Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is one of the holiest pilgrims in the world, which attracts thousands of devotees, courageous and spiritual seekers every year. Mount Kailash is honored in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Bone Dharma, situated in remote access to the Tibetan Autonomous Region of China. Pilgrims believe that traveling gives spiritual knowledge, blessings and a chance to wash sins.
If you are planning to start this life-long journey, here you need to know about Kailash Mansarovar Yatra-from its religious importance to routes, costs, preparations and travel tips.
Spiritual importance of Kailash Mansarovar
Hinduism: Mount Kailash is considered to be the abode of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Operating the mountain (parikram or blank) is considered to be the act of devotion and penance.
Buddhism: Buddhists combine the mountain with demachok, which symbolizes the Supreme Bliss.
Jainism: Mount is known as Ashtapada, it is the place where the first Jain Tirthankara, Rishabhdev attained liberation.
Bonn religion: Followers of this ancient religion believe that Mount Kailash is the spiritual center of the world.
Lake Mansarovar next to the mountain is a high -height freshwater lake which is equally sacred. Taking a dip in its water is asked to clean the soul.
Travel route
Kailash Mansarovar travels two main routes:
1. Through India (Mea, organized by the Government of India)
Ministry of External Affairs (Mea) organizes the journey through two main routes:
Lipuleke Pass (Uttarakhand route)
Duration: 23 days
Method: Trekking and road trip
Highlights: Pithorgarh, Gunji, Lipulek Pass
Hard route with high altitude trekking
Nathula Pass (Sikkim Marg)
Duration: 21 days
Method: Completely by road
Highlights: Gangtok, Sherthang, Nathula
Easy but long; Low physical demand
2. Through Nepal (popular private route)
Most pilgrims now prefer this route due to their short duration and more comfortable logistics.
Kathmandu → Sibraubasi → Kerung → Mansarovar → Kailash
Duration: 10–14 days
Travel from road and alternative helicopter access (up to hilsa)
Need a Chinese group visa and Tibet permit
The best time to travel
May to September is the official travel window due to favorable weather.
Avoid traveling during heavy monsoon or early/late winter due to hard terrain and climate.
eligibility requirements
Age limit: 18 to 70 years
Medical Fitness: Compulsory health checkup and high height fitness certification
Passport: Valged for at least 6 months
Visa/Permit: Chinese Visa and Tibet Travel Permit require
Required packing list
Warm clothes (layers, thermal, jacket)
Trekking shoes with good grip
Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm
Water purification pills, personal medicines
High-energy snacks (dried fruit, protein bar)
Trekking poles, sleeping bags (if camp)
Passport, ID Proof, Permit (Photocopy)
Travel tips
Properly acclimatize: Spend a few days at high altitude before Parikrama to prevent height disease.
Stay hydrated: Drink a lot of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
Train your body: Prepare with at least 2-3 months in advance, cardio and breathing exercise.
Respect local customs: This region is deeply spiritual for many religions – maintain decoration and humility.
Parikrama (blank)
The Kailash Parikrama is a 52 -km circumference of the mountain, which is usually done in 3 days.
The trek involves crossing the Dolma La Pass (5,630 m) – the highest point of the journey.
Some pilgrims complete it on foot, while others choose the option of yak or ponies.
A trip beyond physical
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is not just a physical trek – it is a test of endurance, trust and inner strength. Pilgrims often carry stories of peace, struggle and spiritual development. Whether you want divine blessings or simply want to experience one of the most intensive trips in the world, this journey provides an unforgettable route in the heart of the Himalayas.
(This article means only for your general information. Zee News does not pledge for its accuracy or credibility.)
