Mount Kailash by Heli - Kathmandu

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  • 11 days

  • Kathmandu/Kathmandu

  • 25 people

According to the sacred traditions of Lord Shiva, he meditates for eternity atop the revered Mount Kailash and represents the essence of yogic austerity, bliss, and divine love along with his consort Parvati. Near Mount Kailash is the pristine Lake Mansarovar, which symbolizes purity and spiritual enlightenment. For the ardent devotees of AUM, these revered sites symbolize the very soul of existence.

According to ancient traditions and beliefs, a single circuit of Mount Kailash (Parikrama) washes away the sins of a lifetime. Likewise, if one undertakes 108 circuits of Mount Kailash, enlightenment is guaranteed. Likewise, a holy dip in Lake Mansarovar grants access to Brahma’s divine realm. Even a sip of the holy water of Lake Mansarovar washes away the karmic burdens of countless lifetimes.

The spiritual journey to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar commences as you arrive at Kathmandu. You are greeted with a warm welcome and taken to a comfortable 4-star hotel. In the evening, you are briefed about the holy journey of Mount Kailash. The next day, you visit the holy Pashupatinath Temple and the peaceful Budhanilkantha Temple. By the afternoon, you fly to Nepalgunj by a short flight. The next day, you fly to Simikot (3000m), followed by a visit to a Shiva Temple. The next day, you enjoy a thrilling helicopter ride to Hilsa, followed by a drive to Purang (3800m). You then move to the holy Lake Mansarovar, where you perform rituals, take a holy bath, and start the parikrama of the lake.

The next day, after a relaxing morning, you move to Darchen, the entry point to Mount Kailash, followed by a journey to Yamdwar, then trek to Diraphuk, followed by the most challenging but rewarding trek over the Dolma-La Pass (5550m), and then descend to Zuthulphuk. The trek concludes at Zhongdo, followed by a return journey to Purang or Hilsa.

Finally, you retrace your journey back to Kathmandu by way of Simikot and Nepalgunj. From there, you fly to the airport to continue your journey, having successfully completed your transformational pilgrimage and become spiritually enriched and attuned to the divine.

Package Cost (Deluxe Bus)

  • NRI Passport Holders: USD 3.950 per person
  • Indian Passport Holders (Group Joining Basis): INR 280,500 per person

Optional Upgrades

  • Single room supplements: Two nights: INR 6500 per person.
  • Extra cost: Upgrade to 5 Star Hotel for Two nights: INR 7000 per person.

Itinerary

  • Day 1
    Arrival in Kathmandu | Brief About Kailash Trip

    Once you arrive in Kathmandu, you shall be received warmly and transported to your hotel in comfort. Situated in the heart of the Himalayas, Kathmandu is known for its spiritual and cultural essence. This is where your sacred pilgrimage is to begin.

    Once checked in to your hotel, you can spend some time unwinding and exploring your surroundings. Later in the evening, there shall be an informative briefing session to orient and update you on your upcoming Kailash Yatra. Here, our experienced tour guides shall be present to update and enlighten you on all aspects of your upcoming tour to Kailash.

    Stay: 4-Star Hotel

  • Day 2
    Visit to Holy Pilgrimages | Fly to Nepalgunj

    You can begin your day by a spiritually uplifting experience at the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, which is one of the most sacred temples of Lord Shiva. This temple, situated on the banks of the holy Bagmati River, offers a very peaceful atmosphere for pilgrims to seek the blessings of the deity for a successful and fulfilling Kailash Yatra.

    You will then move to the peaceful Budhanilkantha Temple, which is home to the magnificent reclining figure of Lord Vishnu resting on the cosmic serpent. This sacred temple symbolizes the essence of preservation and balance in the universe, offering pilgrims a peaceful atmosphere before undertaking the high-altitude trekking experience of the Kailash Yatra.

    Stay: Hotel

  • Day 3
    Morning Fly to Simikot (3000m) | Visit Shiva Mandir

    Start your adventure by booking an early morning flight to Simikot, the administrative headquarters of Humla district, which provides access to a number of remote Himalayan adventures.

    As you land in Simikot, you will be greeted by the crisp mountain air and the serene beauty of the untouched region. Since Simikot is at a height of 3,000 meters, it is necessary that you take your time and let your body acclimatize to the altitude.

    After lunch and a short rest, take a leisurely stroll to the nearby Shiva Mandir, a small temple that is spiritually significant as it is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a place of worship for the locals.

    Stay: Sun Valley Resort or Similar

  • Day 4
    Fly to Hilsa (3700m) | Drive to Purang (3800m) | Acclimatization

    After breakfast, take a thrilling helicopter flight to Hilsa. The flight is a short one but provides breathtaking views of the deep gorge of the Karnali River. Hilsa is a small border village, which is a very important transit point between Nepal and Tibet.

    Upon arriving at Hilsa, immigration formalities need to be done, and the border crossing into Tibet (China) is made. From here, Purang (also called Taklakot) is 1 to 2 hours' drive.

    The journey will introduce you to the stark beauty of the Tibetan landscape, which consists of broad valleys, arid hills, and snow-capped peaks in the distance. Roads are in good condition on the Tibetan side. After reaching Purang, it’s time to check into your hotel/guesthouse and take some well-deserved rest. This is a crucial acclimatization point as you are now at a higher altitude (3,800m).

    Stay: Hotel

  • Day 5
    Drive to Manasarovar Lake (4500m) | Parikrama of Mansarovar

    The drive takes about 2-3 hours and provides spectacular views of the vast Tibetan plateau, with the first "darshan" of the revered Mount Kailash on clear days.

    On reaching Lake Manasarovar, one of the world’s highest freshwater lakes, you'll be in the midst of unparalleled natural beauty and spirituality. Start the Parikrama of Lake Manasarovar, which is about 105 km and is usually done in vehicles.

    Pilgrims perform:

    • Holy Bath (Snan): Taking a dip in the sacred waters (weather permitting)
    • Puja & Havan: Offering prayers, meditation, and rituals on the lake shore

    Stay: Guest House

  • Day 6
    Manasarovar – Darchen

    Spend a leisurely morning at the sacred Lake Manasarovar. It is a good time for contemplation and spiritual pursuits.

    After lunch, drive to Darchen (approx. 1 to 2 hours), which is the base camp and starting point for Mount Kailash Parikrama (Kora). The drive is a short one and offers some good scenery of the vast Tibetan plateau and a close-up view of Mount Kailash as one approaches Darchen.

    Stay: Kailash or Himalaya Hotel

  • Day 7
    Drive to Yamdwar – Diraphuk

    After breakfast in Darchen, drive to Yamdwar, the beginning of the Mount Kailash Parikrama (Kora) trek. Trek from Yamdwar to Dirapuk, located in the northern base of Mount Kailash.

    Stay: Guest House

  • Day 8
    Trek Over Dolma-La Pass (5550m) – Zuthulphuk

    Start early from Dirapuk for the highest point of the Kailash Parikrama, i.e., Dolma La Pass. Trek distance: It is approximately 7-9 km from Dirapuk and would take 5-6 hours depending on the pace of the trekkers.

    • Altitude: It is 5,550m above sea level, so slow and steady steps are necessary
    • Terrain: It is rocky and sometimes snowy with steep stretches

    After spending time at Dolma La, begin the descent to Zuthulpuk. Along the way Witness stunning panoramas of the Kailash southern and western faces, stop at small shrines and mani walls for prayer and reflection, interact with other pilgrims completing the kora

    Stay: Guest House

  • Day 9
    Trek to Zhongdo | Drive Back to Purang/Hilsa

    On the last day of the Kailash Parikrama, you start your trek from Zuthulpuk to Zhongdo, a small village on the southern route of the kora. The trek is relatively easier compared to the Dolma La trek, as you are trekking through valleys and plains with a view of Mount Kailash gradually disappearing in the distance.

    Once you reach Zhongdo, you move from trekking to a beautiful drive back to Purang or Hilsa, retracing your route through the vast expanse of the Tibetan Plateau. During the drive, you have the chance to take in all the beauty of the landscape, the snow-capped peaks, and the desert plains, as you take a break from the grueling trek.

    Stay: Hotel/Guest House

  • Day 10
    Fly to Simikot-Nepalgunj-Kathmandu

    On the last day, after breakfast, you take a morning flight from Purang/Hilsa back to Simikot, retracing your route over the breathtaking vistas of the Himalayan range. From Simikot, you connect to your flight to Nepalgunj, and then to Kathmandu, to conclude your journey.

    The flights give you one more chance to enjoy the vistas of the Himalayan range, the river valleys, and the serene beauty of the Humla region before returning to the more populated regions of Nepal. On arrival at Kathmandu, you are taken to your hotel or home, to conclude a spiritually and visually enriching journey through some of the most sacred and remote regions of Tibet and Nepal.

    Stay: 4-Star Hotel

  • Day 11
    Transfer to airport for final departure

    After breakfast and packing up, you will be taken to the airport in Kathmandu for your onward flight. This concludes your journey to the sacred and scenic destination that has taken you through the remote Himalayas of Humla, the spiritual shores of Lake Manasarover, and the hallowed trails of Mount Kailash.

    As you leave behind the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas and the serene beauty of the lakes, you take with you the spiritual fulfillment and experience of one of the most extraordinary pilgrimages in the world.

Note

Booking and Payment Policy
  • Booking has to be done at least 45 days in advance in accordance with the regulations set by the Foreign Exchange Center (FEC).
  • The passport has to be valid for at least six months from the date of departure.
  • 30% advance payment has to be made at least 45 days prior to the date of departure along with a copy of the passport.
  • The full payment has to be completed at least 15 days prior to the date of departure.
  • Original passport along with passport-size photos has to be submitted to our Delhi office at least 15 days prior to the Yatra.
Important Information for Kailash Yatris:

Extra Funds: Please ensure that you carry at least INR 60,000 in cash or convertible currency for contingencies such as:

  • Accommodation in hotels/guest houses in case of delay in permits or visa
  • Cancellation of domestic flights due to bad weather conditions
  • Any other unexpected expenses that may incur during the journey
  • Note: All the additional expenses will be borne by the traveler on the spot.
Permit Procedure

Documents for the permit application must be submitted at least 40 days prior to the entry date of the group.

Tour Cancellation policy
  • Any cancellation must be in writing and sent to our office.
  • No cancellation will be accepted verbally.
  • 15 days or more before entry date: US$ 150/person.
  • Within 7 days of entry date, including the 7th day: US$ 400/person or equivalent in convertible currency.
Basic Information - Kailash Yatra
  • Start Point: Kathmandu / Nepalgunj / Lucknow (as per booking)
  • End Point: Kathmandu / Nepalgunj / Lucknow (as per booking)
  • Maximum Altitude: 5,650 m
  • Altitude of Mount Kailash: 6,714 m
  • Best Time to Visit: May to September
  • Temperature Range: Max 20°C | Min -10°C
  • Altitude of Lake Manasarovar: 4,550 m
  • Kailash Parikrama: 56 km total; ~45 km on foot over 3 days
  • Manasarovar Lake Parikrama: 105 km
  • Distance from Kathmandu: 1,050 km (one way)
  • Climate: Unpredictable, can change rapidly
Refund Policy:

In case of incomplete yatra, no refund for the participants is made, regardless of the reason.

Holy Water of Manasarovar:

It is strictly prohibited to carry the holy water of Lake Manasarovar outside of Tibet, as per the regulations of the FEC.

Policy for Pilgrims Above 70 Years. Pilgrims aged 70+ must provide:
Health Examination Report:
  • Must be issued within 6 months by a recognized Indian public hospital.
  • Report should include the doctor’s assessment and recommendation on whether the pilgrim is physically fit for high-altitude areas (4,000m and above).
Pilgrim Application:
  • Pilgrim must submit a signed application expressing the intention to undertake the Kailash Yatra.
  • Application must be signed and fingerprinted by the pilgrim and two direct relatives.
  • Relatives are responsible for pilgrims over 70 years of age.
  • Pilgrims with high blood pressure, heart disease, asthma, or other health conditions unsuitable for high-altitude travel are not eligible to apply for the permit.
Kailash Yatra – Security Deposit for Senior Pilgrims
  • Pilgrims 70 years and above are required to deposit a security amount of US$ 1,000 for the yatra.
  • The security deposit is refundable after completion of the yatra.
  • Non-refundable: If the pilgrim dies due to natural causes or any other reason during the yatra, the US$ 1,000 deposit will not be refunded.
Clothing & Packing List:
  • Clothing: Casual wear and comfortable walking shoes are suggested.
  • Warm Clothing: The nights and early morning hours are quite cold, so it is suggested to carry warm jackets, sweaters, etc.
  • Dress Code for Indian Pilgrims: Saris are strictly not suggested for the yatra.
  • Personal Essentials: All films, medicines, cosmetics, etc., are suggested to carry as they are not readily available in the area.
  • Health Kit: A small first aid kit is suggested to carry.
Kailash Yatra – Essentials and Health Guidelines
Clothing & Gear:
  • Winter & High-Altitude Wear: Gore-Tex jacket, down jacket, raincoat/windbreaker, thermal underwear, warm trousers, woolen shirts/sweaters, gloves, woolen balaclava (monkey cap), scarf/dust mask.
  • Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes, light leather boots for snow.
  • Accessories: Sun hat, sunglasses (UV protection), sunscreen/sunblock, torch with spare batteries, daypack, camera, binoculars.
Snacks & Personal Items:
  • Snacks: Chocolates, dry fruits, toffees, namkeen, glucose.
  • Strong water bottle & water-purifying tablets.
  • Personal medical kit, Diamox tablets (for high altitude).
  • Wet tissues, clothesline/clips, needle & thread, body spray, toilet paper.
Health & Fitness:
  • This is a challenging high-altitude journey; you must be physically fit.
  • Patients with asthma or serious health issues may face difficulties.
  • Doctor’s check-up is recommended before the tour to assess fitness for high-altitude trekking (up to ~5,500–5,650m during Parikrama).
Altitude Sickness:
Precautions:
  • Symptoms may include headache, nausea, loss of appetite, sleeplessness, breathlessness, and exhaustion.
    • Drink plenty of water.
    • Avoid alcohol and smoking before and during the yatra.
    • Rest and avoid strenuous exercise until acclimatized.
  • Carry Diamox tablets; Gamow bag is provided on the tour for altitude sickness emergencies.
Currency:
  • Chinese currency: Yuan (CNY), approx. 1 CNY = INR 12.
  • Money can be exchanged at Kathmandu, Nepalgunj, Hilsa, or Purang.
Risk and Liabilities – Kailash Yatra
  • We make all efforts to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
  • All Tibet treks and tours are operated in compliance with the Foreign Exchange Center (FEC) of Tibet Autonomous Region.
  • Nepal Himalayan Voyages and its Tibet office are not responsible for any change or cancellation of tour due to:
    • Road blockades, landslides, and snow
    • Political instability, strikes, and riots
    • Flight cancellations and delays
    • Unavailability of transport
    • Visa rejection by Chinese authorities
  • Sickness and accidents, and any unforeseen events
  • Any extra cost arising will be borne by the client on the spot.
  • The condition of the road in Tibet is rough and remote; even a good vehicle can break down.
  • It is strongly advised that clients take full insurance for:
    • Sickness and accidents
    • Trip cancellation
    • Personal accidents
  • Cost Note: The tour cost is non-commissionable.

Map

What's Included

  • Airports pick up and drop services.
  • Double sharing full board basis 4-star hotel in Kathmandu as per itinerary.
  • A visit of Pashupatinath Temple and Sleeping Vishnu.
  • Scheduled flight Kathmandu - Nepalgunj - Kathmandu.
  • Scheduled flight Nepalgunj - Simikot - Nepalgunj.
  • Charter helicopter flight share by 5 person Simikot - Hilsa - Simikot.
  • Double sharing hotel in Nepalgunj and 3 or 4 pax in Simikot and in Tibet.
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner as per itinerary (B, L, D).
  • Transport by Tourist Bus up to Mansarovar and Eco Bus from Masarovar, Darchen and Yamdwar as per group sizes.
  • Truck for Luggage.
  • Nepali Team Leader and supporting Sherpa team and their medical insurance.
  • English speaking Tibetan guide, Chinese visa fee of client and staff.
  • Veg. Indian meals during the trip and hotel/guesthouses in Tibet.
  • Duffel Bag & Bag pack (a large bag to keep the yatris luggage for the trip) Gore-Tex Jacket returnable basis.
  • All cooking utensils as per group size.
  • Yak & Yak man to carry kitchen utensils and equipment during Kailash Parikrama.
  • All entrance and conservation fee of Tibet.
  • Upper Humla permit fee for client and Helicopter landing charge.
  • Gamow bag oxygen and oxy- meter for safety.
Not Included
  • All beverages during trip and in Kathmandu, Nepalgunj and Simikot.
  • Extra room bills due to flight delays due to weather conditions.
  • Trekking Poles and a water bottle.
  • Insurance of clients and evacuation cost.
  • Personal horse-riding charges during Kailash Parikrama.
  • Domestic excess baggage charge and international airport taxes.
  • Tips for supporting staff.

Availabilities

Trip start
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Do's & Don'ts

NHV next heartily welcomes all of our valued guests. Either you are trekking in the mountains or touring the Kathmandu valley we suggest you that you treat the land and its people with care and respect. Below are some tips on how you can keep the environment clean and show appreciation for age-old culture and traditional religious beliefs. Nepal's Culture might be astonishing and surprising for newcomers therefore these tips are sometimes necessary.

  • To show gratitude and respect, use both of your hands rather than one when giving or receiving something, even money. It’s seen as a gesture of respect.
  • Remember not to point with a single finger but use a flat extended hand especially to indicate a sacred object or place.
  • Among Hindus, avoid touching women and holy men. In Nepal, people especially women, do not normally shake hands when they greet one another, but instead press palms together in a prayer-like gesture known as "Namaste" greeting is preferable.
  • Do not eat with your left hand.
  • Never eat beef in front of Hindus and Buddhist because beef is strictly prohibited among both Hindus and Buddhists. Cows are sacred in Nepal.
  • Try not to step over or point your feet at another person, a sacred place or a heart.
  • Remove your shoes when entering a home, temple or monastery and leather items in Hindu temples and avoid smoking and wearing scant dress in religious settings.
  • Remember, some of the temples entrance may be prohibited for non-Hindus.
  • It is better not to touch offerings or persons when they are on way to shrines, especially if you are non-Hindu.
  • Do not offer food to a Nepalese after tasting it, nor eat from a common pot, and avoid touching your lips to a shared drinking vessel.
  • The sight of men holding hands is common, but men and women holding hands, and general acts of affection, are frowned upon. Do not do something that is totally alien to Nepalese culture.
  • Do walk around Stupas clockwise, so that the outer walls are always on your right. If you encounter a stone wall covered with Tibetan inscriptions, do the same: Walk past with the wall on your right (and don't take any of the stones).
  • Do not lose your cool. Raising your voice or shouting is seen as extremely bad manners in Nepal too and will only make any problem worse.
  • Do get a receipt of in authenticity when purchasing an antique replica. Otherwise, you will not be allowed to take it out of the country. And do not buy ivory or fur from endangered species. Your purchases encourage the trade in such illegal goods, and you would not be allowed to bring them back home anyway.
  • Do not give in to children who ask for just one rupee. Although a rupee is a small amount that anyone can spare, successful begging leads young children to drop out of school and take up panhandling as their trade. If you want to help, give to a trustworthy charity or a school.
  • Do not take photographs of locals, holy shrines and temples unless they have clearly given their consent.