Mount Kailash Mansarovar Tour via Hilsa Border
5(149)
Itinerary
Your Journey, Step by Step
KATHMANDU SIGHTSEEING AND FLY TO NEPALGUNJ
After having our delicious breakfast, we will visit the most historical and spiritual attractions in Kathmandu. Some of these landmarks are considered World Heritage Sites including the historic Kathmandu Durbar Square, the sacred Hindu temple of Pashupatinath, the famous ‘Monkey Temple’ (Swyambhunath), and Buddhist stupa (Bouddhanath) which is one of the largest stupas in the world. The city life is dynamic as the culture and heritage reflect their ethnic identity. Later, there will be a pre-trip discussion. Bold Himalaya will give us brief detail regarding our tour as well as provides us an opportunity to ask any questions we may have regarding our upcoming adventure. You can also go for last-minute shopping for your tour. You will find every branded trekking gear at Thamel
Then, we will fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, which is located in the border region of India in western Nepal. The flight is a panoramic experience above Kathmandu city. It flies across beautiful rivers and hills. Nepalgunj is the hottest city in the nation and a Terai belt of Nepal which holds varied culture and lifestyle. We will explore the local villages, markets, and zoos in Nepalgunj. Overnight in Nepalgunj.
FLY FROM NEPALGUNJ – SIMIKOT – HILSA & DRIVE TO TAKLAKOT
From Nepalgunj, we will take a short flight to the tiny airstrip of Simikot. It is one of the remote districts of Nepal. Simikot is the doorway to Hilsa and is the Tibetan border from Nepal. The marvellous peaks of far-western Nepal can be explored during the flight. The landscape and little populated arid hills display how struggling are the life in the Karnali zone. The symphonic settlement of Tibetan and Buddhist ethnic group makes the village culturally rich. We will also explore the Gompas and the houses of Simikot. We will rest for a few hours at Simikot.
Then, we will take the helicopter to Hilsa and wait for other members to arrive at Hilsa. According to the visa rule of the Chinese government, all group members should enter together and exit together. After the arrival of all the members, we will drive to the Purang border from Hilsa and to Taklakot and stay at Hotel. Taklakot is the main trading centre for Tibetans and Nepalese as the market place is buzzing with traders and travellers. We will have enough time to stroll around the markets and vendors around Taklakot. After our short excursion around the market, we will stay for the night in a basic guest house at Taklakot. On the way, we have to pass up to 3 checkpoints where checking might take up to 1 hour in each post.
EXPLORE REST DAY AT TAKLAKOT
Today, we will relax in Taklakot for acclimatization. It is vitally important to be properly acclimatized to perform circumambulation (Parikrama) around the sacred mountain Kailash. Also, it is for our safety too. Our body should be adjusted properly in a new environment before we reach more heights
DRIVE TO MANASAROVAR LAKE
As usual, after having a morning meal, we will pack our belongings, then board on the vehicle and proceed to Lake Manasarovar. Right from the beginning, the highway starts making gradual ascend and levels eventually after crossing Mt. Gurla mandate (7,728m). The lake is religiously important for both the Buddhist and Hindu pilgrims. The Hindu believes that the divine water of the lake will purify one’s soul and take to the lap of Lord Shiva after death. On the way, we will stop for 10 minutes to witness the first glimpse of Kailash from Rakhash Lake before reaching Lake Manasarovar.
Then, we will continue our journey for a circumambulation (Parikrama) around the lake. The scenic drive passes through Gurla pass before arriving at Lake Manasarovar (4550m). On the way, we will stop in a lovely place where we make the holy dip, and perform pooja & Homa. After completing all these activities, we will return to the western shore in the evening for an overnight stay.
FIRST DAY OF OUTER KORA – DRIVE TO DARCHEN AND YAMADWAR & TREK TO DIRAPUK
Today is the day that we start holy circumambulation around sacred Kailash. As usual, we will get ready to move on from Lake Manasarovar to Darchen which takes around 45 mins drive. Darchen is a tiny village settlement with very few tea houses for the services of travellers and pilgrimages. It is the starting and the ending mark of “Kora” the holy walk around. From Darchen, we will drive to Yama Dwar (also called Tarboche in the Tibetan language) which is 5 km in distance. In Yama Dwar, we will meet our horse/ porter/ yaks then set off together to Deraphuk.
Those who are not doing Parikrama will return to Darchen and wait there for two days. They will stay in Darchen waiting for other members to return who have gone for circumambulation.
The entire trail up to Deraphuk is reasonably flat with gentle ascend, however, due to extreme elevation of this region, we will probably feel exhausted, and need to have broken on the way very frequently. The last leg of the journey is tough with active ascend but, it is only for half an hour.
Deraphuk stands at an elevation of 4920 m. The north face of mount Kailash is just a few thousands of meters far from here. This is the only place to have the nearest view of the north face. We will walk in the shades of the majestic Mount Kailash throughout and enjoy the heavenly landscapes.
SECOND DAY OF OUTER KORA – ON TO ZUTHULPUK WITH TREK TO DOLMA LA PASS
Today is the hardest but holiest day of the pilgrimage. We have to cross a significant distance through the rugged portion of the trail around the Mount Kailash before reaching Zutulpahuk. From Deraphuk, we should start very early. Right from the beginning, the trail leads us rapidly up, however, in between it turns into the flat with gentle ascend. Up to Dolma-La (5600 m.), the path keeps us taking up & up. Dolma La is the peak point of this journey. From this onward, the trail leads us all the way down to the valley floor. This particular portion of the trek is a speedy incline and the track is full of boulders and screes, so one should pay to continue attention while trekking down.
While descending from Dolma La, we will pass alongside a small glacial pool called Gaurikunda. It is almost frozen from May through September. The legend of this pool is linked with Mata Parvati, the companion of Lord Shiva.
Once we go down to the valley floor, the trail becomes even and easy up to the Zutulphuk. At Zutulphuk, we will come across the incredible Thugje Zinbu (Lake of Compassion) and a few ancient meditative caves.
DRIVE TO HILSA-SIMIKOT VIA TAKLAKOT
Undoubtedly, today is the most hectic day of our journey. After accomplishing the circumambulation we will drive all the way to Taklakot and then cross the border. As usual after morning meals, we will pack up our belongings then be ready to move on to Darchen. It requires presumably 3 hours reaching the ending point of this trail where our vehicle is waiting to fetch us up. We will board on vehicle and proceed for Taklakot and drive to Hilsa after assembling all group members. It takes 45 minutes to reach Hilsa, where we have to go through the immigration formalities. From Taklakot, a military person will consort the group to guide towards Hilsa. After having luggage checked and going through some formalities again in the border, we will cross over the suspension bridge of Karnali River, then enter into the territory of Nepal.
Then, we will fly to Simikot, the same way as before, while coming from Simikot to Hilsa. 5 persons in each flight and after reaching Simikot, we will get rest in the guesthouse.
FLY TO NEPALGUNJ & FLY BACK TO KATHMANDU
We will fly from Simikot to Nepalgunj which takes around 40 minutes and after landing in Nepalgunj we will fly back to Kathmandu with scenic views. After reaching Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel for the overnight stay.
FINAL DEPARTURE
You are bidding good-bye to beautiful Nepal and Tibet as your journey comes to an end today. We will take you to the airport for your flight time. We hope you enjoyed the tour, and are sure you will be back again for more adventure. Approximately 3 hours before your scheduled flight, a representative from Bold Himalaya will take you to the airport. On your way home you’ll have enough time to plan your next adventure in the wonderful country of Nepal.
Good to Know
Your Journey, Step by Step
Lately, there have been restrictions imposed by China on Indians seeking visas making it challenging for those wishing to visit Kailash Mansarovar. However, there are ways to catch a glimpse of Mount Kailash without venturing into China. One can enjoy views of the mountain from viewpoints, near the Hilsa border on the Nepalese side. The Hilsa border serves as a gateway to Tibet situated at the intersection of Nepal and Tibet. From the village of Hilsa one can marvel at scenes of the Himalayan scenery with distant sightings of Mount Kailash adding to its allure. Travelers can also venture to locations along the Nepal Tibet border like Taklakot (Purang) and other towns that provide views of Mount Kailash without needing access, into Chinese territory.
For Indian travelers planning to undertake the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage through the Hilsa Border Route commencing the journey, from Nepalgunj offers an easily accessible choice. Situated in the Terai region of Nepal Nepalgunj acts as a stopover for travelers en route to Kailash Mansarovar. Departing from cities like Delhi or Lucknow individuals can travel to Nepalgunj. Upon reaching Nepalgunj travelers can effortlessly join the prearranged tour group. Continue their voyage to Kailash Mansarovar via flights to Simikot and Hilsa followed by ground transportation to Taklakot and onwards to Mansarovar Lake and Mount Kailash.
This alternative not only removes the complexities of entering Tibet from China for travelers but also allows them to experience the varied landscapes and cultural richness of Nepal during their journey. With its positioning and efficient transport connections Nepalgunj serves as a gateway for pilgrims embarking on this sacred expedition to Kailash Mansarovar guaranteeing a seamless and unforgettable experience, from beginning to end.
Hop on a journey from the United States to Kailash Mansarovar, where the rich spiritual traditions and breathtaking natural beauty blend harmoniously to offer a pilgrimage experience. Your trip kicks off with a flight, from the USA to Kathmandu, Nepal, where you can immerse yourself in the culture of this city by exploring its sacred temples, lively markets and historical sites. After soaking in the essence of Kathmandu your expedition moves forward towards Kailash Mansarovar via the Tibet Route.
The best time to do the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Tour is from March to September. This period falls within the summer and early autumn seasons, which offer the most favorable weather conditions for the pilgrimage. During these months, the temperatures are relatively milder, and the days are longer, providing comfortable trekking conditions for Kora.
During March and April, the temperature at Kailash Mansarovar starts to rise, but the weather remains relatively cold. Average daytime temperatures range from -5°C to 10°C (23°F to 50°F). Whereas from March to June, the weather is generally pleasant, the landscapes are adorned with blooming flowers and lush greenery and the average daytime temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). However, the trails may still have some patches of snow, particularly at higher elevations.
With typical temperatures between 15°C and 25°C (59°F and 77°F), July and August are the warmest months. The monsoon season, which brings sporadic downpours, begins in these months. During this season, the environment gets even greener, and water bodies are revitalized. The Saga Dawa festival, which commemorates Buddha’s enlightenment, is attended by pilgrims in the area, therefore this time of year also has religious significance.
September is another favorable time for the Kailash Yatra, with the monsoon gradually subsiding. The clear and pleasant weather provides breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks and the surrounding landscapes.
Physical Fitness: The Kailash tour involves walking for long hours at high altitudes for Kora. Therefore, it’s essential to work on improving your cardiovascular endurance, strength, and stamina. Regular cardiovascular exercises like hiking, jogging, or cycling, along with strength training, will help you prepare for the physical demands of the trek.
Medical Check-Up: Make sure you are physically ready for the pilgrimage’s demands by getting a comprehensive medical checkup before starting the walk. You should carry the essential medications and discuss any existing medical issues with your doctor.
As a travel operator organizing the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage yatra, we are well-equipped to cater to groups of various sizes, ensuring a memorable and spiritually fulfilling journey for all participants. You will have to pre-book your trip along with your group members and inform us if you want to make a group trip to Kailash Mansarovar.
For small groups, typically consisting of 6 to 15 participants, we offer an intimate and personalized experience. With a smaller group size, travelers can enjoy more one-on-one interactions with our experienced guides, fostering a close-knit and supportive community.
For larger-sized groups, comprising more than 15 participants, we understand the need for efficient coordination and logistics. Our experienced team is adept at managing larger groups while maintaining a sense of intimacy and individual attention. Despite the larger group size, our guides and support staff are committed to providing a meaningful and transformative journey for each participant.
To guarantee a secure and educational journey, we offer a staff of trained and experienced guides and porters. Our tour guides are seasoned specialists with in-depth knowledge of the spiritual significance, history, and culture of the area. They promote smooth communication with local communities and provide insightful advice because they are fluent in both English and their native tongue.
Your safety and well-being are our top priorities, and our guides manage the logistics while giving you important instructions. Additionally, they provide spiritual counseling, which can help you deepen your connection to the sacredness of the sites and improve your pilgrimage experience.
During this tour to Kailash Mansarovar, a variety of transportation modes are employed to facilitate seamless travel across diverse landscapes. Flights are utilized for long-distance travel, with routes including Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, Nepalgunj to Simikot, and Simikot to Hilsa, providing efficient access to remote areas. Once on the ground, land transportation in the form of buses, vans, or jeeps is used for shorter distances, such as transfers between airports, hotels, and border towns like Taklakot. These combined transportation methods ensure that travelers can navigate both the rugged terrain and the vast distances of the journey comfortably and efficiently, enhancing their overall experience of the pilgrimage to Kailash Mansarovar.
Dress modestly when visiting sacred sites and interacting with local communities, covering your shoulders and knees. Seek permission before taking photographs, especially of locals or religious artifacts, and be mindful of any restrictions on photography. Show reverence when visiting temples and monasteries, removing your shoes and refraining from smoking or consuming alcohol. Respect the traditions and practices of the community while embracing them with an open mind. Be ecologically conscientious by abstaining from trash, practicing responsible tourism, and adhering to the “Leave No Trace” philosophy.
Mount Kailash holds significance, in both Tibetan Buddhism and Hinduism making it culturally inappropriate to attempt to scale its sacred slopes. It is believed to be the place of the revered Hindu god Shiva and the Buddhist deity Demchok serving as a hub for seekers of enlightenment. While pilgrims often embark on a journey to circumambulate the mountain as a form of tribute scaling its peaks is deemed disrespectful in this context.
Clothing:
Moisture-wicking shirts and pants
Warm layers (fleece jacket, thermal underwear, down jacket)
Waterproof outer shell jacket and pants
Hiking boots with ankle support
Thick socks
Sun hat, sunglasses, buff or scarf
Gloves or mittens
Gear and Equipment:
Backpack with rain cover
Sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures
Trekking poles
Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
Personal water bottle/hydration system
Portable charger/power bank
Camera or smartphone
Personal toiletries and medications
First aid kit
Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF protection
Miscellaneous:
Passport and travel documents
Cash in local currency
Travel insurance
Copies of important documents
Notebook and pen
Snacks (energy bars, nuts, dried fruits)
Lightweight, quick-dry towel
Insect repellent
Passport: It is necessary to have a passport that is valid for at least six months after the date of the trip. Keep your passport secure and always have photocopies on you as a backup.
Chinese Visa: Since Kailash Mansarovar is located in Tibet, which is part of China, you will need a Chinese visa to enter Tibet which you will obtain from us.
Tibet Travel Permit: Foreign visitors must have this particular permit to enter Tibet. We arranged for you to receive it, which is issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau. Keep the original permit with you at all times during the journey.
Kailash Mansarovar Entry Permit: This permit is specific to the Kailash Mansarovar region and is necessary for visiting the sacred sites. It is also arranged by us.
Nepal Visa (if applicable): If you are traveling via Nepal to reach the border entry point for Kailash Mansarovar, you will need a visa for Nepal. Obtain the appropriate visa type after you arrive at Tribhuwan International Airport. However, If you are an Indian Citizen you wouldn’t have to obtain a Nepali Visa for traveling to any place in Nepal.
Passport-size Photographs: You may be required to submit passport-size photographs for visa applications and permits. Carry a few extra copies with you for any additional requirements.
Travel Insurance: Although it is not a must, it is strongly advised to obtain travel insurance that protects against unanticipated events such as trip cancellation, emergency medical costs, and evacuation.
In 2024 the People’s Republic of China made updates to the visa and travel permits required for visiting Tibet and Mount Kailash. Travelers or pilgrims heading to the Tibet Autonomous Region need a travel permit, from China’s foreign affairs department. These permits are provided by travel agencies in China or Tibet. Once the group submits their passport copies along with their travel itinerary they receive an entry permit. Following that each foreign visitor must complete a visa application form. Subsequently, within 2 to 3 business days, the Chinese embassy sends out the group’s travel permit and visa, for Tibet and Mount Kailash.
Kailash Mansarovar lies in China’s Tibet Autonomous Region. The Chinese Yuan is commonly used as the currency, in Tibet. US dollars are also widely accepted in many places throughout China. It is recommended to carry Chinese Yuan for a convenient travel experience. In this region, some of the shops do take credit cards but they’re not always easy to spot and finding an ATM can be a bit tricky.
This Tour costs USD per person. The list of services included and excluded in this package is mentioned in the include/exclude section of this Tour Package.
FAQs
Your Questions, Answered
Typically tours to Kailash Manasarovar are available between May and October. The best months for a visit are usually May June and September October due to weather conditions, excellent visibility and stunning landscapes.
The 52 kilometer journey around Mount Kailash with stops, at Dirapukh and Zuthulpuk can be completed in three days of walking. The highest point of the trek is Dolma La pass at around 19,500 feet above sea level on the day of the Kailash Mansarovar Parikrama.
The tour manager or guide always carries aid supplies throughout the yatra. In an emergency situation our team also has a supply of oxygen bottles. It’s advisable, for pilgrims to bring an amount of their medications or any prescribed by a doctor. Moreover having insurance will prove beneficial in situations. We suggest getting one that aligns with the travel requirements, to Mount Kailash.
Mount Kailash stands tall at 6638 meters (21,778 feet). Holds significance in Tibetan Buddhism and Hinduism. It is revered as the dwelling place of the Hindu god Shiva and the Buddhist deity Demchok. Moreover it is recognized as a site of significance and wisdom.
Lake Manasarovar, situated, around 90 kilometers northwest of Mount Kailash is a high altitude lake revered in Tibetan Buddhism and Hinduism for its significance and cleansing properties.
Yes a Chinese visa along with a Tibet Travel Permit is necessary for traveling to Tibet. These essential documents can be arranged through either a travel agency or the Chinese embassy.
According to Hindu beliefs climbing Mount Kailash is considered disrespectful as it goes against the sacredness of the mountain and disturbs the presence believed to reside. A Tibetan legend tells the story of Milarepa, a monk who journeyed near Mount Meru but refrained from ascending it.
There are ways to reach Kailash Mansarovar from Nepal. The recommended route for Nepali pilgrims is, through the Kerung route, known for its accessibility, affordability and convenience.
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