Vishal Gogia
June, 25-2025China has recently announced opening of visa for Indian passport holders to visit Kailash Mansarovar from Nepal and Tibet side. This announcement came after a long wait of five years. There are many changes made by the China Embassy for Indian passport holders for fee and procedures. I am giving a brief here for the updated fee and visa policy introduced by China.
Why China Visa to visit Kailash Mansarovar,
Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar are situated in Tibet Autonomous Region, Tibet, Republic of China. In order to visit Kailash Mansarovar all travellers (except those living in countries falling under unilateral visa free policy of China) have to obtain a necessary tourist visa. Indian citizens (Indian passport holders), irrespective to their country/city of resident have to apply their group travel visa with China Embassy in New Delhi India, through an authorised tour operator. Indian passport holders and other national entering Tibet from ports other than mainland China, will have to obtain such visa even if they are holding a valid China visa. Non Indian passport holders, entering Tibet via mainland do not require such visa. However a permit / invitation is mandatory for travelling through Lhasa by road, train or flight.
Types of Visa for China
There are several visa types for visiting China including business visa, student visa etc. However for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra a tourist visa issued by China Embassy is required. Travel agents or the travellers themselves can apply such visa based on the trip information printed on the permit/invitation letter. China Embassy or China visa centre provides the facility of normal visa which may take minimum six working days after submission. Express Visa is also available at a higher price and this service takes minimum four working days from the date of submission of the application.
Why group visa for Kailash Mansarovar
A China group visa is required by Indians to visit Kailash Mansarovar from any port of entry. The visa is to be submitted with China Embassy in New Delhi alongwith the original passport, together with all other group members. No individual submissions are permitted. Any traveller not adhering to the policy of China Embassy may result for non submission and/or non grant of the China visa. It is completely upto the visa issuing authorities whether or not to grant visa to a group or any individual. They are not liable to provide a reason for any rejection.
Documents Required for China Group Visa (for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra)
For Indian passport holders planning to undertake the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Nepal or Tibet, here is a list of essential documents required to apply for the China Group Visa:
1: Original Passport:(valid for at least 6 months from the date of travel, with minimum two blank pages)
2: Photograph(recent passport-sized photo with white background and matt finish).
3: Duly filled Visa Application Form(as per the group submission format).
4: Group Tour Invitation/Permit issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau (TTB), which can only be obtained through authorised tour operators.
5: Cover Letter from the Tour Operatorexplaining the purpose and itinerary of travel.
6: Hotel and Travel Itinerary Detailsein some cases
Note: The authorised tour operator consolidates all documents from each group member and submits them as one group application to the Chinese Embassy in New Delhi.
Conclusion
The reopening of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra for Indian pilgrims is a welcome news after a five-year-long pause. However, with the new visa rules and requirements in place, travellers are strongly advised to go through authorised and experienced tour operators who are well-versed with the visa formalities, documentation process, and group coordination.
Planning your journey with the right information and support will ensure a smooth spiritual journey to the sacred abode of Lord Shiva—Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar.
For more clarity on visa procedures or to begin your visa application, get in touch with an authorised operator early, as visa slots and travel permits may be limited due to high demand during the pilgrimage season.
Disclaimer: The information presented above are the personal views of the author based on his/her own experiences and knowledge. Max Holidays does not warrant for the accuracy and completeness of the information.
China Visa Application Form
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Blog
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