Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in 2026 for Indian Passport Holders

Renewing Our Spirit: The Sacred Journey Continues: Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Open for Indian in 2026
Good News For Indian Citizens! Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is now officially open for Indian citizens since 2025, after a five-year ban due to various reasons. Officials from China and India held several meetings, and their efforts have finally yielded positive results.
The reopening of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra shows that the diplomatic relationship between India and China has turned into a new chapter. People from both India and Tibet now celebrate this historic decision made by the Chinese government.
The revered Kailash Mansarovar Yatra now welcomes Indian citizens as part of its official operations. Indian devotees consider this ancient pilgrimage to be their life goal because of its combined cultural, religious and spiritual value. The reopening introduces both great opportunities and important information that travelers need to understand about this historic journey.
Indian passport holders must check out this guide to walk on the legendary path around Kailash Mount along with Lake Mansarovar. The guide provides essential information about requirements for traveling to Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in 2026, alongside route updates and preparation advice for a safe and rewarding Yatra experience.
Why is Kailash Mansarovar Significant?
Throughout several centuries, Mount Kailash, together with Lake Mansarovar, has acquired mythic dimensions for followers of multiple religions. The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra stands apart from traditional religious journeys because of several sacred characteristics.
Spiritual Importance

Among all religions, Hinduism views Mount Kailash as Shiva’s earthly abode, alongside Buddhist faith, which recognizes it as the spiritual core of Earth, and Jainism, along with Bon tradition, considers the peak sacred. The spiritual practice of walking (Kailash Parikrama) around Mount Kailash generates spiritual rewards and wipes away all accumulated sins according to traditional belief. Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Open for Indians means allot for indian pilgrims, they have been waiting for 5+ years.
Mount Kailash: 20 Amazing Spiritual Facts That You Must Know
Natural Beauty and Challenge
The religious attraction of the trail accompanies spectacular landscape scenery, pure mountain breezes, and endless exploration across Tibet’s rugged foothills.
Cultural Connections
Pilgrims from India, Nepal, and beyond converge, forging a deep sense of community along the way.
Who Can Undertake the Yatra in 2026?
The official reopening applies to all Indian citizens holding a valid Indian passport. Here are the main eligibility requirements:
Indian Passport Holders
- Only valid passport holders are eligible. Aadhaar or PAN cards are insufficient.
Age restrictions
- Pilgrims aged 70 and above: The age of the passport shall prevail. In the year of pilgrimage
Pilgrims aged 70 and above are not allowed to apply for entry permits.
Medical Fitness
- High-altitude trekking demands stamina. Medical and fitness certificates are a must and will be strictly verified.
- Health examination report, issued within 6 months by an Indian public hospital higher than the district level. The content of the report should include the doctor’s judgment and suggestion whether the pilgrim’s physical condition is suitable for the plateau areas (4000 meters or 13,000 feet above sea level). Pilgrims suffering from high blood pressure, heart disease, asthma, and other diseases that are not suitable for entering the plateau areas cannot apply for the permit.
Group travel
- Yatras are operated in groups, often arranged by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India, and in Nepal, they will be arranged by a registered tour agency.
Pilgrims’ Health and Age Requirements
Indian Passport Holders shall submit the following documents 25 days before entry:
Health examination report, issued within 6 months by an Indian public hospital higher than district level. The content of the report should include the doctor’s judgment and suggestion whether the pilgrim’s physical condition is suitable for the plateau areas (4000 meters or 13,000 feet above sea level). Pilgrims suffering from high blood pressure, heart disease, asthma, and other diseases that are not suitable for entering the plateau areas cannot apply for the permit.
Pilgrims aged 70 and above: The age of the passport shall prevail. In the year of pilgrimage. Pilgrims aged 70 and above are not allowed to apply for entry permits.

Updated Routes to Kailash Mansarovar For Indians
For the Indian who wants to participate in the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, here are the popular routes:
1. 2025 Year Route: Via the Rashuwagidi Border/ Gyirong entry/exit route.
Kathmandu → Rashuwagidi → Gyirong /Kyorung → Saga → Mansarovar Lake → Darchen → Dirapuk → Zuthulpuk → Darchen → Saga → Gyirong /Kyorung → Rashuwagidi → Kathmandu
- Starting Point: Pilgrims enter from Gyirong port, X.A.R., the People’s Republic of China. The most popular route for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is through the Rasuwagidi border / Gyirong port
- Visa & Permits: Group visas and permits will be arranged by Namaste Nepal Trekking
- Distance & Duration: The pilgrimage period is 10 days and 9 nights.
2. Current Route: Via the Tatopani Border/Zhangmu port entry/exit route.
Kathmandu → Tatopani → Zhangmu Port → Nyalam → Saga → Mansarovar Lake → Darchen → Dirapuk → Zuthulpuk → Darchen → Saga → Nyalam → Zhangmu Port → Tatopani → Kathmandu
Due to an unexpected flood that washed away the Rasuwagadi border crossing Friendship Bridge, the yatra is now being rerouted through the Tatopani/Kodarai/Nyalam border crossing.
The itinerary provided below reflects this change, with “Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Timure” being updated to “Day 2: Drive from Kathmandu to Timure / Tatopani.”
For the upcoming 2026 Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, the specific route (either Rasuwagadi or Tatopani) will be determined based on the official decision and approval from the Chinese government.
Regardless of which border crossing is used, the total duration, standard itinerary, and number of days spent in Tibet will remain consistent. The core experience of the pilgrimage is unaffected by this logistical change.
The outline itinerary of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in 2026 for Indian Passport Holders via the overland route
| Day | Itinerary | Time |
| 1 | Arrival in Kathmandu | 30 min |
| 2 | Pashupatinath Temple Darshan, and Sightseeing tour of Budhanilkantha Temple (Sleeping Vishnu), Boudhanath Stupa and Group Meeting in the Evening | 4-5 hrs |
| 3 | Drive from Kathmandu to Timure / Tatopani | 5–6 hrs |
| 4 | Drive to Rasuwagadhi / Tatopani Border, Cross the Border, and drive to Kyarung / Nyalam Town in Tibet | 3–4 hrs |
| 5 | Rest and Acclimatization in Kyarung / Nyalam Town | Free Day |
| 6 | Drive from Kyirong to Milerappa Cave (2 Hours Hiking from Highway) or Drive from Nyalam to Saga Town | 6–7 hrs |
| 7 | Drive from Saga to Mansarovar Lake (4,590m) and Manasarovar Lake Kora / Circumambulation (Half) by Conservation Vehicle, Experience the Full Moon Night if you are there. | 8–9 hrs |
| 8 | Visit Manasarovar Lake Side, Explore Chiu Gompa and Drive to Darchen (4,575m) | 2–5 hrs |
| 8 | Drive to Yamadwar and Kailash Kora Starts: Trek to Diraphuk (4765M). | 6–7 hrs |
| 10 | Mt. Kailash Kora Continues: Trek to Zuthulphuk (4700M) Via Dolma La Pass (5680m) and Gauri Kund. | 8–10 hrs |
| 11 | Last Day of Kailash Kora: Trek to Mani Wall near Darchen (8 km) and drive to Saga | 8–10 hrs |
| 12 | Drive from Saga (4,640m) to Kyarung / Nyalam via Pelku Lake | 6–8 hrs |
| 13 | Drive from Kyarung / Nyalam to Nepal border and drive to Kathmandu | 7–8 hrs |
| 14 | Departure from Kathmandu | 30 min |

2. Direct Flight to Lhasa: Lhasa entry/exit overland Tour
- Starting Point: pilgrims enter from Lhasa, X.A.R., the People’s Republic of China
- Distance & Duration: The Pilgrimage period is 12 days and 11 nights
- Visa & Permits: Group visas and permits will be arranged by Namaste Nepal Trekking
The outline itinerary of the Lhasa entry/exit overland Tour is as follows:
| Day | Itinerary |
| 1 | Pick up the group from Gongga International Airport, Lhasa. Transfer to hotel(3650M) |
| 2 | Full day acclimatization in Lhasa(3650 M), Sightseeing Tour in Lhasa |
| 3 | Drive to Shigatse, stay overnight in Shigatse (3850M). |
| 4 | Drive to Saga and stay overnight (4510M). |
| 5 | Drive to Mapangyongcuo(Lake Manasarovar), stay overnight at Lake Manasarovar (4500M) or Hore town (4560M) near Lake Manasarovar. |
| 6 | Lake Manasarovar parikrama by environmental bus and head to Darchen. Stay overnight in Darchen (4560M). |
| 7 | Drive to Shershong (12 km from Darchen) and start to trek to Zhirepu(Dirapuk). Stay overnight at Zhirepu(Dirapuk) (4765M). |
| 8 | Continue Parikrama. Trek to Zunzhupu (Zuthul-Puk) after passing Drolmala Pass (5610M). Below the Drolmala is the Gauri Kund. Stay overnight at Zunzhupu (Zuthul-Puk) (4700M) |
| 9 | Drive back to Saga. Stay overnight at Saga (4510M) / Zhongba (4580M). |
| 10 | Drive to Shigatse and overnight (3 |
| 11 | Drive to Lhasa and overnight(3650M |
| 12 | Drive to Gongga International Airport and exit from the Lhasa port. |

3. Via Helicopter From Simikot Hilsa: Pilgrims enter from Purang port
- Starting Point: Flight from Kathmandu > Nepaljung>Simikot. Then ride a helicopter to reach Hilsa and cross the border via Purang port.
- Visas: Group visas and permits will be arranged by Namaste Nepal Trekking.
- Distance & Duration: The Pilgrimage period is 7 days and 6 nights
The outline itinerary of the Helicopter From Simikot Hilsa: Pilgrims enter from Purang port is as follows:
| Day | Itinerary |
| 1 | Pick up the group from Purang port. Stay overnight in Purang (3700M). |
| 2 | Drive to Mapangyongcuo (Manasarovar), stay overnight at Manasarovar Lake (4500m) or Hore town (4560M) near Manasarovar. |
| 3 | Mapangyongcuo (Manasarovar) parikrama by environmental bus and head to Darchen. Stay overnight in Darchen (4560M). |
| 4 | Drive to Shershong (12 km from Darchen) and start to trek to Zhirepu(Dirapuk). Stay overnight at Zhirepu (Dirapuk)(4765M). |
| 5 | Continue Parikrama. Trek to Zunzhupu (Zuthul-Puk) after passing Drolmala Pass (5610M).Below the Drolmala is the Gauri Kund. Stay overnight at Zunzhupu (Zuthul-Puk) (4700M) |
| 6 | End of Parikrama, back to Purang and stay overnight in Purang (3700M). |
| 7 | Exit from Purang port |
Book Now: Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by Helicopter
Note: Border conditions, weather, and diplomatic agreements can impact the status of each route. Always check official updates before booking.
How to Apply for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

Here are the steps on how you can book or register Kailash Mansarovar Yatra from Nepal:
Step 1: Online Application
- First, choose a suitable package that fits you. Check the itinerary, departure date, inclusion, exclusion, and company policy. After that, you can click the inquiry, fill in the info, and send it to us. Or fill the following form:
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Registration Form for Indian Passport Holders
Step 2: Advance Payment
- To secure your spot for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, you need to make an advance payment of 25% of the total package cost. For indian Passport Holders, we offer a special Price. Please Contact us Now and reserve your Seat. You can easily pay the amount in Indian Currency (INR) and make the payment through other available payment options.
Step 3: Booking Confirmation
- Once we receive the advance payment, we will send you the official confirmation via email or through the contact that you have provided to us. You can pay the rest of the amount after you arrive here in Nepal.
Our Contact Details:
- Location: Amrit Marg, Thamel, Kathmandu, Nepal
- Number: +977 9843294000 (WhatsApp, Telegram, WeChat)
- Mail: [email protected]
Fixed Departure Dates for Indian Passport Holders for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in 2026
| Arrival in Nepal | Departure to Tibet | Final Departure from Nepal | Note |
| 25 April | 27 April | 08 May | 1 May: First Full Moon of May |
| 6 May | 8 May | 19 May | Available; Filling Fast |
| 25 May | 27 May | 7 June | 31 May: Second Full Moon/Blue Moon |
| 4 June | 6 June | 17 June | Available; Filling Fast |
| 9 June | 11 June | 22 June | Available; Filling Fast |
| 16 June | 18 June | 29 June | Available; Filling Fast |
| 23 June | 25 June | 6 July | 29 June: Full Moon / Astronomical Full Moon |
| 8 July | 10 July | 21 July | Available; Filling Fast |
| 22 July | 25 July | 4 August | 28 July: Guru Purnima Full Moon |
| 5 August | 7 August | 18 August | Available; Filling Fast |
| 21 August | 23 August | 3 September | 27 Aug: Janai Purnima Full Moon |
| 2 September | 4 September | 15 September | Available; Filling Fast |
| 9 September | 11 September | 22 September | Available; Filling Fast |
| 20 September | 22 September | 3 October | 25 Sept: Full Moon |
Essential Preparations for Your Yatra
Health and Fitness
Altitude Sickness:
The trek crosses over 5,000 meters. Acclimatization and physical fitness are crucial. Learn the early symptoms of altitude sickness and follow preventive measures. Your safety should be your top priority. Read more: Altitude Sickness During Your Kailash Tour: Know Everything
Medical Kit:
Carry prescribed medication, Diamox for altitude sickness, pain relievers, basic antibiotics, and first-aid essentials.
Packing List
Clothing:
- Waterproof jackets and pants
- Thermal inners
- Woolen cap, gloves, socks
- Trekking boots
Other Essentials:
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm
- Sleeping bag (rated for subzero temperatures)
- Water bottles and purification tablets
- Snacks (dry fruits, energy bars)
Documentation
- Original and photocopies of your Indian passport
- Visa documents and permit papers
- Fitness/medical certificates
- Passport-size photographs
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Cost For Indian Citizens from Nepal
- Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Package via overland: starting price INR 215,000 per person.
- Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Package via Lhasa Flight: starting price INR 2,90,844.
- Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Package via Simikot by helicopter: starting price INR 3,67,336.
What to Expect on the Yatra

Local Accommodation & Food
- When you book the package from the tour operator, generally, they will provide you with guesthouses or dormitories along the route. Meals are often vegetarian and simple (rice, dal, sabzi, roti, tea). The tour operator will arrange three meals during the trek.
Environmental and Cultural Etiquette
- Respect local customs: Buddhist and Tibetan cultural sites have specific do’s and don’ts.
- Leave no trace: Carry back non-biodegradable waste to keep the routes clean.
Photography:
- Some areas are off-limits or require permits. Respect restrictions.
Weather Conditions
- The months of May to October are considered the best time to visit Kailash Mansarovar Yatra due to clear skies, moderate temperature and stunning views. Winter is off-season here in Tibet, and tourists do not travel in this season for the Kailash Yatra.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. How much does the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra cost for Indian citizens?
A. Kailash Mansarovar Yatra ranges from ₹220,000–₹500,000 per person, covering travel, stay, and permits. Private operators may charge more for helicopter or deluxe packages.
Q. Is the Yatra safe for senior citizens?
A. Senior citizens can participate in this tour, but they should be healthy and fit for trekking. Consult your doctor before applying.
Q. What language is spoken along the route?
A. Hindi and English in the Indian and Nepal segments; Tibetan and Mandarin (Chinese) on the Tibet side. Guides usually speak Hindi/English.
Q. Is prior trekking experience necessary?
A. Not mandatory, but prior trekking and fitness training are strongly recommended due to rugged, high-altitude terrain.
Q. Is travel insurance required for Indians?
A. Yes, comprehensive insurance (covering evacuation) is mandatory to have a safe journey.
Final Say
Perceiving Kailash Mansarovar as a tour requires more than physical persistence since it determines spiritual progress by challenging faith alongside endurance. The recent opening of the Yatra for Indian citizens presents an exceptional opportunity to experience ancient Tibetan traditions while enjoying Himalayan beauty.
Both physical training and mental conditioning should be your first steps before beginning your journey. Consult healthcare providers about your condition while seeking fitness guidance from professional services and listening to sacred stories and devotional prayers from history. You can also consult with Namaste Nepal Trekking for more information related to the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Package, Cost, Difficulty, Preparation, and more. You can also check blogs that are related to Kailash Mansarovar, so that it will be helpful for your Yatra.
May your steps be steady, your heart full, and your Yatra truly transformative. Safe travels!





