Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Nepal (Kerung Route)

Before you start your Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, here are a few things you should know:

• Weather Conditions
  • Keep an eye on the forecast before you leave, and always be prepared for a sudden change in temperature or strong wind.
  • Pack in lots of layers – thermal undergarments, a warm coat & a waterproof outer layer will keep you nice & toasty.
  • Don’t forget to protect yourself from the powerful high-altitude sun – bring a hat, sunglasses and sun cream.
• Fitness and Altitude
  • The yatra goes up to some incredibly high altitudes, above 5,000 meters, so make sure you’re reasonably fit.
  • Do some light exercise a few weeks before the trip starts, like walking or yoga, to get your stamina & lung capacity up.
  • Just take your time when walking at high altitudes & don’t be afraid to stop for a break – taking short pauses is perfectly normal.
• Documents and Permits
  • Double-check you have a valid passport (at least 6 months’ validity left) & that your Tibet travel visa & permits have all been sorted by your tour operator.
  • Make sure you keep photocopies of all important documents, like your travel insurance and emergency contacts – you never know when you might need them.
• Accommodation and Facilities
  • If you can, check out what kind of accommodation & facilities are available along the route.
  • Accommodation in Nepal and in Tibet can range from standard hotels in Kathmandu to basic guesthouses in the higher regions of Tibet.
  • When you reach higher areas, like Dirapuk or Zuthulpuk, you might end up sharing rooms and having limited facilities – but to help make things more comfortable, bring a good sleeping bag & your own toiletries.
• Food and Water
  • Vegetarian Meals
    All your meals are vegetarian – same old routine of rice, dal, noodles, and soups, nothing too exciting.
  • Snacks & Hydration
    On long travel days, help yourself to some dry fruits, biscuits, or energy bars to keep the energy up. And don’t forget, always drink boiled or bottled water to stay hydrated and avoid any stomach issues.
• Health & Safety
  • Altitude Awareness
    It’s bound to happen – you’ll feel a bit off on high altitudes – headaches, fatigue etc. – but just let your guide know if things start to feel unwell.
  • Medical Support
    Your guides will carry some basic first aid & oxygen with them, in case of emergencies. Just make sure you’re covered for high-altitude evacuations on your travel insurance.
  • Stay Warm & Rested
    Get some rest and try to keep an eye on your drinking & smoking – no need to go overboard on the indulgences during the trip.
• Connectivity & Power
  • Limited Network
    Mobile signals come and go, especially on the Kailash Parikrama – you’ll get a bit of a signal in places like Saga & Darchen but that’s about it.
  • Power Backup
    Bring a power bank or solar charger with you, as electricity can be a bit dodgy at higher altitudes.
• Local Customs & Etiquette
  • Respect Local Culture
    When you’re checking out monasteries and stupas, just bear in mind to walk clockwise, and don’t go touching prayer flags or sacred objects without asking first.
  • Photography
    The basic rule of thumb is to ask permission before snapping someone’s pic – it’s just common courtesy, really.
  • Environment Care
    Follow the leave no trace principles – no littering, no messing with the natural environment, that sort of thing.
• Currency & Payments
  • Money Exchange
    Nepal’s all about the Nepali Rupees, while in Tibet it’s the Chinese Yuan (CNY). Get your money changed in Kathmandu before you leave, ’cause you won’t find any ATMs on the route.
  • Small Bills
    Carry some small notes for tipping, snacks etc, you never know when you’ll need ’em.
• Mindset & Preparation
  • Spiritual Journey
    This yatra is so much more than just reaching Mount Kailash – it’s about patience, faith, inner peace… all the good stuff.

Be Mentally Ready
You’ll have to put up with some pretty long drives, cold weather and simple living conditions. But honestly, that’s all part of the experience – and it’s life-changing, trust me.