Kailash Mansarovar Yatra: What Is It, Opening, Routes & More

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a spiritual journey undertaken by thousands of pilgrims every year. It is considered one of the holiest pilgrimages in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon.

Mount Kailash, located in Tibet, is revered as the abode of Lord Shiva and is surrounded by the sacred Mansarovar Lake.

This yatra holds immense religious and spiritual significance, and it also offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many.

What Is The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a pilgrimage to Mount Kailash (6,638 meters), which is believed to be the center of the universe according to Hindu scriptures.

Pilgrims also visit Mansarovar Lake, a freshwater lake situated at an altitude of 4,590 meters, which is considered sacred and capable of purifying sins.

The journey involves trekking through rugged terrains and high-altitude passes, making it both spiritually and physically challenging.

Opening Period

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra typically opens during the summer months, from May to September, when the weather is relatively stable and the routes are accessible.

However, the best months to undertake the journey are May, June, and September, as July and August often experience heavy rains due to the monsoon season.

The yatra for 2025 is expected to follow a similar schedule. Those planning the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2025 should check for updated schedules and prepare in advance.

Routes to Kailash Mansarovar

There are multiple routes to reach Kailash Mansarovar, each with its unique features and varying time durations:

Lipulekh Pass Route (via Uttarakhand):

• Time Taken: 23 to 25 days.
• Managed by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
• It starts from Dharchula in Uttarakhand and involves trekking through Lipulekh Pass.
• Known for its challenging terrain and scenic beauty.

Nathu La Pass Route (via Sikkim):

• Time Taken: Approximately 21 days.
• Also organized by the MEA.
• A shorter and easier route with vehicular access up to the Chinese border.
• Suitable for elderly pilgrims or those unable to trek long distances.

Private Operator Route (via Nepal):

• Time Taken: 10 to 14 days (depending on the mode of travel).
• It starts from Kathmandu, Nepal, and proceeds via the Rasuwagadhi border to Tibet.
• Offers both overland and helicopter options.
• This route is popular for its flexibility and shorter duration.

New Route via Gunji (Proposed):

• Time Taken: Details yet to be finalized as the route is under development.

Those wondering how to go for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra can select any of these routes based on their preference, time, and physical fitness.

Eligibility for the Yatra

1. Age: Pilgrims must be between 18 and 70 years old.
2. Fitness: A high level of physical fitness is required due to the strenuous trekking involved at high altitudes.
3. Body Mass Index (BMI): The required BMI is between 18.5 and 27. Pilgrims outside this range may be disqualified.
4. Medical Certification: Pilgrims must pass a medical examination to ensure they can withstand the harsh conditions of the yatra.
5. Passport: A valid passport is mandatory as the journey crosses international borders into China.
6. Permits: Necessary permits and approvals must be obtained through the Ministry of External Affairs or private operators.
7. Restrictions: Foreigners are not allowed to undertake the yatra organized by the Indian government.

Selection Process

1. Draw through a fair computerized system: Yatris will be selected and assigned to different routes and batches by the Ministry of External Affairs through a fair computer-generated random gender-balanced selection process. A route and a batch, once allocated to a Yatri through the computerized process, will not normally be changed.
2. Travel Option Request: At the application stage, two yatris may give an option to travel in the same batch. Efforts will be made to accommodate such requests as far as possible.
3. Confirmation of Participation: After the computerized draw of lots, each selected or wait-listed applicant will be required to confirm his/her participation by crediting a non-refundable amount of Rs.5,000/- by specified deadline into designated bank accounts. The balance amount will be payable later.

Medical Tests

1. In Delhi: Selected Yatris are required to assemble in New Delhi 3-4 days in advance of the Yatra to undergo thorough medical tests at the Delhi Heart and Lung Institute and the ITBP Base Hospital. Parameters of medical tests are decided by the ITBP Base Hospital, keeping the requirements of the Yatra in mind. Only those applicants who pass these tests are allowed to proceed on the Yatra.
2. En Route: Additional medical tests to ascertain reactions to high-altitude trekking will be conducted by ITBP during the course of the Yatra at Gunji for the Yatra through Lipulekh Pass, and at Sherathang for the Yatra through Nathu La. A Yatri who is found medically unfit at this stage will not be permitted to continue the Yatra any further.

For those planning the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2025, it is critical to meet these requirements and complete the medical process.

Costs

The cost of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra varies depending on the route chosen. Here is a detailed breakdown of expenses for the Lipulekh Pass route:

KMVN Fees: Rs.32,000/-

• Rs.5,000/- (non-refundable) to confirm participation.
• Rs.27,000/- payable on arrival in Delhi.

Chinese Visa Fee: Rs.2,400/-

Medical Tests in Delhi: Rs.3,100/-

Stress Echo Test (if required): Rs.2,500/-

Tibetan Expenses: US $801 (approximately Rs.48,861/-)

• Covers lodging, meals at Taklakot, transportation, Kailash Parikrama charges, and entry fees.

Indian Porter Charges: Rs.8,904/-

Indian Pony with Handler: Rs.10,666/-

Chinese Porter Charges: RMB 360 (approximately Rs.3,600/-)

Chinese Pony with Handler: RMB 1,050 (approximately Rs.10,500/-)

Pool Money for Group Activities: Rs.2,000/-

Other Expenses: Roughly Rs.20,000/- for cooks, clothing, food stores, and miscellaneous items.

Those wondering about the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra cost should consider this detailed breakdown.

Refund Policy

1. Medical Disqualification: Medical charges are non-refundable even if the applicant is disqualified due to medical reasons.
2. Deposit Forfeiture: Applicants found medically unfit or disqualified at any stage will forfeit the non-refundable deposit and other payments made to KMVN.

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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1. Kailash Mansarovar Yatra How To Go?

You can undertake the journey via government-organized routes through Lipulekh or Nathu La, or opt for private operators offering routes via Nepal.

Q2. Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Where To Apply?

Applications can be submitted on the official Ministry of External Affairs website during the application period.

Q3. Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Duration?

The duration ranges from 10 to 25 days depending on the route and mode of travel.

Q4. Kailash Mansarovar Yatra How To Reach?

Pilgrims can reach the starting points via domestic travel to Kathmandu, Dharchula, or Gangtok, depending on the chosen route.

Q5. Which Is The Best Month To Visit Kailash Mansarovar?

The best months to undertake the yatra are May, June, and September, as the weather during these months is relatively stable and suitable for trekking.