The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is one of the most sacred pilgrimages in Asia, and this 14-day tour takes you overland from Kathmandu via the Kerung border to western Tibet. Bathe and pray at holy Lake Mansarovar (4,590 m), then complete the 52 km Mount Kailash kora (parikrama) over the Dolma La Pass (5,630 m) around the mountain revered by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains and Bon followers as the centre of the universe and abode of Lord Shiva.
The yatra runs from May to September with fixed group departures, including Guru Purnima and Saga Dawa full-moon dates. We arrange the Chinese group visa, Tibet permits, experienced Tibetan and Nepali staff, vegetarian meals, oxygen, transport and accommodation. Indian and foreign passport holders are welcome, with separate pricing.
Quick answer: the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra from Kathmandu by road takes about 12–14 days, crosses into Tibet at Kerung, includes Lake Mansarovar and the 3-day Kailash parikrama over the 5,630 m Dolma La Pass, and runs from May to September. Our package costs from US$2,990 per person for foreign passport holders, including the Chinese visa, Tibet permits, meals and accommodation.
Mount Kailash (6,638 m) has never been climbed; it is forbidden out of respect for its sacredness. For Hindus it is the home of Lord Shiva and Parvati; Buddhists see it as the abode of Demchok; Jains believe the first Tirthankara attained liberation here; and for Bon followers it is the seat of spiritual power. Lake Mansarovar, created in the mind of Brahma according to legend, lies at its foot beside Lake Rakshas Tal.
| Trip fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 14 days from Kathmandu |
| Route | Kathmandu – Kerung – Saga – Mansarovar – Darchen – Kailash kora – return |
| Highest point | Dolma La Pass, 5,630 m |
| Lake Mansarovar | 4,590 m |
| Kailash kora | 52 km in 3 days (Yama Dwar to Darchen) |
| Grade | Challenging, high altitude |
| Documents | Chinese group visa, Tibet Travel Permit, Aliens' Travel Permit, military permit |
| Season | May–September |
| Cost | From US$2,990 per person (foreign passports) |
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Full yatra package | From US$2,990 (foreign passports); Indian passport price on request |
| Chinese visa and Tibet permits | Included |
| Yak or pony for the kora | Optional, about US$500–700 for 3 days |
| Porter for the kora | Optional, about US$250–300 for 3 days |
| Helicopter rescue insurance | Required, not included |
The parikrama is challenging because of the altitude: the whole route is above 4,600 m, and day two crosses the Dolma La at 5,630 m, a 18–22 km day. Many pilgrims hire a yak or pony. Those who prefer not to walk can do the Mansarovar parikrama by vehicle and reach Yama Dwar, the start of the kora. Good health, gradual acclimatisation and medical clearance are essential.
Pilgrims take a holy dip in Lake Mansarovar, perform puja and havan on the shore, and collect holy water. On the kora, many stop at Dirapuk to view the north face of Kailash, and at Gauri Kund below the Dolma La. Our team helps arrange a priest for rituals on request.
Indian citizens can join the yatra through Nepal with a separate permit process and price; please contact us with your passport details. Rules for Tibet are set by the Chinese authorities and can change at short notice.
The yatra is at very high altitude; most nights are above 4,500 m. A medical check-up is recommended before booking, especially for travellers over 60 or with heart, lung or blood-pressure conditions. Train with long walks for two to three months.
Symptoms include headache, nausea and breathlessness. Drink plenty of water, walk slowly, avoid alcohol and tell the yatra leader about any symptoms. Oxygen is carried on the tour.
We need a clear passport scan about 30–45 days before departure and the original passport in Kathmandu for the Chinese group visa. Rules can change at short notice.
Days are sunny but nights are near or below freezing, even in summer. Rain or snow is possible on the Dolma La at any time.
Choose add-ons and quantities on the booking form.
More options, quoted on request:
A pilgrimage to Lake Mansarovar and Mount Kailash in western Tibet, sacred to Hindus, Buddhists, Jains and Bon followers, including a 3-day walk around Kailash.
About 12–14 days by road via Kerung. This itinerary is 14 days.
From US$2,990 per person for foreign passport holders, including visa, permits, meals and accommodation. Indian passport prices are available on request.
May to September, with special departures for Guru Purnima and Saga Dawa.
Challenging because of altitude; the Dolma La (5,630 m) day is 9–11 hours. Yaks and ponies can be hired.
Many do, with medical clearance and a pony for the kora. Those who cannot walk can visit Mansarovar and Yama Dwar only.
Yes. Indian passport holders can join through Nepal with separate permits and pricing.
A passport valid for six months, the Chinese group visa and Tibet permits, which we arrange.
Yes, we serve vegetarian meals throughout, with a Nepali cook.
About 4,590 m (15,060 ft).
No. Climbing is forbidden because the mountain is sacred.
Yes, oxygen cylinders travel with the group.
Yes, via Nepalgunj, Simikot and Hilsa, with less driving; ask us for a quote.
Tibet regulations can change; we advise and reschedule or refund according to our terms.
