Traveling to Mount Kailash from Nepal is a profound experience that requires careful planning and preparation. For first-timers, you may have no idea of how to plan a Nepal to Mount Kailash tour. This comprehensive guide serves as a valuable resource as it collects frequently asked questions on Mount Kailash tour from Nepal. The questions cover the eligibility, travel routes, essential travel tips, and Kailash facts. Their answers will equip you with the knowledge to navigate the Nepal to Kailash pilgrimage, ensuring that your journey is well-prepared and enriching.

FAQs on Eligibility for Nepal to Mount Kailash Tour

1. Can Nepalese citizens go to Mount Kailash in Tibet?

Yes, visitors can travel to Mount Kailash from Nepal. For many Nepalese citizens, embarking on a holy Yatra to Mount Kailash is a lifelong dream. This pilgrimage is open to Nepalese provided that you obtain the necessary visas and permits. Departing from Nepal, you have several routes to reach Mount Kailash, either by road, flight or even helicopter. Don't hesitate to plan your journey to Mount Kailash from Nepal and feel free to contact us if you have any inquiries.

2. What are the visas and permits required for Nepal to Mount Kailash tour?

Traveling to Mount Kailash from Nepal, securing the necessary visas and permits is the first step. A visa is mandatory for those departing from Nepal to Mount Kailash. If you fly to the Chinese Mainland and then travel to Tibet, you will need a Chinese Visa. If entering Tibet from Nepal, a Chinese Group Visa is required instead. To travel in Tibet and access Mount Kailash, travelers from Nepal must also secure a Tibet Travel Permit. For visits outside Lhasa, including to Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar, an Aliens' Travel Permit is required. Additionally, as the Mount Kailash area is considered a military-sensitive zone near the national border, a Military Area Entry Permit must be obtained for your visit.

3. How to get the necessary visas and permits for Mount Kailash tour from Nepal?

To secure the visa for your Mount Kailash visit from Nepal, begin by determining your travel route. If you plan to fly to the Chinese mainland and then travel to Mount Kailash in Tibet, you need to apply for a Chinese Visa. If you intend to enter Tibet directly from Nepal and proceed to Mount Kailash, a Chinese Group Visa is necessary. Next, gather the required documents, which typically include a completed visa application form, a passport with at least six months of remaining validity, a recent colored photograph, and any additional documents required for your specific visa category. Then, submit your application in person to the Visa Office at the Chinese embassy or consulate, where your fingerprints will be taken. Finally, pay the visa fee at the Visa Office and collect your visa.

In addition to the visa, you must obtain a Tibet Travel Permit, an Aliens' Travel Permit, and a Military Area Entry Permit to visit Mount Kailash. To acquire your Tibet Travel Permit and Military Area Entry Permit, provide copies or photos of your valid passport and visa to the agency. The agency will submit the application on your behalf. After processing your permit, the agency will deliver it to your address in the Chinese Mainland, or give it to you in person at the Chinese-Nepal border. With the Tibet Travel Permit, you can travel in Tibet. After entering Tibet, your tour guide will collect the original copy of your Tibet Travel Permit and your passport to apply for the Aliens' Travel Permit.

4. Can I travel to Mount Kailash from Nepal independently?

Independent travel to Mount Kailash from Nepal is not permitted. All foreign visitors, including those from Nepal, must join an organized Kailash tour. Authorized travel agencies like Tibet Horizon are the only entities permitted to secure the necessary permits and visas. We can arrange Kailash tours from Nepal that adhere to local regulations and we have seasoned guides and drivers to ensure your safety throughout the journey. Traveling with us and following our experienced guides, you can fully explore the spirituality of Mount Kailash and enjoy a smooth trip from Nepal.

5. Can younger and older Nepalese citizens go to Mount Kailash?

Yes. There is no age limit for traveling to Mount Kailash from Nepal. Younger and older Nepalese citizens can go to Mount Kailash provided they are in good health, as the Kailash Yatra requires a certain level of physical endurance. It is recommended that Nepalese visitors, especially those above 70, take a physical examination and consult a doctor to evaluate their suitability for the Kailash tour. The physical challenges and risks associated with altitude sickness cannot be neglected.

6. Is there any healthy requirement for Mount Kailash tour from Nepal?

While no medical report is required for a Nepal to Mount Kailash tour, it is essential to ensure that you have a moderate to high level of physical fitness. The Kailash Yatra, the highlight of this trip, typically involves a 3-day trek covering 43 kilometers on foot. The trek can be challenging due to the high altitude and rugged paths. Therefore, good health condition is crucial.

FAQs on Travel Routes from Nepal to Mount Kailash

1. Can I travel directly to Mount Kailash from Nepal?

Yes. Commencing your journey in Nepal, you have the option to travel straight to Tibet and proceed towards Mount Kailash. The traditional path leads to Rasuwa Gadhi, a village near the China-Nepal border, and from there, you cross into Tibet through Gyirong Port. Following this, you can continue your drive to Darchen, the launching point for the Kailash Yatra. This particular route, spanning approximately three days, provides an opportunity to appreciate the picturesque landscapes of Gyirong Valley and Saga Valley. Alternatively to driving, you may choose to fly directly to Lhasa and from there, either fly to Ngari or embark on an overland journey to Darchen, passing through Shigatse, Everest Base Camp, and Saga. This comprehensive itinerary unveils the natural splendor and cultural treasures of Tibet. For the more intrepid traveler, a helicopter ride is an exhilarating alternative. You can fly to Nepalgunj and then to Simikot, where you'll board a helicopter bound for Hilsa. The immigration checkpoint is in proximity to the helipad. Upon clearing the checkpoint, you will be conveyed to Purang County for rest and acclimatization before driving the final 103 km to Darchen.

Our clients made a pligrimage to Mount Kailash from Kathmandu, Nepal

2. Can I travel to Mount Kailash via the Chinese Mainland from Nepal?

Absolutely. There are direct flights from Nepal to several Chinese mainland cities, including Chengdu, Chongqing, Kunming, Xi'an, and Guangzhou. Arriving in these cities serves as a convenient starting point for the journey to Tibet. From these urban hubs, travelers can proceed to Lhasa via air, rail, or overland routes. A variety of daily flights can land you to Lhasa in just a few hours. For those with a sense of adventure, the Tibet train offers an unforgettable experience, crossing the highest railway in the world. When departing from Chengdu or Kunming, a road trip or cycling expedition to Tibet is an option that promises a lifetime of memories, as it passes through varying terrains and a multitude of cultures. Upon arrival in Lhasa, allow time to acclimatize to the altitude before continuing your journey to Kailash, which can be undertaken by either road or air.

3. How to choose the best route from Nepal to Mount Kailash?

Selecting the optimal path to Mount Kailash from Nepal requires a careful assessment of your financial resources, the duration of travel, and weather conditions, in addition to personal inclinations. The expense of your journey can fluctuate greatly depending on the selected transportation and the extent of your itinerary. For instance, opting to travel through Chinese mainland cities and Lhasa, with potential stops at additional destinations, will likely incur higher costs due to the extended nature of the trip. Conversely, a direct route from Kathmandu to Kailash via Gyirong could prove to be the most economical and efficient option. Weather conditions must also be taken into account, as overland travel through Gyirong Port can be significantly impacted, particularly during the monsoon season when rainfall can make the road conditions even worse. In essence, determining your route to Mount Kailash from Nepal is a matter of weighing financial considerations, time limitations, and weather influences.

FAQs on Basic Facts about Nepal to Mount Kailash Tour

1. How many days are needed for Nepal to Mount Kailash tour?

The length of the journey from Nepal to Mount Kailash can differ based on your tailored itinerary and travel plans. The method of travel and the sites you select significantly shape the duration of your expedition. At Tibet Horizon, we offer a variety of well-crafted itineraries, such as the compact 11-day Kailash helicopter tour through Purang, which is relatively brief in comparison to more extended tours. Another popular choice is our 10-day overland journey from Kathmandu to Kailash via Gyirong, favored by many travelers departing from Nepal. For those seeking a more comprehensive experience, a longer 15-day Lhasa Kailash tour encompassing Yamdrok Lake, Everest Base Camp, Guge Kingdom Ruins, and additional attractions is also available. Consequently, the span of Mount Kailash tour from Nepal can extend from a minimum of 10 days to over two weeks, depending on your interests. Reach out to us to discuss your preferred mode of travel and desired destinations, and our seasoned team will assist you in devising the perfect route from Nepal to Mount Kailash.

2. What is the optimal time for Nepal to Mount Kailash tour?

The best time to embark on the Nepal to Mount Kailash tour is from April to October, which coincides with the late spring, summer, and early autumn months. During this period, the weather is generally mild and stable, making the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra more enjoyable. The clear skies enhance the beauty of Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar and pleasant temperatures make the trekking experience more comfortable. It's important to note that after mid-October, the freezing cold weather may lead to mountain closure, marking the end of the Kailash trek for the year. It is also recommended to align your travel time with religious festivals such as the Saga Dawa, which occurs on the 15th day of the fourth month in the Tibetan calendar. Also, timing your Kailash Manasarovar Yatra to coincide with the full moon period is advised, as it is believed to amplify the spiritual merits acquired from the pilgrimage.

3. How about accommodation during Nepal to Mount Kailash tour?

Throughout the journey from Nepal to Mount Kailash, accommodations vary significantly, reflecting the diversity of the regions visited. In bustling cities like Kathmandu, Lhasa, Shigatse, Darchen, and modern hubs in the Chinese Mainland, a wide array of lodging options is available, catering to different budgets and preferences. Here, one can choose between luxurious accommodations such as the Hyatt Regency in Kathmandu or the St. Regis Resort in Lhasa, and more budget-friendly establishments that provide essential amenities. In contrast, in remote areas in Tibet, particularly around Mount Kailash, options are confined primarily to guesthouses and camping sites. It is common for travelers to spend nights in the guestrooms of Dirapuk and Dzultripuk Monasteries, which offer a more rustic yet authentic experience.

Accommodation in Kailash Trek

4. What to eat during Nepal to Mount Kailash tour?

During your Nepal to Mount Kailash tour, you can savor a diverse array of culinary delights that reflect a fusion of Nepalese dishes, authentic Tibetan cuisine, Sichuan flavors, and basic Western fare. Along the way, you’ll encounter various dining options, from local teahouses to upscale restaurants, offering a wide range of dishes. Do not miss traditional Tibetan favorites such as butter tea, yak meat, and stone pot chicken. During the sacred Mount Kailash Yatra, dining choices become more limited, with teahouses and supply stations primarily serving simple fare like Tibetan noodles and tsampa. It's advisable to bring high-energy snacks and maintain hydration, as the trek demands proper nourishment. For an enhanced experience, consider hiring a private chef to prepare hot and home-cooked meals.

5. How much does Nepal to Mount Kailash tour cost?

The expenses for a journey to Mount Kailash from Nepal can fluctuate greatly, depending on factors such as the mode of transportation, the standard of hotels and dining places, and the length of the trip. Visa and permit fees are part of the financial considerations, with a single-entry Chinese Visa and a regular Chinese Group Visa being free for Nepalese citizens. The fees for Tibet travel permits are usually rolled into the overall tour package. Transportation expenses are diverse. A helicopter ride to Mount Kailash is the priciest choice at around USD 2000, while air travel and overland journeys are more economical. Lodging options span from upscale hotels that might cost over USD 100 per night to guesthouses during the Kailash Yatra, which typically charge between USD 10 to 20 per person per night. Daily food and beverage costs can range from USD 10 to USD 50, with fine dining experiences being more expensive. Local teahouses offer meals for approximately USD 2 to 3 per meal. Additional personal costs, like hiring yaks or porters and buying souvenirs, will also contribute to the overall expenses. If you plan to extend your travels to other areas or linger longer, naturally the cost for your Kailash tour from Nepal will be higher.

For a more cost-effective journey, joining a small group tour can be a strategic choice, as it allows for the sharing of expenses such as guides, drivers, transportation, and accommodations among participants. At Tibet Horizon, a small group tour from Kathmandu to Kailash starts at just USD 1750. For those seeking a tailored experience, private tours are an option, albeit with a higher price due to the extra fees associated with personalized services. It's crucial to plan your trip to Mount Kailash from Nepal with a well-considered budget that accounts for all potential expenses.

6. Can I climb Mount Kailash?

No, climbing Mount Kailash is prohibited, owing to both its religious sanctity and the challenges posed by nature. Spiritually, Mount Kailash holds a sacred place in multiple faiths such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon. Any endeavor to climb it is regarded as disrespectful. Naturally, the mountain's pyramid-like shape and harsh landscape present daunting hazards for climbers.

FAQs on Preparations for Nepal to Mount Kailash Tour

1. What to pack for Nepal to Mount Kailash tour?

When preparing for your Nepal to Mount Kailash tour, it's essential to pack wisely for the weather conditions and the demands of trekking. Start with layered clothing, including a windbreaker, a down jacket, thermal underwear, hats, and gloves to protect against cold. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are recommended for comfort during the trek. Don't forget sun protection items such as high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat to shield yourself from intense UV rays at high altitudes. Additionally, bring a first-aid kit, personal medications, and altitude sickness prevention drugs. A thermos, a trekking pole, and a lightweight compact bedding will also enhance your comfort during the journey. Finally, consider packing snacks for energy and any personal items that will make your trek more enjoyable.

2. Which currency should I take during Nepal to Mount Kailash tour?

When traveling from Nepal to Kailash, it's important to carry the appropriate currencies for your journey. In Nepal, the local currency is the Nepalese Rupee (NPR). Once you enter Tibet, the local currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY), which is essential for transactions in the Kailash Manasarovar region. It's recommended to exchange some money into CNY before your trip or upon arrival in Tibet. In the remote areas like Mount Kailash, mobile payment or debit cards may not be accepted, so ensure you have enough cash for your entire journey.

3. How to prepare for Kailash Yatra?

Preparing for the Kailash Yatra involves both physical and mental readiness to ensure a successful and enjoyable pilgrimage. Begin by engaging in regular cardiovascular exercises such as hiking, jogging, swimming, or cycling to build endurance, as the trek can be physically demanding. Incorporate strength training to strengthen your legs and core, which will help you navigate the rugged terrain. Additionally, practice flexibility and balance through yoga. Mental preparation is equally important. Cultivate a positive mind towards potential challenges and familiarize yourself with the spiritual significance of the journey.

4. What cultural etiquette and local customs should I know beforehand?

Understanding cultural etiquette and local customs beforehand can ensure a smooth and enriching Mount Kailash tour from Nepal. When visiting sacred sites, dress modestly and remove your hats before entering temples or monasteries. In the monasteries, do not make noise or touch artifacts. Always ask for permission before taking photographs of pilgrims or religious ceremonies. Additionally, be mindful of your body language; avoid touching children's heads, as this is considered disrespectful. Learning a few basic phrases in Tibetan or Mandarin can also enhance your interactions with locals and demonstrate your respect for their culture.

5. How to prevent altitude sickness when traveling to Mount Kailash from Nepal?

Preventing altitude sickness during your journey to Mount Kailash is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. To minimize the risk, it's crucial to acclimatize gradually. Spend a few days in Lhasa, Purang, or other lower-altitude areas before ascending to higher elevations at Mount Kailash. Have enough rest and do not do strenuous activities like running in the initial days at the plateau. Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water, consume nutrition by eating light and balanced meals, and avoid alcohol and smoking. Consider taking medications like acetazolamide to prevent altitude sickness, but consult your doctor beforehand for the appropriate dosage. It is common for tourists to experience mild symptoms in the first one or two days. If your symptoms persist or worsen, inform your guide immediately and consider descending to a lower altitude.

More FAQs on Mount Kailash Tour from Nepal

1. Is it possible to encounter wildlife during Nepal to Mount Kailash tour?

During your journey from Nepal to Mount Kailash, there is indeed a possibility of encountering wildlife. Animals such as wild donkeys, Tibetan antelopes, wild yaks, and black-necked cranes can be spotted. It might be a unique experience if you encounter wildlife during your Kailash tour, which will give you a deeper understanding of this region's rich biodiversity and natural beauty. Please keep in mind that if you see wildlife, do not disturb them and keep a respectful distance.

2. What are the monasteries I can visit during the Kailash Yatra?

The Kailash Yatra offers the opportunity to visit several monasteries at Mount Kailash. These include Choku Monastery, Drirapuk Monastery, Zutulpuk Monastery, Selung Monastery, and Gyangzha Monastery. Each of these monasteries holds its own historical and religious significance, providing a deeper understanding of the region's cultural profoundness and spirituality.

Zutulpuk Monastery

3. Will there be medical assistance in case of emergency?

In the event of an emergency during your Kailash tour from Nepal, medical assistance can be limited, especially in remote areas. Along the trekking route, there is no hospital, so it is crucial to be prepared with a well-stocked first-aid kit and any necessary personal medication. If you feel you need more days to rest, you can tell your guide, who can help arrange your stay at monastery's guestrooms. In case of severe altitude sickness or other serious conditions, emergency evacuation to a nearby medical facility may be available by helicopter, which can be costly. Thus, it is advised to evaluate your body condition and purchase a travel insurance that includes medical evacuation coverage.

4. Does Mount Kailash area have Internet access or phone signal?

Since it's located in the remote area, Mount Kailash area may have limited or no internet access and phone signal, especially along the trekking route. While some areas near settlements might offer connectivity, it may not be stable. It is recommended to prepare for the journey without constant communication capabilities.

5. Which rivers are originated from Mount Kailash?

Mount Kailash is the birthplace of four significant Asian rivers: the Indus, Sutlej, Brahmaputra, and Ganges. Originating from this sacred peak are the Shiquanhe (Lion Spring River), Xiangquanhe (Elephant Spring River), Maquanhe (Horse Spring River), and Kongquehe (Peacock Spring River). The Shiquanhe, originating from the northern slopes, contributes to the flow of the Indus River. The Xiangquanhe, flowing westwards, merges with the Sutlej River. The Maquanhe, arising from the eastern side, feeds the Brahmaputra River. Lastly, the Kongquehe, flowing southwards, joins the Ganges River. Each of these rivers plays a significant role in shaping geography and culture of the regions.

6. Why Mount Kailash is considered as the Axis Mundi of the World?

Mount Kailash is held in high esteem as the Axis Mundi across multiple spiritual practices, including Bon, Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism, marking it as the universe's spiritual center. This sacred mountain is deeply significant in the beliefs and cultures of these diverse religions. Its geological uniqueness is further accentuated by its connections to mystical landmarks. Situated on an extended line that links the Pyramid of the Sun in Mexico with the Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt, Mount Kailash also aligns with Stonehenge in England and Easter Island. Remarkably, it is equidistant from Stonehenge, approximately 6666 kilometers away, and the same distance from the North Pole. The symmetry continues with the South Pole, being exactly twice as far at 13332 kilometers. These geographical alignments reinforce Mount Kailash's status as the Axis Mundi of the World.

Conclusion

Embarking on a Kailash tour from Nepal, travelers need to consider several aspects for planning and preparing for this profound spiritual journey. From eligibility and the steps of obtaining visas and permits, from the various travel routes available to essential tips and facts to know, this guide answers the most frequently asked questions on Nepal to Kailash trip. May this guide give you a clearer understanding of intricacies of the pilgrimage and address some of your doubts. Feel free to contact us if you have further questions. We’re looking forward to meeting you at the foot of this sacred mountain and traversing the ancient path for enlightenment together.