Kailash Manasarovar Yatra is one of the most revered, physically demanding and spiritually significant pilgrimages in the world. This sacred journey leads devotees to the sacred Mount Kailash (6,638 m.) - the eternal adobe of Lord Shiva and the serene Lake Manasarovar (4,500 m.), located in the remote Tibetan Autonomous Region of China.
This 14-day journey, meticulously curated by Chuchura Padatik (High Altitude Trek Solution), offers a deeply transformative experience blending faith, culture, adventure, and breathtaking Himalayan landscapes.
Your pilgrimage begins in the vibrant city of Kathmandu, where you visit revered temples such as Pashupatinath, Guhyeshwari (Shakti Peeth) and Budhanilkantha (Sleeping Vishnu). A special Swastivachan Puja invites the blessings of Lord Shiva for a safe and successful Yatra. From Kathmandu, the journey moves north toward the Nepal-China border, where serene valleys, alpine forests and towering peaks mark the beginning of your ascent into Tibet. Once in Tibet, the landscape opens dramatically, rolling grasslands, snow-draped mountains, the mighty Brahmaputra River, and vast high-altitude plateaus form the backdrop of your overland drive toward the sacred lake. Lake Manasarovar, believed to be created by Lord Brahma himself, offers an overwhelming sense of peace. Here, you perform holy snanam (ritual bathing), meditation, Hawan and Puja on the shores of one of the world's highest freshwater lakes.
Summary
Overview
Trek Name: Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
Days: 14
Adventure Type: Road Trip and Trekking
Season: Monsoon | Autumn
Month: June | July | August | September
Basecamp: Kathmandu
Country: China
Location: Tibet, China
Altitude: 5,620 m.
Grade: Challenging
Stay: Hotel and Guest House
Food: Veg
Trek Distance: 42 Km.
Rail Head: Raxaul
AirPort: Kathmandu
Mandatory Documents & Key Points
Mandatory Documents Required
1. Scanned copy of passport-size photograph (in JPG format, not exceeding 300 kb in size).
2. Scanned copy of Passport (page containing photo & personal particulars) and the last page containing family details.
3. Copy of China Visa if it is valid.
4. The KMY Registration form, which we will send you via email.
Note: Applicant should possess an ordinary Indian passport valid for at least six months as on 01 September of the current year.
Fixed Departure Dates
Itinerary
Quick Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1300m): Your sacred journey begins upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu. You will be welcomed with a traditional Khada (scarf) and transferred to your 3-star hotel on a twin-sharing basis. Enjoy a vegetarian buffet dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing & Yatra Preparation: After breakfast, embark on a 4-hour guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu's major Hindu pilgrimage sites:
• Pashupatinath Temple
• Jal Narayan Temple (Sleeping Vishnu)
• Gujeshwari Temple (Shakti Pith)
Enjoy a vegetarian lunch and dinner. In the evening, attend an important Yatra briefing on preparations, health guidance, and packing. Overnight in Kathmandu.Day 03: Drive to Timure/Syabrubesi (2000m), Nepal-China Border: After a vegetarian breakfast and a special Swastivachan ceremony for blessings, depart by deluxe bus for a 165 km (7-hour) drive to Timure/Syabrubesi. Check into a tourist hotel (2-4 sharing) with vegetarian meals. Overnight at 2000m.
Day 04: Border Formalities & Drive to Kyirong (2700m)/Nyalam (3650m): Walk to the Nepal-China border at Rasuwa Gadhi to complete immigration procedures. Continue with a 24 km (1-hour) drive to Kyirong, a beautiful valley town surrounded by Himalayan peaks. Check in at a standard hotel (twin-sharing). Vegetarian meals are provided by us. Overnight at 2700m/3650m.
Day 05: Acclimatization Day in Kyirong/Nyalam: Today is essential for high-altitude acclimatization. Enjoy short walks, visit local temples, explore the town, and begin taking Diamox if necessary. Vegetarian meals and overnight stay at Kyirong (2700m).
Day 06: Drive to Saga (4500m): After breakfast, drive 250 km (approx. 5 hrs.) to Saga, crossing the Ghungtang-La Pass (5236m) with panoramic Himalayan views, waterfalls, forests, and the Brahmaputra River. Overnight in a 2/3-star hotel (2-4 sharing), with full vegetarian meals.
Day 07: Drive to Holy Lake Manasarovar (4500m): A spiritually profound day as you drive 470 km (9-10 hrs.) to Lake Manasarovar. First views of Mt. Kailash and Rakshash Tal will leave you mesmerized. Complete the vehicle parikrama of Lake Manasarovar and capture unforgettable group photographs. Overnight in a mud house/guest house (dormitory sharing).
Day 08: Puja, Hawan & Drive to Darchen (4700m): Perform sacred rituals including Puja, Hawan, meditation, and a holy dip in Lake Manasarovar. After lunch, drive 40 km (1 hrs.) to Darchen, the base town of Mt. Kailash. Overnight at a standard hotel (2-4 sharing).
Day 09: Drive to Yamdwar & Trek to Diraphuk (1st Day of Parikrama-4950m): Drive 7 km to Yamdwar, the gateway of Kailash Parikrama. Begin a 12 km trek (4-6 hrs.) to Diraphuk, with majestic views of Nandi Kailash, the flowing river, and serene landscapes. Witness the breathtaking North Face of Mt. Kailash Overnight in a guest house (dormitory sharing).
Day 10: Trek to Zuthulphuk via Dolma La Pass (5620m), 2nd Day of Parikrama: The most challenging day of the Yatra.
Highlights:
• Steep ascent to Dolma-La Pass (5620m)
• Descend past Gauri Kunda
• Further 3-4 hrs. trek to Zuthulphuk
Total trekking: 22 km (approx. 10 hrs.).
Overnight in a guest house (dormitory sharing).Day 11: Trek End & Drive to Saga (4500m): Complete the final 7 km trek (2 hrs.) and board the vehicle waiting for you. Return to Darchen, reunite with the group, and continue the drive to Saga (500 km/7 hrs.) Overnight in Saga with vegetarian meals.
Day 12: Drive to Kyirong (2700m): After breakfast, drive 250 km (4-5 hrs.) to Kyirong/Timure. Overnight in a standard hotel with vegetarian meals.
Day 13: Drive Back to Kathmandu (1300m): Complete border formalities at Rasuwa Gadhi, walk across to Timure, and continue the 165 km (6-7 hrs.) drive to Kathmandu. Check into your hotel and enjoy vegetarian meals. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 14: Departure from Kathmandu: Your sacred pilgrimage concludes today. After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward journey.
Who Can Participate
Who is Eligible
• Possess an Indian passport valid for a minimum 6 months as on 01 September of the current year.
• Age should be minimum 15 and maximum 70 years as on 01 January of the current year.
• Physically fit and medically healthy for undertaking the Yatra for religious purposes.
Tibet Visa
• Indian Passport Holders (Overseas): Mandatory to be in India before 10 Days and need to send your original Passport to Delhi at least 09 days before the travel date.
• Indian Passport Holders: Mandatory to send your original Passport to Delhi 10 days prior to travel date.
• Fly to Nepal: You must have an original Passport or Voter ID to fly to Nepal.
• You need to arrive in Kathmandu 04 working days or earlier, at your convenience.
Health & Fitness Information
Health & Awareness
Medical requirements & guidelines
Kids Guidelines
Special instructions for children
Fitness Required
BMI calculator & fitness criteria
Mandatory Documents
Useful resources & documents
Health and Awareness
1. Physical Preparation (Pre-Trek)
Conditioning your body is the best way to prevent injuries like sprains or extreme fatigue.
- Cardio & Endurance: Focus on leg-based cardio such as cycling, swimming, and brisk walking. Aim for 30–45 minutes, 4–5 times a week.
- Leg & Core Strength: Squats, lunges, step-downs, and calf raises help build strength and balance.
- Weighted Training: Start 4 weeks before the trek. Walk with a backpack similar to your trek load. If offload service is availed, you must still carry 3kg or more.
- Footwear Preparation: Never wear brand-new boots on a trek. Break them in with local walks to avoid blisters.
2. High Altitude Awareness (AMS / HAPE / HACE)
If your trek goes above 2,500m (8,000 ft), altitude sickness is a risk regardless of fitness.
HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema)
HAPE is a life-threatening condition where fluid accumulates in the lungs due to low oxygen pressure at high altitude.
Common Symptoms:
- Extreme fatigue
- Breathlessness even at rest (major red flag)
- Persistent cough with frothy or pink sputum
- Chest tightness
- Bluish lips or fingernails (cyanosis)
Prevention & Action:
- Climb high, sleep low
- Ascend gradually (300–500m per day)
- Drink 3–4 liters of water daily
- Avoid alcohol and tobacco
- If symptoms persist → descend immediately
HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema)
HACE is the most severe form of altitude sickness, caused by swelling of the brain due to low oxygen.
Key Warning Signs:
- Loss of coordination (ataxia)
- Confusion, hallucinations, or unusual behavior
- Severe headache not relieved by medication
- Loss of consciousness
Immediate Treatment:
HACE is a medical emergency. Immediate descent and hospitalization are critical.
3. Prevention Tips
- Climb high, sleep low
- Gradual ascent above 3,000m
- Stay hydrated and avoid sedatives
- If confusion or balance issues occur, descend immediately
4. On-Trail Health & Safety
- Hydration & Nutrition: Carry ORS and high-energy snacks.
- Sun & Eye Protection: Use SPF sunscreen, hat, and polarized sunglasses.
- Medical Kit: Carry personal medication as advised by your doctor.
- Hygiene: Use sanitizer and drink only filtered or boiled water.
- Slowest Hiker Rule: Always match the pace of the slowest trekker.
5. Environmental Awareness
- Weather Monitoring: Mountain weather changes rapidly; carry layered clothing.
- Leave Only Footprints: Respect nature. Pack out all trash and stay on trails.
Kids Guidelines
Trekkers Age Policy & Guidelines
To ensure the safety and well-being of all participants, we have established the following age-related guidelines for our trekking expeditions:
Young Explorers (Under 15 Years)
Safety is our top priority for our youngest adventurers. Trekkers under the age of 15 years must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian throughout the duration of the trek.
This ensures a supportive environment where children can build confidence, resilience, and essential outdoor skills in a safe and controlled setting.
Independent Trekkers (15 to 18 Years)
Participants aged 15–18 years may trek solo with a Parental Consent & Disclaimer Form signed and submitted before the trek.
Why These Guidelines Matter?
- Safety First: High-altitude trekking needs maturity.
- Legal Compliance: Consent ensures emergency readiness.
- Better Experience: Correct supervision improves safety.
Fitness Required
Calculate Your BMI
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BMI Categories
| BMI Range | Category | Trek Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Less than 16.5 | Severely Underweight | Not recommended |
| 16.5 - 18.5 | Underweight | Consult coordinator |
| 18.5 - 25 | Normal | You're fit! |
| 25 - 30 | Overweight | Consult coordinator |
| Above 30 | Obese | Not recommended |
Mandatory Documents
Mandatory Documents to Bring on A Trip How to pay Add-ons, Submit Medical Forms, and Dietary Preferences.
Inclusions
· Airport arrival & departure: Airport arrival & departure transfers in Kathmandu by comfortable tourist coach.
· Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu: 3 nights 3-star hotel accommodation in KTM with all meals.
· Nepali tourist coach: Nepali tourist coach (Kathmandu-Border-Kathmandu).
· Transportation in Tibet: Deluxe bus transportation in Tibet.
· Accommodation in Tibetan guest houses: Accommodation in Tibetan guest houses/hotels throughout the journey.
· High-altitude safety: Oxygen cylinders, oximeter and medical kit for high-altitude safety.
· China Tibet visa and road permit Fee: Necessary China Tibet visa fee and all Tibetan entry, travel, and road permit fees.
· Supporting Crew: Experienced Sherpa team, cook, and full support staff.
· Professional Tibetan guide: Professional Tibetan guide.
· Meals: Vegetarian meals throughout the Yatra.
City Guide Tour: Guided Pashupatinath & Jal Narayan Temple visit in Kathmandu.
· Insurance: Travel insurance (No Yatra permit will be issued without insurance).
· Air ticket: Air ticket for traveling to Kathmandu and returning home.
· Personal expenses: Beverages, snacks, souvenirs, or personal expenses.
· Unforeseen expenses: In the event that an extra day is required for the yatra due to unforeseen weather conditions, government orders, socio political unrest, self-injury or any others illness during trip.
· Emergency Evacuation: Rescue/evacuation by helicopter or ambulance in Nepal/Tibet Cost. (Followed by Insurance policy)
· Horse or Pony Hiring cost: Hiring a Pony, horse during Parikrama (approx. USD 200 per day).
· Extra hotel costs: Extra hotel costs in Darchen for those not doing the parikrama and an additional hotel charge for extending your stay in Kathmandu.
· Visa splitting charges and extra transport: Visa splitting charges and extra transport for early exits.
Booking Procedure
·
40% of the entire amount as Advance for
Booking.
·
30% amount has to be made 60 days before
Yatra begins.
·
The rest of remaining balance must be paid 30
days before Yatra.
Cancellation Policy
·
60 Days Prior: 40% of booking amount as a cancellation charge if you cancelled your Yatra date.
·
59 – 31 Days Prior: 50% of booking amount as
a cancellation charge if you cancelled your Yatra date.
·
0 – 30 Days Prior: No Refund.
*Please read minutely
Booking and Cancellation Policy before booking.
Trek Essentials
Personal Gear List
Backpack
1. Rucksack with Rain cover, 2. Knapsack.
Footwear
1. Trekking Shoe (consult trek manager/trek leader), 2. Back belt Sandal.
Accessories
1. Sunglass (UV Protected), 2. Head Torch (with Extra batteries), 3. Water bottle, 4. Trekking Poles, 5. Power Bank, 6. Lunch Box & Spoon.
Clothing
1. Sun Cap, 2. Woolen Cap, 3. Buff/Balaclava, 4. Full sleeve T-shirts (2), 5. Half Sleeve T-shirts (2), 6. Fleece (1), 7. Feather Jacket (1), 8. Trek Pants (2), 9. Rain pants (1), 10. Socks (Cotton 4 + Woolen 1), 11. Gloves.
Personal Items
1. Sunscreen, 2. Toothbrush, 3. Toothpaste, 4. Paper soap/Sanitizer, 5. Lip Balm, 6. Toilet tissue (Roll).