For more than a thousand years, Mount Kailash has been a special site for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains and followers of Bön. Locals believe that Lord Shiva calls the beautiful Himalayan mountain his home and that it is full of spiritual energy. Nobody has ever been to the summit, and it is considered a sacred place. Going to Mount Kailash involves both a spiritual and physical adventure.
Once your Kailash Mansarovar Yatra trip is planned, the next step is deciding how to get to Mount Kailash.
Travelers usually begin in India, Nepal or Tibet. Every route has its individual experience. Some hiking trails are more difficult, some are less hard, and some give you prized perspectives.
We’ll explain what you can expect along each route by looking at what’s available to see, how important it is to pilgrims, how straightforward the trip is and other details — so you pick one that suits you.
The Spiritual Magnetism of Mount Kailash
The height of Mount Kailash is 6,638 meters (21,778 feet). It’s not the tallest mountain in the Himalayas, but it is among the holiest. Hindus think Lord Shiva lives on Mount Kailash. According to Buddhists, the place is equivalent to Mount Meru, that which holds the universe together. Followers of Jainism believe their Tirthankara first achieved enlightenment at this site and Bon followers also consider it sacred.
Pilgrimages rather than climbs are the main reason for visiting Mount Kailash. They go around parts of the building — the traditional walk is known as parikrama or kora. The trek takes about 52 kilometers (32 miles) and is known to be both physically difficult and very meaningful.
You should choose the appropriate route before beginning your journey, as the way you go to Kailash can influence what you see.
Route Comparison India, Nepal, and Tibet
Journeying Through India: The Safe and Traditional Route
Overview
The Indian government organizes an official pilgrimage to Kailash. The Ministry of External Affairs is responsible for managing them. The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra includes two main routes from India:
- Lipulekh Pass Route (via Uttarakhand)
- Nathu La Pass Route (via Sikkim)
Highlights
- A possibility to visit holy places such as Om Parvat and Patal Bhuvaneshwar Cave.
- Taking part in a trek at such heights lets you admire the exceptional views of the Indian Himalayas.
- Pilgrims who hike the Lipulekh Route meet challenges but find deep spiritual satisfaction in their journey.
Challenges
- Traveling in the Himalayas may be tough for those not familiar with the tough terrain or high elevation.
- Indian routes take about 20 to 25 days to complete Kailash Yatra.
Best For
- People who like group pilgrimages organized by the government.
- Those who wish to explore the region on foot with traditional and spiritual aspects.
Nepal Gateway to Kailash via Vibrant Landscapes
Overview
The capital of Kathmandu serves as a lively hub before reaching Tibet’s Kailash. Most pilgrims then go across the border into Tibet and travel onward to Kailash.
Highlights
- Spend your first visit to Kathmandu’s sacred sites, including Pashupatinath Temple and Swayambhunath Stupa.
- Shorter trip time than the Indian path, taking about 10 to 14 days.
- See beautiful Tibetan scenery along the road from Nepal to Tibet.
Challenges
- Spend-wise, the route suits the middle range because it includes doctor arrangements and driving in Tibet.
- Although the tours include less walking, the inadequate travel options make it hard to find accommodation.
Best For
- People are hoping for spiritual experiences, culture and beautiful scenery.
- People who have limited time but want to do the pilgrimage effectively.
Tibet Direct Gateway to Mount Kailash
Overview
To go to Mount Kailash, you can take the shortest route through Tibet, usually beginning your trip in Lhasa, the capital of the Tibetan Autonomous Region
Highlights
- Start your spiritual exploration in Lhasa, where you can see the spiritual centers of Tibetan Buddhism, like Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple.
- Seeing the breathtaking plateau areas of Tibet lets you admire Yamdrok Lake and the Brahmaputra River Valley.
- The fastest route (8 – 12 days) to take the most time on Mount Kailash
Challenges
- Tibet’s expensive permits require tourists to use Chinese-licensed travel companies.
- Chances of altitude sickness are high as you will start your journey from the high altitude of Lhasa, which altitude is 3,700 meters)
Best For
- Who wants to avoid long drives or trekking to reach Tibet?
- You can enjoy the culture of Lhasa and Buddhism.
A Closer Look at the Sacred Parikrama
The main attraction of any Kailash pilgrimage is the 3-day walk around Mount Kailash, which is called the parikrama or kora. The spiritual journey is seen as an unrepeatable chance to remove sins from your life and gain enlightenment.
The hike involves hiking for 52 kilometers:
- Day 1 (Darchen to Dirapuk, 15 km): Join the yak caravan and climb past many valleys to Dirapuk Monastery, which gives the best view of Kailash’s north face.
- Day 2 (Dirapuk to Zuthulpuk, 22 km): You face the long and hard Day 2 (22 km) as you climb up the Dolma-La Pass (5,636 meters), the highest point on the route.
- Day 3 (Zuthulpuk to Darchen, 15 km): This final stretch of the pilgrimage is not very strenuous.
You should hire knowledgeable guides so your parikrama goes smoothly and safely.
Tips for Planning Your Kailash Journey
- Prepare Physically: Because a high-altitude pilgrimage is challenging, you need to be fit. Do cardiovascular sessions and strength exercises several weeks ahead of time.
- Check Permits: All travelers should arrange their permits before entering India, Nepal or Tibet. Do not wait until the last minute.
- Pack Smartly: Opt for reliable hiking shoes, thermal wear, warm sleeping bags, some medication for mountain sickness and snacks you can bring along.
- Choose the Right Season: Visit Kailash from May to September when the weather is generally steady.
Which Route Should You Choose
The best route to Kailash depends on what you value most in your pilgrimage:
- Choose India: If you are interested in organized group trips from the Indian government and a well-established spiritual tradition
- Choose Nepal: If you are looking for a good balance of culture, lovely views and convenient travel, Nepal is a good choice.
- Choose Tibet: You should pick Tibet if you want to visit Mount Kailash and learn about Tibetan Buddhism.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Located?
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is located in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China.
How Long Does it Take to Complete the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?
Completing the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra takes around 10 – 14 days, depending upon the route, itinerary days, and transportation you choose for this trip.
Is there an age restriction for this Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?
There is no age restriction for traveling for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra when you choose from Nepal, but the government has put an age limit of 18 to 70 years when you go through MEA.
What kind of food can we expect on Kailash Mansarovar yatra?
If you are traveling in a large group, then your tour agency in Nepal will arrange a cook team, and they will arrange food for you. If you are in a large group, then you need to depend on Tibetan food.
Can we customize the Kailash Mansarovar Itinerary?
If you are in a large group, then by discussing with your tour operator, you can definitely do that. But if you are a solo trekker, then when you join the group for Kailash Yatra, it will not be possible.
How hard is the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?
Kailash Yatra is challenging due to the involvement of high-altitude mountain passes and basic facilities of lodging and food. Participants must be able to walk in rough terrain for around 6-7 hours during the Kailash Kora. So a proper fitness level is required for this trip.
Can I Horse or Porter for the Kailash Yatra?
Yes, you can hire a pony or porter(mountain yak) from the Darchen village before heading for the Kailash Kora. Hiring a pony or porter helps you to reduce the physical strain. To hire, you need to pay on your own, and it will cost you around USD 400- 600.
How much does it cost to complete the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?
The cost of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra depends upon the route you choose and the level of service you want during the trip. On average, it will cost you $2,500 to $6,800 per person for international travelers. For Indians who travel through it will cost you INR 1.74 – INR 2.5 lakh per person. For a Nepalese citizen from Nepal, it will cost you NPR 1,50,000.
Can we do Inner Kora during Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?
Inner Kora is extremely challenging, and as per recent news, it is not allowed to do Inner Kora for foreign travellers.
Begin Your Kailash Odyssey
Going on a pilgrimage to Mount Kailash involves more than hiking; it gives you a deep spiritual experience and helps you connect to an important site. The way you decide on your route should consider your time, your level of fitness and your goals for seeking spiritual growth.
No matter which route you choose for the Kailash Yatra, you will fully enjoy this trip, and we guarantee that it will be your lifetime experience.