Yes, a passport is mandatory for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. After registration, a scanned copy of your passport is used to apply for the travel permit. Once the permit is approved (which typically takes around 30 to 45 days), the visa application process is initiated, which generally takes about one week to complete.

If you are taking the Helicopter route, there are two starting points:
• Lucknow (India)
• Kathmandu (Nepal)

For the Overland route by bus, the yatra starts from Kathmandu, so you must travel there first.
You can reach Kathmandu or Lucknow by:
• Direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore, or Ahmedabad
• Train or bus (only for Lucknow, from within India)

Once you reach the starting point, your tour operator will handle further logistics.

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra usually takes place from June to September.
• June: Busy due to summer holidays, often causing waiting time and minor service delays.
• July: Rainy season, but in recent years the Yatra has gone smoothly due to lower crowd levels.
• August–September: Slightly colder nights, but overall pleasant weather for Mount Kailash Parikrama.

Night temperatures typically remain above 5°C, dropping only during rain or snowfall.

Due to the high-altitude and physically demanding nature of the Yatra, age and health restrictions apply:
• Government Route (MEA – Ministry of External Affairs):
   o Routes: Lipulekh Pass (Uttarakhand) and Nathu La Pass (Sikkim)
   o Minimum age: 18 years
    o Requires a full medical check-up and selection via lucky draw
    o Duration is longer and more physically demanding.
• Nepal Route (Private Operators):
    o Considered easier and shorter than the MEA route.
    o Age limit: 10 to 70 years
    o Selection process is more lenient; health check is still advised.

• Helicopter Route (via Nepal):
    o Recommended luggage: 10–12 kg
    o Pack light for convenience and ease of travel.

• Overland Route:
    o You may carry slightly more but avoid overpacking.
    o Your personal backpack should not exceed 2 kg, as you will carry it yourself during the trek.
    o Main luggage (duffel bags) will be transported by Sherpas.

Trip To Temple provides a detailed checklist of required items around 45 days before departure to help you pack efficiently.

The Tibet Travel Bureau issues the official permit for the Yatra. A scanned color copy of your valid passport (with at least 6 months' validity) is needed to start the process.

For Indian Passport Holders:
• A group visa is issued (not stamped on
the passport).
• Physical passport must be sent to our Delhi office at least 1 month before travel.
• The Tibet Permit is applied for 45 days before the Yatra.

For NRIs/Foreign Nationals:
• Must carry their passport to Kathmandu.
• Our representative collects it for visa processing through the Chinese Embassy.
• Scanned passport copies are needed upon arrival.

Visa/Permit Summary Table
Requirement Indian Passport Holders Non-Indian Passport Holders (NRIs/Foreigners)
Nepali Visa Not Required Required – Issued on arrival in Kathmandu
Chinese Visa / Tibet Permit Required – Send physical passport to Delhi Office Required – Submit colored copy at Kathmandu

Transportation during the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is arranged using comfortable AC coaches or buses, depending on the route and group size.
• On the Nepal route, transportation typically includes AC coaches, jeeps, and helicopters (if applicable).
• Transfers between specific locations (such as Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, or Hilsa to Purang) may involve a combination of road and air travel.
All transport is organized to ensure comfort and safety during the high-altitude journey.

Throughout the Yatra, hygienic and freshly prepared vegetarian meals are served, including Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinking water (normal and hot) is also provided with meals.
Meal Arrangements by Location:
• In Lucknow, Kathmandu, and Nepalgunj: Meals are served in hotel buffet style with multiple vegetarian options.
• In other locations (e.g., during the journey in Tibet): Meals are prepared in temporary kitchen setups managed by the support team. Food is cooked fresh daily, based on the group size and dietary needs.

Yes, due to low oxygen levels at high altitudes, some pilgrims may experience high altitude sickness.
Common symptoms include headache, nausea, vomiting, breathlessness, and disturbed sleep.
We recommend:
• Consulting your doctor before the trip
• Learning about symptoms and precautions
• Carrying prescribed medications if advised
Proper preparation and acclimatization help reduce the risk.