The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a spiritual sojourn to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar in Tibet, the mythical abode of Lord Shiva and revered by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains and Bon adherents. This once-in-a-lifetime journey is enriching and transformative for NRIs in the USA and Canada. However, if one has to plan on embarking on the journey of Kailash Yatra Mansarovar from the USA or Canada-it needs planning because the destination is remotely located with other tricky challenges – but doable with assistance from professional tour operators.
Usually, travellers first travel to Nepal which serves as a gateway city to Tibet. From Nepal, an organized licensed Local travel agency’s pre-tour will take care of all aspects such as permits, transportation, accommodation and a support system that eliminates several stressors, leaving you alone with your own self.
Key highlights of your journey would be parikrama (circumambulation) of Mount Kailash, which is believed to cleanse sins and bring about spiritual awakening, and a visit to Lake Mansarovar source of purity and enlightenment. Guests from the USA & Canada require altitude health preparatory due to high altitude terrain in Tibet for physical fitness & mental preparedness. This guide answers common questions, such as:
How can I go for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra from the USA?
How can I go for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra from Canada?
How can I go for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra as an NRI?
By the end of this guide, we hope to have answered those questions and given you a good overview of what it would take to embark on this sacred journey. Whether you plan for 2025 or after, it's going to be a journey that will change your life and bring you spiritual fulfilment among some of the most serene landscapes on the Tibetan Plateau.
Can I Go For Kailash Mansarovar Tour From USA and Canada?
Yes, you can do the Kailash Mansarovar Tour from the USA or Canada. Doing the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra from the USA or Canada is a life-altering spiritual sojourn, but it needs a lot of planning and preparations. Mount Kailash is a revered sacred site in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Bon. For pilgrims coming from North America, knowing the travel aspects, cost and preparations required to embark upon this yatra successfully becomes quite imperative.
For most pilgrims coming from the USA and Canada, the best approach would be to reach Kathmandu in Nepal, as that is the central point for arranging the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. After reaching Kathmandu, one should spend at least three days in Kathmandu to complete all necessary visas and permits for travelling into Tibet, which are issued here, as well as visit some of Hinduism’s holiest temples in Kathmandu.
Mount Kailash is a place of great religious importance to several religions. It is the abode of Lord Shiva for Hindus. For Buddhists, it is the home of Demchok, who represents supreme bliss. Jains believe that their first Tirthankara attained liberation here. The Bön religion in Tibet believes Mount Kailash to be the axis mundi or centre of the world.
There are many reputed tour operators who offer good packages for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. The cost can vary on factors such as route chosen, mode of transportation and size of group. Other costs include personal travel insurance (which we recommend), personal expenses and optional services like hiring porters/ponies during the trek.
Kailash Mansarovar Temple Visit Facts Every NRI, Canadian and American should Know
Sacred Significance: All four major religions of Hinduism, Buddhism,Jainism and Bon recognize Mount Kailash as the most sacred site on earth spiritually,as it is the abode of Lord Shiva and is at the center of creation.
Mount Meru Connection: The sacred mountain Mount Kailash indeed finds a mention in Hindu and Buddhist mythologies as Meru,the axis of the physical universe.
Lake Mansarovar: Lake Mansarovar is situated next to Mount Kailash which constitutes the highest freshwater lake in the world, having deep spiritual value.
Rakshas Tal: Hindu mythological tales relate Rakshas Tal with Ravana’s connection due to its location adjacent to Lake Mansarovar being a saltwater body.
Kora Pilgrimage: People pilgrimage around Mount Kailash doing the Kora to receive spiritual knowledge and remove their wrongdoings.
Forbidden Summit: All major religions consider Mount Kailash a forbidden ground for human ascension because its divine powers are sacred to many faiths.
Altitude Challenges: The elevations of this region makes it vulnerable to altitude sickness and hence, the travelers must acclimatize themselves within the natural surroundings for sometime.
Best Time to Visit: Kailash Yatra Travel is possible from May to September, as during other months, the winter is at its peak commanding heavy snowfalls.
Visa Requirements: American and Canadian tourists need a Chinese visa for their Tibet travel. Travel agents in Kathmandu, Nepal, facilitate these tours.
Group Travel: You have to avail the services of an approved tour operator for Kailash Mansarovar Tourism as independent tours are not allowed.
Tour Duration: Routes and itineraries determine the length of your 14-21-day trip.
Currency: You can bring Chinese Yuan to spend money during your time spent in Tibet.
Emergency Services: Medical emergency help is scarcely available. Keep required medicines along with you.
Local Customs: Follow Tibetan customs by turning prayer wheels and praying in the monasteries.
How Far is Mount Kailash and Mansarovar From USA and Canada?
Mount Kailash and Mansarovar From USA and Canada Distance Table
City
Straight-Line Distance to Mount Kailash
New York, USA
11,500 km (7,145 miles)
Los Angeles, USA
12,500 km (7,767 miles)
Toronto, Canada
11,789 km (7,320 miles)
Distance from the United States to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar
Total Distance (US to Nepal): 7,600–8,000 miles
Nepal to Kerung: 75 km
Kathmandu to Kailash: 1,200 miles
Kerung to Kailash: 1,930 km
Travel Time (Nepal to Kailash): Around 14 days
The journey from the United States to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar in Tibet, China, is a long one and understanding the distances involved and planning your trip properly are important. The direct air distance from the United States to Nepal is approximately 7,600 to 8,000 miles (12,231 km to 12,875 km). However, once you arrive in Nepal, you will need to travel overland to Mount Kailash, which adds many more miles.
From Kathmandu, most travellers drive by road toward the border town of Kerung Country (approx. 75 kilometres / 108 miles from Kathmandu) - an 8-9 hour drive ± depending on road & traffic conditions. Travellers use the Pasang Lhamu Highway/Kerung-Thori Road, which connects Nepal with China, incorporating spectacular views en route of the Langtang Range plus the Trishuli River flowing alongside part of the Nepalese section on this route.
From Kerung Country, to reach Mount Kailash, you have to cross over to Tibet and travel through multiple terrains, including mountains and remoteness. The total overland travel distance from Kathmandu to Mount Kailash is 1,200 miles (1,930 kilometres). This journey can take a few days also, depending upon the road, weather conditions and itinerary of the specific tour.
Kailash Mansarovar From USA Total Distance and Travel Time
The total distance of Kailash Mansarovar from the USA, including air travel to Nepal and an overland journey from Nepal to Mount Kailash, is huge. One must be mentally prepared to travel thousands of miles for a few days continuously and must be physically fit enough to face the challenges during the journey as per the program.
Distance from Canada to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar
Distance (Canada to Nepal): 6,578 miles
Nepal to Kerung: 75 km
Kathmandu to Kailash: 1,200 miles
Kerung to Kailash: 1,930 km
Travel Time (Canada to Kailash): Around 14 days
Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar Yatra cost for Canadians is identical to US travellers. Direct air distance between Canada to Kathmandu is about 6,578 miles (10,586 kilometres). Reaching Kathmandu, the overland journey to Mount Kailash begins with driving through the border town of Kerung County, entering Tibet to Mount Kailash. The overland distance from Kathmandu to Mt. Kailash is about 1,200 miles, accounting for approximately 1,930 kilometres.
Total Distance and Travel Time
Air travel from Canada to Nepal, combined with an overland journey to Mount Kailash, adds thousands of miles compared to an overland journey, whereas flying from other places in North America is somewhat similar to that from the United States: days-each based on route and conditions.
Mt Kailash Tours From USA To Nepal: Flights and Transition Points
Planning a visit from the USA to Nepal, especially at the time of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, required great planning. A thorough study of flight options, transition points, duration, and associated costs is extremely essential to make the journey smooth.
Airlines Offering Flights from the USA to Nepal
There are many good airlines flying from US to Nepal so depending upon your interest, where you want to transit etc. but some well know airlines are
Qatar Airways - they fly via Doha which is big Middle Eastern hub.
Emirates: they fly via Dubai and are the most destinations you can get with a single airline.
Turkish Airlines: they fly via Istanbul and also you can connect Europe to Asia.
Singapore Airlines: Routes via Singapore, with option for stop-over in South East Asia.
Air India: Connections via main Indian cities like Delhi and Mumbai. Close to Nepal.
Transition Points and Layovers
As there are no direct USA to Nepal flights, you will have to connect via one (or sometimes more) of the following likely cities:
Doha, Qatar: A often seen stopover city with Qatar Airways and its modern airport services.
Dubai, UAE: Supports the Emirates central and has loads of things to do if on a stopover.
Istanbul, Turkey: Hub for Turkish Airlines flights and a little bit of culture during your layover.
Singapore: Another layover destination for Singapore Airlines with some fast transit service.
Delhi and Mumbai, India: Primary transition cities for Air India due to their geographical proximity with Nepal.
The point of transition you choose has implications on your total travel time as well as the comfort; hence, It’s important to know the layover time and facility of the airport/s you would be transitioning through Slcsp before booking.
Average Flight Duration
The total flight duration from the United States to Nepal depends on the city of departure, airlines and the wait time between flights. For east coast departures, for example from New York (JFK), the average flight duration is 20 hours and 34 minutes including layover time. However, some flights may be longer depending upon the route and waiting period between flights. For west coast departures for example from San Francisco (SFO), the average flight duration would be about 27 hours and 29 minutes including layover times as well. The weekdays & schedules that you chose will also determine closing all these durations since timings or days of direct flight connection between your point(for example JFK to Kathmandu) could vary if it isn't fixed available every day either.
Cost of Flights
Flight costs from the USA to Nepal vary in terms of time of booking, season, and airline. Generally:
Average Round-Trip Price: About $1,853, though it could range from $800 to $1,500 with various factors determining this.
Cheapest Time to Book: Generally, flights are cheap in April, with one-way flights going down to around $373.
A lot of booking in advance and flexibility on dates can offer favorable rates for travel.
Major U.S. Departure Airports
From the United States, one is pretty much able to fly out to Nepal from almost every major international airport. The main ones will include:
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK): Primarily the main hub with most international flight connections.
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX): Primary point for West Coast departure.
San Francisco International Airport (SFO): Various options of flights at an international level. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport: Centrally located, having maximum flights with huge volumes.
Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD): Major midwestern hub with international services.
These airports make it easier to plan because of their geographic locations and also due to the airline access that is available.
Baggage Allowance Considerations
Different airlines have different baggage policies, but common elements are:
Carry-on: All flights allow for one standard-sized bag and a personal item; weight restrictions are roughly around 7 kg/15 lbs.
Checked Baggage: Economy class generally allows one piece, up to 23 kg-50 lbs, while for Business class this may be extended to as much as up to 32 kg-70 lbs.
Other specific baggage allowances have to be found out well in advance with a particular airline so as not to attract these charges.
What Are The Flights and Transition Points On Kailash Mansarovar Tour From Canada?
Flight Options from Canada to Nepal
There are a few airlines you can choose from if you’re coming from Canada and heading to Nepal. Keep in mind that there are no direct flights, so you’ll have to make at least one stop either in Europe, China or the Middle East.
Air Canada: Air Canada flies from all major Canadian cities to Kathmandu with a stop over at Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal.
Etihad Airways: Flies from Canada to Nepal, offering a luxury travel experience.
Sichuan Airlines: Offering some of the best deals starting at C$1,254, Sichuan Airlines flies you into KTM.
Transition Points and Layovers
Travel Routes Have Multiple Destinations with Time Between Flights at Transit Points. Because airlines do not offer direct routes and travelers will face breaks in their journey at several international airport hubs. Common transition points include:
Middle Eastern Hubs: The airlines Qatar Airways and Emirates prefer Doha and Dubai as their stopover locations.
European Cities: The airline carrier Turkish Airlines makes Istanbul its primary transfer location.
Asian Gateways: Your selected airline determines whether you have a layover in Singapore or one of several Chinese airports.
Your choice of where to switch flights affects how long your trip will take and how comfortable you will be. When you book flights choose airports that fit your travel needs based on both time spent waiting and what amenities they offer.
Average Flight Duration
The total flight duration from Canada to Nepal is dependent on your departure city, and the chosen airline with its stopover duration.
Toronto to Kathmandu: About 30 hours and 42 minutes is the fastest flight one can take to get to Kathmandu from Toronto.
The minimum flying time from Vancouver to Kathmandu by a direct flight is usually 26 hours and 49 minutes.
One-way travel time from Calgary to Kathmandu: approximately 34 hours 58 minutes.
Cost of Flights
Numerous factors will dictate what price you will pay for your flights - especially if you’d like to get hold of some cheap flight deals. Some of these include how far in advance you book, the time of year you intend to travel and which airline you choose to fly with. The mean rate for return flights from Toronto Pearson International Airport to Tribhuvan Airport is roughly C$1,835. If you’re on the lookout for cheap fares, try Sichuan Airlines, they start as low as $1,254. Easily find the best prices for both directions during the year by using our flight comparison tool.
Major Canadian Departure Airports
There are multiple airports to depart from Canada, with major international airports having flights to Nepal:
Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ): A major hub with many international flights.
Vancouver International Airport (YVR): A significant departure point on the West Coast.
Calgary International Airport (YYC): Offers various international flight options.
Allows you to decide based on geographic location and airlines as well.
Our Most Recommended Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Itinerary for NRI, USA, Canada Tourists: 14 Days and 10 Days
Our Kailash Mansarovar Yatra packages include trips for NRIs residing in the USA and Canada. Itineraries and routes have been developed according to specific criteria which meet foreign visitor demands. The schedules are flexible; accommodations are done in luxury hotels and the best available hotels in Nepal, as well as the Kailash route. English-speaking guides, easy visa assistance, food suitable for the guest from abroad, etc., are taken care of to make their journey comfortable and memorable whether they are opting for this tour for spiritual purposes or have an interest in cultural exploration with lifetime experience.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a sacred 10-day pilgrimage to Mount Kailash in Tibet that is revered by several religions. There are dedicated itineraries for NRIs from the USA and Canada with exclusive services designed keeping the needs of overseas travellers in mind, including transportation within Tibet and Nepal., accommodation, all meals, the services of a guide and permits needed. The cost of such a 10-day yatra would be between $1400 to $3500 per person.
Kailash mansarovar From USA, Canada Itinerary details
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by Helicopter is a 10-day short itinerary for NRIs in the USA and Canada who can’t take long holidays. This itinerary is designed with helicopter transfers to reduce the travel time on the road as well as to enjoy the awesome bird’s eye view of the Himalayas during your helicopter transfers. We provide all necessary arrangements in Nepal & Tibet, including hotels, transportation, meals, local Nepali & Tibetan guides and permits. The cost of 10 days helicopter tour starts from $6200 per person approximately.
Kailash mansarovar From USA, Canada Itinerary details
Day
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu and Transfer to Hotel
Day 2
Helicopter Flight to Ghatte Khola and Drive to Kerung
Day 3
Drive to Saga (6 Hours)
Day 4
Drive to Lake Mansarovar (6–7 Hours)
Day 5
Drive from Lake Mansarovar to Darchen
Day 6
First Day of Outer Kora – Trek to Dirapuk
Day 7
Second Day of Outer Kora – Trek to Zuthulphuk via Dolma La Pass
Day 8
Third Day of Outer Kora – Trek to Darchen and Drive to Saga
Day 9
Drive from Saga to Kerung
Day 10
Helicopter Flight Back to Kathmandu
Mount Kailash Tour: Luxury Accommodation For NRI, Canadian and American
The Mount Kailash Tour is a spiritual journey combined with mesmerizing landscapes. Normally, basic accommodations are provided throughout the sacred path making it a simple and comfortable tour for travelers in general. But to give an easier and luxury experience for our NRI and Canadian guests, we provide the best luxury accommodation possible in Nepal and along the Kailash path on Our packages. The names of a few luxury hotels and places that we use are given below, which confirms Our Tour quality, especially designed for NRI visitors, Canadian and American.
Dusit Princess Kathmandu (Nepal)
Set in the premium Lazimpat locale of Kathmandu, Dusit Princess Kathmandu is a handy option to explore all that the city has to offer. International restaurants and Narayanhiti Palace Museum are in close proximity, and Kathmandu Durbar Square and Swayambhunath Stupa are just a few minutes away.
Accommodation and Amenities:
Rooms: The hotel features large guestrooms with city views that come with all the latest facilities and offer a comfortable stay. All rooms provide premium toiletries, bathrobes and slippers, hair dryers, private in-room safes, tea- and coffee-making facilities, minibars, bottled drinking water, and direct dial telephones with voicemail. They also have safety sprinkler systems with heat detectors and weighing machines in each room type location. Rooms are provided with torchlights/emergency lights for use during emergencies/evacuations.
Dining: Enjoy a drink at one of the hotel's bars while enjoying a view of the pool, or make use of the coffee shop/café, which serves refreshing drinks only.
Wellness Facilities: The hotel is equipped with a fitness centre and gym, swimming pool, sauna, massage rooms, spa facilities, and wellness packages to ensure guests have more than enough to do while relaxing at the hotel.
Hotel Pilgrims (Kurung)
One of the stops in Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, and the accommodations around this area cater more to cater for the needs of a PILGRIM. It’s basically a good place where you rest & sleep.
Accommodation and Amenities:
Rooms: Rooms are mostly clean and come with basic furniture, including good beds with enough bed covers to keep you warm at night.
Dining: Vegetarian food is provided in the on-site dining places as many of these are the choices for pilgrims. Food is cooked in a way that provides the essential nutrition and energy to start your journey.
Additional Services: Generally, the staff of such stays is aware of all the needs of Yatra. They will assist you with travel and also tell you about how you can prepare yourself for your next destination.
Champion Liege Hotel (Saga)
Saga is one of the major halt points for the pilgrims before they head to Mount Kailash. Hotels like Champion Leige are built to give comfort and luxury, keeping in mind the modern amenities, though you still can see a lot of rustic charm.
Rooms: Clean and spacious rooms with comfortable beds, room heaters (it gets really cold at night) and en-suite bathrooms with hot water.
Dining: Usually, the hotel will have a restaurant that will offer a mix of cuisine from local Tibetan to international to suit the international traveller.
Additional Services: Additional amenities provided may range from Wi-Fi access, laundry services and a reception manned by staff knowledgeable in the area who can assist guests with enquiries.
Hotspring Hotel (Lake Mansarovar)
Lake Mansarovar is a place of immense spiritual significance, and staying near its serene waters is a highlight of the yatra. The Hotspring Hotel offers accommodations that allow pilgrims to immerse themselves in the tranquil environment.
Accommodation and Amenities:
Rooms: The intention is to provide an uncomplicated guest experience with rooms furnished for comfort – a place to rest in between active days.
Dining: Simple and nourishing meals made with love will be provided. Occasionally, we serve delicious local delicacies as well. Special food requirements can be met if informed in advance during bookings.
Other Services/ Facilities: We are located right in the footsteps of Lake Mansarovar. Guests can walk to the lake for meditation and holy bath. Our assistance desk will help you with information on the best spots and times to do that.
Mt. Kailash Hotel (Darchen)
Darchen is the pilgrimage starting point of Mount Kailash kora (circumambulation), so places to stay, like the Mt. Kailash Hotel is essential for those gearing up for the hike.
Accommodation and Amenities:
Rooms: The hotel provides rooms that have basic amenities, including comfortable beds and a heating facility. Note that some of the rooms may be offering a view of Mount Kailash.
Dining: A restaurant is usually there in the premises of the hotels which serves vegetarian food to suit the dietary needs of most of the pilgrims. With Tibetan, Continental and Chinese cuisines on their menu, you also get an authentic taste of the local flavour.
Additional Services: The hotel staff shall assist you with all logistics for your Kora, guiding you on all aspects related to the way and what to prepare for making your pilgrimage comfortable.
Diraphuk Hotel (Dirapuk)
The Diraphuk Hotel (Dirapuk) Dirapuk is one of the main stopping points on Mount Kailash Kora,, and Diraphuk hotels like this are just about the only shelter you will find here.
Accommodation and Amenities:
Rooms: Despite being the High Altitude and Extremely remote location, rooms are luxury types. Beddings are provided. Travelers may like to bring along sleeping bags for extra protection against cold.
Dining: The meals are simple and meant to provide necessary sustenance. As resources are limited, the menu is usually standard and based on a few kinds of staples that give adequate energy for trekking.
Additional Services: Electricity may or may not be available.
Essential Travel Tips for NRIs from USA and Canada Visiting Kailash Mansarovar in 2025
Treat this journey like a family adventure. Everyone supports and shares with each other, creating strong connections to have a meaningful and forever memorable trip!
Accommodation in Tibet is mostly basic guesthouses and lodges. You have to adjust yourself with limited luxury but we will put the best effort to make you comfortable.
Friendly Info-Trek guides or Sherpas will be available to help you. In case of any discomfort breathing, heart pain, or any feelings, please let your guide know immediately with others for instant attention.
Breakfast and dinner will be provided at the hotel.
A packed meal will be provided for lunch. Tea, coffee, mineral water, cookies, juice and a bottle of vegetable soup will be served during the journey.
Drink lots of water to help your body acclimate to the high altitude, as well as for overall good health.
Digestion may become difficult at higher altitudes. To ease digestion and feel comfortable, it is best to stick to light-liquid meals rather than heavy, dry foods.
We will be carrying high-altitude medicines like DIAMOX or ZOLAMIDE with us. Do take these medicines after dissolving in water, and do not forget to drink ample water post that. Also, if you have any personal medication, kindly carry them.
Always carry a walking stick, as wild dogs are common in the Kailash region.
Never move out alone without informing your guide or a friend, even for the short distance walking / refreshment/marketing in an appropriate area.
You can buy walking sticks at Purang and Kyirong.
Do not get involved with malicious arguments with the Chinese guide or driver. If you require any help, get help from your Nepali guide.
Do not get involved in any political discussions or activities while you are in Tibet. And yes, avoid carrying any kind of political newspapers or magazines; this might take you for questioning and serious consequences, even including a travel ban.
Always follow the instructions given by your guides and Sherpas for a good journey.
What Are The Visa and Permit Requirements for American and Canadian Citizens Traveling to Kailash Mansarovar?
Entry into Nepal
Most pilgrims begin their journey to Mount Kailash through Nepal. American and Canadian nationals can get a Nepalese visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu or at land border crossings. Visa fees are as follows:
15-day multiple-entry visa: USD 30
30-day multiple-entry visa: USD 50
90-day multiple-entry visa: USD 125
However, we recommend booking a 30-day multiple-entry visa, as it should suffice for the duration of the pilgrimage. You'll need to have a passport valid for at least six months from your date of entry and a recent passport photograph.
Chinese Group Visa
Travellers from the USA and Canada need to obtain a Chinese Group Visa to visit Tibet, which includes the region of Kailash Mansarovar. This visa is normally organised by any registered Kailash Mansarovar Yatra tour operator.
The tour operator needs to submit an application for a group visa to the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu on behalf of all the Yatris. No individual applications are accepted, so one has no choice but to take up a yatra on a group joining basis.
By 2025, the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu will make it mandatory to collect biometric data of visa applicants. The process includes collecting fingerprints, and you may need to make a prior appointment. Usually, tour operators help you take an appointment and also accompany you for this.
The cost of a Chinese Group Visa depends upon the tour operator and the number of people applying for it. Mostly, it varies from $100 – $200 per person. This will be generally included in your total tour package price.
Documentation Required:
A passport with at least six months of validity beyond the date of the planned departure.
Passport size photographs as per the specification of the embassy.
Visa application forms duly filled out by the tour company.
Tibet Travel Permit
This is the permit that all foreign tourists must have in order to enter Tibet. It is usually organized by your travel agency, and you need it to get your Chinese Group Visa.
Your travel agency will apply for this on behalf of the group by submitting certain documents to the Tibet Tourism Bureau. The Tibet Travel Permit usually takes 15 to 20 days to process, so it is best to apply in advance to allow for any unexpected delays. The permit cost of the Tibet Travel Permit is normally included in the total tour package. If billed separately, it costs about $50 to $100 per person.
Documentation Required:
Copy of Passport.
Personal details you would put on an application form for a permit.
Aliens’ Travel Permit
Aliens’ Travel Permits are required to visit areas such as Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar outside Lhasa. The tour company obtains a travel permit issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau for their clients. It is needed for visiting restricted areas in Tibet, where most of the sightseeing places are located. Normally, this permit is applied at the same time as the Alien Travel Permit, and it will cost $25-$35/person.
Documentation Required:
A copy of the Tibet Travel Permit.
Passport details.
Military Area Entry Permit
Due to Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar close proximity to sensitive border areas, a Military Area Entry Permit is required. The tour operator arranges this permit while applying for the Tibet Travel Permit as well since both permits are generally issued together. The fees are usually included within the tour price, but in case it isn’t, the cost is USD 10-20 per person approximately.
Documentation Required:
A copy of the Tibet Travel Permit.
Passport details.
Can NRI, Canadian and American Get Honorable Visa for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?
No, the NRI, Canadian and United States citizens are not eligible for the China Visa-Free entry for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
Yes, under the China Visa-Free entry system citizens of some countries can enter and travel in China for a maximum period of 30 days without having to obtain a visa. However, India, USA, and Canada citizens don’t benefit from this because they are not included in this program.
Citizens from countries like Germany, Japan, Switzerland, Spain, Andorra, Australia and most European countries are eligible to apply for Chinese Visa-Free travel to China for short-term stays. These permits are valid from November 30th 2024, until December 25th 2025.
For NRI, Canadian the USA resident's permits are needed for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in Tibet, too. The application time is usually 4-5 workdays following arrival in Kathmandu. Please ensure adequate time for permitting if you are travelling from one of those countries, as it's better to arrive at Kathmandu with your permit process finished, given that there isn't sufficient time while on tour.
When Is the Best Time for a Mount Kailash Mansarovar Tour from the USA and Canada?
The best times for NRIs from the USA and Canada to undertake the Mount Kailash Mansarovar Yatra are the months of May to June and September to October. The weather during this period is cool, with day temperatures ranging between 7°C and 11°C (45°F to 52°F) and night temperatures between -2°C and -10°C (28°F to 14°F). These conditions are most conducive for trekking, as they provide a pleasant atmosphere.
You can visit the region throughout the year, but it is not recommended that you travel during the winter months (November-March), as there will be heavy snowfall in this area, and chances of roadblocks due to heavy snowfall are very high.
Also, the Saga Dawa Festival of Tibetan Buddhism usually falls in May or June. If you are lucky enough to do this Yatra during this festival, you will have an incomparable cultural as well as spiritual experience when you see pilgrims coming from different parts of Tibet to celebrate.
Though weather-wise, you can still take a trip between May and then up to September/October, it is recommended that the end of May /June till early October is the best for making this kind of pilgrimage journey.
How To Acclimatize to the Kailash Tibetan Plateau from the USA and Canada?
One of the most important things to keep in mind when planning a trip to the high-elevation Kailash Tibetan Plateau is that it is high. With altitudes over 4,500 meters for days on end, many travellers will be at risk for altitude sickness if they do not take time to acclimatize beforehand and mitigate risk while on tour. Getting acclimated not only brings a safer trek but also a more enjoyable one and ultimately allows you to embark with confidence on such a unique adventure.
Spend Time in Kathmandu to Prepare for the High Altitude
If you’re flying from the USA or Canada, arriving in Kathmandu, Nepal, gives you a chance to begin your acclimatization. Sitting at an altitude of 1,400 meters, you are already entering into higher elevation. Spending a day or two in Kathmandu will give your body time to adjust while visiting cultural sites such as Swayambhunath (the Monkey Temple) or Pashupatinath Temple. Don’t overdo it during these first few days! It’s important for your body to adjust naturally.
Transition to Higher Altitudes Gradually
When coming from Nepal to the Tibetan Plateau, gradual acclimatization is really important. If you travel overland through Gyirong Port or will have a few days in Lhasa on your way to Kailash, you will be able to go up slowly. Since Lhasa is 3,650 meters in elevation, it makes an excellent acclimatization point before moving on to higher elevations. Give yourself two or three nights there, not doing anything too strenuous besides walking around and seeing the sights as best as possible since you may still be dealing with some fatigue and symptoms of altitude sickness.
Be prepared for long drives and temperature swings.
Travel on the Tibetan Plateau involves driving long distances and contending with changing temperatures. Distances covered each day may not seem great by North American standards, but rugged terrain, high altitudes, and road conditions mean that travel is slow going. You do not need many changes of clothes, but be sure to bring plenty of warm clothing because it cools off considerably at night regardless of what time of year you visit. A down jacket, thermal layers and sturdy footwear are essential.
Plan For Enough Rest And Hydration
No matter which route you are taking, proper rest and hydration are key to not letting the symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, shortness of breath, nausea, and dizziness, get to you. Keep drinking water at regular intervals as it helps in staying hydrated and controls symptoms if any. Also, avoid having alcohol/caffeine during the climb.
Hailing from the scenic expanse of Chitwan in Parsa, nestled adjacent to the enchanting Chitwan National Park, Mr. Rohit Subedi graces Adventure Altitude Treks as a seasoned Senior Accountant. Since his induction in 2018, immediately following the attainment of his master's degree, Rohit's journey has been marked by excellence. Elevating his role, our company entrusted him with the mantle of Tour Coordinator, specializing in crafting unparalleled journeys across Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan.