Pass is a popular trading point since ancient times between Nepal and Tibet.
- Highlights:
- Organised by the Ministry of External Affairs, India.
- Physically demanding trek via the Lipulekh Pass.
- Route:
- Delhi → Almora → Dharchula → Budhi → Gunji → Lipulekh Pass → Taklakot → Lake Mansarovar → Kailash Parikrama → Return via Lipulekh Pass.
- Advantages:
- Rich cultural immersion in the Kumaon region.
- Exclusive, limited to a small group of pilgrims annually.
4. Nathula Pass Route via Sikkim, India (Currently Closed)
- Highlights:
- A relatively new and shorter route.
- Managed by the Indian government for easier accessibility.
- Route:
- Delhi → Gangtok → Nathula Pass → Kangma → Taklakot → Lake Mansarovar → Kailash Parikrama → Return via Nathula Pass.
- Advantages:
- Less trekking compared to other routes.
- Scenic journey through the lush landscapes of Sikkim.
5. Lhasa Route via Tibet – Flight and Road
- Highlights:
- A cultural exploration of Tibet.
- Combines flights and road travel.
- Flights are on hold since the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Route:
- Kathmandu → Lhasa (Flight) → Shigatse → Saga → Lake Mansarovar → Kailash Parikrama → Return via Saga and Lhasa.
- Advantages:
- Opportunity to explore Lhasa’s iconic landmarks like Potala Palace.
- Gradual acclimatization through road travel.
4. Kerung Route (Active)
- Kathmandu → Kyirong → Saga → Mansarovar → Darchen.
- Via Pasang Lhamu Highway, starting with a drive from Kathmandu to Kerung, then onward to Saga and Mount Kailash.
- Currently the most reliable and popular route.
- This overland journey offers gradual acclimatization and stunning views of the Himalayan foothills.
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Cost Breakdown (2026 Estimates)
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026 offers several travel routes and package types for Indian citizens and international pilgrims, resulting in varied costs. Below is a detailed summary based on current information from government and private tour operators.
Detail Route – Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Kerung Route – Nepal
Why Choose the Kerung Route for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?
- Ease of Access: The Kerung route begins in Kathmandu and is the most accessible route.
- Scenic Drives: Witness the beauty of the Tibetan plateau and Himalayan peaks.
- Gradual Acclimatization: Ideal for adjusting to high altitudes.
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
- Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m).
- Briefing session and preparation for Yatra.
- Dinner and overnight stay at a hotel.
Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing
- Visit Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa.
- Attend orientation and complete documentation.
- Meals provided, overnight at a hotel.
Day 3: Kathmandu to Syabrubesi
- Drive from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi (1,460m).
- Scenic journey (~140 km, 8 hours).
- Meals and overnight stay at a lodge.
Day 4: Syabrubesi to Kerung
- Cross Rasuwagadhi border to enter Tibet.
- Drive to Kerung (2,700m, ~40 km).
- Meals and overnight stay at a guesthouse.
Day 5: Rest and Acclimatization in Kerung
- Acclimatization day to adjust to high altitude.
- Optional short hikes around Kerung.
- Meals and overnight stay at a guesthouse.
Day 6: Kerung to Saga
- Drive through Tibetan plateau to Saga (4,450m).
- Long drive (~230 km, 6-7 hours).
- Meals and overnight stay at a guesthouse.
Day 7: Saga to Lake Mansarovar
- Drive to Lake Mansarovar (4,590m).
- Scenic route (~450 km, 8-10 hours).
- Perform rituals and enjoy the lake’s serene environment.
- Meals and overnight stay at a guesthouse.
Day 8: Lake Mansarovar to Darchen
- Drive to Darchen (4,575m), the base camp for Kailash Parikrama.
- Short drive (~35 km, 1 hour).
- Rest and preparation for the trek.
- Meals and overnight stay at a guesthouse.
Day 9: Darchen to Deraphuk
- Start Kailash Parikrama with a trek from Yam Dwar to Deraphuk (5,050m).
- Trek (~12 km, 5-6 hours) with views of Kailash North Face.
- Meals and overnight stay at a guesthouse.
Day 10: Deraphuk to Zuthulpukh
- Trek over Dolma La Pass (5,650m), the highest point of the Yatra.
- Descend to Zuthulpukh (~22 km, 8-10 hours).
- Meals and overnight stay at a guesthouse.
Day 11: Zuthulpukh to Darchen
- Complete Kailash Parikrama.
- Trek (~6 km) and drive (~6 km) back to Darchen.
- Meals and overnight stay at a guesthouse.
Day 12: Darchen to Saga
- Retrace the route from Darchen to Saga (~450 km, 8-10 hours).
- Meals and overnight stay at a guesthouse.
Day 13: Saga to Kerung
- Drive back from Saga to Kerung (~230 km, 6-7 hours).
- Meals and overnight stay at a guesthouse.
Day 14: Kerung to Kathmandu
- Cross the border into Nepal and drive to Kathmandu (~180 km, 8-10 hours).
- Meals and overnight stay at a hotel.
Day 15: Final Departure
- Conclude the Yatra and depart from Kathmandu.
- Breakfast provided, no accommodation.
The Parikrama (Kora)
The Mount Kailash Parikrama spans 53 km and is divided into three segments:
- Darchen to Dirapuk (12 km):
- Start at Darchen, passing through the Yam Dwar (Gateway of the Lord of Death).
- Enjoy panoramic views of Mount Kailash’s North Face at Dirapuk.
- Dirapuk to Zuthulpuk via Dolma La Pass (22 km):
- Ascend to the Dolma La Pass (5,650m), the highest point of the Yatra.
- Descend to Zuthulpuk, where the Gauri Kund (Lake of Compassion) is located.
- Zuthulpuk to Darchen (6 km):
- Complete the parikrama with an easy trek back to Darchen.
Inner Parikrama:
For the spiritually adventurous, the Inner Parikrama involves trekking to Nandi Parvat, visiting Saptarishi Caves, and receiving blessings through natural “abhishekam” at a challenging altitude of 5,900 meters.
Highlights of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Kerung Route
- Pilgrimage Sites:
- Lake Mansarovar: Known for its spiritual purity and breathtaking reflections.
- Chiu Monastery: A serene retreat for reflection.
- Sacred Rituals:
- Ritual bathing and offerings at Lake Mansarovar.
- Visiting the Yam Dwar and performing prayers for spiritual cleansing.
- Scenic Splendor:
- Himalayan vistas, pristine landscapes, and serene Tibetan plateaus.
- Glimpses of Mount Kailash’s crystal-clear North and South Faces.
Accommodations & Travel
- Stays range from comfortable hotels in Kathmandu and Lhasa to basic guesthouses and tented camps near Mount Kailash.
- Local guides, yaks, and porters assist with luggage and trekking during the Parikrama.
Preparation Tips for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
Health and Fitness
- Begin physical preparation months before, focusing on cardio and strength training.
- Acclimatize to high altitudes to avoid altitude sickness.
Essential Packing List
- Layered clothing for varying temperatures.
- Trekking boots, rain gear, and a personal medical kit.
- High-energy snacks and personal hygiene products.
Best Time for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
The ideal months for the Yatra are May to September, with stable weather and clear skies. Avoid winter months due to extreme cold and closed routes.
Conclusion
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is not just a journey but a profound spiritual experience, blending devotion, adventure, and the unparalleled serenity of the Himalayas. The pilgrimage promises blessings, purification, and unforgettable memories of nature’s grandeur and divine presence.