For people who have religious beliefs, Kailash and Manasarovar visit is a significant pilgrimage seeking spiritual enlightenment and liberation. For those without religious faiths, it serves as an opportunity to explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region, as well as to establish a close connection with nature and their inner selves. 

So, when is the best time to visit Kailash? We, Tibet Horizon, have mapped out the ultimate travel guide for your reference, covering the ideal year, perfect travel season, monthly weather and temperature, auspicious festival, packing list, travel permits, etc.

Best Year to Visit Kailash and Mansarovar: Tibetan Calendar of Horse and Goat

According to Tibetan tradition, the years of the Horse and Goat in the Tibetan calendar are considered especially auspicious for undertaking the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. It is believed that trekking Mount Kailash (considered the divine representation of the cosmic Horse) in the Year of the Horse, and circumambulating Lake Mansarovar (connected with the cosmic Goat) in the Year of the Goat, brings added blessings and spiritual merit. It is believed that completing the kora once during a full moon or in the Horse year is equivalent to completing thirteen circumambulations in other years. Therefore, the next year of the Horse (2026) and the Goat (2027) must be rather popular among international tourists.   

Best Seasons and Months to Visit Kailash and Mansarovar: May to October

Ideal Season to Visit Kailash: Spring (April to June)

Kailash Weather Condition from April to June

During the spring months from April to June, Mount Kailash experiences a significant shift in weather patterns. In April, as the Tibetan tourism season commences, the mountain emerges from its winter dormancy. While snow still blankets some parts of the area, trekking paths begin to reopen for adventurous travelers eager to explore the pristine landscape. By May, spring firmly takes hold in the Ngari region, with warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours. This period marks the perfect time for outdoor activities, as the snow melts and nature awakens. Moving into June, Mount Kailash enters the latter stages of spring, with milder temperatures and clear skies dominating the landscape. June offers optimal conditions for hiking, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

Monthly Kailash Weather and Temperature in April, May and June

Best Season to Visit Kailash: Autumn (September to October)

Kailash Weather Condition from September to October

In September, following Tibet's monsoon season, temperatures in Ngari cool slightly from August's heat, dropping to around 20°C. Nights reach freezing again, averaging about 10°C. It's an optimal time to trek around Kailash, with clear skies and lush landscapes from August's rains. October sees a faster temperature drop, with colder weather at Mount Kailash. Winds intensify, reaching 15-18 km/h, and rainfall decreases. Temperatures average around 6°C, with highs of 19°C and nighttime lows dropping to -7°C. Despite the chill, October remains best for visiting Kailash, especially to witness Tibetan pilgrims performing the ritual kora.

Autumn in Kailash

Monthly Kailash Weather and Temperature in September and October

Perfect Season to Visit Kailash: Summer (July to August)

Kailash Weather Condition from July to August

In July and August, the weather around Mount Kailash experiences a shift into the autumn season. July brings approximately 190mm of rainfall to Ngari Prefecture, although less falls directly on the mountain due to its protection by surrounding ranges. Temperatures average around 15°C, with daytime highs reaching 22°C and nighttime lows of 8°C. The warmer nights and afternoon rain can pose challenges for trekkers. August continues with rainfall, despite less than in other parts of Tibet, mainly in the late afternoon and evening. Daytime temperatures peak around 23°C, with nights milder at 6-8°C. Despite occasional clouds, clear days still offer stunning views of the Kailash summit.

Monthly Kailash Weather and Temperature in July and August

Not-recommended Season to Visit Kailash: Winter (November to March)

Kailash Weather Condition from November to March

November marks the onset of cold weather, with snow already present around Mount Kailash. By January, temperatures are at their coldest, and snow covers the landscape, including the high pass of Dolma La. From November to March, the region around Mount Kailash experiences harsh winter conditions. Temperatures plummet, with freezing temperatures during the day and nighttime lows dropping to as low as -20°C in January. Snowfall is common, making travel challenging and roads around the mountain impassable due to snow and ice. Tourist activities decrease significantly, and limited services are available. 

Winter in Kailash

Monthly Kailash Weather and Temperature from November, December, January, February, and March

The Holiest and Most Auspicious Day: Tibetan Saga Dawa Festival

The Saga Dawa Festival, observed on the 15th day of the 4th Tibetan month (usually in May or June), stands out as the most auspicious time to embark on a journey to Kailash Mansarovar. This month-long festival commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and Nirvana of Shakyamuni, drawing devout Buddhists and pilgrims from across the globe to participate in its sacred rituals.

During this time, the entire region is imbued with a heightened sense of spirituality and festivity, greatly enhancing the overall pilgrimage experience. Pilgrims will navigate rugged terrain and participate in the Tarboche flagpole replacement. It’s a special experience for you to understand the authentic Tibetan culture and religion. 

The Kailash Kora ranks among the most significant pilgrimages in Asia. Here you can catch a glimpse of the 3-day Kailash kora in Saga Dawa Festival on May 23rd, 2024 and June 11th, 2025:

Day 1: Darchen - Dirapuk Monastery (driving 7km, trekking 13km)

In the morning, we are supposed to take an eco-bus from Darchen to Sarshung Valley. Then we will meet Yaks and porters at Sarshung Village. (the cost of hiring yaks, horses, and porters is not included in the package) After that, we can begin the trek (Around 13km) from Sarshung to Drirapuk Monastery along the Lachu Valley and rivers. You can enjoy the both west and north faces of mountain Kailash today. Finally, we will visit Drirapuk Monastery.

Drirapuk Monastery

Day 2: Dirapuk Monastery - Dzultripuk Monastery (trekking 18km)

Today, we will trek over Dolma La Pass(5630m), the highest pass of the Kora. On the way, you can have a rest in a teahouse. All the way, you can see local Tibetans prostrating on the Kora path and beautiful Kadoe Lake when walk downhill. We may also visit Zutulpuk Monastery.

Dolma La Pass

Day 3: Dzultripuk Monastery - Darchen (trekking 7km, driving 5km)

On the day three of the kora. you will trek 7km to Zongto where you can take a bus to Darchen. Along the Kora, you can see piles of Mani Stones. We will end the Trek around noon, and rest in the lodging place.

(Optional): Take a bath in Lake Manasarova and enjoy a hot spring

What to Pack for Kailash Tour and Trekking?

Passport, Visa, and Travel Permit: For the Kailash and Manasarovar kora, you'll require essential documents such as your passport, Chinese Visa, Tibet Travel Permit, Aliens’ Travel Permit, and Military Permit. You don’t need to worry too much about those travel documents, Tibet Horizon can guarantee you a hassle-free permit service.

Clothes: Layered Clothing; WindbreakerJacket; Down jacket; Trekking Shoes/Light Shoes; Slippers; Trekking Pants; Gaiters; Winter hats with ear covers; Gloves; Socks; Face Mask

Accessories: Backpack; Trekking Pole; Sleeping Bag; Travel Pillow; Small Flashlight; Power Bank; Multi-tool; Camera and Binoculars; First Aid Kit; Thermal Bottle

Toiletries: Sunscreen and Lip Balm; Toiletry Kit; Quick-drying Towel; Hand Sanitizers

Money: Cash and Credit Cards

Medicine: Altitude Sickness Medication; Bandage; Anti-vomiting Tablet; Tablet for Headache, Fever and Body Pain

Food and Drinks: Dry Nuts; Dry Fruit and Fresh Fruit; Chocolate; Biscuits and Cookies; Self-heating Food; Instant Noodles; Energy Bar

Tips for Kailash Manasarovar Visit

Altitude Sickness:

Given the high-altitude environment of Kailash and Manasarovar, it's essential to be mindful of the risks of altitude sickness. Acclimatize gradually, stay well-hydrated and pay attention to your body's signals. When visiting the high-altitude Mount Kailash, opting for a leisurely pace can significantly reduce the likelihood of experiencing altitude sickness. Before departure, it's advisable to carry altitude sickness medication as a precautionary measure.

Local Customs:

Circumambulating Kailash and Manasarovar is a clockwise ritual, deeply rooted in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. Respecting local customs is crucial, including seeking permission before taking photos, particularly in sacred sites, to demonstrate reverence and cultural sensitivity.

Taboos:

Mount Kailash, sacred in Tibetan Buddhism, is forbidden to climb which is deemed disrespectful and harmful. Government restrictions aim to preserve its cultural and natural significance, making it a forbidden climb for religious and cultural reasons. During the Saga Dawa Festival, adherents abstain from the slaughter of livestock and other living beings, and it's important not to coerce them into violating this practice. Additionally, touching someone's head is considered disrespectful and impolite, as the head is regarded as a sacred part of the body.

Conclusion

Kailash and Manasarovar offer distinct experiences across different seasons, so it's significant to choose the perfect time for a once-in-a-lifetime journey. Generally speaking, Kailash and Manasarovar can be toured at any time during the months from April to October each year. The best time to arrange your Kailash Manasarovar kora falls from September to October with high visibility, breathtaking vistas and comfortable temperatures. Should you intend to visit Kailash and Manasarovar, Tibet Horizon is your comprehensive solution, handling everything from itinerary planning to permit acquisition.