Not just a trek, it’s a journey of the soul.
Mount Kailash, situated in the remote southwestern region of Tibet, transcends its geographical significance to serve as a spiritual epicentre for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and followers of Bon. The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2025 is a sacred pilgrimage that promises not only breathtaking landscapes but also a transformative experience for those in pursuit of spiritual enlightenment.
Authoritativeness & Expertise Disclaimer
Our blog, created with care from government sources, trusted travel agencies, and past pilgrims’ experiences, serves as a helpful guide. For the latest updates and permits, please refer to official MEA India websites or authorised travel operators.
Yatra Duration: How Many Days Does the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Take?
- Yatra Duration: How Many Days Does Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Take?
- Total Duration: 14 to 22 days, depending on the route.
- Trekking Days: 3 days for the Mount Kailash Parikrama (52 km).
- Acclimatisation Days: 2–3 days are necessary to adapt to high altitudes.
Travel + Stay + Transit: The rest of the time is consumed in travel via road/air and rest stops.
Let your calendar become your scripture for this journey.
Yatra Routes Available in 2025
There are two primary routes for Indian pilgrims:
1. MEA (Government) Route via Lipulekh Pass (Uttarakhand)
Organized By: Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), India
Total Duration: 22–25 days
Trek Involved: Moderate to difficult trekking of about 200+ km total
Best For: Physically fit pilgrims who prefer overland yatra and want subsidized cost
2. Private Tour via Nepal (Simikot or Kerung Route)Organized By:
Private Tour Operators
Total Duration: 12–15 days
Trek Involved: Minimal or optional (based on Kerung or Helicopter route)
Best For: Elderly or those seeking a less physically demanding route
Detailed Day-Wise Itinerary: Nepal Route (Popular in 2025)
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Check-in, briefing, and visa process
Day 2–3: Acclimatization + Sightseeing in Kathmandu
Visit Pashupatinath & Budhanilkantha temples
Day 4: Fly to Nepalgunj
Rest and prepare for Simikot flight
Day 5: Fly to Simikot (2,910 m)
Acclimatization begins
Day 6: Fly to Hilsa by Helicopter + Enter Tibet at Taklakot
Cross immigration, rest for acclimatization
Day 7–8: Rest in Taklakot (3,700 m)
Vital for adapting to altitude
Day 9: Drive to Mansarovar Lake
Ritual bath and prayers at Mansarovar
Day 10: Drive to Darchen (Base for Mount Kailash)
Day 11–13: Kailash Parikrama (52 km)
Day 11: Darchen to Dirapuk (12 km trek)
Day 12: Dirapuk to Zuthulpuk via Dolma La Pass (22 km)
Day 13: Zuthulpuk to Darchen (18 km)
Day 14–15: Return journey through same route to Kathmandu
Fitness & Medical Requirements
Age Limit: Usually 18–70 years
Medical Certificate: Compulsory
Fitness Level: Good stamina is necessary. Altitude sickness is a real risk
.Training Tip: Start walking 5–10 km daily at least 2 months prior to the yatra
Accommodation & Food
Stay: Basic hotels, guesthouses, and tents
Food: Vegetarian meals, sometimes limited in Tibet region
Note: Always carry packaged snacks and your own medicines
Cost of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2025
1. MEA Route (Subsidized Government Route)
Approx. ₹1.8–2.2 lakh per person
Includes permits, food, accommodation, guides
2. Nepal Private Route (Kerung or Helicopter)
Kerung Route: ₹2.5–3.2 lakh
Helicopter Route via Simikot-Hilsa: ₹3.8–4.5 lakh
Includes visa, permits, travel, meals, and oxygen cylinders
Required Documents
- Valid Indian passport (6 months validity)
- Medical and fitness certificate
- Passport-size photographs
- Undertaking/Consent form (as per MEA or tour operator)
When is the best time for Yatra in 2025?
Season: May to September 2025
Avoid monsoon months for safety. June & August are usually most preferred.
Spiritual Significance of Mount Kailash and Mansarovar
Mount Kailash is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva.
Lake Mansarovar, created from the mind of Brahma, is one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world.Circumambulating Kailash (Parikrama) is said to wipe away sins of a lifetime.
Every step to Kailash is a step inward.
Every step to Kailash is a step inward.
Final Thoughts
Embarking on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2025 is more than a journey—it’s a rebirth of faith, endurance, and self-discovery. Whether you go via the rugged Lipulekh Pass or the serene helicopter route from Nepal, one thing is sure: the experience will leave a permanent imprint on your soul.
The journey to Kailash is not about reaching a place, it’s about awakening your spirit.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
How difficult is the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?
Moderate to high difficulty. Physical fitness and high-altitude acclimatization are crucial.
Is the yatra open for 2025?
Yes, both government and private routes are open with improved infrastructure and health facilities.
Can senior citizens go on the yatra?
Yes, via helicopter route from Nepal. Medical clearance is mandatory.
Is a passport mandatory for Indian pilgrims?
Yes. Kailash Mansarovar lies in Tibet (China), and a valid passport is needed for visa approval.
Is photography allowed at Mount Kailash?
Photography of the mountain is allowed from a distance but not on the sacred
