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Kailash Manasarovar Darshan Guide, Online Booking Procedure
Kailash Manasarovar Darshan is one of the most sought-after spiritual pilgrimages in the world, taking devotees to the sacred Mount Kailash and the pristine Lake Manasarovar in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. This guide covers everything you need to know about planning your darshan, how to reach, booking procedures, best time to visit, insider tips from experience, and FAQs. For official information, visit official TTD portal.
Quick Facts
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Mount Kailash & Lake Manasarovar, Tibet Autonomous Region, China |
| Darshan Season | May to September (official yatra period) |
| Typical Duration | 9–24 days depending on route (e.g., overland, helicopter, govt route) |
| Entry/Travel Permits | China Group Visa + Tibet Travel Permit (required) |
| Approx. Cost (Indians) | INR ~1.8 Lakhs to 3+ Lakhs (varies by package/route) |
| Contact/Official Booking | Kailash Manasarovar Yatra Official (MEA) |
How To Reach Kailash And Manasarovar
By Air
The most common air route for international pilgrims is to fly into Kathmandu, Nepal, then continue by road or combination of flights and helicopters into the Kailash region. Indian travellers often transit via Lucknow or Delhi to Kathmandu, then proceed to Nepalgunj/Simikot before entering Tibet.
By Train
There is no direct train to Mount Kailash or Lake Manasarovar. Travellers usually take a train to major Indian gateways such as Delhi or Lucknow, then fly to Kathmandu (Nepal) or cross the border to begin the overland portion. NEPAL does not require an Indian to have a Nepal visa when travelling on a valid passport into the Himalayan regions. Understanding Kailash Manasarovar Darshan Online is essential.
By Road
From Kathmandu, travellers can join an overland group to cross the Nepal-Tibet border (Kyirong/Gyirong or Hilsa) and continue to Saga, Lake Manasarovar, and Mount Kailash. Another option for Indian pilgrims is the Government of India-organized overland route via the Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand or Nathu La Pass in Sikkim to enter Tibet.
Booking And Ticket Information
Official Government Yatra (Indian Citizens)
The Government of India’s Ministry of External Affairs runs the official Kailash Manasarovar Yatra each year for eligible Indian citizens. Details are published annually and you must apply through the official portal: Kailash Manasarovar Yatra Official.
Step-By-Step Booking Procedure
- Check Eligibility – Indian citizens with valid passport are eligible; minimum age and fitness criteria apply (medical fitness certificate and forms may be required).
- Select Your Route & Dates – Choose the Government route (Lipulekh/Nathu La) or a private operator package via Nepal/Tibet. Pilgrimage is seasonal (May–Sept).
- Submit Application – For Government batches, apply on the official portal when registrations open (usually in early year). For private packages, submit documents to the tour operator.
- Provide Required Documents – Valid passport (6+ months), photos, ID, medical certificate, emergency contacts, and signed self-declaration.
- Pay Booking Deposit – Pay deposit or full package charges as per operator or Government requirements.
- Receive Confirmations & Permits – After selection or booking, you will receive permits, visa assistance, and logistical details.
For private tours, operators usually handle the China group visa and Tibet Travel Permit as part of the package. Independent trek permits are not issued; travel must be with a pre-arranged group or tour. This relates to Kailash Manasarovar Darshan Online.
Insider Tips From My Visit
When I visited Kailash and Lake Manasarovar, the first thing that surprised me was the dramatic change in landscape as altitude increased. Roads are long, and acclimatization is key. I personally recommend planning acclimatization days at Saga or Darchen to avoid altitude sickness.
Pack layered clothing; temperatures fluctuate wildly. Even in summer, nights can be freezing. What most people get wrong is underestimating the physical demand of the kora (circumambulation) which is longer than expected, so consider pony or porter options when booking.
Nearby Attractions And Distances
| Place | Approx. Distance From Lake Manasarovar/Mt Kailash |
|---|---|
| Darchen (Pilgrim Base) | 5–10 km |
| Diraphuk (Start of Kailash Kora) | 20–25 km from Darchen |
| Zuthulphuk (End of Kora) | 35–40 km from Darchen |
| Lhasa, Tibet | ~950 km (via road from Mount Kailash) |
| Saga Town | ~160 km from Darchen |
Best Time To Visit Kailash Manasarovar Darshan
The official darshan season runs from May to September when roads are open, weather is relatively stable, and passes like Lipulekh and Nathu La are accessible. Learn more about Kailash Manasarovar Darshan Online.
I personally recommend planning for June and September for clearer skies and fewer crowds. Summer provides moderate temperatures (daytime 10–15°C) while pre-monsoon/late monsoon windows often have the most stable weather patterns in the high Himalayas. Starting too early (April) risks snow-blocked passes, and late October often brings early winter conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need A Visa To Visit Kailash Manasarovar?
Yes. Indian pilgrims need a China group visa and a Tibet Travel Permit, which operators generally arrange. Chinese visa must be secured from the Embassy of China (e.g., New Delhi) before crossing borders or can sometimes be processed in Kathmandu.
How Much Does The Kailash Manasarovar Darshan Cost?
Costs vary by route, transport mode, and package. Typical Indian pilgrim packages range from INR ~1.8 Lakhs to over 3 Lakhs, depending on helicopter or overland options. This relates to kailash manasarovar darshan online.
Is Solo Travel Allowed?
No. Independent travel to Kailash Manasarovar is not permitted; you must travel with a licensed tour operator who arranges group visas and permits.
What Physical Fitness Is Needed?
High altitude climbing and long drives demand good cardiovascular health. A medical fitness certificate is required during booking. If in doubt, consult a doctor for high-altitude travel readiness.
Can Foreigners Visit?
Yes, foreigners can visit but require appropriate Chinese visas and Tibet travel permits. Many choose the Nepal route with operator support. This relates to kailash manasarovar darshan online.