Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by Helicopter: 9-Day Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by Helicopter from Lucknow, India

For those seeking a less strenuous Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, a helicopter journey from India offers a quicker and more comfortable alternative. This expedited route, ideal for time-pressed pilgrims, takes you by chartered helicopter from Lucknow to the Nepal-China border, bypassing long drives. You'll fly to Simikot and then by helicopter to the border, with Lake Mansarovar and Mount Kailash just a short distance away.

Route Map of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by Helicopter from Lucknow, India

The Kailash Yatra route map for a helicopter trip from India illustrates the journey's path, starting in Lucknow and traversing through key locations, including Nepalgunj, Simikot, Hilsa, and the holy sites of Lake Mansarovar and Mount Kailash.

Highlights of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by Helicopter from Lucknow, India

The India Kailash Helicopter yatra is an extraordinary journey that blends spiritual enrichment, cultural exploration, and breathtaking natural beauty. Below are the key highlights that make this trip an unforgettable experience:

1) Spectacular Aerial Views of the Himalayas

One of the most captivating aspects of this trip is the helicopter ride itself. Soar over the stunning Himalayan range, with its snow-capped peaks, verdant valleys, and rugged cliffs. The bird’s-eye view offers a unique perspective on this iconic mountain range, making every moment of the flight a visual delight.

2) Natural Beauty

Kailash Parvat: Mount Kailash, regarded as the center of the world by Hinduism, Tibetan Buddhism, Jainism, and Bonism, is 6,638 meters above sea level. Its pyramidal peaks are forever covered in snow. As a holy place revered by many faiths, a large number of pilgrims come every year, trekking around Mount Kailash to wash away their sins and gain spiritual enlightenment. The desolate beauty of Kailash leaves a deep impression on all who see it.

Lake Mansarovar: Nestled at an elevation of 4,590 meters, Lake Mansarovar is one of the world’s highest freshwater lakes. Its clear waters mirror the towering mountains around it, painting a breathtaking scene. Many pilgrims believe that the lake's water can cleanse and purify people’s sins, prompting them to perform a parikrama around its shores. Its deep spiritual meaning and stunning natural beauty make this lake a must-visit highlight.

3) Immersion in Local Cultures

Nepal: The helicopter tour from India to Kailash passes through Nepalgunj and Simikot in Nepal. You may encounter the warm hospitality of local Nepalese, witness traditional Himalayan villages, and learn about the unique lifestyles of the local communities.

Tibet: Once you cross into Tibet, you’ll be greeted by rich Tibetan culture. After seeing monasteries, receiving blessings from monks and nuns, interacting with Tibetan people, enjoying traditional Tibetan food, and becoming a participant in Kailash Parikrama, you will be deeply attracted by mystical Tibetan culture.

Daily Itinerary of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by Helicopter from Lucknow, India

Day 1: Lucknow, India - Nepalgunj, Nepal

When you land at the bus station or the airport in Lucknow, India, you'll meet our friendly and professional tour guide from Tibet Horizon, who'll help you drive smoothly to Nepalgunj. The drive takes about 4 hours. Upon arrival, you will be checked in and free to refresh. In the evening, our experienced Kailash tour guide will hold a short and informative briefing session about this trip, and at the same time, we will distribute duffel bags and all.

Meals included: No
Max. Elevation: 1400m
Distance Covered: 188-200km drive
Accommodation Style: 3★/4★ hotel in Nepalgunj

Nepal Tourist Visa: Indian passport holders are in luck as they don't need a visa to visit Nepal. But when traveling from any international airport in India to airports in Nepal, Indian citizens must present a valid Indian passport or a Voter Identity Card (Indian Electoral Card). It's important to remember that Aadhaar Card and Driving Licence won't work for boarding a flight to Nepal from Indian airports. For all non-Indian passport holders, a Nepal Visa is required and can be obtained upon arrival. To save time, non-Indian passport holders can also apply for a Nepal entry visa online.

China Visa: To secure your Chinese Group Visa, the Indian passport holders, regardless of your country of residence and geographical location, will need to hand over your original passport to the Chinese Embassy in New Delhi through a designated tour company. This company must have already secured the vital Tibet Entry Permit and invitations on your behalf. Patience is key, as the embassy typically takes about 4-5 working days to process such visas. For globetrotters with a non-Indian passport (including NRIs, OCI cardholders, and Green Card holders), you need to go through biometrics at the China Visa Center in Kathmandu. There, you'll submit your China entry visa application, complete with your original passport, application documents, and recent, colorful photographs that meet the embassy's size and format requirements. The Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu usually takes a swift 3-4 working days to decide on your visa application.

Day 2: Nepalgunj - Simikot - Hilsa - Taklakot

The flight from Nepalgunj to Simikot is a rather tricky part of this adventure. You see, those small planes rely entirely on the whims of the weather. The weather on this route is super fickle, and it can lead to short or even long delays for flights to and from Simikot. We'll make our way to the Nepalgunj early, following the local guide's instructions. That way, we can snag a seat on the earliest flight to Simikot. Once that 45-minute flight touches down at the tiny Simikot Airport, our friendly representative will be right there.

Then, hop on a helicopter bound for Hilsa. Once you land in Hilsa, get ready for a little adventure as you stroll across the swinging bridge, swaying gently over the river. On the other side, you'll take care of the formalities at the Nepal immigration. After that, it's just a short walk across the border and onto our tourist bus that'll whisk you away to the China Immigration Office, just a five-minute drive down the road. A brief 22-kilometer ride later, you'll arrive at your hotel in Taklakot. But before you can fully relax, there's one more stop at the Purang Customs Office for a customs check.

After a long and eventful day, you've finally reached Taklakot, situated at a lofty 4025 meters. If you start to feel a bit breathless or notice any other signs of high altitude sickness, please don't panic. Just reach out to our tour guide, who'll be happy to offer assistance. Take it easy and spend some time in the hotel, allowing your body to adjust. You'll have a delicious dinner and a cozy stay right here in the hotel at Taklakot.

Meals included: Breakfast
Max. Elevation: 4025m
Distance Covered: 297km by flight + 25min by helicopter Nepal side + 22km drive China side
Accommodation Style: Hotels (triple sharing room with attached bathroom)

Day 3: Free Day for Acclimatization

Today, we've set aside a day of relaxation in Taklakot (Purang) to help you get used to the altitude. It's the perfect time to just unwind and stay in your hotel. If you're feeling a bit more energetic, you can take a short stroll outside and explore the nearby markets. Maybe you want to pick up a walking stick, some cozy gloves, a stylish cap or hat, a new pair of shoes, empty water bottles for your hikes, or some delicious fruits to keep you going during the trip. Taklakot market has a handful of shops where you can find these goodies. Just remember, the shops close up when the sun goes down, so plan your visit accordingly and make the most of this laid-back day in Taklakot.

Meals included: Breakfast
Max. Elevation: 4025m
Distance Covered: 0km
Accommodation Style: Hotels (triple sharing room with attached bathroom)

Day 4 : Taklakot - Lake Mansarovar

Once you've savored a delicious breakfast, we'll hop on the bus and embark on a journey through some of the most breathtaking mountains and terrains you can imagine. After about an hour and a half of this awe-inspiring drive, we'll arrive at Lake Rakshas Tal (Lake Ravana), which is close to the magnificent Lake Mansarovar. This lake, also known as the “Lake of Demons” or “Ravan Tal”, offers a spectacular view. Standing there, you'll be able to catch a glimpse of the mighty Mount Kailash, majestically rising above the surrounding peaks. We'll pause at Rakshas Tal to soak in and capture the beauty of nature with our eyes and the lens of cameras. Then, it's back on the road as we make our way to Lake Mansarovar. A short drive later, we'll reach Chui Gompa, our home for the night near the lake. And of course, delicious meals and a comfortable stay await you at the guesthouse.

Meals included: Breakfast
Max. Elevation: 4590m
Distance Covered: 150km
Accommodation Style: Guesthouse or similar (all dormitory rooms)

About Lake Mansarovar: The holy Lake Mansarovar is the sole water source here. This remarkable body of water is one of the highest freshwater lakes on the planet. Its waters are believed to purify both the body and the soul. We use this natural water for various purposes like cooking, bathing, and washing clothes. In case we run low on packaged water, the boiled or hot water from the lake is provided for drinking. If you have any concerns or if it makes you uncomfortable, you can always rely on water purifier tablets to ensure your water is safe and to your liking.

Mansarovar Lake at Night: Your guesthouse is just a short stroll away from the magnificent Mansarovar Lake. You can venture out to the lake under the moonlight and discover its ethereal beauty. Countless myths and legends swirl around the night-time vista of this sacred lake, and you have the chance to experience them firsthand. While it's generally safe to be out late at night, it's a smart move to stay in a group and bring along one of our friendly guides. They'll always be there to offer assistance.

Day 5: Mansarovar Lake - Darchen

This morning, we'll hop in a vehicle and head to Darchen, just a short 35-kilometer jaunt from Chiu Gompa. Darchen is like the beating heart of the Kailash region with basic infrastructure and amenities. It's the starting point and the base camp for the incredible journey around Mt. Kailash. Before we set off, make sure to fill up your bottle with some hot water and grab the snacks our crew has prepared for you.

Meals included: Breakfast
Max. Elevation: 4750m
Distance Covered: 35km drive
Accommodation Style: Guesthouse in Darchen

Day 6: Darchen - Dirapuk Monastery

Today, after enjoying a delicious breakfast, we'll set off on a short 7-kilometer drive to a truly special place--Yam Dwar, an auspicious gateway that marks the start of the incredible Parikrama (circuit) around the magnificent Kailash Parvat. Here, our group usually divides into two parts. Some of us will bravely begin the parikrama. They’ll start trekking from Yam Dwar to Dirapuk Monastery. The path is easy and flat, making it a pleasant stroll. In total, you'll cover around 13 kilometers, which should take about five hours. Other of us who can’t complete the parikrama, can either back to Darchen today after having Darshan at Yamadwar or hike to Dirapuk for an overnight stay and return the next day.

Meals included: Breakfast
Max. Elevation: 5210m
Distance Covered: 7km drive + 13km trekking
Accommodation Style: Guesthouse Dormitory Style

Kailash Charan Sparsh from Dirapuk Monastery: Embark on a unique adventure to Charan Sparsh, which sits at an elevation of 5475 meters and is a 3-kilometer trek from Dirapuk. It's a chance to get closer to the divine as it's believed that touching the feet of Mt. Kailash here is like reaching out to Lord Shiva Himself. You can have a chat with our knowledgeable tour guide about taking on this short but significant trek. Bear in mind that this isn't a standard part of the package and is subject to the whims of the weather and the guidance of our expert. (The trek spans 3 kilometers, takes about 2 hours one way, and is a rather challenging yet fulfilling journey.)

Day 7: Dirapuk Monastery - Dolma La Pass - Zutulpuk Monastery

In the morning, you may have the chance to behold the “Golden Kailash”. As the very first rays of sunlight tenderly caress the summit of the mountain, it's a sight that will etch itself into your memory forever. After this once-in-a-lifetime experience, it's time to gear up and set off on our trek to Zuthulpuk. The 24-kilometer trek that awaits us is the most challenging and longest leg of the entire pilgrimage. Along the way, we'll ascend to the highest point, the Dolma La Pass at 5630 meters. Before reaching Dolma La, you'll encounter a site marked by the footprints of Milarepa and Shiva Tsal. This is a place of profound significance where pilgrims leave behind a piece of themselves, such as a drop of blood, a lock of hair, or their personal belongings, symbolizing the act of shedding their earthly lives and yearning for an end to any misery. Then we'll continue our upward climb towards the Dolma-La Pass, and then make our way down the steep slopes to reach Gauri Kund (Parvati Kund). Finally, you’ll get to Zutulpuk Monastery for a stay.

Meals included: No
Max. Elevation: 5630m
Distance Covered: 24km trekking
Accommodation Style: Guesthouse Dormitory Style

Day 8: Zutulpuk Monastery - Darchen - Purang - Hilsa - Simikot

As the sun rises, we'll set off on a trek of about 6 kilometers from Zutulpuk to the eco-bus spot and then drive 4 kilometers back to Darchen, where the other members of our group (those who didn't attempt the trek or who returned from Dirapuk) are eagerly anticipating our arrival. From there, we'll continue our journey and drive to Taklakot to cross the border. Once you complete both side immigration formalities you will walk about 10 minutes to reach the helipad at Hilsa and fly to Simikot.

Meals included: No
Max. Elevation: 4575m
Distance Covered: 6km trekking + 110km drive + 25min helicopter
Accommodation Style: Guesthouse

Day 9: Simikot - Nepalgunj - Lucknow

Today, after enjoying a hearty breakfast, you will board a flight to Nepalgunj. Upon your arrival at Nepalgunj Airport, our dedicated representative will warmly welcome you. From there, you will be comfortably seated in a private vehicle for your onward journey to Lucknow.

Meals included: Breakfast
Max. Elevation: 2900m
Distance Covered: 297km by flight + 188-200km drive
Accommodation Style: No

Accommodation and Hotel in Kailash Mansarovar Yatra By Helicopter from Lucknow, India

During the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by helicopter, accommodation is generally basic due to the remote location of the region. In Tibet, Indian pilgrims can expect simple lodging, like dormitories or twin-sharing rooms. At Taklakot, the hotels are relatively comfortable, which offer double-bedded rooms for travelers. But the bathrooms do not provide hot showers. Along the yata route, you would stay overnight at the monastery guest house or camp outside.

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Cost by Helicopter from Lucknow, India

The cost of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by helicopter from India varies depending on the travel period. For our Kailash Mansarovar Yatra package, the price from April to mid-June is approximately USD 3100, while during the peak pilgrimage season from July to October, the price is around USD 3800. The cost includes round-trip helicopter tickets, accommodation, meals, transportation, guide services, and all necessary permits. Additionally, it is recommended to set aside about USD 200 for personal expenses, such as shopping or tipping. Overall, the total trip cost ranges from USD 3300-4000. Please note that these prices are for reference only; actual costs may vary, depending on the travel season and individual requirements. Please contact us to confirm the latest prices.

FAQs on Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by Helicopter from Lucknow, India

1) Can helicopter land on Mount Kailash?

Many travelers choose the Simikot–Hilsa route in Nepal for a helicopter sightseeing trip to Mount Kailash, which often leads them to expect that helicopters can land directly on the sacred mountain. However, due to the high terrain and challenging conditions, helicopters can only serve as a convenient means of transportation to areas near Mount Kailash, and landing directly on the summit is not permitted. Helicopter flights across the Tibet Autonomous Region are strictly regulated and are only allowed within Nepal before entering Tibet. Once in Tibet, you must travel in vehicles approved by the Tibet Tourism Bureau. From the helicopter landing point, it typically takes another two days by road to reach Mount Kailash.

2) Can we climb Kailash Parvat in helicopter?

No, it is not possible to climb Mount Kailash, and helicopters are not allowed to fly over the peak. While helicopters can be used to reach the surrounding area of Mount Kailash, they cannot fly directly to the mountain itself.

3) Why is Mount Kailash unclimbable?

Mount Kailash is revered as a sacred site in four major religions, Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon, being regarded as the abode of Lord Shiva. Therefore, from both religious and cultural perspectives, climbing the mountain is considered an act of desecration and is strictly prohibited. In addition, the steep slopes of Mount Kailash, the unpredictable high-altitude weather, and its extremely remote location further add to the difficulty of climbing. These religious prohibitions and natural conditions have prevented people from attempting to climb Mount Kailash.

Conclusion

The 9-day Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by helicopter from Lucknow, India offers an exceptional journey to Kailash Parvat and Lake Mansarovar. The itinerary is carefully designed to provide a seamless experience, where you can explore sacred sites and take part in spiritual pilgrimage. Key highlights of the journey include the awesome aerial views of the Himalayas, the holy dip in the pristine waters of Lake Mansarovar, and the chance to circumambulate Kailash Parvat. With our comprehensive guidance, luxury travel arrangements, and a focus on both spiritual and cultural immersion, this Yatra promises to be an unforgettable experience for you.