Kailash Mansarovar Tour via Everest Base Camp is a highly sought-after pilgrimage and sightseeing package that offers a profound spiritual and cultural journey amidst the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Himalayas. The journey begins upon your arrival in the enchanting Kathmandu Valley, nestled at an elevation of 1360 meters. After a brief exploration of the captivating city of Kathmandu, the adventure takes you on a scenic drive to Rasuwagari, the gateway to Tibet, and onwards to Kerong, situated at an altitude of 2700 meters, marking the Tibetan border with Nepal. This expedition offers a splendid opportunity to witness the majestic Himalayan range, pristine glaciers, snow-clad landscapes, sacred villages, ancient sites, and the warm hospitality of the local inhabitants.
The pilgrimage encompasses visits to the sacred Mt. Kailash, standing tall at 6714 meters, revered by followers of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bonpo religion. For many Hindus, this mountain is the exclusive abode of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Completing the pilgrimage to Kailash and the holy Manasarovar Lake is believed to lead to ultimate salvation, known as 'Mokshya,' absolving devotees of all known and unknown sins committed in their lifetime. However, this pilgrimage is not for the faint-hearted, as it involves traversing challenging terrains, extreme landscapes, and high altitudes.
The holy Manasarovar Lake, deriving its name from the Sanskrit words 'Manas' and 'Sarovar,' holds profound significance for Buddhists and is considered the bathing pond of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati by Hindus. Located at a lofty altitude of 4580 meters, this colossal lake is revered for its spiritual and religious importance. Circumsembling the lake is believed to pave the way to Heaven, according to Hindu beliefs. Taking a dip in its cold waters and consuming its sacred water is thought to purify one from the sins of a hundred births. The sight of high lamas and monks engaged in prayers, chants, and ritual dips in the lake serves as an inspiring spectacle for pilgrims, encouraging them to persevere through the demanding circumambulation process.
Visiting Mount Kailash and Manasarovar is a lifelong aspiration for people from all corners of the globe, as it is considered a sacred and holy destination. Some pilgrims, after completing this spiritual journey, extend their adventure to the Everest Base Camp (5200 meters) in Tibet, where they can relish breathtaking views of the snow-draped Himalayan peaks, and captivating landscapes, and gain insights into Tibetan Sherpa culture. Despite the myriad challenges posed by unpredictable weather conditions, rugged terrains, rocky mountain trails, and snow-covered pathways, thousands of intrepid travelers eagerly undertake this extraordinary pilgrimage.
Rongbuk Monastery and its surrounding settlement, situated below the Everest Base Camp, provide lodging options and a glimpse into the unique Tibetan Sherpa culture. Monterosa Treks and Expedition, located in Thamel, Kathmandu, organizes these life-transforming journeys every year, ensuring travelers can explore these remarkable destinations with ease and expertise. "Athithi Devo Bhava," meaning "Guests are like Gods," reflects the warm hospitality and commitment to service that guides these sacred expeditions.
Trekking Routes During Kailash Mansarovar with Everest Base Camp Tour
The Kailash Mansarovar with Everest Base Camp tour offers several trekking routes, each with its unique experiences and highlights. These routes allow travelers to explore the breathtaking landscapes of the region while embarking on a profound spiritual journey.
One of the key trekking routes on this tour takes travelers from the city of Kathmandu in Nepal to Tibet's sacred Mt. Kailash. The journey begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Nyalam, gradually ascending to higher altitudes. Travelers pass through picturesque towns like Tingri and Rongbuk, which offer glimpses of rural Tibetan life and stunning mountain vistas. The highlight of this route is the visit to Everest Base Camp, where travelers can witness the majestic Mt. Everest up close. From there, the journey continues to Sakya Monastery, Saga, and eventually Lake Manasarovar, known for its spiritual significance. The route also includes treks to Dirapuk, Zuthulpuk, and Darchen, allowing travelers to circumambulate the sacred Mt. Kailash before heading back to Kathmandu via Saga and Nyalam.
These trekking routes require physical fitness and mental preparation due to the high altitudes and challenging terrain. Travelers must also obtain the necessary visas and permits for this restricted region. Along the way, they can immerse themselves in the local culture, visit monasteries, and interact with the welcoming Tibetan communities. The journey to Mt. Kailash and Everest Base Camp is not only a physical adventure but also a deeply spiritual one, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those seeking both natural beauty and cultural enrichment.
Difficulty level During Kailash Mansarovar with Everest Base Camp Tour
The level of difficulty during the Kailash Mansarovar with Everest Base Camp Tour should not be underestimated, as this journey is considered a highly esteemed pilgrimage for travelers worldwide. It is crucial to approach this adventure with the utmost seriousness and preparedness. Engaging in thorough hiking, uphill climbing, cycling, camping, and physical conditioning is not merely a suggestion but a necessity to ensure a successful and relatively pain-free expedition. Strengthening one's muscles and engaging in fitness routines are essential preparations for this challenging trek.
Moreover, adaptation to the high altitudes is paramount, as the tour takes you to elevations that can significantly affect your health and well-being. Proper acclimatization is key to minimizing discomfort and altitude-related issues. Natural disasters, although rare, can also pose additional challenges, emphasizing the importance of being well-prepared and informed about the region's conditions and potential risks.
Furthermore, a crucial aspect of ensuring a smooth journey is maintaining a strong commitment to physical fitness and mental resilience. Travelers should abstain from drinking alcohol and smoking both before and during the trip, as these habits can exacerbate altitude-related problems and hinder physical performance at high elevations. In summary, the Kailash Mansarovar with Everest Base Camp Tour demands meticulous physical preparation, mental determination, and a commitment to health and well-being to overcome its inherent difficulties and make it a truly triumphant and spiritually enriching experience.
Best seasons for Kailash Mansarovar via Everest Base Camp
The most favorable seasons for embarking on the Kailash Mansarovar journey via Everest Base Camp are typically from August to December and from February to May. These months constitute the prime trekking and pilgrimage season for this region, primarily due to the milder weather conditions and clearer trekking trails.
During this period, the weather is relatively stable, with warmer temperatures and minimal precipitation, making it conducive for trekking and outdoor activities. The clearer skies offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and the majestic peaks of the Himalayas, creating an awe-inspiring backdrop for the pilgrimage.
Furthermore, the accessibility to the region is improved during these months, as the snow and ice that may obstruct certain routes in the winter months have melted away, allowing for smoother travel. The trails are also more defined and easier to navigate, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable journey for pilgrims and trekkers alike.
In summary, the months of May to September are the best seasons for the Kailash Mansarovar via Everest Base Camp tour, offering a combination of favorable weather conditions, stunning natural beauty, and improved accessibility, making it an ideal time for travelers to embark on this spiritual and adventurous pilgrimage.
Meals and Accommodation During Kailash Mansarovar with Everest Base Camp Tour
The journey commences with travelers savoring a blend of Tibetan and Nepali cuisine, immersing them in the regional flavors of the Himalayas. In the early stages of the trek, as accommodations are relatively accessible, meals are typically provided at local tea houses, guesthouses, or lodges situated along the route. These meals are nourishing and hearty, featuring dishes like dal (lentil soup), rice, noodles, vegetables, and occasionally, yak meat. Breakfasts commonly include Tibetan bread, porridge, or eggs, designed to provide trekkers with the essential energy to embark on their daily adventures.
As the pilgrimage progresses into more remote and higher-altitude terrains, where the availability of accommodations and dining options dwindles, trekking agencies often deploy a camping setup with a dedicated kitchen crew. These skilled cooks adapt to the challenging conditions, offering a diverse range of dishes to keep trekkers well-fed and content. The camping experience not only provides sustenance but also offers a profound connection to the natural surroundings, making it an integral part of the journey.
It is crucial to emphasize the significance of hydration, especially at higher altitudes. Trekkers are encouraged to consume plenty of fluids, primarily water, to mitigate the risks of altitude sickness and maintain optimal hydration levels throughout the expedition. In addition to the main meals, having some snacks and energy bars can be beneficial, as the demanding high-altitude trek may require extra sustenance.
Accommodation During Kailash Mansarovar with Everest Base Camp Tour
Throughout the Kailash Mansarovar with Everest Base Camp Tour, travelers can anticipate a diverse range of lodging options tailored to the varying terrains and altitudes they will encounter. In the initial phases of the trek, accommodations are relatively more comfortable, consisting of stays in local tea houses or guesthouses. These lodgings offer basic amenities such as beds, shared bathrooms, and dining areas. While these accommodations may be simple, they provide a respite for travelers and offer the chance to interact with fellow pilgrims and locals.
However, as the pilgrimage ascends to higher altitudes and more remote areas, accommodations take on a more rustic character. Trekkers often find themselves residing in tented camps, thoughtfully arranged by trekking agencies. These camps are equipped with sleeping bags and warm blankets, essential for combating the cold temperatures of mountainous nights. While tented camps provide fewer comforts than traditional lodges, they offer a unique connection to the pristine natural surroundings and an authentic sense of adventure that aligns with the spiritual and physical journey.
In summary, the meticulous arrangements for meals and accommodations during the Kailash Mansarovar with Everest Base Camp Tour are designed to cater to the physical and spiritual requirements of travelers. The meals showcase the rich regional cuisine, while accommodations range from more comfortable tea houses and guesthouses to the rugged charm of tented camps. This holistic approach ensures that pilgrims can immerse themselves fully in the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Himalayas while embarking on a transformative and spiritually enriching adventure.
Passport & Visa During Kailash Mansarovar with Everest Base Camp Tour
The process of obtaining the necessary passport and visas for the Kailash Mansarovar with Everest Base Camp Tour is a critical aspect of planning this remarkable journey. Depending on the specific route you choose for your pilgrimage, you will need to ensure compliance with the visa and permit requirements of both Nepal and China/Tibet. Here is a comprehensive breakdown of these requirements for different categories of travelers:
Indian Passport Holders:
- Nepal: Indian nationals do not require a passport or visa to visit Nepal. Instead, a genuine identity card, such as an Aadhar card, is acceptable to Nepal's immigration authorities, granting Indian citizens authorization for their journey within Nepal.
- China/Tibet: For Indian passport holders embarking on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, a valid passport, a Chinese visa, and special authorization to visit the Kailash region are mandatory. To facilitate this process, travelers are advised to transmit a scanned copy of their passport to the tour headquarters. Additionally, it is essential to bring a colored copy of the passport, along with two passport-sized photographs, when arriving at Kathmandu airport for further visa and permit processing.
Foreign Nationals and Indian Residents:
- Nepal: All foreign nationals, including Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), are required to possess a valid passport and visa to enter Nepal. Fortunately, Nepal offers a visa-on-arrival facility at Kathmandu airport, simplifying the visa acquisition process. Travelers need to present all the necessary valid documents and pay the visa fee upon arrival at the airport.
- China/Tibet: Similar to Indian passport holders, foreign nationals and Indian residents aspiring to undertake the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra must hold a genuine passport and obtain a Chinese visa. Additionally, they need to secure special authorization to visit the Kailash region. To facilitate this process, it is advisable to submit a scanned copy of the passport to the tour headquarters. Upon landing at Kathmandu airport, travelers should also have a colored copy of their passport and two passport-sized photographs ready for further visa and permit processing.
In summary, the passport and visa requirements for the Kailash Mansarovar with Everest Base Camp Tour are contingent upon your nationality and chosen travel route. Adherence to these regulations is pivotal to ensure a smooth and hassle-free pilgrimage. Working with reputable tour operators like All Nepal Hiking can provide valuable assistance in navigating these intricacies and ensuring that all necessary authorizations are secured, allowing you to embark on this spiritually profound journey with confidence and peace of mind.
Permits During Kailash Mansarovar with Everest Base Camp Tour
- Tibet Travel Permit: The Tibet Travel Permit is necessary for all travelers entering Tibet, and it's typically arranged by your tour operator. The cost of this permit can range from $50 to USD 100 per person.
Aliens' Travel Permit: This permit is required if you plan to visit areas outside of Lhasa, including Mount Kailash and Mansarovar. The cost for the Aliens' Travel Permit is usually included in your tour package, and it can vary but may range from $50 to USD 100.
Military Permit: If your itinerary includes areas near the Tibet-India or Tibet-Nepal borders, you may need a Military Permit. The cost for this permit can vary but is typically included in your tour package.
Everest Base Camp Permit: If your tour includes a visit to Everest Base Camp in Tibet, there may be an additional cost for this permit, which can range from $30 to USD 50.
Kailash Mansarovar Permit: The permit to visit the sacred Mount Kailash and Mansarovar Lake is one of the essential permits for this tour. The cost for this permit is typically included in your tour package, and it can vary but may range from $50 to USD 100.
Border Area Permit (if applicable): Depending on your specific itinerary, you may require a Border Area Permit if you venture close to Tibet's borders with neighboring countries. The cost of this permit varies and is usually included in your tour package.
It's important to note that these permit costs are approximate and can change over time. Additionally, tour operators often include the permit fees in their overall tour package prices. When planning your Kailash Mansarovar with Everest Base Camp Tour, it's advisable to consult with your chosen tour operator for the most up-to-date information on permit costs and what is included in your tour package. Keep in mind that working with a reputable tour operator is essential for a smooth and successful pilgrimage, as they will handle the permit applications and logistics on your behalf.
Additional Information During Kailash Mansarovar with Everest Base Camp Tour
Altitude Considerations:
- The Mt. Kailash region boasts high altitudes, with elevations exceeding 5,600 meters (approximately 18,370 feet). To acclimatize safely and reduce the risk of altitude sickness, it's advisable to spend a few days in Lhasa before embarking on your tour. This gradual ascent allows your body to adapt to the thin air, improving your overall comfort and well-being.
Physical Fitness:
- The trek around Mt. Kailash can be physically demanding. It's crucial to be in good physical shape and mentally prepared for the challenges of high-altitude trekking. Prior trekking experience at lower elevations can be beneficial in building the necessary stamina and resilience.
Accommodation:
- Accommodations in the Mt. Kailash region vary widely, ranging from basic guesthouses to tented camps. Depending on your chosen route, you may encounter different types of lodging. It's advisable to carry a warm sleeping bag to ensure a comfortable night's rest, especially at higher altitudes where temperatures can drop significantly.
Packing Essentials:
- Preparing for varying weather conditions is essential. Your packing list should include warm clothing, sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a well-equipped first aid kit. Layering your clothing allows you to adjust to changing temperatures and stay comfortable throughout the journey.
Health Precautions:
- Before embarking on your Mt. Kailash tour, consult a healthcare professional to discuss altitude sickness prevention and vaccinations. It's essential to carry any necessary medications, prescriptions, and a comprehensive first aid kit to address potential health issues during the trip.
Cultural Sensitivity:
- Show respect for the local culture and religious sites along your journey. Dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees, and be mindful of your behavior. It's important to maintain cultural sensitivity and uphold local customs throughout your travels in the region.
Local Cuisine:
- Be prepared for simple Tibetan meals during your trek around Mt. Kailash. While accommodations and dining options may be basic, carrying some snacks can provide additional energy during long walks between meals.
Communication:
- Limited connectivity is common in remote areas around Mt. Kailash. Inform your family and friends about your travel plans and share your itinerary with them. This ensures that loved ones are aware of your whereabouts and can be contacted in case of emergencies.
Guides and Tours:
- Engaging a local guide who is familiar with the area can greatly simplify logistics and enhance your overall experience. Consider booking a guided tour to access valuable expertise and support during your journey.
Environmental Responsibility:
- Embrace Leave No Trace principles to protect and preserve the natural beauty of the Mt. Kailash region. Proper waste disposal and minimizing your impact on the environment are essential for sustainable travel.
Currency and Payment:
- Carry sufficient local currency (Chinese Yuan) to cover your expenses during the journey. Credit cards may not be widely accepted in remote areas, so having cash on hand is crucial for purchasing goods and services.
Climatic Variability:
- Be prepared for sudden weather changes, including rain, snow, and strong winds. It's essential to pack accordingly and remain flexible with your plans to accommodate changing weather conditions.
Cultural Highlights:
- In addition to the physical trek, take time to explore cultural sites such as monasteries and engage with local communities. Immersing yourself in the local culture and traditions can enrich your overall experience and provide valuable insights into the region's heritage.
Respect Wildlife:
- Admire the local fauna from a respectful distance and avoid disturbing their habitats. It's crucial to demonstrate consideration for the natural environment and the wildlife that inhabits it.
Emergency Contacts:
- Maintain a readily accessible list of contact details for local authorities, your embassy or consulate, and tour operators. Having this information on hand is essential in case of emergencies or unforeseen circumstances.
Trekking Routes:
- Research and carefully select the trekking route that aligns with your fitness level and desired time frame. Each route offers unique experiences, challenges, and opportunities to explore the stunning landscapes of the Mt. Kailash region.
Cultural Significance:
- Lastly, it's important to approach the journey to Mt. Kailash with reverence and an open heart, acknowledging its profound cultural and spiritual significance. Appreciate the natural beauty of this sacred site while respecting the beliefs and practices of multiple religions that hold it dear.