General FAQs
Mount Kailash can be reached via Lhasa in Tibet or through Nepal. Most travelers either fly to Lhasa and take a road journey to Darchen or travel overland from Kathmandu, passing through the Kyirong border.
Visitors need a Tibet Travel Permit, an Alien Travel Permit, and a Military Permit to visit Mount Kailash. If traveling via Nepal, a Chinese Group Visa is also required.
The best time to visit Mount Kailash is between May and September, as the weather is favorable for trekking and the roads are accessible. Winters are harsh, with heavy snow blocking the route.
Solo travel to Mount Kailash is not permitted. Foreign visitors must travel with an organized tour group led by a licensed guide due to strict travel regulations in Tibet.
Mount Kailash is considered one of the most sacred sites in the world, revered by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers. It is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva and holds deep spiritual importance.
Medical facilities along the trek are minimal. Basic first-aid services may be available in some areas, but travelers should bring their own medicines and be prepared for emergency evacuations if necessary.
The full Kora around Mount Kailash is about 52 kilometers (32 miles) and usually takes 3 days to complete. It includes steep climbs and high-altitude passes, such as the Dolma La Pass.
To prepare for the high altitude, it is recommended to spend a few days acclimatizing in Lhasa or nearby locations. Trekking gradually, staying hydrated, and taking precautions for altitude sickness are also essential.
Accommodations on the Mount Kailash trek are basic, often including guesthouses and small lodges in remote areas. In larger towns like Darchen, slightly better facilities may be available, but it’s important to prepare for simple living conditions.
The Mount Kailash trek, especially the Kora (circumambulation), is moderately to highly challenging. It involves trekking at high altitudes (up to 5,600 meters), which can be strenuous, so physical fitness and acclimatization are crucial.