Kailash Yatra in Group vs. Private Kailash Yatra Tour

Roads to Kailash: How the Yatra Is Completed

There are various approaches to the Kailash Yatra, each having its advantages and disadvantages:

1. Through Lhasa (Tibet)

• Start Point: Fly from Lhasa to Kathmandu
• Route: Drive from Saga, Shigatse, and reach Darchen (base of Mt. Kailash)
• Pros: Better acclimatization with gradual ascent; more cultural tourism
• Cons: More travel time; more costly lodging

2. Through Simikot-Hilsa (Nepal)

• Start Point: Fly from Simikot to Nepalgunj and then from Nepalgunj to Kathmandu
• Route: Trek from Hilsa to Nepal, cross the border, and drive to Darchen
• Pros: Adventure factor; scenic Himalayan beauty
• Cons: Weather-affected flights, physically demanding

3. By overland via Rasuwagadhi-Kerung (Nepal-Tibet Border)

• Starting Point: Drive from Kathmandu to Rasuwagadhi border
• Travel: Drive into Tibet via Kerung, drive on Saga to Darchen
• Advantages: Most convenient and popular; road conditions are excellent
• Disadvantages: Long driving hours; sharp rise in altitude

Which Route Is Currently Available?

Important Note: Route availability depends on political relationship between Nepal, China, India. As of now in 2024-2025, Rasuwagadhi-Kerung route is most reliable route for foreign tourists. India routes are only available to Indians through govt.-organized yatra scheme. Check always with current tour operators about the present route availability.

Permits and Documents Needed

Due to politically sensitive and restricted access in Tibet, there are a number of permits and papers needed for the Kailash Yatra .You can’t go either way on your own – you have to go via a sanctioned agency and hire a licensed guide to accompany you.

Permits that are Needed:

• Tibet Travel Permit: Most crucial permit to access Tibet
• Kailash Region Permit (Alien’s Travel Permit): For travel by road to the restricted zones in Tibet
• Military Area Permit: For regions near borders such as Hilsa
• Chinese Group Visa: On arrival in Tibet from Nepal (granted at Kathmandu)
• Passports and Tibet Entry Permits: Special permits for off-limits regions such as Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar

Documentation Requirements:

• 6-month valid passport period after travel duration
• 4-6 passport photos for permits and visas
• Completed application forms (provided by your tour operator)
• Travel insurance for high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuations

Important Information about Permits

• These permits all have to be reserved by licensed tour operators
• Processing time: 2-4 weeks, seasonally depended
• They can’t be reserved independently or on arrival
• Regulations often change unexpectedly, so negotiate with seasoned operators

How Far Ahead Should I Reserve?

For the peak season (May-September), a pre-booking of at least 3-4 months ahead is advisable in order to obtain the permits. For Saga Dawa festival (most likely in June), advance booking of 6 months is advisable as it is very popular.

Kailash Kora Trek Information

Kailash Inner Kora (Parikarma) is a 52km circuit around Mount Kailash, which is usually completed within three days. It is physically demanding mainly due to altitude and not technical.

Key Trek Facts:

• Trekking Duration: 12 days
• Total Distance Covered: 52 kilometers
• Beginning Point: Kathmandu (1,400m)
• Highest Altitude: Dolma La Pass (5,630m / 18,471 ft)
• Difficulty Level: Moderate to difficult (due to altitude)

Physical Conditioning:

• Systematic cardiovascular training for 2-3 months before the trek
• Climbing at higher altitudes if possible
• Leg muscle strength training
• Breathing exercises to build lung capacity

Can I Skip the Trek or Take Shortcuts?

For those who cannot trek on foot because of age or health:

• Horse Option: Horses can be rented (not at Dolma La Pass, where one has to walk)
• Partial Trek: Tourists do only part of the Kora
• Helicopter View: There have been sporadic helicopter tours available (very costly and not always)
• Virtual Darshan: Some believe that even getting a glimpse of Mount Kailash in the distance is a blessing

Standard Kailash Yatra Itinerary (12 Days)

Below is a day-to-day itinerary of the standard 12-day Kailash Yatra via Rasuwagadhi-Kerung border:

• Day 1: Arrive Kathmandu (1,400m)
• Day 2: Preparation and sightseeing at Kathmandu
• Day 3: Depart from Kathmandu to Kerung (2,850m) – Border entry to Tibet
• Day 4: Kerung to Saga (4,600m) – Acclimatization
• Day 5: Saga to Lake Mansarovar (4,590m) – First sacred site
• Day 6: Mansarovar rituals and trek to Darchen (4,670m) – Mt. Kailash Base
• Day 7: First day of Kora – Darchen to Dirapuk (4,940m)
• Day 8: Second day of Kora – Dirapuk to Zuthulpuk (4,790m) through Dolma La Pass (5,630m)
• Day 9: Final day of Kora – Zuthulpuk to Darchen, drive back to Dongba
• Day 10: Dongba to Kerung – Back to Kathmandu
• Day 11: Kerung to Kathmandu – Back to Nepal
• Day 12: Departure from Kathmandu

Can Shorter or Longer Itineraries be undertaken?

• Shorter ones: 12-day itineraries are possible but with less acclimatization time (less than ideal for most visitors)
• Longer ones: 14-16 days itineraries with more acclimatization time and flexibility to add other sacred sites or cultural events

Guides and Support Staff

All Kailash Yatras require professional guides and support staff for safety, support, and to enable the spiritual journey.

Standard Support Team:

• Tibetan Guide: Necessary for traveling in Tibet; speaks with locals and takes care of local formalities
• Nepali Team Leader: Typically accompanies groups from Kathmandu throughout the whole route
• Drivers: Trained for driving on high-altitude mountain roads
• Cooks and Helpers: Take care of food and assist in setting up camps
• Sherpas/Porters: Available to transport personal belongings during the Kora (at additional expense)

Support Services Provided:

• Medical Support: First-aid kits, oxygen cylinders, pulse oximeters
• Emergency Backup: Satellite phones, evacuation procedures if needed
• Religious Guidance: Information about rituals, sacred sites, and appropriate conduct
• Language Translation: Interaction with locals and officials

What Kind of Medical Support Is Provided?

• Most tour operators provide basic first aid and oxygen cylinders
• Some luxury tours also include a doctor or medical expert
• In emergencies of a serious nature, evacuation is normally to Saga or Kathmandu
• There are no high-end medical facilities in the Kailash region itself

Accommodation and Food

The fact that the Kailash region is remote means accommodation is basic but comfortable for the tour.

Types of Accommodation:

• In Cities (Kathmandu, Lhasa): 3-4 stars hotels
• In Towns (Saga, Kerung): Basic guesthouses with shared facilities
• At Mansarovar: Simple guesthouses or camping (as per the tour)
• During Kora: Monasteries in Dirapuk and Zutulpuk (very basic facilities with dormitory rooms)

Food Arrangements:

• Meals: Vegetarian meals for the entire journey
• Typical Menu: Rice, dal, chapati, vegetables, soup, noodles, bread, tea, coffee
• Dietary Restrictions: Special requirements can be met by most operators with advance notice
• Water: Bottled or boiled water for drinking (never drink unboiled water)

What About Bathroom Facilities?

• In Kathmandu/Lhasa: Western toilets in hotels
• In Towns (Saga, Kerung): Basic shared bathroom facilities, some with squat toilets
• On the Trek: Very basic facilities at tea houses/monasteries and open toilets during the day
• At Mansarovar: Very basic facilities, sometimes no more than outhouses

Can I Get a Private Room?

• In Kathmandu/Lhasa: Yes, standard on most tours
• In smaller towns: Sometimes possible with private tours, but with limited availability
• During the Kora: Generally not possible; most accommodation is dormitory-style at monasteries

Communication and Connectivity

Staying Connected:

• Cell Phone Coverage: Very minimal in the Kailash region; generally available in Saga and sometimes in Darchen
• Internet Access: Mostly not available except in larger towns, and even then not reliably
• Satellite Phones: Some tour groups carry them for emergency use

Keeping Family Informed:

• Inform family that you’ll be out of contact during parts of the journey
• Some tour groups send group updates to emergency contacts
• Hire a satellite communication equipment if staying in touch is absolutely essential

Handling Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness is the biggest challenge of the Kailash Yatra, with elevations exceeding 5,600 meters. Preparation and information are crucial.

Preventive Measures:

• Gradual Ascent: Follow the acclimatization routine in the itinerary
• Hydration: Drink 3-4 liters of water every day
• Medication: Discuss Diamox (Acetazolamide) with your doctor before the trip
• Rest: Avoid overexertion, especially in the first few days at high altitude
• Diet: Eat light, carbohydrate-rich meals and completely avoid alcohol

Recognition of Symptoms:

• Mild AMS: Headache, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, loss of appetite
• Moderate AMS: Headache, vomiting, shortness of breath, coordination impairment
• Severe AMS (HAPE/HACE): Coma, difficulty in walking straight, fluid in lung, confusion

Emergency Treatment:

• Notify guide immediately in case of symptoms
• Descend if the situation aggravates (best remedy)
• Administer supplemental oxygen when available
• Proper medication taken as per experts’ recommendations
• Evacuation in exceptional cases can prove to be compulsory

What Is the Success Rate for Successful Completion of the Kora?

Approximately 85-90% of properly prepared pilgrims successfully complete the Kora. The most common failure rate is for altitude sickness, which happens to people of all physical states. Adherence to the acclimatization schedule and candor about symptoms hugely improves the success rate.

Essential Packing List for Kailash Yatra

Proper packing is necessary due to the extreme weather and poor facilities in the region.

Clothing:

• Down jacket (compulsory)
• Waterproof/windproof outerwear
• Thermal undergarments (2-3 sets)
• Fleece jackets or sweaters (2)
• Trekking pants (2-3 pairs)
• Moisture-wicking t-shirts (4-5)
• Warm hat, gloves, and neck gaiter
• High-quality hiking socks (5-6 pairs)
• Comfortable broken-in hiking boots with ankle support
• Light camp shoes or sandals

Equipment:

• Sleeping bag (–10°C to –15°C rated)
• Kora backpack (40-50 liters)
• Main luggage duffel bag
• Trekking poles (highly recommended for Dolma La Pass)
• Headlamp and extra batteries
• Water bottles (2-liter capacity) and water purification tablets
• UV sunglasses
• Sunscreen (SPF 50+) and sun-protective lip balm

Personal Items:

• Personal medications and first-aid kit
• Toiletries (biodegradable preferable)
• Quick-dry towel
• Wet wipes and hand sanitizer
• Toilet paper and disposal bags
• Power bank and adapters
• Camera with extra batteries (cold drains batteries faster)

Religious/Spiritual Items:

• Prayer flags or khatas (offering scarves)
• Personal religious items for rituals
• Journal for reflections

Can I Purchase Items Along the Route?

You ought to bring all your gear from Kathmandu or your home town. Although basic provisions (snacks, water, general medications) are available in larger towns like Saga, the choice is extremely limited and the quality doubtful. There are no gear stores along the route if something breaks or is forgotten.

Group Kailash Yatra vs. Private Kailash Yatra

Now let us discuss the two most popular methods of undertaking this pilgrimage:

Group Kailash Yatra

Group tours generally consist of 15-30 pilgrims who travel together on a fixed itinerary with shared services.

How Group Tours Are Arranged:

• Travel agencies assemble a group of pilgrims with fixed departure dates
• Logistics, permits, and accommodation are all arranged in advance in a group
• Transport, guides, and services are shared by the group
• Group visas are obtained together

Benefits of Group Yatra:

• Lower Cost: Expenses are divided among all members (30-40% less expensive than private tours)
• Convenient Arrangements: All pre-arranged—permits, accommodation, meals, flights
• Spiritual Connection: Sharing with others gives a feeling of togetherness
• Safety in Numbers: Safer for high-altitude treks in a group with support for one another
• Experienced Operators: Procedures and routines are largely established for most group tours
• Social Experience: Fellow travelers and new friends with whom to share this profound spiritual experience

Disadvantages of Group Yatra:

• Fixed Schedule: No flexibility once the tour begins
• Pace Limitations: The group moves at a group pace; faster trekkers may need to wait
• Less Privacy: Facilities, vehicles, and rooms are shared
• Limited Personalization: You follow a fixed itinerary with little customization
• Possible Conflicts: Group dynamics can sometimes create challenges
• Less Guide Attention: Guides must divide their time among numerous participants

Who Should Choose Group Yatra:

• Solo travelers who enjoy company
• Budget-conscious pilgrims
• Those who enjoy social interactions
• First-time travelers to Tibet/Kailash
• Individuals who do not mind sharing facilities and fixed schedules

Private Kailash Yatra

Private tours are customized trips for individuals, families, or small groups of travelers who prefer personalized services and flexibility.

How Private Tours Work:

• Customized itinerary of your preference
• Private vehicle, guide, and support team
• Flexible departure dates (subject to permit availability)
• Upgradation of accommodation possible where available
• Ideal for 1-10 travelers, including senior citizens or families

Advantages of Private Yatra:

• Complete Flexibility: Travel according to your own pace, change stops, or take a longer rest if needed
• Personal Comfort: Private transportation, personal guides, and sometimes higher quality accommodation
• Tailored Experience: Potential for including rituals, personal interests, or other locations
• Better Attention: Guides focus solely on your group’s interests and well-being
• Privacy: More intimate spiritual experience with your choice of fellow pilgrims
• Adjusted Difficulty: Can be adapted for older pilgrims or those with minor illnesses by modifying elements of the trip

Disadvantages of Private Yatra:

• More Expensive: You pay for the exclusivity and logistics of small groups (60-100% more expensive)
• Permit Restrictions: Even private tours must comply with Chinese regulations
• Restricted Availability: During peak season, it may be hard to reserve a private tour
• Less Social Interaction: Miss the sense of community of a group pilgrimage
• Same Basic Accommodations: In the remote areas, even private pilgrimages use the same basic guesthouses

Who Should Choose Private Yatra:

• Families with children or elderly members
• Those seeking a more comfortable experience
• Pilgrims with special medical conditions requiring flexibility
• Spiritual leaders with their own group
• Those with limited vacation time and who need specific dates
• Photography enthusiasts who need more time at some locations

Comparative Cost Analysis

Below is an approximate cost comparison for 2024/2025 (cost varies by season and operator):

Group Tour:

• Standard 12-day Package: $2,200-$2,800 per person
• Included: All permits, transport, accommodation, meals, guides
• Extras: Porters ($25-$30/day), horse hire for Kora ($50-$80), tips ($100-$150)

Private Tour:

• Standard 12-day Package: $3,500-$5,000/person (dependent on group size)
• Included: All permits, private transport, accommodation, meals, private guides
• Extras: Same as group tour, with the addition of customization fees

Additional Costs for Both Options:

• International flights to Kathmandu
• Personal gear and clothing
• Travel insurance (mandatory, $100-$200)
• Personal expenses and souvenirs
• Extra days in Kathmandu pre/post ($50-$100/day)

What’s Typically Not Included in Tour Costs?

• International flights to/from Kathmandu
• Nepal visa fees (on arrival, $30-$50)
• Personal equipment and clothing
• Personal expenses and souvenirs
• Tips for guide and staff
• Emergency evacuation insurance
• Fees for voluntary itinerary changes

Best Time to Visit Mount Kailash

Kailash Yatra is highly seasonal due to extreme weather conditions:

Peak Season (May to September):

• Pros: Warm weather, clearer roads, most facilities available
• Cons: Busy, more expensive, occasional monsoon rain

Shoulder Season (April and October):

• Advantages: Less congested, moderate weather, nice landscapes
• Disadvantages: Chilly nights, some amenities may be closed

Winter (Nov-Mar):

• Not Recommended: Extremely cold weather, roads closed, no or little tour activity

Special Religious Festivals:

• Saga Dawa Festival (May/June): Celebrates Buddha’s enlightenment; very popular time
• Kailash Mansarovar Festival: Special Hindu ceremonies in August

What Are the Temperature Ranges?

• Peak Season (Jun-Aug): Day: 10-15°C / Night: -5 to 5°C
• Spring/Fall (Apr-May, Sep-Oct): Day: 5-10°C / Night: -10 to 0°C
• At Dolma La Pass: Up to 10-15°C below these averages
• Unpredictable weather: Even during summer months, snow can be anticipated

Rituals and Cultural Aspects

Shared Religious Traditions:

• Circumambulation: Clockwise walking around sacred sites (counter-clockwise for the Bon)
• Prostrations: Full-body prostrations by some pilgrims around the mountain
• Prayer Flags: Colorful flags are tied at Dolma La Pass and elsewhere
• Offerings: Coins, small tokens, or prayer inscriptions are left behind
• Bathing: Ritual bathing in Lake Mansarovar (weather permitting)

Cultural Considerations:

• Always circumambulate religious monuments clockwise (except for Bon followers)
• Never step over religious objects or prayer flags
• Dress modestly when visiting monasteries
• Seek permission before photographing local people
• Respect other people’s religious practices, even if different from your own

Special Needs and Considerations

For Senior Pilgrims:

• Seek private tours with additional rest days
• Horses can be arranged for most of the Kora (except Dolma La Pass)
• Select operators familiar with older clientele
• Undergo a detailed medical check before booking

For Families with Children:

• Children’s minimum age is 12 years for most operators
• Private tours can be looked into to dictate the pace for younger travelers
• Incorporate additional acclimatization days
• Pack additional comfort items and familiar foods

For Single Female Travelers:

• Group tours are very safe and advisable
• Private facilities may be limited on the Kora
• Pack additional feminine hygiene products (not locally available)
• Modest dress is advisable throughout the tour

For Travelers with Medical Conditions:

• Consult your doctor regarding high altitude (especially those with heart, lung, or blood pressure ailments)
• Carry adequate amounts of all medications (including photocopies of prescriptions)
• Disclose all medical conditions in advance to your tour operator
• Consider taking high-altitude evacuation insurance

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is it possible to make the Yatra independently without using the services of a tour operator?

No. Chinese government requires all foreign tourists to book permits with approved tour operators and be accompanied by an approved guide for the entire trip.

2. Will I need a visa for Nepal and Tibet?

You will need a Nepal visa (available on arrival for most nationalities) and a Chinese Group Visa for Tibet, arranged up by your tour operator.

3. Can I book the permits at short notice?

No. Permits are 2-4 weeks to arrange and in high season, must be booked months ahead in order to be guaranteed availability.

4. What is the age restriction for the Kailash Yatra?

While there is no direct age restriction, pilgrims are recommended by most operators to be between 15-70 years of age and in good physical health. Those below or above this range are recommended best to approach special needs handling operators.

5. Do I have to be very fit to do the Kora?

You do not have to be an athlete but should be in good health with fine fitness. The altitude, not the landscape, is the biggest challenge. Regular walking and cardiovascular training 3-4 months prior to the trip is advisable.

6. What happens if I get ill with altitude sickness during the Kora?

Guides will provide oxygen and medication if symptoms are mild. If the symptoms worsen, you’ll have to descend to lower altitudes, so you’ll have to truncate your Kora, cutting it short. In emergency cases, emergency evacuation will be arranged.

7. Is there electricity to charge phones and cameras?

There is occasional electricity in larger towns like Saga and Darchen, but it is intermittent. There is little or no electricity at the monasteries along the Kora. Bring spare batteries and power banks.

8. Is there any ATMs or credit cards during the tour?

No. There is no credit card or ATM facility in the Kailash region. Carry enough cash (USD or Chinese Yuan) for your personal expenses and tips.

9. How cold will it get at night? Will I be comfortable?

Below-freezing temperatures, even during summer, are not unknown. Tour operators do provide warm beds, but you require a good -10°C rated sleeping bag to keep you warm, and especially so for the Kora.

10. Is it necessary to be religious to do the Kailash Yatra?

No. While it’s primarily a religious pilgrimage, many non-religious travelers undertake the journey for its cultural significance, natural beauty, and personal challenge. All are welcome regardless of faith.

11. What if I can’t do the entire Kora? Is it still spiritually rewarding?

Most believe that even attempting to do the pilgrimage with good intention is spiritually rewarding. Some pilgrims undertake partial Kora, and this is okay if done with devotion.

12. Is there any rituals I should know about?

The right rituals will be taught to you by your guide at each location. Some of the well-known ones include prayers at certain points, tying prayer flags at Dolma La Pass, and a sacred dip in Lake Mansarovar if weather allows.

Making Your Decision: Group or Private?

Weigh these important considerations in choosing between a group or private Kailash Yatra:

Choose Group Yatra if:

• Budget is your top priority
• You are traveling solo or with just 1-2 other people
• You enjoy meeting new people and sharing the experience
• You don’t mind fixed itineraries
• You prefer the safety and support of a larger group

Choose Private Yatra if:

• Comfort and flexibility are your top priority
• You’re traveling with family members of different ages/abilities
• You want a more personal spiritual experience
• You need specific dates or specialization
• Budget is a less of concern than quality of experience

What to Look for in a Tour Operator

The choice of a reputable tour operator is critical to a safe and successful Kailash Yatra:

Attributes to Look For in a Tour Operator:

• Experience: 5+ years of guiding Kailash tours
• Proper Licensing: Official authorization for Tibet travel
• Safety Record: Ask them about their emergency response and equipment
• Reviews: Independent reviews of past travelers
• Transparency: Clearly detailed inclusions and exclusions
• Support Team: Your language guides with experience
• Pre-Trip Support: Detailed information and assistance with preparation

Conclusion

Both private and group Kailash Yatra tours offer lifelong, life-changing memories but cater to different types of pilgrims. Group tours offer economic advantage, social support, and group support, while private tours offer flexibility, personalization, and more comfort.

One way or another, Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar is a pilgrimage beyond travel—it’s a profoundly spiritual experience that’s transformed lives for centuries. The discomforts of altitude, climate, and physical difficulty are recompensed by the unrivaled spiritual energy and breathtaking natural beauty of one of the world’s most sacred landscapes.

The Grace of this pilgrimage will remain with you long after you have arrived back home, and the Kailash Yatra is in solemn earnest the pilgrimage of a lifetime.

Bold Himalaya is one of the best tour operating agency for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra with years of experience and maximum success rate whether it is for group or operate tour privately. If you want to consult and know more about this trek, you can contact to Bold Himalaya.