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Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Packing List: Comprehensive Guide

profile Sabin Shrestha
calendar Updated: 19 March, 2025
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Packing List

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.

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Packing List

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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

Clothing Items Packing List

ItemDescriptionQuantityMaterial Suggestions
Base Layers (Tops)Moisture-wicking, long-sleeved shirts to wear next to skin.2-3Merino wool, synthetic (polyester, nylon)
Base Layers (Bottoms)Moisture-wicking long underwear/leggings.2-3Merino wool, synthetic (polyester, nylon)
Fleece JacketMid-layer for insulation. Can be worn alone in milder weather.1-2Fleece, Polartec
Insulated JacketDown or synthetic fill jacket for extreme cold.1Down (high fill power), synthetic (Primaloft, Thinsulate)
Waterproof/Windproof JacketOuter layer to protect from rain, snow, and wind.1Gore-Tex, other waterproof/breathable fabrics
Waterproof/Windproof PantsOuter layer to protect from rain, snow, and wind. Can be worn over base layers or fleece pants.1Gore-Tex, other waterproof/breathable fabrics
Trekking PantsComfortable and durable pants for trekking.1-2Nylon blend, quick-drying materials
SocksWool or synthetic hiking socks.4-5 pairsMerino wool, synthetic blends
Warm HatCovers ears for warmth.1Wool, fleece, acrylic
GlovesWaterproof/windproof gloves or mittens.1 pairLeather, synthetic with waterproof membrane (Gore-Tex, etc.)
Scarf/BuffFor neck and face protection from sun, wind, and cold.1-2Merino wool, fleece, synthetic

Recommended Trip
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra From Nepal | Registration Open 2026

16 Days

Moderate

Footwear Packing List

ItemDescription
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

Trekking Gear & Supplies Packing List

ItemDescriptionNotes
Duffle BagLarge, sturdy bag for porter transportProvided by Namaste Nepal Trekking 
40L DaypackFor carrying essentials on the trailComfortable and adjustable.
Waterproof Daypack CoverProtects daypack contents from rain and snowEssential for unpredictable weather.
Reusable Water Bottles/Hydration BladderFor carrying at least 2-3 liters of waterBladder is convenient, bottles offer more flexibility.
Sleeping BagRated to -18°C/0°FDown or synthetic fill. Consider renting to save space and cost.
Trekking PolesProvides stability and reduces strain on kneesAdjustable and lightweight. Consider rubber tips for different terrains.
HeadlampFor navigating in the darkWith extra batteries. LED headlamps are energy-efficient.
Water Filter/Iodine TabletsFor purifying water from streams and other sourcesPersonal preference. Filter is more effective against a wider range of contaminants.
Travel Pillow/PillowcaseFor sleeping comfortInflatable or compact. A pillowcase can be used with provided bedding for hygiene.
Sleeping Bag Stuff SackCompresses sleeping bag for transportDurable and water-resistant.
Dry Bags (Various Sizes)Keeps electronics, clothing, and other items dryEssential for protecting valuables from moisture.
Small LocksFor securing duffle bag and daypackPrevents theft and accidental opening.
Quick-Drying Trekking Towel (Optional)Lightweight and absorbent for personal hygieneMicrofiber towel.
Durable duffle bags used by pilgrims on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
Durable duffle bags used by pilgrims on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.

Food and Snack Items Packing List

CategoryItem Examples
Main Food ItemsInstant Noodles, Dried Soups, Canned food
CarbsBiscuits, Crackers, Energy Bars
ProteinNuts, Seeds, Dried Lentils, Protein Powder
SnacksTrail Mix, Dried Fruit, Protein Bars
HydrationRehydration gels/powders

Toiletries Packing List

ItemPurposeNotes
SunscreenProtect 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 PaperPersonal hygiene.Bring enough for the entire trip. Consider biodegradable options.
Moleskin/TapeBlister prevention/treatment.Cut to size as needed.
SoapPersonal hygiene.Travel-sized bar or liquid soap.
DeodorantPersonal hygiene.Travel-sized.
Toothbrush/ToothpasteOral hygiene.Travel-sized.
Razor (as needed)Personal grooming.
ShampooHair care.Travel-sized or solid shampoo bar.
Wet WipesQuick cleaning when water is limited.
Hand SanitizerHand hygiene.Alcohol-based.
Feminine HygieneMenstrual needs (if applicable).Bring a sufficient supply and disposal bags.
Face LotionMoisturize dry skin.
Hairbrush/TiesHair care.
EarplugsSleep comfort (reduce noise).

Medical & Personal Care Packing List

ItemPurposeNotes
Pain RelieversHeadache, muscle aches, and altitude discomfort.Ibuprofen, Advil, or your preferred brand.
DiamoxAltitude 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 PrescriptionsManage pre-existing conditions.Bring a sufficient supply and a copy of your prescription.
Anti-Chafe BalmPrevent skin chafing.Apply to areas prone to rubbing.
Diaper Rash CreamTreat rashes, chafing, and minor skin irritations.Multi-purpose use.

Electronics and Additional Supplies Packing List

ItemNotes
CameraMirrorless/DSLR or Smartphone with a good camera; extra batteries
Extra Camera Battery/BatteriesVery Important
Extra SD Card or Memory CardsFor Pictures and videos
Portable Power BankHigh capacity (20000mAh+); essential for charging on the go
PhoneFor communication, if service is available, consider a local SIM card
Universal Adapterif needed for charging
Waterproof Phone CaseProtection from dust, snow, and water
Waterproof Camera CaseProtection from dust, snow, and water
Book/Journal/PenFor reflection and recording experiences
Playing Cards/Small GameFor entertainment during downtime

Important Documents for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

DocumentDescriptionNotes
PassportOfficial identification document.Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended stay. Needed for entry and registration.
VisaAllows entry into Nepal & TibetObtainable 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 InsuranceCoverage for medical emergencies, evacuation, trip cancellation, etc.Ensure it covers high-altitude trekking and medical evacuation from remote areas.

Puja Items Packing List by Religion

ItemHinduBuddhistJain
Idols/ImagesSmall 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/RosaryRudraksha 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 & HolderIncense 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 OilsSandalwood rose, or other oils for anointing idols or self.Essential oils (optional, for personal well-being).Essential oils (optional, for personal well-being).
Religious TextsBhagavad 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 ItemsFlowers (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/ShawlSmall 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 ItemsBell, 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).
OtherPhotos/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.

Do You Want To Rent Gear Items For Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?

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:

  • You need to make a security deposit
  • Inspect thoroughly before renting
  • Pay attention to the overall condition
  • Check whether it fits you or not and how comfortable you will feel when using them
  • Clarify the rental period with the provider
  • Make sure to understand the payment terms and conditions
  • Make sure to choose a provider that offers excellent customer service

Where to purchase in case you miss packing your clothing and Gear For Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?

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.

Why Pack Light?

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.

  • Helicopter Baggage Weight limit: 10-15 kg per person
  • Kathmandu to Lhasa Flight weight limit: 20-25 kg ( Depends upon airlines and class)

Upcoming 2026 Fixed Departures for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

Arrival in NepalDeparture to TibetFinal departure from NepalNote
21 April27 April08 May1 May: First Full Moon of May
4 May d8 May19 MayRegistration Open
21 May27 May7 June31 May: Second Full Moon/Blue Moon
2 June6 June17 JuneRegistration Open
7 June11 June22 JuneRegistration Open
14 June18 June29 JuneRegistration Open
21 June25 June6 July29 June: Full Moon / Astronomical Full Moon
6 July10 July21 JulyRegistration Open
20 July25 July4 August28 July: Guru Purnima Full Moon
28 July1 August12 AugustRegistration Open
3 August7 August18 AugustRegistration Open
17 August23 August3 September27 Aug: Janai Purnima Full Moon
7 September21 September22 SeptemberRegistration Open
15 September21 September2 October25 Sept: Full Moon
18 September23 September4 OctoberRegistration 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.

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Author
Sabin Shrestha-image
Sabin Shrestha

Sabin Shrestha is an experienced content writer with over 4 years of expertise in creating clear and engaging content. He specializes in writing about lifestyle, travel, health, and technology, delivering well-researched articles that connect with readers. Known for his storytelling skills and attention to detail, Sabin creates content that informs, inspires, and leaves a lasting impression on audiences.

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