How to Plan Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a famous and holy journey for Hindus, Buddhists, and Jain devotees. Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar are two holy places in Tibet and people believe that Mount Kailash is the home of Lord Shiva. Apart from this, Lake Mansarovar is a sacred freshwater lake. People believe taking a dip there can cleanse their souls. Pilgrims visit both the lake and Mount Kailash together on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Proper planning is important for a safe and smooth journey. This Tour Guide will provide all the details. 

Best Time to Explore 

The best time to visit Kailash Mansarovar is from May to September when the weather is pleasant and it’s easier to reach because-

• Travel is more convenient as roads and paths are easier to access. 

• You can experience stunning views without dealing with bad weather. 

• During this time, more transport options are available for a smooth trip. Including the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by Helicopter that can make your journey more convenient. 

Check the Requirements for the Yatra

Before you start the journey, make sure you have all the necessary documents and permits for this trip-

Passport- Check that your passport is valid for six months when you plan to travel. 

Visa – Tibet is part of China, so you must get a special permit to visit. You need to apply for both a Chinese visa and a Tibet travel permit.

Inner Line Permit (ILP)-  If you are traveling from India, an ILP is required to enter the territory. This permit is issued by the Government of India. 

Medical Certificate- It is important to have a medical checkup before you travel. Health issues like high blood pressure or heart problems might stop you from going. 

Tips for Selecting the Best Tour Operator

• The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a challenging journey, so it is important to go with a tour operator.

• A good operator will take care of permits, transport accommodation, and meals for you.

• Choose a trusted company with knowledgeable guides to make your journey easier.

Prepare Physically for the Yatra

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a physically demanding journey. The height and tough paths can be challenging for many travelers. It’s important to be fit before you visit. Here’s how you can get prepared. 

Trekking and Walking- The trip requires a lot of walking and hiking. Try to practice walking for long distances, especially uphill, if you can.  

High Altitude Training- Mount Kailash is more than 6,000 meters ( 20,000 feet ) high. This height can bring altitude sickness. It’s helpful to spend time at high altitudes before the trip to allow your body to adjust.

Strength and Energy- Improve your leg strength and stamina by doing exercises like jogging, hiking, and swimming regularly.

What to pack?

This journey can be challenging so pack smart for the difficulties you will face- 

• Keep your luggage below 15 kgs to make carrying it easier. 

• Some places might be windy, so make sure to pack windproof clothes like fleece jackets and a beanie. 

• Even in the summer the mountains can be chilly, so don’t forget to bring a jacket and thermal trousers. 

• Remember to pack trekking poles, sun protection, energy snacks, and medicine for altitude sickness.  

Places to visit during Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 

Mount Kailash- Kailash Parvat is the main focus of this journey. Many devotees come to perform Parikrama (circumambulation) around the mountain. It is the holiest peak, known for its powerful spiritual energy. 

Recommended Time to Visit: 6 AM to 5 PM

Lake Mansarovar- Lake Manasarovar, near Mount Kailash, is a beautiful and peaceful place. It is one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world. Many people come to take a holy bath, believing that it will wash away their sins. According to Hindu mythology, Goddess Parvati meditated here.

Recommended Time to Visit: 6 AM to 4: 30 PM

Om Parvat- Om Parvat is famous place and known for the snow on its peak that forms the “(ॐ)” symbol. Hindus see this as a holy place, believing it represents Lord Shiva’s power and presence.

Recommended Time to Visit: 6 AM to 5 PM 

Gauri Kund- Gauri kund is a special place dedicated to Goddess Parvati. People visit to pray and receive her blessings. According to Hindu Mythology, Goddess Parvati used to bathe here. The location is also known for its beautiful nature and peaceful surroundings.

Recommended Time to Visit:  8 AM to 4 PM

How to reach?

• Take a flight to Delhi. 

• Take a flight from Delhi to Lucknow or Allahabad, as they are the closest airports to Mansarovar.

• First, go to Sonauli, the border town in India, then travel to Nepalgunj in Nepal. 

• Travel by vehicle from Nepalgunj to Hilsa/Simikot, a town at the Nepal-China border. 

• After crossing the border, travel through Taklakot (Purang), Saga, and Mansarovar Lake, then finish at Mount Kailash. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Are children allowed on the Yatra?

This journey can be physically challenging, so it’s better not to take children under 12 years.

2.  What’s the best way to reach Kailash Mansarovar?

You can travel to Kailash Mansarovar by road from Nepal or through Tibet. 

3. Is it possible to take my own vehicle on the Yatra? 

Private vehicles are not permitted. You have to join a group tour, traveling in buses or jeeps organized by the tour agency.

4. Can solo travelers go on this Yatra? 

No, it is very difficult to get a Tibet Visa and travel permit for a single person. Travel is only possible in groups, accompanied by Chinese guides, which ensures safety. 

Conclusion

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a spiritual trip that can be tough, so it’s important to plan well. May to September is the perfect time to visit, because the weather is nicer and it is easy to travel. Before starting your trip, make sure to carry all the required documents like a valid passport, visa and medical certificate. A good tour operator is essential to manage all the details like permits, accommodation, transport, and food for your trip. To complete this journey you need to be physically fit, so work on your strength, stamina, and get used to high altitudes. It’s best to pack light while making sure you have the essentials, such as windproof clothes, trekking poles, sun protection, energy snacks and altitude sickness medicine. 

On this Yatra, you will visit holy places like Mount Kailash, Lake Mansarovar, Om Parvat and Gauri Kund, each giving special spiritual meaning and beautiful views. If you plan well this trip will be an unforgettable and life changing experience. Be prepared to accept both the challenges and the blessings of this spiritual journey.