Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Travel Tips

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is one of the most pious journeys anyone can undertake in their lives. You get to have the Darshan of Kailash and Mansarovar- two of the most holy pilgrimage sites for people of different religions. Kailash is considered to be the abode of Lord Shiva and Mansarovar is a splendid lake that holds immense importance for Buddhists, Jains, and Hindus. This journey not only helps you attain enlightenment but also tests your perseverance. You need to undertake an arduous trek and deal with challenging weather. However, you can only enjoy the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra to the fullest by following the tips that contribute to a hassle-free journey. Check the weather, get all the permits, and carry appropriate clothes and footwear during the Yatra.

Tips for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

Here are a few tips that you can follow to make the most out of your Kailash Mansarovar Darshan.

Health Precautions and Safety Measures

• Ensure you’re physically fit for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and do not have any severe health ailments.
• Carry all the important medicines to tackle any kind of emergencies that might arise during the yatra.
• Carry a first-aid kit and get yourself acclimatized to the high altitude.
• Do not give false information related to your health to your tour operator as your yatra may be canceled if you’re found to have submitted wrong reports.
• If you have breathing issues, heart-related problems or any other major complication do not undertake the yatra.

Appropriate Clothing

Keep in mind these tips related to clothing and footwear for a comfortable darshan.

• Wear warm, loose-fitted clothes during the yatra to protect yourself from the harsh weather. Since Kailash Mansarovar is located at a very high altitude you must pack clothes depending on the weather.
• It’s best to wear layered clothes like a jacket, blazer, woolen trousers and warm gloves and socks.
• Wear comfortable shoes with a good grip to enjoy the yatra to the fullest.
• Carry high-SPF sunscreen to protect yourself from the harsh UV rays. Apply sunscreen every four to five hours for optimal protection.
• Wear clothes keeping in mind the sentiments of the locals. Avoid wearing short clothes that may reveal your skin.

Documentation and Travel Insurance

Prioritizing emergency preparedness and travel safety measures will empower you to navigate through Kailash Mansarovar’s challenging terrains with confidence, ensuring a more secure and safer pilgrimage experience.

• Safeguard important documents such as emergency contacts, passports, and permits in a secure place.
• Ensure comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies and high-altitude trekking.

How to Apply for Permits and Visa for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

Permits for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

• Military Permit: A military permit might be important for certain restricted areas.
• Tibet Travel Permit: You must obtain the Tibet Travel Permit through reputed travel agencies or registered tour operators.
• Alien’s Travel Permit: For specific regions, you may require an alien’s travel permit. You can contact your tour operator to obtain this permit.

 China/Tibet Visa Application

• Chinese Consulate or Embassy: You should contact the nearest Chinese Consulate/ Embassy in your country to initiate the application.
• Application Form: You need to fill out the application form correctly.
• Required Documents: Keep all the important documents ready like passport, travel itinerary, photographs, and visa fee.
• Online Application Portal: Now you need to access the Chinese Visa Application Service Center.

Application Process Guidance:

• Government Websites: You can refer to travel advisories or official government websites for updated guidelines and information regarding the yatra.
• Authorized Tour Operators: You can even seek authorized tour operators’ assistance for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra helicopter tour.

Application Preparation and Timeline

• Begin Early: Start the permit and visa application process for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Helicopter well in advance, considering unforeseen delays and processing times.
• Complete Documentation: You should ensure that all the important documents for the yatra are accurate, and complete for a fuss-free application process.

Verification and Checklist

• Application Review: Before submitting your information, forms, and documents for review, double-check them to ensure they are correct.
• Confirm Submission: Verify the process of submission and confirm application receipt with the respective authorities.

Updates and Follow-Up

• Communication: Stay connected with your agency or tour operator for updates on your visa and permit status.
• Travel Advisories: You need to stay informed about any updates or changes regarding travel advisories and visa regulations.

 Travel Readiness

• Document Safeguarding: During your journey, you should keep your passports, visas, permits, and other important travel documents.
• Permit Verification: Before departure, you should have all necessary permits else you may not be allowed to undertake the sacred yatra.

Tips for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Trek

• For trekking, get good-quality gear such as strong shoes, a comfy backpack, and breathable clothes. Having the right gear will help you stay comfortable during your journey.
• Climb slowly and allow your body to get used to higher peaks. You should not rush, especially over 9,800 feet.
• The trek duration around Kailash depends on various factors, like the ability of the trekkers, the trekking routes, and the starting point. Usually, the yatra takes approximately ten to twelve days. The parikrama, a 3-day walk around Kailash, is very hard as the altitude goes higher.
• The trails comprise various terrain, like steep descents and ascents, rocky paths, and high passes crossing, e.g., Dolma La Pass. Proper acclimatization and good stamina are important for a fuss-free yatra.
• Hire a guide as they have great knowledge about the place and alternative routes.
• For the Kailash trip, you can hire a porter. The charges will depend on your backpack’s weight, as it can be a bit difficult to climb up carrying on your back a heavy load. Generally, the porters in Tibet range charge from Rs 1260 to Rs 2520 or more.
• You can stay beside Lake Mansarovar in tents and wake up to the reflection of Mount Kailash on its calm waters.
• Stick to trails that are intended for walking and avoid taking paths or shortcuts that are not safe, such as paths with falling rocks.

Other Important Tips for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Travel Tips

• The weather can be unpredictable in the Kailash Mansarovar region. You’re advised to pack warm clothing, as during the night temperatures can significantly drop. Be prepared for strong winds, rain, and snow by carrying windproof and waterproof gear.
• People of different religions consider the Kailash Mansarovar region to be sacred. Respect the religious sites, local traditions, and customs. Behave well towards your fellow pilgrims and local communities and dress modestly.
• It’s important to have comprehensive travel insurance covering trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and evacuation services. You should check with your insurance provider to ensure for high-altitude journeys you have appropriate coverage.
• Proper hydration is very important at high altitudes. You should drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration throughout the day. You’re also advised to carry a portable water filter or water purification tablets to ensure a safe water supply.
• The Kailash Mansarovar Aerial Darshan is a physically demanding and challenging pilgrimage. You need to plan well in advance to book accommodations, secure permits, and make the required travel arrangements.
• The Yatra will take you to over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet) of altitudes. You must acclimatize properly if you want to avoid altitude sickness. It is also important to plan for a gradual ascent. This will give you optimum time to adjust to the thin air. Listen to your body and stay hydrated. You also need to rest when needed.
• Practice responsible tourism to preserve the region’s pristine beauty. Dispose of waste properly, avoid disturbing the natural habitat, and follow designated trails. You also need to respect the sanctity of the surroundings.