Kailash Mansarovar Yatra FAQs

Eligibility

Q. Is there any age restriction for participating in the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra tour?

A. Travellers between 08 to 70 years of age can apply for Permit to visit Kailash Mansarovar. The applicant must not have any serious medical conditions like high blood pressure, asthma, heart disease, diabetes, etc. Travellers with age 70 years and above maintaining good health and approved by qualified doctor (from a Govt. Hospital) for this trip may also apply by fulfilling additional conditions set by the Tibetan Authorities. However granting permissions to such an elderly person is at the sole discretion of the office of the concerned authorities. It is to be noted that officially it is not permitted for the people of 60 year age and above to undertake Kora (Paridakshina, Circumambulation) of Mount Kailash, but the same is always at the sole discretion of the Govt officer and authority as this depends on the health of an individual traveller. Mount Kailash Kora is usually an inbuilt part of the Kailash Yatra packages, but if not permitted by the authorities or Govt officer, it is under the authority of the Tibetan guide to reject to take any traveller for the kora / parikrama of Mount Kailash. No refund or compensation is available in lieu thereof. Rather travellers who are stopped for trekking (or also those who decided not to do trek) will have to pay additional amount for staying at Darchen (Mt. Kailash base) for those nights when the other group members go on the kora. Read more about eligibility ..

Q. What kind of fitness is required to be eligible to undertake the Kailash Yatra?

A. For Kailash Manasarovar Yatra in the remote land of Tibetan Autonomous Region, (TAR) physical and mental fitness is very important. It is advisable to get a medical examination with your regular doctor before you plan to go on Mt. Kailash Yatra. Anyone suffering from back problems may find the long drives over bumpy roads difficult. People suffering from Asthma or any kind of dust allergy are forewarned that the amount of dust on the road necessitates wearing a mask. Apart from that, it is a good idea to prepare in advance with brisk walking, and some regimen of exercise or preferably yoga asanas and pranayama. Eventually, for most people the Kailash parikrama is an act of faith.

Q. I am overweight (110 kg), can I travel without any restrictions?

A. The recommended body weight is 65-70 kg with BMI (Body Mass Index) 27 or below for an individual applying for travelling to Kailash Mansarovar. Even if the permit and visa are granted to go on this trip, you may have to pay additional charges for a helicopter trip and flight seat when travelling via Simikot or Timure. Your can 'Check Your BMI' here.

Q. What is the document requirements to apply for Kailash Yatra Registration?

A. The most important document is a valid passport. All travellers, irrespective to their nationality and geographical location must have a valid passport for traveling to Mt. Kailash and Lake Mansarovar situated in Tibet, China. The passport should have minimum six months validy from the date of entering into Tibetan territories to visit Kailash Mansarovar. It is the sole responsibility of the traveller to ensure for the authenticity and validity of their documents. If you are an Indian citizen and you do not have a passport, apply your passport online today. Visit this 'Passport Seva' weblink to apply your passport in India. It is to be noted that handwritten passports are no more valid. Apart from a valid passport there are several other documents you may be asked for inlcuding copies of PAN, Voter, Aadhaar card for Indian passport holders, Fitness certificate issued by a qualified doctor, insurance, photographs etc,

Itineraries & Routes

Q. What are the different routes and packages available for reaching the Mount Kailash?

A. Mount Kailash is accessible through various border entry points from Nepal and Tibet. These popular routes are listed below :

• 14 Days Kailash Mansarovar Tour by Road from Kathmandu
  One of the most preferred routes to visit Kailash Mansarovar from Kathmandu. This trip goes from Rasuwagarhi, Nepal to Kyirong, China and then further proceeds to Lake Mansarovar via Saga and them Mt. Kailash. [ view full itinerary ]
• 11 Days Kailash Mansarovar Tour by Helicopter from Kathmandu via Simikot
  The helicopter route from Kathmandu to Taklakot (Burang) via Simikot and Hilsa is another popular travel option for visiting Mt. Kailash and Lake Mansarovar. This is a perfect choice for those who wish to avoid longer drives of an overland journey to visit this holy land. Though various flights and helicopter ride the travellers can reach to hilsa border of nepal from where few short and scenic drives will take them to their destination. [ view full itinerary ]
• 09 Days Kailash Mansarovar Tour by Helicopter from Lucknow via Simikot
  The shortest route to visit Kailash Mansarovar from India is from Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. The Indian passport holders can drive from Lucknow to reach Nepalgunj in order to join a helicopter trip which initially starts from Kathmandu. [ view full itinerary ]
• 16 Days Kailash Mansarovar Overland Tour via Lhasa, Tibet
  The drive from the capital city of Lhasa to Mt. Kailash is considered to be a lifetime experience. One can visit many beautiful historic and cultural sites on this route while enjoying the utter beauty of nature during those drives in Tibet This route can be categorised as the best route for Kailash mansarovar sojourn. [ view full itinerary ]
• 05 Days Kailash Mansarovar Darshan by private helicopter
  People who wish to visit the holy mount and lake for darshan but cannot affort to spare longer time due to their own reasons this quickest possible trip via Nepalgunj using a private helicopter is the option to consider. Since this is a trip with private helicopter, it is definitely going to be a costly affair in comparison to those regular trips to Mt. kailash. [ view full itinerary ]
• 19 Days Mount Kailash complete Inner Kora Tour from Kathmandu
  Inner Kora of Mt. Kailash is a special trip organised with limited departures and seats every year. Apart from those beautiful sites falling in the outer kora of Mt. Kailash. this trip offers opportunities to also visit Ashtapad, Nandi Parvat, Atma Linga, and Saptrishi Caves. Comparitively this trip is even more challenging and it is considered to be one of the hardest pilgrimage trips. [ view full itinerary ]

Q. Can I book KMY via Lipulekh Pass or Nathula Pass through a tour operator?

A. KMY via Lipulekh Pass, Uttrakhand and KMY via Nathula Pass, Sikkim routes are available to book only with Ministry of External Affairs, Govt of India. Indian citizens with age between 18 to 70 years can apply to join a trip to Kailash Mansarovar through kmy.org.in. Tour operators are not authorised to conduct trips via these two routes.

Cost & Expense

Q. How much is the cost for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?

A. The cost of a trip to Kailash Mansarovar Yatra for an Indian passport holders varies from INR 2,00,000 to INR 3,50,000 or more, depending on different route and size of the group. For Non-Indian passport holders the cost for such a trip varies from US$ 3000 to US$ 5000 or more. Such cost includes mainly accommodation, food, ground transport in Nepal & Tibet, Internal flights in Nepal for a heli trip, necessary Inner line and Restricted area permits, normal Tibet entry visa and other items as may be detailed in cost inlusions for each itineary and case.

Q. What are the other expenses for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?

A. Mostly the package tour for Kailash Mansarovar comes with inclusions of required services and items for the duration of the trip. But the travellers have to spend much more then the regular trip cost. Such additional expense mainly include their return flight tickets for travelling from home to the trip start point, travel and medical insurance, extra expense for accommodation and food incase of early arrival or/and late departure, pony/mule and porter charges in Tibet if required for the trekking of Mt. Kailash, extra exepnse for additional stay and food in the event of trip getting delayed in onward or return route due to forced reasons etc.

1) Return international flight tickets from home location to trip starting/ending point are not included in the tour package cost and is one of the majour additional expense on travellers. Keeping into consideration the highly unpredictible nature of Kailash Mansarovar travel, we strongly recommend that the travellers should buy such flight tickets only after the entry permits to visit Kailash Mansarovar are provided by the concerned Tibetan authorities. Keeping into consideration frequently and quickly increasing flight ticket charges, sometimes few travellers want to book their flights to secure lower flight ticket fares; which is a risk in the event of any change in the travel dates of the trip due to forced situations. We recommend that they should buy only flexible fares to avoid any huge financial loss on them. The company does not take any responsiility for this service and the financial risk involved.

Q. How much extra money one should carry on Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?

A. It is recommended that the travellers carry min CNY 4000 to 5000 for general expense in Tibet, China. Since these trips are very unpredictible and unexpected challenges may occur any time including those related to health of the traveller, natural disaster, political closure etc. It is a good idea to carry US$ 1000 to US$ 2000 for emergency fund which may be helpful in any unforseen and unpleasant situation. Indian rupees (small denomination) and American Dollars are widely accepted in Nepal.

Q. Why do I require to pay full tour cost and taxes upfront for my bookings?

A. Kailash Mansarovar tours are operated in a shape of groups by assigning tentative dates for departure of a trip. To a Company it takes several months to prepare a group of interested and eligible travellers. At the time of registrations, the Company takes part payment from travellers as booking amount which is non-refundale (completely or partially) in most cases. Once the group is ready the Company then prepares documents to apply for the group permits with Tibetan authorities for group visit. In most cases the Company takes full balance payments from a traveller, before applying the permits, to ensure that no further cancellation or amendment is made by the traveller which may not only affect the trip of other group travellers but may also cause heavy penalties on the Company by the authority/airlines/hotels/vendors. Company has, therefore assigned a clear and strict booking & cancellation policy so as to prevent any last minute cancellation or payment failure from the traveller. The amount of taxes including GST & TCS are also to be paid by the traveller at the time of final payments for further submission to the concerned tax departments.

Q. How much GST is payable by Indian travellers on KMY tour packages?

A. In addition to the cost of the tour package, Indian travellers are liable to pay Govt of India GST (Goods & Service Tax) @5% at the time of final payments to the Company. The applicable rate of GST on various other charges including Company's service fee or consultation fee or trip cancellation charges etc is @18% on the cost of the service/invoice.

Q. What is the new TCS (Tax Collection at Source) policy in India on International Travel and what is the rate of applicable tax?

A. As per the nex foreign exchange policy of Reserve Bank of India (RBI) every person domiciled in India is liable to pay 5% TCS under LRS (Liberalised Remittance Scheme) on all their international travel expense from Rs. 0 to Rs. 7,00,000 and 20% TCS on all their international travel expense Increasing Rs. 7,00,000 for the running financial year. The TCS is payable by the traveller to the tour company at the time of final payments for their travel bookings.

• Important: It is to be noted that for for international travel, before leaving the country, Income Tax Clearance Certificate (ITCC) may needed in rare cases where a person is involved in serious financial irregularities or (b) where a tax demand of more than Rs. 10 lakh is pending which is not stayed by any authority. Read more..

Group Size

Q. How many travelers will be there in a group?

A. The group size is usually 25-35 person minimum for a helicopter tour and it may reach to 40-50 travellers or more especially during the full moon travel. During full moon travel you may find rush of pilgrims in the region and also expect to be in a much larger group.

Q. Can we make our smaller private group?

A. Yes it is possible! You can make a private group if you have minimum 25 (or more) travellers to join. Smaller strength of the group may attract higher cost supplement for the trip.

Q. Can I travel solo to Kailash Mansarovar?

A. Due to strict restrictions by the Chinese Govt. no individual trips are allowed in Tibet hence one has to join a group to visit Kailash Mansarovar situated in the Western Tibet.

Accommodation

Q. What kind of accommodation is available on this trip?

A. A trip to Kailash Mansarovar is not about luxuries or comfort. Still, for travellers it is fairly okay to expect a clean place with basic amenities. The standard of accommodation and travel services available in this region is improving with the time, but at most places, except in the big cities and towns the travellers are left with the only option to stay in guesthouses in a dormitory style accommodation which lack even the basic facilities. Read below some important information for the quality of stay falling on different routes.

• Accommodation style on overland trip route via Kyirong
  When you are on a road trip from Kathmandu to Mt. kailash via Kyirong, it is to be taken into note that after you leave kathmandu there is hardly any good accommodation available for stay. You may even have to stay in backcountry accommodation, small guesthouses in small rooms which sometimes even do not have basic facilities. During stay near Lake Mansarovar and also during the trekking of Mt. Kailash the stay will be in guesthouses near the monasteries. These guesthouses offer only beds to sleep. No fancy hotel facilities are available and natural toilets are to be considered mostly.
• Accommodation style on helicopter trip route via Simikot
  When you are on a road trip from Kathmandu to Mt. kailash via Kyirong, it is to be taken into note that after you leave kathmandu there is hardly any good accommodation available for stay. You may even have to stay in backcountry accommodation, small guesthouses in small rooms which sometimes even do not have basic familities. During stay near Lake Mansarovar and also during the trekking of Mt. Kailash the stay will be in guesthouses near the monasteries. These guesthouses offer only beds to sleep. No fancy hotel facilities are available and natural toilets are to be considered mostly.
• Accommodation style on helicopter trip route via Simikot
  While you are on a Kailash Mansarovar trip via helicopter route thorugh Simikot, you may expect to get the accommdation standard on a higher side as compared to the road trip. However near Mansarovar and Mt. Kailash the accommodation will be only in guesthouses on multi sharing basis

Food & Water

Q. What kind of food is served during the trip?

A. During entire trip of Kailash Mansarovar food served by the hotels, guesthouses and our chef is always pure vegetarian without onion and garlic.

Q. What is the menu for food served during the tour?

A. While staying in hotels the travelers get buffet meal usually which is pure and especially placed for the Kailash Yatra travelers mostly. During travel in Tibet side though there is no set menu for food but usually for breakfast one gets high energy and nutritious beverages like bournvita, horlicks along with tea/coffee followed by option of porridge, cornflakes, pancakes, upma, pakoras, paranthas, puri aalloo, bread butter/ jams etc. Lunch is generally packed and served at a scenic spot near some water pool. It consists of a tetra pack (Frooti etc) or lime water with glucose, puri/chapatti & vegetables, tinned fruits/sweets, pickle. Dinner is at the campsite and the menu is very varied with availability of soup, Indian bread, dal, rice, salad, noodles and some desert.

Q. What type of water is provided during the trip.

A. While staying in hotels in India or Nepal side, you may get filtered water provided by the hotels for their inhouse guests. During travel in Tibet, and especially while staying near the lake or doing Kailash Parikrama, water is collected from streams near the campsite and served after boiling, hence it is safe for drinking. You can add iodine drops or chlorine tablets, if you wish to. You may also buy mineral water from market, if you want.

Clothing

Q. What kind of clothing is required for travelling to Kailash Mansarovar?

A. A trip to Kailash Mansarovar is performed in high altitude region where the extreme weather conditions are really tough. It is recommended that you bring enough warm clothes with you and carry multiple layers of clothes. Monkey cap, Thermal wear, Woolen gloves, Comfortable waterproof shoes, Face masks, Sunscreen lotion, Sun glasses, Walking stick etc are some recommended packing items. For more, please have a look at The Packing Checklist

Transportation

Q. What type of ground transport is provided on this trip?

A. During Kailash Mansarovar travel the road transport services vary based on the itinerary and route.

India side : In India from Lucknow to Nepalgunj and back to Lucknow we have deluxe buses, cars and jeeps which are provided depending on the number of travelers. At additional cost luxury cars and buses are also available in India for transfers from Lucknow to Nepalgunj and back.

Nepal side : In Nepal the Company provide decent airconditioned buses, jeeps or cars for transfers and sightseeing purpose. From Kathmandu to Kyirong the road condition is poor and this ride is going to be long and tiring, here we provide only non airconditioned small buses or jeeps.

Tibet side : In Tibet the buses are fairly good and comfortable deluxe buses are provided for all road travel. For Kailash Mansrovar region one has to use local vehicles permitted by the local authority.

Q. Can we go to Kailash Mansarovar in our Indian vehicle?

A. No, it is not permitted by the Chinese Govt to bring your own car with Indian registration number to visit Kailash Mansarovar. For travelling in Tibet it is necessarily required to have a local vehicle and a Tibetan tour guide cum tour officer.

Visa & Permit

Q. Can Indian citizens go to Kailash Mansarovar without passport and visa?

A.The answer is simply 'NO' because to visit Mt. Kailash & Lake Mansarovar one has to travel to Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) which is a part of China. A valid passport with Group travel permits to visit TAR followed by a China group travel visa are required to join this pilgrimage. One should not believe in the false news or information confirming that Indians can go to Kailash Mansarovar without passport and visa. There is no such provisions, for Indians, to enter into the territory of Tibet (China) from any border entry points. However, for those Indian citizens not having a passport, Max Holidays organises special flight / heli darshan trips which starts from Nepalgunj mainly. For such Kailash Mansarovar darshan tours, we operate few chartered flights with fixed departure dates and we also welcome bookings for private groups with their own dates and requirements.

Q. Are Indian passport holders allowed to visit Kailash Mansarovar?

A.For several decades, Kailash Mansarovar is accessible to the Indian passport holders and every year thousands of Indian pilgrims visit Tibet Autonomous Region for holy darshan of Kailash Mansarovar. However, please note that post pandemic, the China Govt has not allowed Indians to visit Kailash Mansarovar due to geopolitical situation.

Q. I am an Indian citizen living outside India. What is the visa process for me?

A.All Indian passport holders, irrespective to their home location, have to apply for their Tibet Group travel visa with Chinese Embassy in Delhi only, through a tour company organising group tours to TAR (Tibet Autonmous Region) for visiting Mt. Kailash and Lake Mansarovar. The China Embassy takes min 5 working days (or more) to issue this visa and Indian passport holders require to submit their original passport to our Delhi office min 10 days before the trip date. As per the current rules, their physical presence is not required for visa submission, but the original passport is a must for submission for obtaining the visa. In the event of non-availaility of the original passport with group visa application the name of the traveler is considered cancelled and his/her name is not added in the entry visa, which means his/her trip gets cancelled automatically with no further consideration or financial reimbursement.

Q. I am a Non Resident Indian (NRI) with OCI card, living in USA. What is the visa process for me?

A.For all travellers, other than the Indian passport holders, the group visa application to visit Tibet for a pilgrimage tour to Mt. Kailash and Lake Mansarovar is to be submitted with China Embassy in Kathmandu only. From 2023, China Embassy has made it madatory for them to visit the embassy for biometrics with prior appoitment. The tour companies organising the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra group tour are authorised to apply on your behalf for biometric process and they can also collect your passport from the embassy after the visa is issued. The process for biometrics and visa may take 4 to 5 working days, which means that you have to be there for a duration longer than the pre defined trip schedule.

Q. I am an Indian resident with Indian passport. Can I travel to Nepal with my Aadhar card or driving license?

A.NO, for travelling to Nepal immigration accepts a document that exclusively proves your nationality. Hence, you need to produce either valid Indian Passport or Election Card (issued by Election Commission) at the Indian immigration while travelling to Nepal and also at Kathmandu international airport while flying to India.

Q. Do I need some special permit for travelling to Kailash Mansarovar?

A.Yes, Tibet is under the control of China and travel is restricted in many ways. For travelling to Tibet one need to obtain various entry permits from the concerend authorities in Lhasa & Tibet. Such permits are not available for the travellers directly and one has to joing a group tour and apply for the permits through an authorised agencies only for applying a permit to visit Tibet. The permit process is tough, lengthy and may take 3 to 4 weeks (or even longer sometimes). However, please note that post pandemic, the China Govt has not allowed Indians to visit Kailash Mansarovar due to geopolitical situation.

Q. If my Tibet group entry permit approval is getting delayed? Can I withdraw my name?

A. As mentioned, Tibet travel permits are always available for travelling with a group only. The group naming list with photocopies of the passport and permit fee are to be submitted by your tour organiser on your behalf. All permit applications for group and individual travellers listed in the permit application chart are subject to approval from the authorised office of the Tibet Govt. They retain absolute right to refuse to accept, reject, delay, cancel any permit application by assigning no reason thereof. After the permit application is applied and submitted no changes (addition or omition) is possible for an individual or a small group of individuals.

Q. What is the penalty for cancelling a trip in the event of delay in receiving necessary Tibet travel permits and/or entry visa?

A. Tibet Travel Permits once applied cannot be modified for the need of an individual or a part of the group. It is also not permitted to withdraw any individual's name from the application after submission. In the event of any traveller cancelling his/her/their trip after permit application submission, he/she/they may have to bear heavy cancellation penalties which may be even equivalent to their full trip cost. For more information read our Booking & Cancellation Policy

Health

Q. How do I prepare myself for the yatra? What exercises are recommended?

A. Apart from getting yourself medically examined from a qualified doctor to ensure your own safety, it is a good idea to prepare in advance with brisk walking, and some regimen of exercise or preferably yoga asanas and pranayama. Eventually, for most people the Kailash parikrama is an act of faith and being mentally connected with the Almighty which does work a lot in the favour of a traveller for success of this trip.

Q. What are the tests that I must go through before booking or undertaking the Kailash Yatra?

A. Blood test, Blood Sugar, Blood Pressure, ECG are some basic tests which are recommended. Depending on age or physical status of a person, we recommend that he should get examined by the physician thoroughly. It is totally the responsibility of the traveller to ensure that he/she is fit to undertake this trip. Anytime during the trip if the person is found unfit to take further trip, he/she may be immediately off-loaded from the Kailash trip and sent back by offering no compensation in lieu thereof and all additional services hired in that case will be completely on the traveller only.

Q. What precautions should I take during the trip, for health?

A. During travel in Tibet, with the increasing altitude and decreasing oxygen level, the travellers must eat well, drink plenty of water or juices etc, take proper rest in order to get acclimatized (adjusting the body and mind with the local weather in high altitude) for a safe and comfortable journey.

Q. What kind of medicines should I carry along during the tour?

A. Our tour executive is already going to carry abundant medicines which have been approved by the highly professional doctors from Nepal and Tibet for your safety. However we recommend that you carry a basic first aid kit with other regular medicines for cold, fever, loose motion, headache, body ache, bandage, etc. If you are taking some other medicines regularly, please carry sufficient medicine for an extended duration of your trip.

Q. Is high altitude sickness obvious? How to handle this situation?

A. Based on the health of an individual the impact of high altitude weather may differ. It is not necessary that one will get high altitude sickness during the trip, but it is also not sure that one will not face this problem. High altitude sickness is very common while travelling to such a height in mountains and this goes away with time, depending on your own immunity and ability to overcome this situation. Acclimatize yourself properly, keep yourself hydrated during the travel, eat well, practice yoga and meditation before and during your travel to avoid or overcome the high altitude sickness. If you face high altitude sickness and need some medical help, contact your guide and follow his instructions. In a few days if the health does not improve and the guide suggest you not to go in higher altitude, you must not avoid his suggestion.

Q. What is the availability of medical Oxygen during Kailash Yatra?

A. During Kailash Yatra tour in Tibet and especially during the trekking our crew does carry oxygen cylinders/oxygen pillow/portable oxygen bottles for emergency use. Small portable oxygen bottles are available easily in the Burang market and one can also carry the same for emergency use on his own expense.

Q. What kind of emergency evacuation facilities are available?

A. During Kailash Yatra tour in the event of emergency we provide all possible and available emergency evacuation facilities such as ground ambulance, helicopter ambulance, doctors, hospitalization etc. but the same is payable by the travellers only. We do not take any liability for payments of hospital bills, medicines, emergency evacuation transport, additional accommodation and food bills etc. One must carry sufficient money to overcome with such situations.

Currency

Q. Can I use the Indian Currency INR during the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra?

A. No, you cannot use the Indian Currency (INR) during the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. However Indian rupees currency notes (small denomination) is widely accepted in Nepal.

Q. Can I use the Nepalese currency NPR during the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra?

A. No, you cannot use the Nepalese currency NPR during the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra in Tibet side. It is better to carry some Chinese Yuan (CNY) for expenses in Tibet side.

Q. Is the Chinese currency YUAN used in the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra?

A. Yes, the Chinese currency YUAN (CNY) is solely used in the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra, in Tibet side. Chinese Yuans are usually available with renowned money exchangers/banks. A traveller may be asked to present the original passport and a photocopy of his/her tibet travel permit for the money exchange.

Q. Which currency I must carry on my Kailash Yatra travel?

A. Indian rupees currency notes are widely accepted in all small and big establishments and shops in Nepal side (small denomination). During travel in Tibet one must carry Chinese Yuan only. The exchange rate of Chinese Yuan is approx 01 Yuan = INR 11 which vary from bank to bank and also on the day of exchange. US Dollars are also accepted at some places but carrying Chinese Yuans for small payments is always better. Exchange is available at Kathmandu Nepal and Taklakot (Burang) Tibet side. To avoid inconvenience and high exchange rate it is better that you buy and bring Yuan before starting from home, if available.

Q. From where can I get my money exchanged?

A. It is highly recommended for you to get the money exchanged through an authorised money exchange agent or a bank only. Do not forget to take an official invoice cum certificate for the exchange.

Insurance

Q. Do I need an insurance for this trip?

A. We highly recommend that you carry a valid travel and health insurance policy for this trip. The level of uncertainity in a trip to Kailash Mansarovar is very high even in the normal scenario. Due to several reasons, sudden changes in travel date or route, forced delays in the trip and even last minute cancellation of the trip can take place before or during the trip. Also this trip is performed in extreme inhospitable weather conditions and if any traveler has to be hospitalised due to bad health or if emergency evacuation is required, the expenditure in Tibet and Nepal can be very high. We therefore strongly recommend that you carry a good insurance which does not only cover high altitude medical expense but also also provides the facility of emergency evacuation. Also, in many cases the delay or a cancellation of a trip may bring the traveller unwanted extra expense in the shape of their flight rescheduling and/or cancellation etc, where an flight ticket insurance can be helpful to recover the non refundable expense. Please make sure that your insurance does works all sorts of adversities, which are common in Kailash Mansarovar travel.

Trekking

Q. How should I prepare myself for Kailash Manasarovar Yatra tour?

A. Both mental and physical fitness is required to complete the trip. It is one of the toughest land journeys which you would have ever taken on earth. Physical preparations include ANY or all of the following: walking 4-5 kms. a day, swimming, playing badminton, jogging, freehand exercise, climbing a 10/20-storey building etc. All this not only helps muscle development but also expands capacity of the lungs, which is vital in high altitudes due to lower levels of oxygen. This is not a Yatra in which you can depend on 'Palkis' or ponies to take care of you. You have to depend on your own reserves of strength and stamina. Mental preparation means being absolutely positive about wanting to complete the journey. Yoga helps. A medical check-up is strongly recommended. Take your personal physician's advice on your participation. If you consume alcohol and smoke, better quit it.

Q. How much walking is required on the Kailash Mansarovar tour package?

A. During the rainy season in Nepal (late June to Aug), there is a strong possibility of landslides en-route to the Tibet border. This stretch varies from 3-5 kms and has to be walked, if required. After that, you will need to walk during the parikrama, if you decide to undertake it. This is a 52-kms / 3 days trek done at an average altitude of 15000 ft. and the highest point is the Dolma La (Pass) at 19,500 ft. Attempt walking the entire distance including the trek up the Dolma La only if you are extremely fit physically. If you are reasonably fit and feel that you cannot walk in that high altitude you may hire a pony (subject to availability) for the 3-day parikrama/kora. There is a facilitation counter before the trek starting point where the Chinese guide may assist you for this service. The approximate expense for hiring a horse with a horseman is CNY 2700. If you wish to hire a porter, the same is available at an additional expense of CNY 1200 approx. You may need the yak on day 2 of the parikrama on the ascent to Dolma La. But knowing the behavior of the yak and the yak men, you should be prepared for some walk on the first and last day of the parikrama. On these 2 days the walks are in general over level ground (i.e. with no major ascents or descents). There will be a walking for approx. 3-5 hours on the first day, 8-10 hours on the second day and 2-3 hours on the third day of the kora. However, there is the option of not doing the parikrama at all and staying behind in ahotel at Darchen at your own cost. We can pick you up from Darchen on our return journey after the parikrama.

Q. What are the necessary accessories that I should carry while participating in the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra?

A. For travelling to Kailash Mannsarovar one need to carry warm clothing. But for trekking of Mt. Kailash there are few additional items are to be carried. A list of such items for packing are listed under our Packing Checklist page on this website. For more information contact our office.

Preparing for Yatra

Q. What preperation you recommend us for this yatra.

A. For travelling to Kailash Mansarovar, one need to be fit mentally and physically. Apart from being fit, there are several other crieterias which one need to fulfil for tihs trip.

• a) We recommend that atleast two or three month before the travel you must start walking in the morning and evening. Walk for 6-8 kms or more is suggested.
• b)Deep breathing excercises such as Alom Vilom and Pranayam are highhly recommended for preperation of Kailash Mannsarovar travel.

How To Pay

Q. Do you accept card payments for bookings?

A. Yes, we accept Debit and Credit Card Payments for bookings. Visa, MasterCard, Amex, Dinner's Club etc are easy to use on our secure online payment.. Card payments attract online bank fee for the transactions (3% maximum) which may vary for different cards and banks. For more details on this contact our office.

Q. Can I pay through Bank transfer for bookings?

A. Yes, the customers can make payments to us for their tour ookings using NEFT/RTGS/IMPS. The IFSC code and bank account information of Max Holidays can e obtained from our office.

Q. Do you accept Cash and Cheques for bookings?

A. Yes, we accept Cash and Cheques for bookings. In case your payment goes above 2 lakhs, then you will have to give 2 lakhs through cash and the remaining amount by cheque or NEFT/IMPS/RTGS/Credit Card/Debit Card.

Q. How do you facilitate the International Payments for us?

A. Yes, we receive the International Payments through Swift Transfer or Credit cards/Debit cards (3% deductible charges).

Travel Documents

Q. Is a passport must to undertake trip to Kailash Mansarovar region?

A. Yes, a valid passport is a must for undertaking the pilgrims Kailash Manasarovar Yatra. To apply for new passport Click Here

Q. I have booked my Kailash Yatra. When should I buy my international flight tickets?

A. As guided and repeatedly informed Kailash Mansarovar travel is full of uncertainities. Change in travel dates and duration is a very common and a well known part of this trip, even when the permit/visa application has been submitted. This is due to several reasons forced by international and local political reasons of China, delay in getting permits/visa, weather issues etc. We strongly recommend that the travellers should not book their flight tickets before receiving the permits to visit Tibet. If the travellers are concerned for increase in flight ticket cost at later stage and he/she/they want to buy their flight tickets by accepting the risk of trip delay or cancellation, we recommend that they should buy only a refundale flight fare with date flexibility option. Such flight tickets does not fall under our tour service / cost list and Max Holidays does not take any responsibility for any loss to the traveller due to such changes/cancellatios.

Q. What all documents should I carry for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?

A. Besides a valid passport one must carry a voter ID card (Indian Nationals), 04-05 colored Passport sized photograph, Travel & Medical insurance, Doctor’s Medical Certificate. Copy of Kailash Yatra permits and Group visa will be made available with the tour leaders/guides.

Q. How can I obtain the necessary permits for visiting restricted areas in Tibet?

A. We arrange your permits for the restricted areas and for that we shall need your passport copies for applying the same one month prior to your departure date for the approval from China.

Q. Where do I need to apply for China visa to go to Kailash Mansarovar trekking trip?

A. As per the latest rules, after receiving necessary permits Indian nationals must apply for visa at China embassy in Delhi only and NRIs and Foreign passport holders must apply at China Embassy in Kathmandu only. The rules of the authorities keeps changing and are beyond our control, hence it is advisable to keep yourself updated on the same. You may further consult with our Kailash Mansarovar Yatra advisor by calling them or writing them an email.

Q. If I have a Chinese visa already, do I still need to apply for visa?

A. Yes, even if you have a Chinese visa on your passport you need to present your original passport to designated Chinese Embassy in order to get approved in Group visa. Failing to this you may not undertake Kailash Yatra tour.

Q. Do I need Insurance for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra tour?

A. Yes, it is strictly advised to get yourself completely insured for any medical emergency evacuation, delay or cancelation of the trip etc. Emergency evacuation charges on this trip are sometimes very high and insurance for Kailash Mansarovar trip plays a vital role here when needed. While buying insurance, ensure that the same is valid for the specific trip and route. For more information you can also contact Kailash Yatra consultants at our office.

Q. What all documents are required to be submitted for registration and other formalities?

A. Travelers are require to submit clear scanned copies of the following documents, at the time of registration.

• Original copy of the Booking Form duly filled and signed by the traveller (photograph affixed),
• Original copy of the Booking Form duly filled and signed by the traveller (photograph affixed),
• Clear colour scanned copies of traveller's valid passport, both pages (Self attested),
• Clear copy of traveller’s Aadhaar Card (Self attested),
• Clear copy of travelers Voter ID Card of the traveller (Self attested),
• Clear photocopy of PAN card of traveler or travelers legal representative making payments on behalf of the traveler (Self attested),
• 02 recent colour passport size photograph for visa purpose in a prescribed format,
• Proof of the payments with payment reference number and date clearly visible
• Other documents like copy of Covid vaccination completion certificate, copy of medical certificate, copy of insurance and others as may be required for the trip, can be submitted 15 days prior the trip.

Remarks :

• Above point no. 4,5,6 are applicable for Indian passport holders only,
• Traveller residing outside India may send digital copies of the document through email (copies sent by WhatsApp are not acceptable as final submission of the documents)
• All bookings, cancellations and amendments are strictly subject to Company’s Booking Policies (www.kailash-yatra.org/booking-policy.html) and Terms of Services (www.kailash-yatra.org/terms-ofservices.html) for your trip
• As per the latest information, travellers willing to visit Tibet should be fully vaccinated for Covid19 and a fitness certificate will be required from a qualified doctor which should not be older than 30 days from the trip start date. Any other additional requirement introduced by the local Govt or concerned authority shall be informed and will apply accordingly on travellers.

Weather

Q. What is the best time to go on the tour to Kailash Manasarovar?

A. While tours operate from April to September in that region, please check the fixed day tours, and itinerary for details on dates. The Tibet plateau is a dry region and rain/precipitation is very little so any month between May-September is good except for August when you can expect heavy rainfall in Tibet. Although, weather wise, May and September will be colder. However, June-Sep, is the rainy season in Nepal and on the road to the border, landslides do take place and might require a 5-6 km walk on extreme cases. Weather in Tibet is very uncertain.

Q. Is it preferable to go to the Kailash Manasarovar during the Monsoon Time?

A.No, it is not at all preferable to go to the Kailash Manasarovar during the Monsoon Time.

Q. What is the climate and temperature during the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra?

A.There is dry and cool climate in Kailash Manasarovar and the summers are from May to August but are considered really pleasant as compared to other areas. The Lake Manasarovar freezes during the wintertime, however, Mount Kailash is always snow-covered. The temperature here stays at around 5 degrees Celsius but the Mercury can also fall as low as -15 degrees Celsius.

view full weather chart

Communication

Q. Does my India Mobile work during Kailash Yatra?

A. Yes the Indian mobile does work occasionally during the Mt. Kailash and Manasarovar Lake Yatra (including the day of Mount Kailash Parikrama), but do not forget to take international roaming facility from your phone service provide provider.

Q. Can I expect any Internet facility during the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra?

A. Mobile internet services work occasionnally during the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. at places like Kathmandu, Nepalgunj, Lhasa etc hotels provide free wifi for their inhouse guests.

Q. Is the electricity availability sufficient for everyone during the trek to the holy Mount Kailash?

A. The electricity issues are prevalent especially in the remote areas such as Simikot, Hilsa, Mansarovar and also at the time of trekking. It is advisable to the travellers to carry a good power bank (20000mh or above). There are limited charging ports in those places.

Tour Guide

Q. Will I get the Nepalese Tour Guides for accompanying me during the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra?

A. There will be one Nepali Guide as well as the Sherpas along with one Tibetan Escort present for accompanying you during the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra.

Q. Will I get the Tibetan Tour Guides for accompanying me during the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra?

A. During the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra, your group will be facilitated with one Nepali Guide as well as the Sherpas along with one Tibetan Escort who will be accompanying the group during the whole Kailash Manasarovar Yatra.

Flight Operation

Q. Does my tour package include flight tickets?

A. Our helicopter trips via Lucknow and Kathmandu are inclusive of internal flight tickets and seat in Chartered helicopter for Simikot to Hilsa return journey.

• The flights from Nepalgunj to Simikot are operated with small aircrafts and are costly option. These flights are available on daily basis, but are completely weather dependent. The flying distance between Nepalgunj to Simikot is about 207 kms. There are several local airline which operate on this route.
• For travelling between Simikot to Hilsa or vice versa, the group of Kailash Mansarovar pilgrims are provided with seats chartered helicopters. These rides are seasonal and organised by your tour operators in coordination with various flight companies and/or helicopter owners. The 30 minutes long helicopter service takes the traveler from Simikot helipad to Hilsa which is situated close to Nepal China border, close to Purang / Taklakot.

Full Moon Travel

Q. Why travelers prefer to go to Kailash Mansarovar on a full moon trip?

A. There are various reasons why travelers take full moon trips - Most of the Tibetan festivals are celebrated during full moon. Saga Dawa festival is one of the most popular festivals which takes place near kailash Mansarovar. Travellers who wish to witness the local festival prefer to go there during full moon time.

- In Hindu and Jain religion mainly, it is considered to be more auspicious to perform puja during full moon (purnima), therefore they prefer to be near Kailash Mansarovar during the full moon.

- The region Kailash Mansarovar and nearby mountains looks even more beautiful and clear under the moonlight, hence travelers prefer this time to be spent near that region.