Kailash Tour Information – Planning & Preparations

Kailash Tour Information – Get well prepared for the journey

Where is Mount Kailash?

In Tibet, China, the Kailash Range, which is a component of the trans-Himalaya, has the black peak known as Mount Kailash. It is located close to the sources of several of Asia’s longest rivers, including the Sutlej, Brahmaputra, Karnali, and Indus. Four major religions regard Mount Kailash as a sacred site: Buddhism, Hinduism, Jainism, and Bön. The mountain is located close to Tibet’s Lake Rakshastal and Lake Manasarovar.

Mount Kailash is located in the remote western part of the Tibetan plateau, and in the Kailash Range that stretches all the way from India to Tibet. The exact location of Mount Kailash is at 31.0675° N latitude and 81.3119° E longitude, which makes it a part of the Burang County (also known as Purang County).

The Ngari Prefecture is home to Mount Kailash and it lies near the unique tri-junction of three countries: Nepal, India, and China. This peak is known to be the heart of the Trans Himalaya Mountain Range, and the Kailash range is also known as a counterpart to the Himalayas.

Standing tall at an impressive altitude of 6,638 meters (21,778 ft), Mount Kailash is a rather significant and distinctive peak given its symmetrical shape as well as its unclimbed status.

Considered to be the spiritual center of the world by many, Mount Kailash is present between Lhasa and Shigatse in Tibet. It lies at a distance of approximately 1,400 KM from Lhasa.

Surrounding the Kailash range are the other attractions of Mount Kailash Tour, and other significant peaks like the Naimonanyi Peak and other high altitude desert regions and vast open space which creates a contrast to the snow-capped peak of Mt. Kailash.

How to reach Kailash Mansarovar?

While not as easily accessible, there are many religious faiths that converge here and hence thousands of people make their way to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar each year.

There are many routes that lead the pilgrims from all across the globe to Kailash Mansarovar, and the most popular Kailash Mansarovar Tours routes are via Nepal, India, and via Tibet itself.

While the overall challenges during the Kailash Mansarovar Tour significantly vary based on the route that you have taken, it is important to equally prepare for all the routes. Below are the key Kailash Mansarovar Tour routes:

Kailash Mansarovar Tour Route from Nepal

Nepal is one of the main gateways for those heading to Mount Kailash, offering both overland and flight options. The most popular route is now via Kerung as it provides a relatively smoother travel experience.

Travelers embark on a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Kerung via the Rasuwagadhi border. After completing border formalities, the journey continues overland through Tibetan villages, passing Kerung, Saga and Mansarovar Lake before reaching Mount Kailash.

For those wanting a more adventurous escape, there is the Simikot-Hilsa route. This journey starts with a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, followed by a connecting flight to Simikot.

From there, travelers experience a thrilling helicopter flight to Hilsa boarder and cross the Karnali River into Tibet. The journey then proceeds to Taklakot (Purang) before reaching Mansarvoar Lake and Mount Kailash.

While there was another route to reach Mount Kailash from Nepal via Nyalam, due to the 2015 earthquake, the route via Nyalam and the Friendship Bridge was closed until 2025. In June 2025, there was a massive nature disaster at Kerung boarder and due to huge floods the whole area of Kerung boarder including friendship bridge were swiped away by flood, in result this boarder was closed for tourism. Since Kerung boarder was closed as an alternative option Nyalam boarder was again open for tourism from June 2025. Again the good news is Kerung boarder is already ready to welcome travelers from May 2026. Therefore, the Kerung route and the Simikot-Hilsa are the most popular choices.

Also, there are many permits that you need to have for the Kailash Mansarovar tour via Nepal. And you will need at least 4 to 5 working days to obtain the necessary Chinese visa and Tibet Travel Permit.

Therefore, it is crucial to arrive in Kathmandu early for the visa application process. So, plan your trip accordingly.

Kailash Mansarovar Tour via Lhasa, Tibet

Pilgrims starting their journey from Lhasa can travel overland, passing through key Tibetan cities such as Shigatse, Saga, and Darchen. Darchen serves as the starting point for the Kailash Parikrama (Kora). Various transportation options are available, including jeeps, Vans, and deluxe Buses.

Best Time for Kailash Mansarovar Tour

With the countless challenges already present on the Kailash Mansarovar Tour, you would rather not like to increase these challenges ten folds by visiting during the wrong season.

You should go on the Mount Kailash Tour during the months of May, June, July, Aug and September as these months offer the most pleasant weather conditions for your pilgrimage trip and these are the best time for Kailash Mansarovar Tour.

During these months, most of the roads are accessible and the climatic conditions are stable too. The clear skies will also offer you majestic views of the Trans Himalaya Mountain range.

The clear days are also great for people willing to circumambulate Mount Kailash, i.e. perform Kora. You can also visit during the months of May or mid-June as it is the time of Saga Dawa festival.

During this time, you will see many Buddhist pilgrims collected here to celebrate the birth, enlightenment, and death of Gautam Buddha. Therefore, you can have a unique opportunity to witness vibrant cultural festivities and join thousands of pilgrims from around the world.

Weather and Temperature of Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar

Mount Kailash is known as the “roof of the world.” Tibet is a high plateau surrounded by towering mountain ranges. With the exception of the southeast, the majority of Tibet is covered in tundra, permafrost, or desert plain because the mountain ranges collect rainwater before it reaches the plateau. The majority of Tibet is covered in frost for at least half the year, and the highest lakes are covered in ice from October to March. There are significant regional variations in the weather.

The climate of Tibet is characterized by

•  Dazzling sunshine
• Chilly and dry
• Significant temperature difference between day and night

Tibet’s high elevation causes

•  Thin air
• Reduced oxygen concentration
• Reduced boiling point

Mansarovar Lake and Mount Kailash

The holy Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar tour, which is located in Tibet’s highlands, is regarded as one of the most worshipped pilgrimages by Buddhists, Jains, and Hindus alike. Every year, thousands of pilgrims from all over the world come to visit this sacred location. The heavenly spiritual trek to Mansarovar Lake and Mount Kailash can lead to soul purification and reincarnation.

The season for the Kailash tour starts in May and finishes in October. Every month has its share of good and bad moments. One must travel to Mount Kailash Mansarovar with the proper season and weather in order to experience the aura and beauty of this sacred location.

In summer, Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar

Summer arrives in Kailash and Mansarovar in May and June. The first part of the Kailash Mansarovar journey is underway. During this period, daytime highs of 8°C to 15°C and nighttime lows of roughly 5°C to -5°C are typical. The renowned Saga Dawa Festival in Tibet takes place in May or June.

In monsoon season, Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar

The monsoon season in Kailash Mansarovar runs from mid-July until mid-August. Tibet is a desert country, thus its rainy seasons are short and the ground dries out fast. Since this is Shravana’s holy month, quite a few individuals favor it. The typical daytime high during this period is between 10°C and 20°C, while the typical nighttime low is between 7°C and -2°C.

After monsoon, Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar

In Kailash Mansarovar, the post-monsoon season lasts from mid-August until mid-September. Due to the relative lack of crowds, these months are seen to be the finest for visiting Mount Kailash Kora. During the day, the average temperature is roughly 20°C, and at night, it ranges from 6°C to -4°C.

In the winter, Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar

The winter season in Kailash Mansarovar runs from October to March. During these months, the area experiences temperatures as low as -20°C due to the very cold winds. October marks the beginning of the snowfall, which lasts nonstop through November, December, January, and February before beginning to decrease in March. The routes in the Kailash Mansarovar region are obstructed by the heavy snowfall and lowering temperatures.

Before embarking on a holy journey to Kailash Mansarovar, you must be curious about the temperature of Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar. Alpine Eco Trek offers you an approximate weather and temperature chart based on our research for significant locations along the Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar itinerary.

Kailash Parikrama during Kailash Mansarovar Tour

Also known as ‘Kora’, Kailash Parikrama refers to the circumambulation of Mount Kailash which is an important pilgrimage activity during the Kailash Mansarovar Tour across religions like Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and the Bon religion.

Mount Kailash is also famous for its unclimbed status as pilgrims don’t climb the peak but rather perform Kora to gain spiritual enlightenment, honor their gods, and cleanse their souls.

In Hinduism, Mount Kailash is believed to be the home of Lord Shiva along with his consort Mata Parvati, and it is believed that completing the Kailash Parikrama releases devotees from the cycle of rebirth.

Similarly for Buddhists, the mountain represents the spiritual center of the world- axis mundi, a physical manifestation of Mount Meru and is home to the deity Demchok.

In Jainism, it is where the Jain pioneer Rishabadeva attained enlightenment, and in the Bon religion, it is the residence of the goddess Sipaimen. Therefore, each religion performs Kailash Parikrama based on their own beliefs.

The Kailash Parikrama is a three-day walk covering rugged terrains and high-altitude passes. The journey is physically and mentally demanding, with altitudes exceeding 5,000 meters.

Pilgrims must acclimatize, stay hydrated, and pace themselves. Despite its challenges, the Kailash Parikrama is a profound experience, offering a chance to connect deeply with nature and one’s spirituality.

Kailash Mansarovar Tour on full Moon Day

While visiting Kailash Mansarovar is considered to be auspicious throughout the year, a fascinating fact about mount Kailash is that it is believed that experiencing the majesty of the peak on a full moon day is extra auspicious for pilgrims.

It is believed that the spiritual energy of the place becomes much higher on the full moon day. On the other hand, the stunning reflection of a full moon along with Mt. Kailash on the pristine Mansarovar Lake makes the view ten times more enchanting.

Visitors can plan their Kailash Mansarovar Tour and align it to coincide with a full moon day when the tranquil environment, illuminated by the glowing moonlight, offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It is a great opportunity for devotees as well as photographers seeking the mystical ambiance of the region.

Fitness requirement for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a rather challenging journey with some of the most daunting routes, navigating challenging terrains, and crossing a significant altitude of above 5,500 meters.

Therefore, to tackle this journey along the challenging Himalayan landscape, proper physical preparation is a must. Physical preparation becomes of utmost importance to have a successful and comparatively smooth journey experience.

You should start your preparations well in advance, at least 3 months prior to the Kailash Mansarovar Tour. Engage in proper workout routines to make it easier to deal with the steep ascents and descents on many parts of the Parikarma, especially while crossing the Dolma La Pass, work on your legs.

Do strength training and focus on your core muscles, calf muscles, shoulder, and your back to make long hours of walking easier. Also do cardio workout and activities like dancing, swimming, running, and climbing and getting down the stairs.

This makes your cardiovascular system and respiratory system much stronger and trains it to adapt to the challenging high-altitude conditions of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.

Along with proper research about altitude sickness during Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, it is also important to acclimatize well during the journey. Make sure that you are eating a nutritious diet.

Stay hydrated and maintain a gradual ascent. Your body needs time to acclimatize to higher altitudes, so follow the principle of “hike high, sleep low.” If you notice any symptoms related to altitude sickness, immediately descend and rest well.

HEALTH PRE- CAUTION

Normally, at higher altitude area in Tibet including Kailash and Manasarover Lake, the amount of oxygen is less. Certain illness such as loss of appetite, mild headache, nausea, tiredness, breathlessness, general uneasiness, high irritability, light loss of balance, disorientation, incoherence and insomnia etc may be induced in the windy weather and high altitude area which generally is not encountered over the plains.

This kind of symptoms can be seen in anyone irrespective of their age, sex and physical fitness. Tranquilizers, sleeping dose and strong anti-biotic must be avoided during Kailash tour and gradual acclimatization is the most and best solution for these symptoms while some of them may also be indicating the readjusting of our body to new environments. Here are some best advices that you should consciously follow to avoid such risks.

• Rest, Breathe easy, climb down, do not apply, be excited
• Speak less, Observe silence with smiling every time if possible
• Walk at your own speed– adopt one third of your speed and space
• Take 10 minutes rest after each 30 minutes walk, keep your load light
• Stop immediately whenever you feel uncomfortable and relax for a while
• Do not engage yourself in outbursts of fellow pilgrims, avoid arguments
• Too high and too fast are both harmful. So follow guide’s advices
• Never proceed with an empty stomach and consume plenty of liquids and quality snacks
• Enjoy your favorite music, Bhajans, chanting etc in the earphone and you can chant a prayer or visualize everything around to suit your pleasant thoughts
• It is better to be over clothed than under protected to avoid catching a cold
• Bathing or drinking water from Lake Streams or rivers en-route should be avoided as your system is not habituated for this
• Avoid dust and direct sunshine during the long stretches of driving. Face, feet and hands must be well protected
• The jagged ground, steep slope and slushy banks are full of potholes. Be careful while walking and sightseeing together
• Always be in group and follow your guide or the one with experience
• Over exertion is to be avoided. Heavy warm clothing is most during winter

Kailash Mansarovar Tour Cost from Nepal

The cost of Kailash Mansarovar Tour is quite subjective, and estimating it can be a tough job as it depends heavily on the duration of the tour, mode of transportation chosen, route, tour operator, and the kind of experience that you are seeking.

For the overland travelers, the travel cost might come much less than those taking a helicopter ride to Kailash. The cost of the Kailash Mansarovar tour from Nepal for an overland journey is generally between between USD 2,500 to 3,000 per person.

The Kailash Mansarovar tour cost depends on the services included like accommodation, meals, permits, logistical aspects, guides, and support that are required to ensure a smooth experience.

Extra expenses for Mount Kailash Tour

Besides the main cost of Kailash Mansarovar tour, you will also need to set aside a certain amount for the extra expenses for Kailash Mansarovar tour. These expenses can include a variety of cost like:

• Tipping for guides and porters, typically $5 to $10 USD per day.
• Personal gear, such as trekking poles, warm clothing, and hiking boots.
• Accommodation in Kathmandu before and after the main package.
• Travel insurance, which should cover high-altitude trekking.
• Additional snacks, beverages, and souvenirs along the route. It’s wise to budget for these extras to avoid surprises during the trip.

Accommodation during Kailash Mansarovar Tour

Mount Kailash is located in a rather remote corner of Tibet, which leaves the Kailash Mansarovar tour with basic as well as limited facilities, especially when it comes to the accommodation options.

Although there are quite a few accommodation options along the Kailash route, do not expect ones with much luxury and facilities like attached washrooms, laundry, and such. If you are taking the route from Nepal, Kerung, Saga, and Darchen offer good accommodation facilities, providing more comfort along the journey.

You will see lots of dormitories, guest houses, and basic hotels that will offer basic facilities like a washroom, often shared, and a warm meal. Electricity is quite scarce here.

Depending on your preferences, you can even choose to stay in a tent or camp during the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. So, it is best to carry supplies like power bank and personal hygiene items during the journey.

Age restriction for Kailash Mansarovar Tour participation

When it comes to age limit for the Kailash Mansarovar tour, there are many different details which mark different ages as the limit. And this also varies based on the nationality of the travelers.

The general standard age restriction for Kailash Mansarovar tour participation is between the age of 10 to 80 years. People under 10 years and over 80 years are not permitted due to the potential hazards of altitude sickness.

Also given the physical demands of the journey and high-altitude conditions mean that those on the older side of the age limit must be in excellent health. It is always better to get a medical clearance before embarking on the journey.

Additional details for the Kailash Tour

• No books, magazines, pictures, or information regarding Tibet, Buddhism, or any Lamas are allowed to be brought. China’s customs prohibit bringing those kinds of books into the country. They’ll either store or destroy themselves.
• Kindly refrain from bringing any fresh fruits, vegetables, or liquids (such as ghee or oils) as these items are prohibited from entering Kerung, Nyalam, Lhasa Airport, or Hilsa (Simikot) due to Chinese customs.
• It is strictly forbidden to take photos or videos at Chinese customs, army, or police stations.
• Comply with your guide’s instructions when answering questions and checking in at each customs and check-post. (The guide for Alpine Eco Trek will brief you starting on the first day.)
• Please treat all Nepali and Tibetan staff members with kindness, courtesy, and cooperation.
• General items include a small, lightweight daypack and a one, two, or three-liter thermos flask filled with hot water.

Packing list for Kailash Tour

CLOTHING: Clothing should be prepared for temperatures ranging from 20 to -16 degrees Celsius. Given that the difference in temperature between day and night is substantial (up to + 20 degrees),Woolen gloves, a balaclava, a sun hat, thermal clothes, a water bottle, woolen socks, a towel, a light jacket, sunglasses, and sun cream should all be included. Included are a hiking shoe, mask, raincoat, sweater, torch with extra batteries or bulbs, muffler, and raincoat.

FOOTWEAR: Carry an extra pair of comfortable sports shoes or trainers (like Nike, Adidas, etc.) and a pair of lightweight sleepers. Sandal for hotel/guesthouse use in the evenings and mornings.

Toiletries

• A kit of toiletries (soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toilet paper, tour towels, etc.).
• Wet tissues for the face, sunblock lotion, cream, or cold cream (if you need them yourself)
• Camping supplies include a flashlight, a lighter, batteries, plastic mugs and knives (if you need them), face masks and dusk masks.

Personal items for a relaxing and pleasurable journey

•  Any usual medications you take as prescribed by your physician
• Dark sunglasses that are useful for navigating Drolma La Pass
• Your preferred dry foods, such as almonds, cookies, Kapoor, Vicks, inhalers, etc.
• Extra batteries, binoculars, and camera

A first Aid Kit and Additional Items

• A comprehensive first aid bag, which includes an AET handbook and a standard hiking kit for mild injuries.
• Diamox Plasters, Lip balm, Vaseline, Mustard oil, and Aspirin or pain relievers
• Mints, chewing gum, Vicks for sore throats, and salt

Booking conditions for trips/journeys: A minimum of 45 days in advance is needed to make arrangements. Approval and issuing of the Kailash permit and visa Permit for travel. For foreign passport holders, we advise you to pay USD 500 per person as a down payment via bank transfer for the tour booking.

Additional Information:

We’ve tried to include as much information as we can on Mount Kailash and Tibet Tours & Treks on our website. However, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us if you have any questions about the trip. We respond to all inquiries within a day. If you would like to schedule a tour, you may reach Ram Kumar Adhikari directly at 0977 98510 36844 or by email.