Following this, I began planning my journey to Kailash Mansarovar. I set the dates, gathered all the essentials, and began my training, determined to prepare for the Yatra despite my busy schedule. Finally, the day arrived when one of my biggest dreams was coming true.
People said that no one has ever returned who tried to reach the summit of Mount Kailash till now. What could be the reason? Is there anyone who reached the summit of Mount Kailash and returned alive? Driven by this curiosity, I embarked on my journey with a blend of cautious anticipation and excitement.
Brief Itinerary :
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu, Transfer to Hotel
Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu
Day 3: A leisure day in Kathmandu
Day 4: Kathmandu to Kerung, Tibet
Day 5: Acclimatization day in Kerung
Day 6: Kerung to Saga
Day 7: Saga to Lake Mansarovar
Day 8: Drive to Darchen, Prepare for kora (Parikrama)
Day 9: Trek to Dirapuk and Kailash Charan Sparsh
Day 10: Dirapuk to Zuthulpuk via Drolma La Pass
Day 11: Complete the kora and drive back to Saga
Day 12: Return to Kerung from Saga
Day 13: Back to Kathmandu
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu, Transfer to Hotel
My first step towards my dream journey was boarding a plane from Delhi to Kathmandu. To make the most of this golden opportunity, I have already planned my journey with Walk Mountain by booking the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra package. So, at the airport, the founder of Walk Mountain was per there to welcome me. I’m so grateful to him. We headed towards the hotel, the hotel provided outstanding services.
Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu
Before embarking on the Kailash Mansarovar journey, it is a tradition to visit Pashupatinath to seek blessings for a successful pilgrimage. As I stepped into the sacred grounds of Pashupatinath Temple, the air seemed to hum with devotion. The faint scent of incense drifted through the breeze, mingling with the rhythmic chants of priests. Perched on the banks of the Bagmati River, this centuries-old temple stands as a timeless tribute to Lord Shiva. Its golden roof and intricately carved wooden beams tell stories of faith that have endured for generations. Watching pilgrims offer prayers, I felt a deep sense of peace—almost as if the temple itself was blessing me before I began my journey to Kailash Mansarovar.
Just a short walk from Pashupatinath lies one of the Shakti Peeths, Guheshwori Temple- dedicated to Goddess Parvati. When Goddess Sati heard about her husband’s insult from her own father - Daksha, she became furious and jumped into flames. Lord Shiva carried her body and started to wander around the world in grief. While wandering, the body parts of Sati’s corpse fall in 51 places, which we call Shakti Peeths. It is said that the knees from Sati’s body fell from her corpse. That's why this place is called Guheshwori Temple. I took blessings and went back to the hotel to have lunch.
After Lunch, we headed towards Doleshwor Mahadev, located in Sipadol of Bhaktapur district, Nepal, is an important temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed that the head of Lord Kedarnath resides in Doleshwor Temple. Religious scholars have also confirmed that this temple is over 4,000 years old, and the Shiva Lingam here is considered self-manifested (Swayambhu). The temple showcases the traditional Nepali pagoda style of architecture. Following this, we went back to the hotel and took some rest.
Day 3: A leisure day in Kathmandu
The company had granted us a leisure day, and with the possibility of a visa delay, I took the opportunity to explore Kathmandu. Strolling through its small neighbourhoods, I encountered people from diverse castes and religions, each scene stirring a unique set of emotions within me. After a day of exploring the city, I returned to the hotel to relax and recharge.
Day 4: Kathmandu to Kerung, Tibet
Now, our actual travel started from Kathmandu to Kerung, Tibet. Our bus was supposed to go from the hotel (Kathmandu) to Kerung. I took the bus; our group, along with the guide (whom we called “Ramesh Dai”), was also on the bus. It is widely understood that the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra must be undertaken as part of a group. Initially, I was wondering and felt a bit tense thinking about who would be my companion; however, upon meeting the group, I quickly felt at ease and confident. We commenced our journey with the solemn chant of "Har Har Mahadev."
We traveled the entire 180 km journey from Kathmandu to Kerung, passing through the beautiful streams of Langtang National Park along the way. Following the banks of the Trishuli River, the journey takes you through the stunning landscapes of Langtang National Park. Along the way, you catch brief glimpses of majestic peaks like Langtang Lirung and Ganesh Himal, making the trip truly unforgettable. The road is well-paved and maintained up to Dhunche, but beyond that, it becomes dusty and rough. At Ghatte Khola, the Nepal Immigration office conducts document and luggage checks, marking an important checkpoint on the route.
After safely passing inspection, we headed towards the Rasuwagadi border, where we had to show our permits. During the permit inspection, the entire group had to enter at once for checking. Finally, we entered the captivating land of Tibet. After driving for two hours, we reached the destination, Kerung, where we stayed overnight.
Day 5: Acclimatization day in Kerung
A day in Kerung, nestled at the gateway between Nepal and Tibet, offers a blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty. My early mornings are greeted with the tranquil sight of the Himalayas bathed in soft sunlight, setting a peaceful tone for the day.
After having our meal, it was time to begin exploring Kerung. I then began roaming around the local markets, where I purchased several items from stalls featuring traditional Tibetan handicrafts, fresh local produce, and regional delicacies. We visited the local monasteries, where we were welcomed with warm hospitality and rich traditions. Evenings are calm, with beautiful sunsets creating the perfect setting to unwind and prepare for the journey ahead. I familiarized myself with Tibetan Air and took some time to rest in preparation for the forthcoming journey.
Day 6: Kerung to Saga
After breakfast at the hotel, the wonderful journey began towards Saga, known as “Happy Land” in Tibet. Witness the captivating scenario of high-altitude landscapes as well as the unique Tibetan lifestyle. Along the way, our bus passed by Pigu-Tso Lake and the legendary valley believed to be destroyed by Brahmastra during the Mahabharata era. Moving forward, we crossed the spiritual river Brahmaputra, originating from the Chemayungdung glacier. Finally, we checked into the hotel in Saga.
Day 7: Saga to Lake Mansarovar
Had breakfast at the hotel, then led the way towards the Sacred Mansarovar Lake. When we reached the small village named Zhongba, we were able to see the first glimpse of Mount Kailash, Uff what an unforgettable experience mixed with emotions.
Again, we had our permits and papers checked as we were entering the Kailash Region of Tibet. We arrived at Rakas Tal (Ravan’s Lake)- the dark lake of poison, after a little bit of driving. Ramesh Dai explained that Ravana, the Rakshasa king of Lanka, used to perform penance at this very place, which is why this Lake was named Ravan’s Lake. Mansarovar Lake - a combination of two words, “Manas”(Mind) and “Sarovara”(Lake), is only 30 minutes away from this. According to religious traditions, it is believed that Lord Brahma first conceived the Lake in his mind before manifesting it on Earth. Our bus drove continuously for the Mansarovar Parikarma. Many Hindus hold the belief that bathing in and drinking the waters of Lake Mansarovar can purify one from sins. We spent the night at a guest house.
Day 8: Drive to Darchen, Prepare for kora (Parikrama)
Woke up to the divine sight of Mount Kailash at sunrise, with its golden rays reflecting over the sacred waters of Lake Mansarovar. We had ample time to explore the lake and perform Puja(Vedic Rituals). We all filled the waters of Lake Mansarovar to bring back home. Afterward, we drove to Darchen - the starting and ending point of Mount Kailash Parikarma. The complete circumambulation covers 53km in total and takes 3 days for completion of the kora. We stayed at a guest house where Ramesh Dai, more like a friend than a guide, provided us with detailed insights about the Kailash Parikarma.
Day 9: Trek to Dirapuk and Kailash Charan Sparsh
Bingo! The long-awaited moment had finally arrived as we officially commenced the Kailash Kora. Our trek to Dirapuk began with the blessed view of Mount Kailash’s majestic western face. En route, we paused at Yamadwar, idolized as the Gateway to the God of Death and also known as the Valley of Gods. After a challenging 5-6 hours trekking, we reached Dirapuk, where the breathtaking sights of Kailash Purna-Ligam, Sesh Sworupa, the sacred Shivasthali, and revered Dirapuk Gompa appeared to greet us with a serene and timeless smile.
Oh, my God! Finally doing the charan sparsh of Mount Kailash brought tears to my eyes, as this entire journey had once felt impossible for me -yet I did it. It is said that performing charan sparsh purifies souls and imparts divine blessings. After all of those emotional moments, we spent the night at the Guest House.
Day 10: Dirapuk to Zuthulpuk
We woke up early, preparing for the continuous 9-10-hour trek at high altitude. Upon reaching the Shiva Tsal Cemetery, each of us participated in a traditional ritual, offering personal belongings - such as jewelry, old clothes, or even blood drops or hair. This practice is believed to help release the burdens of the past, preparing the soul for a renewed beginning.
On the way to Zuthulpuk, the mesmerizing views of the Himalayas made the entire path feel enchanting, as if we had arrived in heaven. Along the route, we also visited Ganesh Kund, Ganesh Parvat, and Gauri Kund. We all collected the holy water from Gauri Kund in bottles to take home. After a few more steps, we reached Zuthulpuk, where we stayed overnight.
Day 11: Complete the kora and drive back to Saga
After a 2–3 hour downhill trek, we arrived in Darchen, marking the completion of our Kora. When asked how it felt to complete this spiritual journey, one sister shared that she had accomplished something she had never imagined possible—something she thought she might never achieve in her lifetime—and now believes that nothing in life is truly impossible. Another brother expressed that the journey had turned around many of the thoughts in his mind. As we returned to Saga by bus from Darchen, I realized that I, too, had undergone a profound spiritual transformation.
Day 12: Return to Kerung from Saga
After breakfast, our bus departed for Kerung, and we were returning carrying countless precious memories with us. Now, I think the whole experience was worth my struggles.
Day 13: Back to Kathmandu
Our Journey gradually moved forward into the bustling, chaotic city - Kathmandu from a peaceful and spiritual state of mind. As we progressed, I made a promise to myself that no matter how many challenges and obstacles life may bring, I will face them with strength and determination.
Day 14: Departure Day
Following breakfast at the hotel, I made my way to the airport, carrying unforgettable memories with me. From the bottom of my heart, my final words were, ‘Bye Nepal, until next time.’
FAQs
What suggestions do you have for us from your experience?
Suggestions from my experience :
● Pack your important documents like visa, passport, passport-size photo
● Practice breathing exercises, leg strength exercises for 2 or 3 months
● Take Cardiovascular Training
● Ensure that you have all the essential equipment with you.
● You should carry all the necessary toiletries with you
● Respect local culture and traditions
● You should be flexible because the weather can be unpredictable
● Drink plenty of water and carry some light snacks.
Do you age faster at Mount Kailash?
Honestly, I never felt like I was aging faster during the journey. I think that’s just a myth, since there is no real evidence behind it. What really happens is that the thin air and low oxygen at high altitudes can put stress on the body, the harsh weather - strong UV rays, and cold - can affect your skin. That’s probably why people link it to aging, but in reality, it’s more about the environment than age itself.
How tough is the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?
From my experience, I can say that the Kailash Mansarovar is tough, but deeply rewarding. Walking at such high altitudes wasn’t easy - the air felt thin, the weather kept changing, and facilities were very simple. But with preparation and the right mindset, I managed it, and the spiritual energy of the place made me forget all the struggles.
What are the age restrictions for people to participate in the Kailash Mansarovar yatra?
For the Kailash Mansarovar yatra, travellers between the ages of 12 and 70 may apply, provided they are medically fit and free from such serious conditions as heart disease, asthma, high blood pressure, or diabetes. Where applicants are above 70 years, acceptance may be granted on production of a fitness certificate by a government doctor, but the final permission will be at the discretion of the Tibetan authorities. Also, individuals above the age of 60 are generally not allowed to undertake Mount Kailash Kora; however, an exception can be granted by the local authorities for health reasons.
Is it true that no one has ever climbed Mount Kailash?
Mount Kailash has never been climbed — not because it’s too hard, but because it is deeply respected by many religions. Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers all believe it is the spiritual center of the universe. Because of its holiness, climbing the mountain is not allowed, and even the Chinese government has banned it. Instead, pilgrims walk around the mountain in a ritual called Kora, which is believed to bring spiritual blessings and cleanse the soul.
