What is the Total Cost of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?
written on 04 Oct 2024
4
Minutes Read
The trek to Mount Kailash and Mansarovar Lake holds deep religious meaning. For Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains, this region has been a place of pilgrimage for centuries. Those who make the journey hope to circle Kailash by foot, as their faiths' texts describe it as the home of Lord Shiva.
Located high in western Tibet at over 5,600 metres, Kailash stands alone with no other peaks nearby. Its four sides are said to represent the stages of life. Nearby Mansarovar Lake is a still body of water fed by the gods. Pilgrims immerse themselves in its holy waters.
Reaching this area is no easy task. Altitude sickness poses risks as hikers go higher than ever before. Harsh conditions, sparse services, and difficult terrain add challenges. But spiritual seekers are driven to glimpse Kailash despite difficulties.
The trek usually takes 16-21 tough days. After entering Tibet, pilgrims slowly adjust to the desert highlands passing prayer spots. The town of Darchen is the last stop before the sacred kora, or circuit. When Kailash emerges at dawn, all troubles seem to fade at the awe of its significance through eras.
Undertaking this pilgrimage isn't about comfort or cost. It's a lifelong quest for liberation and Shiva's blessing. While strenuous, those who make the journey with open minds gain lasting rewards beyond the mountains. Proper preparation can help pilgrims confront both the inner and outer challenges to fulfil their sacred duty.
What is the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?
The
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is an annual pilgrimage to Mount Kailash and Mansarovar Lake in western Tibet. Mount Kailash is considered a sacred site in four religions - Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and the Bon religion of Tibet.
Pilgrims undertake a multi-day trek circumambulating Mount Kailash, which Hindus believe represents four aspects of Lord Shiva. This takes place at over 16,400 feet and involves traversing rocky terrain with little vegetation. Camping allows pilgrims to be close to the mountain's spiritual energies.
Mansarovar Lake is also visited to bathe in its waters, fill kumbha, or observe the scenic surrounding mountains. It sits at 4,600m and is surrounded by many Tibetan Buddhist monasteries. Pilgrims find the still lake waters peaceful for prayer and meditation.
The full Yatra route requires 16-21 days including travel from nearest cities like Pithoragarh or Kashipur in India through border permits and checkpoints. It is physically strenuous due to the high altitudes between 14,000-18,000 feet. Advance acclimatisation is recommended for safety.
Organised tours are popular but independent travel is also possible with guide hiring and more planning. It holds religious significance across Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism and indigenous Tibetan Bon faiths due to the sites' mythology and role in scriptures.
How Difficult is the Trip?
The difficulty level depends on your physical fitness, health conditions, and level of preparation. Some key challenges to keep in mind:
- Altitude: Most of the trek is at high altitudes around 4,000-5,600m. This can cause altitude sickness like headaches, dizziness, nausea. It's important to take rest days to acclimatise when reaching new altitude levels. Moving too fast increases risk.
- Terrain: The landscape is very rugged with loose gravel and slopes. There are also ascents and descents with steep grades. This puts physical strain on leg muscles, joints and cardiovascular system. Trekking poles can help with balance.
- Temperature: There are extreme temperature fluctuations from below freezing at night to very hot days. Proper multi-layer clothing is essential to cope with this and avoid health issues.
- Distance: The total trekking distance is 52 km depending on the route. This requires endurance to cover 5 -7 km per day with elevation gain. Physical training in advance helps build stamina.
- Remoteness: The route goes through uninhabited high-altitude desert. Medical facilities are a few hours away by vehicle. Carrying sufficient supplies and a basic first-aid kit is important.
- Wildlife: Herds of yaks may block trails. It's best to keep a safe distance and not startle animals.
Proper preparation, taking your time, listening to your body and having backup support can help cope with the rigours of this arduous but highly rewarding trek. Knowing what to expect makes planning easier.
The Cost of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
The table below represents the approximate cost of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in 2025. Please know that the price may change according to the season, any unforeseen circumstances and other reasons.
By Helicopter
Group Size
|
Stay in 3 Star Hotel (Per Person)
|
Stay in 5 Star Hotel (Per Person)
|
4 people
|
USD 4200
|
USD 4800
|
6 people
|
USD 4100
|
USD 4700
|
10 people
|
USD 3900
|
USD 4500
|
14 people
|
USD 3800
|
USD 4400
|
20 people
|
USD 3700
|
USD 4300
|
By Drive
Group Size
|
Stay in 3 Star Hotel (Per Person)
|
Stay in 5 Star Hotel (Per Person)
|
4 people
|
USD 3000
|
USD 3500
|
6 people
|
USD 2900
|
USD 3400
|
10 people
|
USD 2700
|
USD 3200
|
14 people
|
USD 2600
|
USD 3100
|
20 people
|
USD 2500
|
USD 3000
|
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