Where is Mount Kailash Located

Mount Kailash offers one of the world's most challenging and rewarding pilgrimages. Whether you're seeking spiritual enlightenment, testing your physical limits, or experiencing one of Earth's most remote places, the journey transforms everyone who makes it.

The 52-kilometer kora around the sacred mountain takes you through extreme altitudes, harsh weather, and basic conditions. But the sight of Mount Kailash's perfect pyramid rising above the Tibetan plateau, the crystal waters of Lake Manasarovar, and the shared experience with pilgrims from around the world create memories that last a lifetime.

After a five-year suspension, the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra resumed in 2025. Multiple routes from India, Nepal, and China make this sacred journey more accessible than ever.

With proper preparation, the right mindset, and respect for the mountain's spiritual significance, your Mount Kailash pilgrimage can be the journey of a lifetime.

The mountain remains unclimbed, sacred, and mysterious—calling to those ready to walk in its shadow. Will you answer the call?

Where is Mount Kailash?

Mount Kailash sits in the Gangdise mountain range in Tibet's Ngari Prefecture, near China's borders with India and Nepal. The mountain is about 1,400 kilometers from Lhasa and 782 kilometers from Kathmandu.

Four major rivers start near Mount Kailash: the Indus, Sutlej, Brahmaputra, and Karnali. These rivers support billions of people across Asia. Two sacred lakes lie nearby: Lake Manasarovar (freshwater, considered holy) and Rakshastal (saltwater, called the Lake of Demons).

Why Mount Kailash is Sacred

1. Hinduism: Lord Shiva lives at the summit with Goddess Parvati. Hindus consider a pilgrimage here the ultimate spiritual journey.
2. Buddhism: Called Gang Tise or Kang Rimpoche (Precious One of Glacial Snow), Buddhists believe it represents Mount Meru, the center of the universe and home of Buddha Demchok.
3. Jainism: Known as Ashtapada, where Rishabhadeva, the first Tirthankar, achieved liberation.
4. Bon Religion: Called Tise, followers believe it's the seat of Sky Goddess Sipaimen and the spiritual center of the world.

The Kailash Kora (Parikrama)

The sacred walk around Mount Kailash covers 52-53 kilometers. Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains walk clockwise. Bon followers walk counterclockwise.

Completing one kora cleanses sins and brings spiritual merit. According to Tibetan tradition, 108 koras guarantee enlightenment.

Three-Day Kailash Trek

Day 1: Darchen to Dirapuk (20 km) Takes about 7 hours with moderate uphill sections. Sleep at Dirapuk Monastery at 4,900 meters. Optional 3-kilometer side trek to Charan Sparsh (Mount Kailash's base) to "touch the feet of Lord Shiva" at 5,475 meters—very challenging.

Day 2: Dirapuk to Zutulpuk (22 km)
The toughest day. Cross Drolma La Pass at 5,630 meters (18,471 feet), the trek's highest point. Pass Gauri Kunda lake. Takes 8-10 hours with steep climbs and descents. Sleep at Zutulpuk Monastery.

Day 3: Zutulpuk to Darchen (15 km)
Easier downhill walk back to Darchen. Takes about 4-5 hours. The kora is complete.

Most pilgrims rent horses or yaks for easier sections. Costs vary by season and demand.

Why Nobody Has Climbed Mount Kailash

No one has successfully climbed Mount Kailash. Here's why:

1. All four religions consider climbing sacrilegious
2. The Chinese government prohibits climbing attempts by law
3. In 2001, Spain offered China $20 million for climbing rights. China refused
4. The mountain's spiritual status protects it from mountaineering

According to legend, only Tibetan yogi Milarepa reached the summit, though no historical proof exists.

Mount Kailash Mysteries

• Perfect Pyramid Shape: The mountain has four faces aligned almost perfectly with north, south, east, and west. Natural erosion created this unusual symmetry.
• Perpetual Snow Cap: The peak stays snow-covered year-round despite temperature changes.
• Cross Formation: Natural rock formations create a visible cross shape on the mountain's surface.
• Time Anomalies: Some visitors report faster hair and nail growth near the mountain. These claims lack scientific proof but persist in local stories.
• Geographic Alignments: Some researchers claim Mount Kailash aligns with ancient sites like Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids, though mainstream science disputes these theories.

How to Reach Mount Kailash: Complete Routes

Route 1: From India via Lipulekh Pass (Uttarakhand)

• Who Organizes: Indian Ministry of External Affairs with Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam
• Route: Delhi → Tanakpur → Dharchula → Gunji → Nabhidang → Lipulekh Pass (5,115 m) → Taklakot → Mount Kailash
• Duration: 15-20 days round trip

2026 Schedule (Tentative):

• Registration opens: May 2026
• First batch departure: Early June 2026
• Last batch departure: Late August 2026
• Total batches: 15-18 (subject to government approval)
• Note: 2026 Fire Horse Year may see increased slots due to high demand

Advantages:

• Government-organized with medical support
• Most of the journey stays within Indian borders
• Historic pilgrimage route
• Lower cost than private tours

Challenges:

• Physically demanding with high-altitude trekking
• Limited departure dates (June-August only)
• Must register through MEA portal when it opens in May
• Age limit: 18-70 years with medical fitness certificate

How to Apply:

1. Register on MEA's official portal (opens in May)
2. Submit medical fitness certificate
3. Choose preferred route (cannot change after selection)
4. Pay fees
5. Wait for lottery selection

Route 2: From India via Nathu La Pass (Sikkim)

• Who Organizes: Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation
• Route: Delhi → Bagdogra → Gangtok → Nathu La Pass (4,309 m) → Tibet → Lake Manasarovar → Mount Kailash
• Duration: 12-15 days

2026 Schedule (Tentative):

• Registration: Through Sikkim Tourism authorized operators
• First batch departure: Mid-June 2026
• Last batch departure: Late August 2026
• Total batches: 8-12 (fewer than Lipulekh route)
• Note: Exact dates announced by STDC in April/May 2026

Advantages:

• Fully motorable route
• Less physically demanding than Lipulekh
• Shorter journey time
• Better road infrastructure

Challenges:

• Weather-dependent (pass closes during heavy snow)
• Fewer slots than Lipulekh route
• Need special permits for Sikkim restricted areas

How to Apply: Through Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation authorized operators

Route 3: From Kathmandu, Nepal (Most Popular)

• Route: Kathmandu → Syabrubesi/Rasuwagadhi → Kerung/Kyirong (border) → Saga → Lake Manasarovar → Darchen → Mount Kailash
• Duration: 10-14 days
• Distance: 782 kilometers from Kathmandu
• 2025 Update: Kodari border now operational as alternative entry point (July 2025)

Advantages:

• Most accessible for international pilgrims
• Year-round departures (April to October)
• Flexible schedules with multiple operators
• Good road infrastructure on Tibet side
• Cultural experiences in Nepal
• No lottery system
• Confirmed travel dates

Challenges:

• Higher costs than government routes
• Must book through authorized operators
• Need Chinese Group Visa (processed in Kathmandu)
• 3-5 working days for visa processing

Who Can Use This Route: Anyone with a valid passport except Indian citizens traveling on Indian passports (they must use government routes or register through special operators)

Typical Itinerary:

• Day 1-2: Arrive Kathmandu, sightseeing, visa processing
• Day 3: Drive to Syabrubesi (Nepal-China border area)
• Day 4: Border crossing to Kerung (2,700 m), acclimatization
• Day 5: Drive to Saga (4,500 m)
• Day 6: Saga to Lake Manasarovar, holy bath, puja
• Day 7: Lake Manasarovar to Darchen
• Day 8-10: Three-day Kailash Kora
• Day 11: Darchen to Saga
• Day 12: Saga to Kerung
• Day 13: Kerung to Kathmandu
• Day 14: Depart Kathmandu

Route 4: From Lhasa (Mainland China)

Route: Lhasa → Shigatse → Saga → Darchen → Mount Kailash

Duration: 15-17 days round trip

Distance: 1,400 kilometers one way

Advantages:

• Best for altitude acclimatization (spend 3-4 days in Lhasa)
• Visit Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, other cultural sites
• Experience Qinghai-Tibet Railway (world's highest)
• Direct flights from major Chinese cities

Challenges:

• Longest and most expensive route
• Foreign visitors need guided tours
• Must get Tibet Travel Permit plus additional permits
• No direct flights from India to mainland China (transit through Bangkok, Singapore, etc.)

Best For: Travelers already in China, those wanting extended Tibet cultural experience, people with more time and budget

Route 5: Helicopter Tour from Nepal

Route: Kathmandu → Nepalgunj (flight) → Simikot (flight) → Hilsa (helicopter) → Taklakot → Lake Manasarovar → Mount Kailash

Duration: 9-11 days

Cost: USD 3,100-3,950 per person

Advantages:

• Fastest option
• Minimal road travel
• Suitable for those with limited time
• Less physically demanding
• Luxury option with better facilities

Challenges:

• Much higher cost
• Higher risk of altitude sickness (rapid elevation gain)
• Weather-dependent (flights can be delayed or canceled)
• Limited availability during peak season
• Less acclimatization time

Important Note: Altitude sickness is more common on helicopter tours because you fly from Simikot (2,910 m) to Hilsa (3,640 m) then quickly reach areas over 5,000 m. Take altitude medication seriously.

Route 6: From Kashgar (Xinjiang, China)

Route: Kashgar → Ali (Ngari) → Mount Kailash

Duration: Long overland journey

Best For: Adventure travelers combining Silk Road and Tibet exploration

Note: Less common route, requires extensive permits and planning

Permits and Visas Required

For Nepal Route (Non-Indian Passport Holders)

Required Documents:

1. Chinese Group Visa: Applied through tour operator in Kathmandu, takes 3-5 working days, costs included in tour package
2. Tibet Travel Permit (TTP): Issued by Tibet Tourism Bureau through operator
3. Alien Travel Permit: For areas outside Lhasa
4. Military Permit: For Ngari region where Kailash is located

Timeline: Arrive in Kathmandu at least 5 working days before departure for visa processing

2025 Visa-Free Countries: Citizens of certain countries (check with operator for current list) get visa-free entry to China until December 25, 2025, but still need Tibet permits

For Indian Citizens

Via Government Routes (Lipulekh/Nathu La):

• Register through MEA portal
• Indian passport mandatory
• Medical fitness certificate
• Age 18-70 years
• No individual visa needed (government handles everything)

Via Nepal Route:

• Must use authorized operators
• Chinese Group Visa processed in Kathmandu
• Cannot use individual tourist visa
• Same Tibet permits as other nationalities

Processing Time

Apply for your tour at least 1-2 months in advance. Peak season (May-September) requires even earlier booking due to high demand and limited permits.

Mount Kailash Tour Cost 2026

Government-Organized Tours (Indian Citizens Only)

Lipulekh Route: INR 1,80,000 - 2,50,000 per person
Nathu La Route: Similar pricing

Included: Accommodation, meals, guide, medical support, permits, transport within India and Tibet

Note: Uttar Pradesh government offers INR 1 lakh subsidy for state residents (once in lifetime)

Private Tours from Nepal

Overland (Road) Tour: USD 1,500-2,500 per person
Helicopter Tour: USD 3,100-3,950 per person

What's Included:

• All permits and visas
• Accommodation (basic to standard)
• Meals (vegetarian available)
• Transport in Nepal and Tibet
• English-speaking guide
• Tibetan guide inside Tibet
• Kailash Kora support

What's NOT Included:

• International flights
• Travel insurance
• Horse/yak rental for kora (USD 100-200)
• Personal expenses
• Porter charges if needed
• Tips for guides and drivers
• Additional puja costs

Luxury/Premium Tours

Cost: INR 5,00,000 - 8,00,000 (USD 6,000-10,000) per person

Included Extras:

• Private helicopter
• Better hotels throughout
• Private vehicle and guide
• Medical support with oxygen
• Personal porter during kora
• More comfortable camping gear

Best Time for Mount Kailash Yatra

Peak Season (May-June, September-October)

• Weather: Daytime 5-17°C (41-63°F), dry conditions
• Best visibility of Mount Kailash
• Roads clear and accessible
• Most facilities open
• Highest demand, book 2-3 months ahead

Monsoon (July-August)

• Tibet gets less rain than surrounding areas
• Some scattered showers possible
• Cooler temperatures
• Fewer crowds
• Lower prices from some operators

Not Recommended (November-March)

• Winter temperatures: -4 to 0°C daytime, -20°C at night
• January is coldest month
• Heavy snow blocks roads
• Most tour operators closed
• Risk of hypothermia

Full Moon Dates: Many pilgrims prefer traveling during full moon for auspicious timing and better night visibility. Tours during full moon cost slightly more and fill up quickly.

What to Pack for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

Essential Clothing

• Down jacket (rated for -20°C)
• Thermal underwear (top and bottom)
• Fleece or wool layers
• Windproof outer jacket
• Trekking pants (quick-dry)
• Warm hat covering ears
• Gloves (waterproof outer, warm inner)
• Sunglasses (Category 4 for high altitude)
• Sun hat with brim
• Sturdy trekking boots (broken in)
• Camp shoes or sandals

Essential Gear

• Sleeping bag (-15°C rated minimum)
• Trekking poles
• Headlamp with extra batteries
• Water bottles (1-2 liters)
• Water purification tablets
• Daypack (20-30L)
• Duffel bag for main luggage

Medical Kit

• Altitude sickness medication (Diamox/Acetazolamide)
• Pain relievers (ibuprofen, paracetamol)
• Digestive medicines (antacids, anti-diarrheal)
• Personal prescription medicines
• First aid supplies (bandages, antiseptic)
• Lip balm with SPF
• Sunscreen SPF 50+
• Throat lozenges
• Vitamins (especially Vitamin C)

Other Essentials

• Valid passport (6+ months validity)
• Passport photos (for permits)
• Cash (USD and Chinese Yuan/Nepali Rupees)
• Power bank for devices
• Dry snacks (energy bars, nuts)
• Toilet paper and wet wipes
• Hand sanitizer
• Plastic bags
• Prayer items if needed

What NOT to Bring

• Heavy suitcases (use duffel bags)
• Expensive jewelry
• Unnecessary electronics
• Cotton clothing (doesn't dry)
• Excessive toiletries

Altitude and Health Considerations

Understanding Altitude Sickness

Mount Kailash sits at extreme altitude. Darchen is at 4,670 m and Drolma La Pass at 5,630 m. Altitude sickness (Acute Mountain Sickness - AMS) is common.

Symptoms:

• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Difficulty sleeping
• Shortness of breath

Prevention

1. Acclimatize Properly: Spend 2-3 days at 3,000-4,000 m before going higher
2. Climb High, Sleep Low: Don't sleep more than 500 m higher than previous night
3. Stay Hydrated: Drink 3-4 liters of water daily
4. Eat Light: Small frequent meals, avoid alcohol
5. Go Slow: "Pole pole" (slowly slowly in Swahili) is the mantra
6. Medication: Consider Diamox after consulting your doctor

Medical Fitness

You need to be in good physical condition. Start training 2-3 months before:

• Cardiovascular exercise (running, cycling, swimming)
• Hiking with loaded backpack
• Strength training for legs
• Practice at altitude if possible

Pre-existing Conditions: Consult your doctor if you have:

• Heart disease
• High blood pressure
• Lung conditions
• Severe asthma
• Pregnancy

Accommodation During Kailash Tour

Kathmandu: 3-5 star hotels with modern facilities

Nepal Border Areas: Basic guesthouses with shared bathrooms

Tibet (Saga, Darchen, Taklakot): Simple guesthouses with basic facilities, rooms on sharing basis (twin/triple), limited electricity and hot water

During Kora (Dirapuk, Zutulpuk): Very basic monastery guesthouses or camping. Dormitory-style rooms with no heating. Common toilets. Some tour operators provide camping tents with sleeping bags.

Tip: Don't expect luxury. Accommodation is functional, not comfortable. This is part of the pilgrimage experience.

Food During the Journey

In Kathmandu: Full range of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, Continental, vegetarian

In Tibet: Limited options

• Basic Tibetan food (thukpa, momos, tsampa)
• Simple Chinese dishes
• Rice, dal, vegetables
• Most tour packages include vegetarian meals
• Limited fresh fruits and vegetables
• Tea and instant noodles always available

During Kora: Even more limited. Energy bars, dried fruits, instant noodles. Bring your own snacks.

Water: Always use purification tablets or boiled water. Don't drink directly from taps or streams.

Lake Manasarovar

At 4,588 meters, Lake Manasarovar is one of the world's highest freshwater lakes. The name means "Lake of Consciousness and Enlightenment."

Spiritual Significance: Bathing in the lake cleanses sins. Many pilgrims take a ritual dip despite freezing temperatures.

Activities:

• Holy bath (parikrama)
• Puja and prayers
• Lake circumambulation (optional, adds 4-5 days)
• Meditation on the shores
• Photography (stunning views)

Nearby: Chui Gompa monastery on the lake's shore

Note: Water is extremely cold (even in summer). Most people do a quick dip rather than swimming. Bring a towel and dry clothes.

Practical Tips

Money

• Carry sufficient cash (USD, Chinese Yuan, Nepali Rupees)
• ATMs not available in remote Tibet areas
• Credit cards not accepted except major hotels in Kathmandu
• Budget extra for horse rental, tips, personal expenses

Communication

• Mobile networks work in Kathmandu and Lhasa
• Limited or no service in remote areas
• Chinese SIM cards useful but require registration
• Inform family you'll be out of contact for days

Photography

• Bring extra batteries (cold drains them fast)
• Memory cards with good capacity
• Protect cameras from cold and dust
• Ask permission before photographing locals or monks

Respect Local Culture

• Remove shoes before entering monasteries
• Walk clockwise around religious sites (except Bon followers)
• Don't touch or climb on prayer flags
• Dress modestly
• Don't point at sacred objects
• Ask before photographing people

Environmental Responsibility

• Carry out all trash (no littering)
• Don't use plastic bags
• Use reusable water bottles
• Don't disturb wildlife
• Stay on marked trails
• Respect the fragile ecosystem

Climate Change and Mount Kailash

The Tibetan Plateau is warming three times faster than the global average (0.3°C per decade). This affects Mount Kailash:

• Glaciers are retreating
• Less winter snowfall
• Permafrost thawing
• River flow patterns changing

These changes threaten the four major rivers that start near Mount Kailash, potentially affecting billions of people downstream. Organizations like ICIMOD work on conservation efforts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can women do the Kailash Yatra?
Yes. Women of all ages can undertake the pilgrimage. Many tour groups have female pilgrims.

Q: Do I need to be religious?
No. While most pilgrims are devotees, adventure travelers and trekkers also visit for the natural beauty and challenge.

Q: What if I can't complete the kora?
You can hire horses or yaks for most sections. Some people skip the kora entirely and just visit Lake Manasarovar.

Q: Is there mobile network?
Very limited. Expect to be offline for most of the trip.

Q: Can I do the tour independently?
No. All travelers must book through authorized tour operators. Independent travel is not permitted in Tibet.

Q: What about toilets?
Basic squat toilets are available but conditions are poor. Bring hand sanitizer and toilet paper.

Q: Is travel insurance necessary?
Yes. Get comprehensive travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking, medical evacuation, and trip cancellation.

Q: Can I extend my tour to visit other parts of Tibet?
Yes. Many operators offer extensions to Lhasa, Everest Base Camp, and other sites.

Booking Your Mount Kailash Tour

Choose Your Route

Based on your:

• Nationality (Indians have specific options)
• Budget
• Available time
• Physical fitness
• Comfort preferences

Book Early

• Government tours: Register when MEA portal opens (May)
• Private tours: Book 1-3 months ahead
• Peak season requires earlier booking

Choose Reputable Operators

Look for:

• Government authorization
• Years of experience
• Transparent pricing
• Good reviews
• Clear inclusions/exclusions
• Safety record

Prepare Thoroughly

• Get medical checkup
• Start fitness training
• Gather required documents
• Buy/rent proper gear
• Research altitude sickness
• Read trip reviews