How to travel Kailash

Travelling to Kailash is an easy process, but you need to join a registered agency, which can help you plan your Kailash Tour, from arranging permits to managing accommodation throughout the journey. Doing the Kailash journey includes a sacred pilgrimage in Tibet, where you see thousands of devotees and travelers undertaking the Kailash Parikrama and visiting the nearby Lake Mansarovar. 

Mount Kailash

Mount Kailash, located in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China, is located at an altitude of 6,638 meters, which holds a great spiritual significance in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon. As per many, they believe the abode of Lord Shiva. Taking the Kailash Parikrama (circumambulation) around the mountain is considered highly auspicious. 

Lake Mansarovar

Situated near Mount Kailash, Lake Mansarovar is one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world, which is about 4,590 meters. Pilgrims believe that taking a bath in its water can help with spiritual purification. The lake is famous for its pristine blue water, surrounding snow-capped mountains, and peaceful environment. Many pilgrims even perform rituals and pray before and after the Kailash Parikrama. 

Kailash Tour Visa Process

To visit Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar, there are certain criteria and some necessary permits to be obtained. Since the region is a part of China, you must ensure your visit through a registered agency. Below is the process which is required for the Kailash Tour. 

• Book your Kailash Tour with a licensed operator, as solo traveling is not allowed in Tibet. 
• Submit your passport, photographs, and ID proof to the operator, as they help you obtain the required permits for the Kailash Tour. 
• The operator will help you apply for the Tibet Travel Permit, which must be obtained from the Chinese authorities. 
• Once all the permit and visas is arranged, you can travel to Lhasa and proceed to Kailash. 

Main Route for traveling to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar 

1. Arrive in Tibet
   

• Fly to Lhasa Gonggar Airport or enter via Nepal (Khasa/Kerung border). 
• Obtain a Tibet Travel Permit through a licensed tour operator.

      2. Lhasa to Mount Kailash

• Drive or fly to Ngari Gunsa Airport. 
• Road journey takes 4 – 6 days, with acclimatization stops along the way. 

      3. Lake Mansarovar Visit

• Located 30 – 40 km north of Mount Kailash. 
• Pilgrims rest, perform rituals, and take a holy bath in the sacred water. 

      4. Kailash Parikrama (Kora)

• 52 km circumambulation (Parikrama) around Mount Kailash. 
• 3 days walking on foot around Mount Kailash. 
• Major points: Darchen, Dirapuk, Zutrulpuk, Dolma La Pass (5,650 m).

       5. Return journey

• Travel back to Lhasa or the Nepal border. 
• Total Kailash Mansarovar Tour Duration: 14 – 16 Days, depending on the acclimatization days, weather, and road conditions. 

China Visa for traveling to Tibet

Obtaining a Chinese visa, which is obtained through a licensed tour operator, is mandatory, as it includes visiting Lhasa and traveling across high-altitude Tibetan landscapes. If you want to enjoy the beauty of this region, taking the Kailash Tour might be a rewarding opportunity for you. 

Application Process for a Chinese Visa

• Must be applied at a Chinese Embassy or Consulate in your country. 
• Documents required: Valid passport (at least 6 months’ validity and having blank pages). 
• Visa application form
• Passport-size photos
• Travel Itinerary 

Note: The Visa processing usually takes 4 – 10 business days.