How to Plan Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

Kailash Mansarovar, often imagined as the peaceful, tranquil abode of Lord Shiva, is like a dream place to visit for most of the Hindus. This awe-inspiring, beautiful landscape of nature is situated at approximately 4600 m. altitude in the Tibet region of China. Mainly, there is a lake named Mansarovar in the backdrop of the great Mountain Kailash, which is believed to be the residence of Mahadev.

Many devotees of Mahadev desire to embark on this pilgrimage and witness the unreal mystic beauty of Kailash Mansarovar. Therefore, here we are going to share details about how you can plan a Teerth Yatra to this holy land. In addition, we shall share several parameters on which you have to keep an eye while planning this awaited sacred tour.

Significance of Kailash Mansarovar

• Mansarovar Lake and mountain Kailash are a combination of popular and sacred landscapes for many religions like Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon traditions.
• The Mansarovar Lake is located very close to Kailash Parvat and holds spiritual, cultural, and geographical significance.
• Taking a dip in the holy water of this lake is considered a sacred practice, which purifies the soul, removes all the sins and makes it easy to attain Moksha.

Highlights of the Kailash Mansarovar

• Mansarovar Lake is one of the highest freshwater lakes in the whole world, which is counted among the most beautiful nature-inspired places.
• The colour of the lake’s shore is blue but the central part of the lake is emerald green which looks immensely attractive.
• You can observe the reflections of the surrounding mountains in the crystal clear water of the lake.
• The tranquil atmosphere of Kailash influences pilgrims to take a deep breath, meditate, and feel the presence of God.
• Besides the spirituality, Mansarovar surrounded by incredible views of the majestic Mount Kailash is a perfect place for adventure and nature lovers.

 

Weather Updates

Why is Summer an Ideal time to visit

In the whole year May and June is the best time for pilgrims to visit. Because the temperature stays between 1°C to 15°C, which is very refreshing and favourable. Moreover, the Roads are snow-free for trekking, and pilgrims can enjoy it without struggling very much.

Autumn

In the post-monsoon season, you will get a chance to witness the extra pleasant weather of Mansarovar lake. This is the season where winter starts peeping and so the mornings and evenings appear chilled and foggy.

Why is Winter an Unfavorable Season

During the winters, the weather of Kailash Mansarovar is extremely cold. Usually, heavy snowfall is seen and covers all the paths and treks. The temperature drops extremely down around -15°C to -18°C, so the Mansarovar lake gets frozen and it is very difficult to survive in this spine chilling cold. Therefore, it is unfavourable to plan the Yatra in the winter season.

Suggested Tour: Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by Helicopter

Pass and Permits Required

Here are the details of the Pass and Permits that you need to embark on the Kailash journey.

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Permit

• As of now, there is a provision for assigning group Visas to visit this holy pilgrimage site by the Ministry of External Affairs and the Chinese Embassy altogether.

Medical Screening

• The tourists are screened medically before leaving for this cross-border pilgrimage.
• Firstly, you will have to go through the medical tests in the hospital of Delhi. Usually, the hospitals which are verified by ITBP are only permitted for this.
• Thereafter, your medical screening is done again when you reach the Gunji, located nearby the Indo Tibet border.

Inner Line Permit

• This particular permission is sought when you wish to pass through restricted areas.
• In detail, you can ask your tour operator while booking the Yatra Package.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Kailash Mansarovar Tirth is May-June or September-October. At this time, the weather appears clear and poses fewer challenges on the path of tourists. So it is recommended to plan this religious tour during summer or autumn.

Who is Eligible to go from India

We’re going to list here some basic requirements and eligibility that allow you to embark on this soul-awakening journey.

• You first need to be an Indian Citizen.
• You are required to have a valid passport with 6 months’ validity as of 1st September of the occurring year.
• The travellers must be above 18 and below 70 years as of 1st January of the particular year of the Yatra.
• It also needs a person to be mentally and physically fit and must not be affected by chronic diseases.
• You will be asked to go through multiple check-ups and tests, which are conducted at DHLI and ITBP in New Delhi.
• Their Body Mass Index (BMI) must not exceed 25.

How Difficult is the Kailash Mansarovar Journey

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra can be highly challenging at some points if you’re not prepared well enough. Some of the difficulties involved are:

• Its high elevation, around approx 5,000 m, comes with the major physical demand. Dolma La Pass is the highest point of the Yatra, and is situated at 5,630m.
• As you keep ascending to the heights, the body challenges such as headache, fatigue, nausea, and soreness try to trap you.
• You will find the uneven, harsh, and rough terrain throughout the journey, especially at Kailash Kora, which asks for a trek of at least 52 km.
• The weather conditions are always unpredictable at heights. You may encounter sudden changes in temperature.
• There is a lack of accommodation and facilities, so pre-planning is an essential part.
• There are limitations on medical help and food options.
• There might be extra delays and cancellations in receiving permits.
• Without acclimatisation, your body may not adapt to the low oxygen levels at heights can be dangerous to your life.

How to Reach

Here are a few options that serve as the starting point of the Yatra from India. However, you will need to enter Nepal or China to pass the crossing into Tibet.

• Via Lipulekh Pass: This pass is situated in the Uttarakhand state and takes you to Tibet through China.
• Via NathuLa Pass: This pass is located in Sikkim, and it’s said that this route is a little less tricky.

Activities to Do

• The Yatra involves a great length of trekking, hiking, and a lot of adventure.
• As you reach Lake Mansarovar, indulge in a sacred bath. It’s believed to be very auspicious and known to cleanse your sins.
• You can explore several monasteries on your way, which enhances the religious experience.
• You must participate in the rituals of all distinct religions. It not only reflects the diversity of India but also fosters the unity between them.
• Throughout the trek, you’ll come across several local cultures and traditions that add excitement to the Yatra.
• Many pilgrims perform meditation and special Pooja at these sacred sites.
• The major ritual of the Yatra is the Circumambulation of Mount Kailash in a clockwise direction.
• Some of the devotees trek to the western side of the mountain to touch the footprints of Lord Shiva which are said to be left by him while ascending to his abode.

Packing List

Apparel:

• Warmers
• Waterproof Jacket and Trouser
• Hiking Boots
• Head Caps
• Gloves

Essentials:

Some essential things, which you should not forget to pack, are

• A valid passport and other Documents
• Wipes, Tissues, and Toiletries
• Flashlight and Power Bank
• Camera, sunglasses, and Gadgets
• Puja items

First-aid Kit:

To travel on the challenging roads of the Mansarovar, you need to have an emergency first aid kit.

In the first aid kit, you should keep

• Nausea Medicines,
• Pain killers,
• Antiseptic,
• Bandages,
• Medical Tape,
• Cold Pack,
• Electrolyte,
• Analgesic ointment,
• and other necessary tablets

Travel Tips

Strength and Agility

• Pilgrims need to consult with their doctors before leaving for this challenging journey.
• You also need to prepare your body from two months in advance by regular exercise, meditation, yoga, and breath practicing for the higher altitude.

Required Documents

• Id proof, Passport, Passport size photographs, Medical Certificate, and consent form are among the essential documents to visit Kailash Mansarovar from the date of entry to Tibetan territory.
• Passports of the pilgrims must be valid for at least six months.

Light Backpacks

• The backpack must be under the weight limit mentioned by your tour operator.

Foods and Snacks

• In this Yatra, pilgrims need to hydrate and maintain their health. So it is advised to carry a water bottle.
• You can pack dry fruits like dates, cashew nuts, almonds, pistachios, apricots, and raisins.
• Also high calories foods like protein bars, chocolates, cookies, and sprouts can be the best snacks for the journey.
• Liquor, smoking, and other kinds of intoxicants must be avoided.

Preparing Mentality

• Travellers must be prepared and resilient to any challenges encountered on the route.
• You can do meditation and practice breathing techniques.
• Sometimes, situations are challenging, like weather anomalies, health problems, travelling for hours, and so on.
• That is why travellers need to be strong mentally and try to be calm in challenging situations.

Conclusion

With the medium of this blog, we have explored the things that are necessary to consider before planning the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. If you go through this guide keenly, then it will ease the pressure to plan and will help you in depth. We hope that it resonates with you and if you have interest in knowing something else then you can ask us by sending message or email.

• Also Check Out: Adi Kailash Trek and Om Parvat Yatra Package