Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Full Moon Tour

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in Full Moon Day
  • Duration 10 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • Max. Altitude 5,650 m
  • Trip Start Kathmandu
  • Trip End Kathmandu
  • Trip Area Tibet Kailash Area
  • Nature of Trip Jeep Pilgrimage Journey
  • Major Activities Reach Mt kailash, 3 Day kora
  • Best Season Summer (June to August)

Introduction To Kailash Mansarovar Yatra In Full Moon Trip

A full moon Mount Kailash Manasarovar trip 2026 is typically at least a 14-day trip (includes road trip, spiritual journey, and 53 km circumambulation (Kora/Parikrama) aspects around Mount Kailash). The trip is significant, offering the chance, with the full moon casting bright light above, to experience the holy Lake Manasarovar.

Travellers from all over the world plan to arrive at Lake Manasarovar for their Full Moon Kailash Yatra 10 Days, at this holy hour, as purification, spiritual energy, and blessings reach very high on this night. A full moon night at Lake Manasarovar, the shimmering Lake Manasarovar reflecting the bright moon above, is a time, impossible to schedule, with the island's incomparable peace, and it offers a once in a lifetime experience.

Mount Kailash is central to Hindu belief as it is the home of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, and therefore, it is one of the holiest pilgrimage sites on the planet. This mountain is sacred to Buddhists as Kangri Rinpoche, the site of Buddha's meditation for enlightenment. Jains observe that it is the location where their first Tirthankara attained liberation.

To followers of Bon, it is the world's savior for spiritual pursuits. The entire experience is enhanced under a full moon because many consider that prayers, meditations, and rituals on a full moon night absolve sins and redirect souls toward liberation with exponentially more power.

This 10-Day Kailash Mansarovar Full Moon Tour 2026, operated by Adventure Altitude Treks, occurs during May through September. The tours travel in small groups to minimize costs and encourage companionship. Pilgrims not only complete the three-day Kora circle around Kailash but also receive the unique blessing of sleeping at Lake Manasarovar on a supermoon night.

This Kailash Full Moon Trip 2026 offers an unforgettable spiritual journey. A journey this spiritual draws strength from the common bond of nature, divine expression, and verified inner faith.

Everyone considering this pilgrimage generally builds in key full moon dates such as Buddha Purnima, Guru Purnima, and Saga Dawa to make their pilgrimage align with the cosmic connection and spiritual power.

Highlights Kailash Parvat Full Moon Trip 10 Days

  • A 10-day spiritual expedition to Mount Kailash (Kailash Parvat) in Tibet.
  • Experience Kathmandu's cultural visit, discovering local temples, markets, and heritage sites.
  • Overland to the Nepal-Tibet border from Kathmandu with beautiful Himalayan landscapes along the way.
  • Get to the Mt. Kailash area, the most venerable place of Earth seen from the perspective of Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers.
  • Start on the 3-day Kora (Parikrama) around Mount Kailash, the very deep and holy pilgrimage.
  • Enjoy the incredible views of the Himalayas, the Tibetan plateau, and see rare animals living at high altitudes.
  • Go to the world-famous monasteries like Dirapuk and Zuthulphuk which are very important for the spiritual life of Kailash.
  • Experience the amazing Dolma La Pass trek at 5,860 meters where you will have a lot of fun.
  • Meet the Tibetan pilgrims and monks, do prayers, rituals, and share cultural experiences.
  • Plenty of time for meditation, thinking, and spiritual practice in the calm and quiet beauty of nature.
  • A difficult physical journey that is very rewarding spiritually and enlightening.
  • Much more than a pilgrimage to the mystical “Center of the World,” a journey that changes body, mind, and soul.

What is the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Full Moon Tour in 2026?

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Full Moon Tour 2026 will be a beautiful spiritual pilgrimage with full moon nights as the theme.

People view Kailash as the heavenly abode of Lord Shiva, and Mansarovar symbolizes purity, holding the highest importance in the Hindu, Buddhist, Jain, and Bon traditions.

In 2026, Full Moon Tour to Kailash and Mansarovar featuring special full moon departures will allow participants to witness the divine reflection of Mount Kailash in the crystal clear waters of Mansarovar, with the moonlight illuminating one of the most sacred and revered mountains on Earth.

People also believe that the energy of a normal moonlight evening magnifies and multiplies at the group and individual level, enhancing spiritual energy, blessings, and the feeling of inner peace.

Groups perform these rituals on full moon nights, and even if not, participants undertake parikrama (circumambulation) of Mount Kailash and take a holy dip into Mansarovar Lake, making this one of the most sacred yatras of 2026.

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Fixed Departure Calendar 2026 with Full Moon Days

We have very carefully adjusted our Kailash Mansarovar fixed departure dates for 2026 in such a way that these dates are full moon days, so that you can visit Mansarovar lake and Kailash mountain at times that are the most spiritually potent.

The full moon, particularly during festivals like Saga Dawa, is considered to be an excellent time to perform rites like Rudrabhishek, holy dips, and the 52-km kora, as these are believed to be equal to 13 koras in the Tibetan Year of the Horse (2026).

These days make travel easy, allow for proper acclimatization, and provide the best conditions for spiritual practices.

April 2026

Arrival in Kathmandu

Visa Apply Date

Tour End Date

Special Note

20 April 2026 (Monday)

21 April 2026 (Tuesday)

03 May 2026 (Sunday)

May 2026

Arrival in Kathmandu

Visa Apply Date

Tour End Date

Special Note

11 May 2026 (Monday)

12 May 2026 (Tuesday)

24 May 2026 (Sunday)

19 May 2026 (Tuesday)

20 May 2026 (Wednesday)

01 June 2026 (Monday)

Saga Dawa Festival

June 2026

Arrival in Kathmandu

Visa Apply Date

Tour End Date

Special Note

08 June 2026 (Monday)

09 June 2026 (Tuesday)

21 June 2026 (Sunday)

21 June 2026 (Sunday)

22 June 2026 (Monday)

04 July 2026 (Saturday)

Full Moon

July 2026

Arrival in Kathmandu

Visa Apply Date

Tour End Date

Special Note

06 July 2026 (Monday)

07 July 2026 (Tuesday)

19 July 2026 (Sunday)

20 July 2026 (Monday)

21 July 2026 (Tuesday)

02 August 2026 (Sunday)

Full Moon

August 2026

Arrival in Kathmandu

Visa Apply Date

Tour End Date

Special Note

17 August 2026 (Monday)

18 August 2026 (Tuesday)

30 August 2026 (Sunday)

31 August 2026 (Monday)

01 September 2026 (Tuesday)

13 September 2026 (Sunday)

September 2026

Arrival in Kathmandu

Visa Apply Date

Tour End Date

Special Note

14 September 2026 (Monday)

15 September 2026 (Tuesday)

27 September 2026 (Sunday)

28 September 2026 (Monday)

29 September 2026 (Tuesday)

11 October 2026 (Sunday)

October 2026

Arrival in Kathmandu

Visa Apply Date

Tour End Date

Special Note

18 October 2026 (Sunday)

19 October 2026 (Monday)

31 October 2026 (Saturday)

Full Moon

2026 Kailash Mansarovar Yatra: Embrace the Tibetan Fire Horse Year

2026 is the Fire Horse Year of the Tibetan Calendar, an extremely rare and important year in the Tibetan and Chinese astrological systems. Fire Horse is one of the 60-year cycle elemental and zodiac animal combinations, and is associated with bringing energetic dynamism, vigor, and change of the kind.

The Fire Horse is depicted as brave, loving, and having an explorer's mindset, thus 2026 becoming a very potent year to have a spiritual journey such as the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. The devotees going for the yatra of this year are envisaged to have their spiritual energies amplified and to receive God's grace. Fire horse year in Tibetan culture is metaphorically linked to the qualities of strength, bravery, health, and spiritual growth.

Pilgrims convey that the Mount Kailash sacred power gets more potent and transformative in such a special year. One Kora (circumambulation) around Mount Kailash in 2026 is considered equivalent to twelve Koras done in any other year — thus the rapture of blessings, cleansing, and divine connection gets multiplied.

Indeed, 2026 is the best year to make a Kailash Yatra. The following fire horse year will not come until 2038, so this is a spiritual journey of a lifetime.

What is the Fire Horse Year?

In the Chinese zodiac, the Fire Horse year happens just once in 60 years, resulting from the combination of the fire element and the horse sign. The horse in the Chinese zodiac represents liberty, quickness, and endurance, while the fire element contributes enthusiasm and vigor. It is thought that this uncommon pairing intensifies bravery and ambition.

1966 was the most recent Fire Horse year, and the following one will be in 2086; therefore, 2026 is very lucky.

For Whom is the Fire Horse Year Special During the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and Full Moon?

The Fire Horse Year is very special for those who take the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra pilgrimage, especially when the full moon days are considered.

For people born in the year of the Chinese zodiac Horse like 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, and 2014, this year is very lucky because it's their Fire Horse year only once in their lifetime, so they get a lot of spiritual energy and a lot of positive change in their lives.

Moreover, the lively spirit of the Fire Horse year fits perfectly with the nature of the people born under the Tiger, Dog, and Goat zodiac signs, and they could find the yatra very strengthening.

The full moon days this year enhance the blessings and purification rituals available on Mount Kailash and energize the journey further. Pilgrims taking the full moon days can expect to feel heightened vibrations and blessings from the complex, courage, liberating, and transformative experience of the Fire Horse.

For spiritual travelers, the Yatra this year during the Fire Horse year and full moon is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for awakening and renewal.

What is the Impact of the Full Moon on the Sacred Lake Mansarovar Experience?

The Full Moon is a time when Mansarovar Lake is lit up by an unearthly silver ray. The lake is seen as the universe's blessing. It is the time when the lake offers its highest energy for meditation and religious practice, which are considered perfect for purifying the person, releasing Karma.

The moon's light on the water is considered a blessing from the gods, as it emits the sacred lake's strong spiritual energy, which is a very good time for meditation, prayers, and rituals to be done, as it makes spiritual purification and karmic release possible.

The spirits think that it is the best time for spiritual vibes, so they can have their renewal, change, and be connected to the ancient lunar rhythms as well as gods like Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, who are mythologically said to get washed in the lake on the full moon night.

The full moon night is a significant phase in history that is connected with various celebrations such as Saga Dawa and Buddha Purnima that is making this time a great time for pilgrimage, ritual circumambulation (Kailash Parikrama), and spiritual practice.

The visitors are thus given the chance to feel calm to the core and are being put in an cannot-be-missed moment when the Earth's and the Heaven's energies merge which results in they can feel, think about themselves deeply and can even let go of feelings and thoughts and even feel connected with god and get a new burst of spiritual freedom.

The full moon night at Mansarovar is considered one of the most powerful periods for personal transformation, where the individual is pushed further on his spiritual path, and he feels the most profound inner peace.

Rituals and Ceremonies Performed on Full Moon near Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar

Hinduism

Mount Kailash is thought to be where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati reside by the Hindu people. On the full moon night, they perform the Kailash Parikrama of approximately 52 km in a clockwise direction while chanting prayers such as "Om Namah Shivaya." People who take a holy dip in Mansarovar Lake during the full moon wash away their past sins and purify their souls.

Brahmins generally perform spiritual pujas like Rudrabhishek and Hawana near the lake. Full moon night is the time when people feel blessed, gain spiritual knowledge, and experience The Divine Energy, their source, through ritual worship and offering of things like flowers, incense, and lamps made of butter.

Buddhism

Mount Kailash is the place where Buddha is said to have meditated and attained his Nirvana, hence it is called Kangri Rinpoche by the Buddhists. The full moon is significant, especially during the celebrations like Saga Dawa, which is the festival that marks the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha.

The pilgrims assemble to do the rituals of lighting lamps, meditating, and reciting mantras. Pilgrims complete the Kailash Kora (circumambulation) in a clockwise direction with chanting and prostrations as a practice of becoming spiritually awake. The full moon carries with it the spiritual energy, and therefore meditation and prayers are intensified at the sacred site.

Jainism

Jains believe that Mount Kailash (Ashtapad) is the site of the liberation of Lord Rishabhdev. The full moon is a time for inner examination, understanding, and spiritual cleansing.

The pilgrims perform offerings and circumnavigation, and in essence ask to let go of the illusions of the world and distractions from spiritual goals.

The full moon itself makes the occasion even more powerful, with emphasis on releasing karma and freeing oneself from the bonds of the world.

Bon Tradition

Bon (the old indigenous religion of Tibet) is older than Buddhism and sees Mount Kailash as the center of the universe and a source of power and energy.

Bon practitioners seek a connection with ancestral sages and natural powers when conducting their rituals during the full moon.

In the Bon tradition, the rituals of meditation, offerings, and prayers aim at purifying oneself spiritually and becoming one with the universe. The full moon adds to the sacred atmosphere of the moment, giving the Bon faith a strong moment to feel spiritual renewal.

Full Moon Kailash Mansarovar Tour Cost 2026

The price of the Full Moon Kailash Mansarovar Yatra tour 2026 is dependent on the number of people who are going. To give an example, if you are traveling alone, the price per person is US $2249. If you are traveling with another person, the price per person is US $2199.

If you are traveling with 3-5 pilgrims, the price per person is US $2049.

If you are traveling with 6-10 group members, then the price per person is US $1999. If you are traveling with 11-20 participants, the price per person is US $1949, and if you are traveling with 21-30 participants, the maximum group discount price is US $1899 per person.

Related Helpful Blogs to The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

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  7. Mount Kailash Kora

Itinerary
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Mount kailash Mansarovar Full Moon Yatra 2026 Price and Itinerary

The Mount Kailash Mansarovar Full Moon Yatra 2026 trip package price starts at USD 2,199 per person, all-inclusive with no hidden costs. You pay all of this up front.

There will be ample opportunity for special communication with nature by way of the Full Moon, which starts when you fly into Kathmandu, and then travel by land through Kerung to Mount Kailash, and three days devoted to the sacred Parikrama.

Our tour package is inclusive of: accommodations, meals, transport in Nepal/Tibet, Tibetan guide, and permits. We designed our tour itinerary to allow for spiritual practice and acclimatization, and to rest and be comfortable every day.

Adventure Altitude Treks is here to help with 24/7 customer service. Please feel free to contact us anytime, by phone, WhatsApp, or email: +9779845449032, [email protected].

  • AccommodationHotels
  • MealsBreakfast
  • Altitude/Time1400 m/ Free Day

Your journey begins with an arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu (1400m). Upon landing, you’ll be greeted by the crisp air of the valley surrounded by green hills. After clearing immigration, trekkers are transferred to their hotel in Thamel, the vibrant tourist hub. A warm Nepali welcome awaits with tea or juice at the lobby. The evening is usually free to rest after the flight and stroll through colorful streets filled with shops, prayer flags, and bustling cafés.

Dinner will be served at a traditional Nepali restaurant in Thamel, where you can enjoy dal bhat or momo dumplings. Lunch is usually on your own depending on the arrival time, but nearby restaurants offer both Nepali and international dishes.

  • AccommodationHotels
  • MealsBreakfast
  • Altitude/Time1400 m/ Free Day

After breakfast at the hotel, the day starts with a guided exploration of Kathmandu Durbar Square, one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Here you will see ancient courtyards, the Hanuman Dhoka Palace, and intricately carved temples that tell stories of the Malla kings. The walk is mostly on stone-paved roads, with easy access to monuments, though some alleys can be narrow and busy with local life.

Lunch is taken at a restaurant nearby, often offering both Nepali thali and continental meals. In the afternoon, the journey continues to Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world. The white dome, golden pinnacle, and all-seeing eyes create a peaceful atmosphere. Pilgrims walk around spinning prayer wheels, while monks chant in nearby monasteries.

Later, you visit Pashupatinath Temple, the holiest Hindu temple in Nepal. Located on the banks of the Bagmati River, it is famous for its pagoda-style architecture and open-air cremation ghats.

  • AccommodationHotels
  • MealsBreakfast
  • Altitude/Time1400 m/ Free Day

Breakfast is served at the hotel before heading to Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple. Perched on a hilltop, it offers panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley. The climb includes stone steps lined with prayer wheels and monkeys playing around. The stupa’s white dome and golden spire, adorned with Buddha’s eyes, create a serene setting.

Afterwards, you drive to Patan Durbar Square, located in Lalitpur. This UNESCO site features the Krishna Mandir, Hiranya Varna Mahavihar (Golden Temple), and beautiful palace courtyards. Lunch is enjoyed at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the square, where you can taste Newari dishes like bara and yomari. The square is lively with artisans selling metal crafts and wood carvings.

In the afternoon, the journey continues to Bhaktapur Durbar Square, known for its medieval charm and red-brick temples. Walking on cobbled streets, you pass the 55-Window Palace, Nyatapola Temple, and pottery square where locals shape clay. Dinner is arranged in Bhaktapur or back in Kathmandu depending on the schedule. The day combines spiritual energy, royal history, and timeless traditions.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Altitude/Time2000m/ 6 hrs

After an early breakfast, the overland journey begins from Kathmandu toward the north. The road follows the Trishuli River Valley, offering views of terraced fields, small villages, and green hills. You pass towns like Bidur and Kalikasthan before climbing uphill roads with occasional landslide-prone sections, especially during the monsoon. The scenery changes gradually, with distant snowcapped peaks coming into sight.

Lunch is taken along the way at a roadside restaurant in Trishuli Bazaar or Betrawati, where you can enjoy simple dal bhat or noodle soup. The drive continues through winding roads until reaching Dhunche, the headquarters of Rasuwa district. Some groups may stay here, while others drive further to Syabrubesi or Timure, closer to the Tibet border.

Dinner is served at a local lodge, usually offering Nepali home-style cooking.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Altitude/Time2850m/ 1 hrs 45 Min

Breakfast is served at the lodge before starting the short drive toward the border at Rasuwagadhi. The road follows the Bhote Koshi River, and soon you arrive at the Nepal-China border point. After completing immigration and customs formalities at Timure, you cross the Friendship Bridge and enter Gyirong Port (Kerung) in Tibet.

Lunch is arranged at a local restaurant in Gyirong town, which sits at around 2850 meters on the east bank of the Gyirong Tsangpo River. The town is surrounded by deep valleys, waterfalls, and forested slopes, making it one of the most beautiful border entries to Tibet. The drive is short but scenic, giving trekkers the chance to slowly adapt to altitude.

Dinner will be at a Tibetan lodge in Kerung.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Altitude/Time4640 m/ 6 – 7hrs

After breakfast in Kerung, the drive continues deeper into Tibet. The road climbs gradually, passing through open valleys and high-altitude grasslands. Along the way, you cross the Brahmaputra tributaries and stop at Peiku Tso (4590m), a turquoise alpine lake with breathtaking reflections of Mount Shishapangma (8013m), the only 8000-meter peak fully in Tibet. The road is paved but winding, with occasional checkpoints.

Lunch is served at a roadside stop, usually in small Tibetan settlements along the way. The drive continues across expansive plains where wild yaks and nomadic herders can sometimes be seen. The surrounding landscapes shift from green valleys to dry plateaus with dramatic mountain backdrops.

By late afternoon, you arrive at Saga, a town located at the confluence of the Dargye Tsangpo and Brahmaputra (Yarlung Tsangpo) rivers. Dinner is served at a guesthouse restaurant, often featuring Tibetan-style bread and vegetable stew.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Altitude/Time(4590 m)/ 6 – 7hrs

After breakfast at the guesthouse, you set off on the long but scenic drive toward Lake Manasarovar. The journey follows the G219 Highway, passing wide Tibetan plains, rivers, and distant snow peaks. Along the way, you pass through Paryang and cross the Mayum La Pass (5200m), one of the highest motorable passes on the route. The landscapes are vast, with occasional nomadic tents and herds of sheep and yaks.

Lunch is taken en route, often packed or at a simple roadside lodge. The road condition is paved but long stretches across arid plateau can feel endless. Yet, the view of distant mountains, including glimpses of Mount Gurla Mandhata (7694m), makes the journey inspiring. The first sight of Manasarovar is unforgettable — the turquoise lake lying calmly below snow peaks.

By evening, you arrive at the shores of Lake Manasarovar (4590m), one of the most sacred lakes in Tibet, timed perfectly so you reach it on the full moon day to perform your rituals and experience the lake’s spiritual energy. Dinner is served at a lakeside guesthouse near Chiu Gompa, where monks reside above a rocky hill.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Altitude/Time4670 m/ 6 – 7hrs

After breakfast by the shores of Lake Manasarovar, you drive a short distance to Darchen, the base camp for Mount Kailash. The road follows the lake’s northern shore with sweeping views of turquoise waters and the snowy peaks of Mount Kailash (6638m) slowly appearing closer. The landscape is wide and open, dotted with nomadic settlements and grazing yaks. On arrival in Darchen, trekkers prepare for the pilgrimage circuit, arranging yaks or porters for the trek. Lunch and dinner are served at the lodge, where the altitude of 4670m makes rest important. The evening is spent checking gear, as the next day begins the Kailash kora, one of the most sacred treks in Tibet.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Altitude/Time4860 m/ -6 hrs

The trek begins after breakfast in Darchen, following the trail through Sarshung Valley where yaks and porters gather. The path leads north into the Barkha plain, with prayer flags fluttering as pilgrims set out together. The route gradually ascends along the Lha Chu River, passing the site of Yam Dwar, the symbolic gateway to Mount Kailash kora. Lunch is taken along the trail, usually simple packed food. Continuing forward, the trail narrows between cliffs, offering striking views of Kailash’s north face. By late afternoon, you reach Dirapuk Monastery (4860m), nestled directly below the towering peak. Dinner is served at the guesthouse, and the night is spent amid one of the most revered mountain settings in the world.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Altitude/Time5,650 m/ 8-9 hrs trek

This is the toughest day of the kora. After an early breakfast, the trail climbs steeply towards the Dolma La Pass (5650m). The path is rocky and often snow-covered, lined with prayer flags at the summit. Pilgrims pause at Shiva-tsal, a site where offerings are made, before pushing over the high pass. Descending carefully, the route follows a steep trail down to the valley beside Gauri Kund, the sacred lake. Lunch is taken after the descent at a teahouse. The trek continues along a gentler path beside the Khando Sangpo River, leading to Zuthulphuk Monastery (4670m). Dinner and overnight stay at a basic guesthouse complete the longest and most demanding section of the circuit.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Altitude/Time4550 m/ 7-8 hrs

After breakfast, you leave Zuthulphuk and drive back through Darchen, rejoining the highway across the vast Tibetan plateau. The route retraces past Paryang and the arid landscapes of western Tibet, where snowcapped peaks rise above the open plains. The drive is long but smooth on paved roads, with river crossings and wide grasslands offering constant scenery. Lunch is taken en route at a local settlement, usually with Tibetan bread and hot tea. By late afternoon, you reach Saga (4550m) at the banks of the Brahmaputra River, where dinner and overnight stay await. This marks the return from the holy Kailash circuit toward the Nepal border.

  • AccommodationLodge
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Altitude/Time2850m/ 5 to 6 hrs

Breakfast is served in Saga before setting out eastward. The road crosses vast high-altitude deserts, with occasional herds of yaks and sheep. Passing through Peiku Tso Lake once more, you enjoy distant views of Mount Shishapangma and surrounding snow peaks. The road then descends steadily from high plateau toward the lush valley of Gyirong County, where waterfalls and pine forests mark a sharp change in scenery. Lunch is taken along the way, with a short break at roadside villages. By afternoon, you arrive in Kerung town (2850m), much lower and warmer than Saga. Dinner and overnight stay here allow rest before crossing the border back to Nepal.

  • AccommodationHotels
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch
  • Altitude/Time1400 m/ 7-8 hr

After breakfast, you drive from Kerung to the Nepal border at Rasuwagadhi, completing Chinese exit formalities before crossing the Friendship Bridge. From Timure, the road winds through steep valleys along the Bhote Koshi River, passing Syabrubesi, Dhunche, and Betrawati. The route is scenic but narrow, with terraced fields and forested hills along the way. Lunch is taken at a roadside restaurant near Trishuli Bazaar. Continuing south, you follow the Trishuli River down to Kathmandu Valley. By evening, you return to Thamel, where dinner awaits at a local restaurant. The journey ends back at the starting point, surrounded by the vibrant life of Kathmandu.

  • MealsBreakfast
  • Altitude/Time1400 m

On the final day, breakfast is served at the hotel before departure. Depending on your flight schedule, there may be free time to shop in Thamel for handicrafts, singing bowls, or prayer flags. The drive to Tribhuvan International Airport takes around 30 minutes, passing through busy city streets. As you leave Kathmandu, the views of surrounding hills give a last glimpse of Nepal’s natural beauty. Lunch is usually on your own depending on flight time. At the airport, final goodbyes are exchanged before the journey home. With memories of Mount Kailash, Lake Manasarovar, and the Kathmandu Valley, your sacred Himalayan pilgrimage comes to a close.

Not satisfied with this regular itinerary?

Are you interested on planning custom trip? Feel free to contact us.

Cost Details
What's Included
  • All transportation and sightseeing are provided in connection with the tour itinerary referred to.
  • All Teahouse/hotel accommodations for the tour, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
  • Tibet visa, entrance permission, and Kailash Parikarma admission fee.
  • Best available hotel or guesthouse, including two nights of parikarma.
  • An English-speaking Chinese guide.
  • Throughout the tour, a super luxury bus or van will be used.
  • Pickup and drop-off from Kathmandu to Kerung via jeep.
  • First aid kits, maps, and so on
  • Parikarma of the Holy Lake Manasarovar
  • We give a duffel bag; down Jackets should be returned after the tour.
  • Nepali SIM Card With 10 GB Data Plan.
  • Water purification tablets.
What's Excluded
  • Airfares to Kathmandu and back
  • Urgent visa fees
  • Nepal visa expenses for NRI/foreigners
  • Travel/medical insurance
  • Cost of evacuation in the event of an emergency.
  • Personal expenses include phone calls, shopping, washing, cold/hard beverages, tipping, etc.
  • Any additional services, such as extra vehicles, hotel stays, or tourist trips not listed in the schedule.
  • Single room supplement in Kathmandu.
  • Horse and porter fees if hired for kora or parikrama (should be paid directly to the horse herder or porter).
  • Extra expense in the case of a landslide, etc. for hiring additional vehicles or porterage
  • Hotel charges in Kathmandu for early return from Tibet or further stays in Kathmandu.
  • Additional cost due to natural
Useful Info

Do’s and Don’ts for Mount Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in Full Moon as a Pilgrim

Do’s:

  • Organize your yatra to be in time for the full moon and its significance.
  • Pray, perform rituals, and meditate, with intention and ceremony, at the holy sites around Kailash and Mansarovar. The time to perform the rituals will come with the full moon and will be directed and led by local priests, monks, and spiritual guides.
  • Dress appropriately and have warm clothing for praying and activities, as well as for day and night.
  • Practice silence, and keep your voice volume down, in order to add to your experience, as it is a holy place.
  • If appropriate, offer local flowers, incense, or small offerings at temples or sacred places.
  • Remember the local protocols and religious practices, especially the daily patterns of nearby monasteries or villages.
  • Adhere to the instructions given to you from your guides, porters, and authorities to have a leisurely experience during the full moon yatra.
  • Look after yourself, include plenty of hydration, and incorporate acclimatization to prevent altitude sickness.
  • Be organized and travel as light as possible when performing a full moon parikrama or rituals with the key elements of significance.

Don’ts:

  • Do not litter or pollute in every holy area, including Mansarovar Lake and the areas around it.
  • Do not take pictures, play music, or make noise in restricted areas or holy places.
  • Do not disturb monks or pilgrims while doing their full moon prayers or other pilgrimage rituals.
  • Do not drink alcohol or smoke or eat non-vegetarian food within the surrounding areas of holy areas.
  • Do not make any attempts to walk off the permitted ways, especially if it is dark outside as you may put yourself into hazards and accidents.
  • Do not dismiss altitude sickness or other illnesses, because the full moon nights may be as cool and even more exhausting as the other regular pilgrimages.
  • Do not act in any manner that shows disrespect through gestures, spoken phrases or actions that may offend the locals, and pilgrims.

Accommodation During Full Moon Yatra

Through this pilgrimage to Kailash Mansarovar, the accommodations are basic but comfortable in keeping with the spiritual nature of the Yatra. 

When you are in Darchen, Dirapuk, and Zuthulphuk, you will likely stay in monastery guesthouses or simple lodges. 

In general, the accommodation offers shared rooms (3-4 beds), shared toilets, and no hot water, and private bathrooms. Take wet wipes and other hygiene necessities with you. 

We at Adventure Altitude Treks offer deluxe options, staying in better tents or guest houses during the full moon health period to break up the days. 

Keep in mind that you are on a high plateau, in a remote area, and will have to manage your expectations accordingly if you truly want to embrace this basic living experience. 

Be sure to be prepared for colder temperatures during the full moons, which can always add to the challenge, and yet the beauty of the Yatra.

Vegetarian Meal Choices During the Full Moon Yatra

Throughout the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, all food served is vegetarian, which is to be expected on a holy yatra. 

Generally, while "on the trek", especially with some choice, there are probably three meals provided each time: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Breakfast would include tea/coffee, jam/honey for the bread, cornflakes, milk, and either puri sabji for the snacks, and poha, both delicious North Indian dishes. 

Lunch and dinner were more modest meals but included rice, dal (mixed lentils) of some sort, some kind of salad, a roasted vegetable curry, and chapatti/roti (some culture/flavour of bread).

Every meal is prepared, cooked, and served by cooks supplied by the tour operator. We even had cooks ride with us in order to acclimatize to the high altitude.

Some operators would also offer salaya items like fresh fruit and/or juice and a small but delicious soup. 

Vegetarian options were available at almost every meal, but if people have decided to travel with a tour operator for reasons related to special diet restrictions (i.e., Jain, gluten-free, etc.), it is the pilgrim's responsibility to communicate that with the tour operator as soon as possible - as, depending on remote locations, the options may be limited.

Why Eat Vegetarian Meals During Kailash Yatra in Full Moon?

  • Spiritual Alignment: Eating vegetarian food provides alignment with the sattvic (pure) vegetarian diet endorsed by Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, fully for clearing the mind and gaining focus for the pilgrim.
  • Observing Ahimsa (Non-Violence): A vegetarian diet gives credence to the principle of non-violence as we are not harming living beings - additionally, it promotes compassion, which is part of the spirit of the Yatra.
  • Purification of the Body and Mind: Yogic tradition has suggested that each time you eat a vegetarian meal, your body becomes lighter, making it that much easier to meditate and purify your mind more easily, especially when you are under an emphasized challenge.
  • Cultural and Religious Consideration: The Kailash area is steeped in Tibetan Buddhist tradition, which generally follows a vegetarian diet; therefore, eating vegetarian food would generally be accepted in the Kailash area, giving a greater chance to meet any targets.
  • Health Benefits: The strength of the trek and altitude, and physical activity present a serious challenge for one's digestion; when digestive ability is strained, i.e., faraway smells and sights of hot foods, a vegetarian option will usually help as it digests more easily, giving the pilgrim's energy levels a better chance of being maintained.

Pro Tip: If you are  intending to eat a vegetarian diet in the neighbourhood of Kailash, it may be useful to carry some light and non-perishable snacks such as dried fruit, nuts, energy bars, or something similar, as these nutritional items can be helpful during the trek and complement your diet.

Best Time For Kailash Mansarovar Yatra: Full Moon Days

In terms of full moon days, the best time for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is from May to September; you want to visit around the full moon, particularly during auspicious festivals like Saga Dawa (generally June), when spiritual merits are believed to multiply. 

The full moon also amplifies the divine energy of Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar, thus holy rituals like dips between 3 and 5 AM are believed to be particularly auspicious given the uniqueness of those windows for sinful cleansing. 

Although the Yatra happens during the milder weather in those months, often the days are warm, even hot, but depending on the date you start your kora, your nights may be a little cold. 

When it is the Tibetan Year of the Horse (e.g., 2026), the kora is special; even more special. 

When you make your plans, ensure that you consult with good tour operators for their use of permits and their meticulously planned transportation and lodging for your safe travels.

What is The Spiritual Benefits of Pilgrimage on Full Moon at Kailash Mansarovar?

  • On full moon days, the divine and cosmic spiritual energies intensify around Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar making the rituals and prayers much more effective.
  • Pilgrims believe that full moon days, taking a holy dip in the Lake, purifies their soul and washes away their karma (liberation) and brings spiritual enlightenment.
  • The calming quietness of the moonlight environment for meditation helps contemplation, emotional healing and spiritual awakening.
  • The circumambulation (Kailash Parikrama) round Mount Kailash on full moon days is especially auspicious for purging karma and also receiving blessings from the divine.
  • The full moon also embodies the most important religious events - of Buddha Purnima and Guru Purnima. Pilgrims choose to journey during full moon days with the hope of receiving additional spiritual merit from the pilgrimage.
  • Pilgrims see the reflection of Mount Kailash in the Moonlit water of Mansarovar Lake as a sign of heavenly acceptance and a connection to the divine.
  • Spiritual seekers reported increased mental clarity, relative inner peace, experienced the transformative experience of taking a deeper journey of self-discovery during the pilgrimage, and improved relationships with their environment.
  • The pilgrimage provides pilgrims the opportunity for detachment from their sense of Ego.

Weather and Terrain Conditions During Full Moon Yatra to Kailash Mansarovar

Weather Conditions

  • Summer months (April–June): Daytime temperatures of 10 °C – 15 °C, but at night expect temperatures to be -5 °C – -10 °C.
  • Monsoon (July–August): Cold winds blow across the area and rain showers may fall, which make the trekking experience harder.
  • Winter months (October–February): Daytime temperatures in the cold, cold heights will be below freezing, night and morning temperatures will be even colder, indeed, hard work.

Terrain Conditions

  • High altitude: trekking from Lake Manasarovar, at 4,590 meters, to Dolma La Pass at 5,645 meters, creates low oxygen levels.
  • Rugged terrains: pilgrims will need to work their way up and down rocky, steep trails, walk on often uneven rock surfaces, and overall, push every aspect of their body physically.
  • Sacred sites: pilgrims connect to sacred sites along the way, including Lake Manasarovar and Mount Kailash, experiencing the spiritual significance of each site.

Required Permits and Travel Documents

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a sacred pilgrimage; before making your pilgrimage, permits are needed. For Indian nationals, the “Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Permit” is a special permit that is issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) through approved travel agents.

For foreigners, a Tibet Travel Permit as well as a proper Chinese visa would suffice, as you will be passing through the Tibet Autonomous Region. The Full Moon periods could bring added challenges (high numbers of pilgrims plus potentially bad weather conditions), together with added safety restrictions and environmental regulations imposed by the authorities.

You must travel only with confirmed group travel through the respective approved travel agencies, but must also be compliant with the law, customs imposed by locals, and health issues raised by altitude circumstances. You must put in your application as early as possible. 

Documents Needed

  • Passport: Must be valid for 6 months from the start of travel.
  • Passport-size photo: You will require a recent photo for your visa/permit application - dimensions are specified.
  • Registration Form & Visa application: Your paperwork will be given to you through your tour agency - note your visa will be issued as a separate group sheet (not a stamp).
  • Medical Fitness Certificate: Qualified physician that indicates you are fit for a high-altitude pilgrimage.

Communication and Internet Connectivity During Yatra

Communication as well as Internet access in Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, first of all, on the full Moon trip, remote and high-altitude terrain limits them greatly. The mobile network coverage patches inconsistently, being mostly available in the vicinity of the larger towns like Darchen and Simikot, but, in general, trekkers find it absent on the trekking routes and at mountain passes of high altitudes.

In case of a satellite phone or a portable Wi-Fi device you might need it for communication in an emergency. Thus, before the pilgrim sets off, he should have an idea of when he will get network access. Definitely, depending on the local guides provides the safest and most reliable way to receive timely information on things that matter, especially when the network fails.

Preparing for a poor connection will be very useful in helping to keep expectations and thus guarantee one's safety. It definitely helps to have some offline maps ready, and also have the information you are going to need at hand, because it will help you greatly in these kinds of situations.

What Currency, Payments, and Expenses to Expect?

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra uses multiple currencies, as the Rupee and the Yuan serve as the main currencies in the areas through which the route travels, such as India and China.

Therefore, the best idea for the pilgrims is to carry enough cash with them and not rely on the card, as there are very few places that offer ATM and digital payment options. Among the things which the pilgrims have to take care of are their permits, accommodation, food, transport, guide fees, and emergency supplies.

It helps if you consider that medical help might take longer than expected, and you need to rest somewhere for a little while due to bad weather. There are good places to go if you are in major border towns and want to exchange your money; however, they may have limited hours. The trick to a successful hodgepodge throughout this experience requires you to plan and manage your finances well.

FAQs
  • Anyone aged 18-72 in good physical health may participate; however, a medical examination is encouraged due to high-altitude issues affecting some individuals. Children under the age of 7 and adults over age 75 are recommended not to join on this trek because of the strenuous nature of the conditions. 

  • Yes, the Charan Sparsh permits pilgrims to touch the north face of Mount Kailash from Dirapuk with a 4-hour trek. This action is regarded as an act of spirituality and to symbolically touch 'Lord Shiva's feet.'

  • Direct bathing from Lake Mansarovar has been prohibited since 2017, however, pilgrims can grab buckets and go to a nearby site along Lake Mansarovar's shoreline and collect holy water, and then bathe with it. This is supposed to wash sins away, especially on a full moon night.

  • The main ways to travel to Mount Kailash are overland from Kathmandu by way of Kerung, helicopter from Simikot-Hilsa, or a flight to Lhasa, and then by car further. The routes vary in travel time, costs, and levels of physical exertion with Lhasa providing a little more cultural sightseeing. 

  • Saga Dawa, which is celebrated on the full moon of the fourth Tibetan lunar month on June 11, 2025, commemorates Buddha's birth, enlightenment and death. During this festival it is believed that doing the Kailash Kora multiplied one's spiritual merits.

  • Trekking at altitudes more than 5000m for the yatra is demanding, so good fitness is needed and previous acclimatization is necessary to avoid altitude sickness. Recommended preparation involves daily trekking for 4 to 8 hours, performing core exercises, and practising pranayama.

  • Pack warm clothes, a sturdy pair of trekking shoes, sun glasses, sun screen, a comprehensive first-aid kit, and personal toiletries suitable for high-altitude trekking.

  • The yatra is safe with proper planning, but high altitude and rugged terrain pose risks like altitude sickness. Acclimatization, medical check-ups, and travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking are essential.

  • Yes, it is possible to hire horses (US $515 for 4 days) and porters (US $220 for 3 days) in Mansarovar or Darchen, but note that the costs are non-refundable and non-transferable. 

  • 50% will be charged for cancellations made lesser than 7 days prior to departure. No refunds will apply for cancellations less than a week prior to the trip or if cancellation occurs on arrival in Kathmandu.

What Our Clients Say...
  • R
    Ram SinghUnited KingdomSeptember 13, 2023
    rating star

    Profound Spiritual Journey Under the Full Moon

    The Full Moon Kailash Mansarovar Yatra provided by Adventure Altitude Treks was a life changing experience. The detailed planning ensured logistics went smoothly. The guides were all well informed and caring throughout the process. The month was completely spiritual throughout the entire experience in the full moon.

    The accommodation was basic, but it was comfortable through the Yatra. The team was very conscious of the safety and well being of the team through the entire trek experience. I highly recommend this pilgrimage to anyone seeking their own spiritual truths.

    Google
  • A
    Aarav KumarIndiaJuly 20, 2023
    rating star

    Unforgettable Full Moon Pilgrimage to Kailash Mansarovar with Expert Guidance

    My experience doing the Full Moon Kailash Mansarovar Yatra with Adventure Altitude Treks was unforgettable. I have lifelong and amazing memories and experiences that I will cherish forever.

    I could not speak higher of the team. The logistical support and guidance was incredible, even if it was above and beyond and we felt the support along the way in good humour.

    The full moon illuminated some of the most scenic landscapes and enhanced the spiritual journey throughout our trek. While the terrain was challenging, I believe all of the trekking on the trails was perfectly reasonable and organized and the accommodation needs were met. 

    TrustPilot
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