16 Days
Moderate

Planning to visit Tibet for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and unsure about what to pack, don’t worry we are here to help you. In this comprehensive guide you will learn how to carefully plan everything that you will need to pack, including personal belongings and essential medication.
The high altitude Kailash Kora and the harsh terrain demands careful planning so that you can travel in ease while enjoying the beauty of Mt Kailash and breathtaking landscape.
We have prepared everything you need to carry for this holy Yatra in order to ensure a comfortable and spiritually enriching experience. Let’s check in detail.

Below we have listed all the Travel and Trekking Packing list for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Kailash Mansarovar Yatra takes you to a high altitude near the holy Mount Kailash. The weather and the temperature in Tibet especially at the high altitude near the Kailash Mountain can be unpredictable. Therefore those who are planning for this Yatra must pack all the essential items and gear to remain safe and secure throughout the journey.
When you pack these items, it will help to make your Kailash Mansarovar trek accessible and comfortable. Your health safety should be your top priority so never underestimate the importance of proper packing.
If you have any confusion regarding the packing list or anything about the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra you can ask our Namaste Nepal Trekking Trip counsellor.
| Item | Description | Quantity | Material Suggestions |
| Base Layers (Tops) | Moisture-wicking, long-sleeved shirts to wear next to skin. | 2-3 | Merino wool, synthetic (polyester, nylon) |
| Base Layers (Bottoms) | Moisture-wicking long underwear/leggings. | 2-3 | Merino wool, synthetic (polyester, nylon) |
| Fleece Jacket | Mid-layer for insulation. Can be worn alone in milder weather. | 1-2 | Fleece, Polartec |
| Insulated Jacket | Down or synthetic fill jacket for extreme cold. | 1 | Down (high fill power), synthetic (Primaloft, Thinsulate) |
| Waterproof/Windproof Jacket | Outer layer to protect from rain, snow, and wind. | 1 | Gore-Tex, other waterproof/breathable fabrics |
| Waterproof/Windproof Pants | Outer layer to protect from rain, snow, and wind. Can be worn over base layers or fleece pants. | 1 | Gore-Tex, other waterproof/breathable fabrics |
| Trekking Pants | Comfortable and durable pants for trekking. | 1-2 | Nylon blend, quick-drying materials |
| Socks | Wool or synthetic hiking socks. | 4-5 pairs | Merino wool, synthetic blends |
| Warm Hat | Covers ears for warmth. | 1 | Wool, fleece, acrylic |
| Gloves | Waterproof/windproof gloves or mittens. | 1 pair | Leather, synthetic with waterproof membrane (Gore-Tex, etc.) |
| Scarf/Buff | For neck and face protection from sun, wind, and cold. | 1-2 | Merino wool, fleece, synthetic |
16 Days Moderate
| Item | Description |
| Camp Shoes( 1 Pair) | Lightweight, comfortable shoes (sandals, Crocs, lightweight sneakers) |
| Tennis Shoes (1 Pair) | More supportive than sandals, can be used for light trekking or as a backup to hiking boots. |
| Trekking Shoes ( 1 Pair) | Snug fit, good ankle support, durable construction, water resistance/waterproof, lacing system, insoles |
| Item | Description | Notes |
| Duffle Bag | Large, sturdy bag for porter transport | Provided by Namaste Nepal Trekking |
| 40L Daypack | For carrying essentials on the trail | Comfortable and adjustable. |
| Waterproof Daypack Cover | Protects daypack contents from rain and snow | Essential for unpredictable weather. |
| Reusable Water Bottles/Hydration Bladder | For carrying at least 2-3 liters of water | Bladder is convenient, bottles offer more flexibility. |
| Sleeping Bag | Rated to -18°C/0°F | Down or synthetic fill. Consider renting to save space and cost. |
| Trekking Poles | Provides stability and reduces strain on knees | Adjustable and lightweight. Consider rubber tips for different terrains. |
| Headlamp | For navigating in the dark | With extra batteries. LED headlamps are energy-efficient. |
| Water Filter/Iodine Tablets | For purifying water from streams and other sources | Personal preference. Filter is more effective against a wider range of contaminants. |
| Travel Pillow/Pillowcase | For sleeping comfort | Inflatable or compact. A pillowcase can be used with provided bedding for hygiene. |
| Sleeping Bag Stuff Sack | Compresses sleeping bag for transport | Durable and water-resistant. |
| Dry Bags (Various Sizes) | Keeps electronics, clothing, and other items dry | Essential for protecting valuables from moisture. |
| Small Locks | For securing duffle bag and daypack | Prevents theft and accidental opening. |
| Quick-Drying Trekking Towel (Optional) | Lightweight and absorbent for personal hygiene | Microfiber towel. |

| Category | Item Examples |
| Main Food Items | Instant Noodles, Dried Soups, Canned food |
| Carbs | Biscuits, Crackers, Energy Bars |
| Protein | Nuts, Seeds, Dried Lentils, Protein Powder |
| Snacks | Trail Mix, Dried Fruit, Protein Bars |
| Hydration | Rehydration gels/powders |
| Item | Purpose | Notes |
| Sunscreen | Protect skin from intense UV rays. | High SPF (30+), broad spectrum, water-resistant. |
| Lip Balm (with SPF) | Protect lips from sun and dryness. | SPF 15 or higher. |
| Toilet Paper | Personal hygiene. | Bring enough for the entire trip. Consider biodegradable options. |
| Moleskin/Tape | Blister prevention/treatment. | Cut to size as needed. |
| Soap | Personal hygiene. | Travel-sized bar or liquid soap. |
| Deodorant | Personal hygiene. | Travel-sized. |
| Toothbrush/Toothpaste | Oral hygiene. | Travel-sized. |
| Razor (as needed) | Personal grooming. | |
| Shampoo | Hair care. | Travel-sized or solid shampoo bar. |
| Wet Wipes | Quick cleaning when water is limited. | |
| Hand Sanitizer | Hand hygiene. | Alcohol-based. |
| Feminine Hygiene | Menstrual needs (if applicable). | Bring a sufficient supply and disposal bags. |
| Face Lotion | Moisturize dry skin. | |
| Hairbrush/Ties | Hair care. | |
| Earplugs | Sleep comfort (reduce noise). |
| Item | Purpose | Notes |
| Pain Relievers | Headache, muscle aches, and altitude discomfort. | Ibuprofen, Advil, or your preferred brand. |
| Diamox | Altitude sickness prevention (consult a doctor). | Start taking as prescribed before arrival at higher altitudes. |
| Antibiotics (Cipro) | Travelers’ diarrhea (consult a doctor). | Use only as directed by your doctor. |
| Personal Prescriptions | Manage pre-existing conditions. | Bring a sufficient supply and a copy of your prescription. |
| Anti-Chafe Balm | Prevent skin chafing. | Apply to areas prone to rubbing. |
| Diaper Rash Cream | Treat rashes, chafing, and minor skin irritations. | Multi-purpose use. |
| Item | Notes |
| Camera | Mirrorless/DSLR or Smartphone with a good camera; extra batteries |
| Extra Camera Battery/Batteries | Very Important |
| Extra SD Card or Memory Cards | For Pictures and videos |
| Portable Power Bank | High capacity (20000mAh+); essential for charging on the go |
| Phone | For communication, if service is available, consider a local SIM card |
| Universal Adapter | if needed for charging |
| Waterproof Phone Case | Protection from dust, snow, and water |
| Waterproof Camera Case | Protection from dust, snow, and water |
| Book/Journal/Pen | For reflection and recording experiences |
| Playing Cards/Small Game | For entertainment during downtime |
| Document | Description | Notes |
| Passport | Official identification document. | Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended stay. Needed for entry and registration. |
| Visa | Allows entry into Nepal & Tibet | Obtainable upon arrival at Kathmandu Airport. Bring $30 (15 days) or $50 (30 days) USD cash for the application. |
| Cash (USD) | For personal expenses. | Recommended: $200-$300. ATMs are unreliable in Tibet. |
| Passport Photo(s) | Required for trekking permits in other areas you may visit, mainly if trekking in the Annapurna Region. | Have 4-6 extra passport photos just in case. Not always needed for just the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. |
| Travel Insurance | Coverage for medical emergencies, evacuation, trip cancellation, etc. | Ensure it covers high-altitude trekking and medical evacuation from remote areas. |
| Item | Hindu | Buddhist | Jain |
| Idols/Images | Small idols/images of Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, Lord Ganesha, or any preferred deity. Consider Shiva Lingam. | Small Buddha Statue (Shakyamuni, Medicine Buddha, or Guru Rinpoche), Images of Bodhisattvas (like Avalokiteshvara/Chenrezig). | Small idols/images of Tirthankaras (e.g., Lord Mahavira, Lord Adinath), miniature representation of Samavasarana. |
| Prayer Beads/Rosary | Rudraksha beads, Tulsi beads, or a mala of your preferred material. | Mala with 108 beads (usually made of wood, bone, or seeds). | Mala with 108 beads, cotton pooni (for cleaning idols). |
| Incense & Holder | Incense sticks (agarbatti), dhoop, and a small incense holder. Favor natural scents like sandalwood or frankincense. | Tibetan incense sticks (often herbal and specific to Buddhist practices), incense holder or a tripod. | Sambrani dhoop, incense burner suitable for sambrani. Avoid incense sticks involving killing organisms during combustion. |
| Essential Oils | Sandalwood rose, or other oils for anointing idols or self. | Essential oils (optional, for personal well-being). | Essential oils (optional, for personal well-being). |
| Religious Texts | Bhagavad Gita, Ramayana, Shiva Purana, or any other scriptures relevant to your practice. | Buddhist Sutras (e.g., Heart Sutra), Tibetan texts, prayer books (often in Tibetan or English). | Jain scriptures (Agamas), books on Jain philosophy, prayer books. |
| Offering Items | Flowers (dried or artificial, as fresh flowers may be scarce), rice, sweets (dry), Ganga Jal (holy water). | Rice, barley, tsampa (roasted barley flour), butter tea (if permitted and available), water offerings. | Dry fruits, rice, saffron (kesar), water. Strict adherence to Ahimsa prevents offering items that may involve harm to living beings. |
| Cloth/Shawl | Small pieces of silk or cotton cloth to place under idols/images. | Kata (ceremonial scarf, usually white or yellow) to offer to statues and lamas. | Clean cloth (usually white) to keep idols. |
| Ritual Items | Bell, conch shell (shankh), small containers for water, copper lota (water pot), matchbox, camphor. | Vajra (dorje), bell (ghanta), singing bowl (optional). | A small container for water, a brush made of natural fibers (for cleaning idols), a small broom made of soft feathers (for cleaning the area around idols). |
| Other | Photos/mementos of spiritual gurus, pilgrimage guidebooks, notebook and pen for reflections. | Photos/mementos of spiritual gurus, pilgrimage guidebooks, notebook and pen for reflections. | Photos/mementos of spiritual gurus, pilgrimage guidebooks, notebook and pen for reflections. Avoid bringing items made from animal products. |
Important Things to Remember: Carrying the image of the Dalai Lama is strictly prohibited, so make sure not to talk about the Dalai Lama and carry his picture while travelling in Tibet.
Note: You can also buy the puja item in Nepal.
If you are not a frequent traveller, then you might not want to spend a huge amount of money for buying the new gear items for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra right? Then don’t worry we have brought a solution for you. You can take all the essential gear items required for your travel plan in Nepal from the rental store. From sleeping bags, trekking poles, tents, backpacks, dufflebag and specialized clothing you can rent most things at a cheap price. The rate of the renting price starts from 1$ per day. You can directly visit these shops and rent them by yourself. We can also help you rent these items if you want.
Here are some of the important things that you need to consider while renting:
It is obvious that sometimes even if we carefully pack all the things we might forget to pack some items. So in this case what are the options you can get and where are the best places in Nepal and Tibet to buy?
Thamel, Kathmandu: Thamel is the tourist hub and there are many shops you can find in the streets when you are walking here. They sell anything that tourists need for trekking and travel. You can roam in the streets of Thamel and buy in case you forget to pack clothing or gear items that you need for your Kailash Yatra journey.
Barkhor Market in Lhasa, Tibet: One of the popular places for tourists to buy things in Tibet is in Barkhor. You can find a wide range of items here. From souvenirs, clothing, gear you can find everything here.
Darchen: This is the last place from where you can buy things for your Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. After you leave this place you will find only small shops that sell food items.
After you learn things that you need to pack now it is more important to understand that travelers who are travelling in Nepal for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra need to maintain the weight limit. Pack all the things but make sure they are light weight and you can carry them while trekking. Trekking while carrying a backpack will be extremely difficult. So if you don’t pack light then you will only have the option of hiring a horse or personal porter to reduce the weight burden.
Also if you are using the Helicopter service or direct flight to Lhasa for your Kailash Mansarovar Yatra then you need to understand the weight limit and pack accordingly.
| Arrival in Nepal | Departure to Tibet | Final departure from Nepal | Note |
| 21 April | 27 April | 08 May | 1 May: First Full Moon of May |
| 4 May d | 8 May | 19 May | Registration Open |
| 21 May | 27 May | 7 June | 31 May: Second Full Moon/Blue Moon |
| 2 June | 6 June | 17 June | Registration Open |
| 7 June | 11 June | 22 June | Registration Open |
| 14 June | 18 June | 29 June | Registration Open |
| 21 June | 25 June | 6 July | 29 June: Full Moon / Astronomical Full Moon |
| 6 July | 10 July | 21 July | Registration Open |
| 20 July | 25 July | 4 August | 28 July: Guru Purnima Full Moon |
| 28 July | 1 August | 12 August | Registration Open |
| 3 August | 7 August | 18 August | Registration Open |
| 17 August | 23 August | 3 September | 27 Aug: Janai Purnima Full Moon |
| 7 September | 21 September | 22 September | Registration Open |
| 15 September | 21 September | 2 October | 25 Sept: Full Moon |
| 18 September | 23 September | 4 October | Registration Open |
Preparation for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a conscious act of preparation. Preparing for the rigor, with respect for the environment, and to your comfort and safety on this holy pilgrimage. This guide gives you a solid base, but be sure to customize your list to your personal tastes and preferences. Use lightweight, multifunctional gear that can accommodate changing conditions. But, more importantly, pack an open heart, a tough spirit, and a willingness to let go of the transcendent power of this holy pilgrimage.
Preparing with intention not only prepares you for the trek, but it also gives you the inner preparation to be fully open to the beauty, the tranquility, and the spirit that Kailash Mansarovar has to offer. This pilgrimage as much as it crosses the inner as the outer terrain, and conscious preparation alone will make your journey all the more rewarding, and enable you to focus on the pilgrimage, not the misery of having arrived ill-prepared.