Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by Helicopter from Kathmandu: A Unique Spiritual Journey

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by Helicopter from Kathmandu offers an incredible opportunity to visit one of the most sacred sites in the world—Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar. While traditionally this pilgrimage has been a long and physically demanding journey, this helicopter tour makes it accessible to pilgrims with limited time and those who may find the conventional overland journey difficult. The route takes you to the Nepal-China border via chartered flights and helicopters, ensuring a quicker, more comfortable experience compared to the standard travel method.

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

The journey begins at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, where pilgrims are welcomed by a representative of Max Holidays. After a smooth transfer to a 5-star hotel, you can relax and unwind, preparing for the days ahead. A quick briefing session is organized to familiarize you with the trip’s schedule. Dinner is served at the hotel, offering a relaxing start to your journey. As the altitude is 1400m, acclimatization is easy at this stage.

Meals: Vegetarian Dinner

Accommodation: 5-star hotel (sharing basis)

Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu & Flight to Nepalgunj

After a hearty breakfast, the day starts with a visit to Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest temples for Hindus, followed by Jal Narayan Temple and Guheshwari Temple. These visits not only offer a spiritual experience but also a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Nepal. Post-sightseeing, the group will fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, a city located in the southwestern part of Nepal. After arriving at Nepalgunj, you will check into a 4-star hotel for an overnight stay. A brief group orientation will be held in the evening, where the guide will explain the entire yatra process and answer any questions.

Meals: Vegetarian Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Accommodation: 4-star hotel (sharing basis)

Elevation: 152m

Day 3: Flight from Nepalgunj to Simikot

The flight from Nepalgunj to Simikot is an essential part of the journey, but it is often unpredictable due to frequent weather changes. Pilgrims will need to be flexible as delays are common. The flight is short, about 45 minutes, and upon landing in Simikot, you will be transferred to a guesthouse for the night. Simikot, situated at an elevation of 2910m, offers ample time for acclimatization. A day spent resting in Simikot prepares you for the next phase of the trip.

Meals: Vegetarian Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Accommodation: Guesthouse (sharing basis)

Elevation: 2910m

Day 4: Helicopter Flight to Hilsa and Drive to Taklakot

The group will board a helicopter from Simikot to Hilsa, a small border village. From Hilsa, pilgrims cross a swinging bridge to reach the Nepal-China border. After completing immigration formalities, the group enters Tibet (China). A 22km drive from the border takes you to Taklakot, where you will stay at a 4-star equivalent hotel. At an altitude of 4025m, Taklakot is where travelers often experience symptoms of altitude sickness, so it is crucial to acclimatize and stay hydrated.

Meals: Vegetarian Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Accommodation: 4-star equivalent hotel

Elevation: 4025m

Day 5: Acclimatization Day at Taklakot

Today is dedicated to acclimatizing at Taklakot. The day is spent resting and exploring the nearby market for essentials like snacks, hats, gloves, and water bottles. This day is critical in preventing altitude sickness and ensuring that all pilgrims are in good condition for the journey ahead.

Meals: Vegetarian Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Accommodation: 4-star equivalent hotel

Elevation: 4025m

Day 6: Journey to Lake Mansarovar

After breakfast, the group heads towards Lake Mansarovar, one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world. The journey takes about 1.5 hours by bus, and along the way, you will pass Rakshas Taal (Lake of Demons), offering a breathtaking view of Mount Kailash. At Chiu Gompa, near the lake, you will check into a guesthouse for the night. Pilgrims can take a holy bath in the lake, perform rituals, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Meals: Vegetarian Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Accommodation: Guesthouse (Dormitory style)

Elevation: 4590m

Day 7: First Day of Parikrama – 13 km Trek to Dirapuk

After a morning visit to Yama Dwar (Gate of the God of Death), the first day of the Kailash Parikrama begins. Pilgrims will trek 13 km towards Dirapuk, situated at an altitude of 5210m. The trek offers stunning views of the North Face of Mount Kailash. The night will be spent in a guesthouse at Dirapuk, where you will experience the high-altitude cold and low oxygen levels.

Meals: Vegetarian Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Light Dinner

Accommodation: Guesthouse (Dormitory style)

Elevation: 5210m

Day 8: Second Day of Parikrama – 19 km Trek to Zuthulpuk via Gauri Kund

This is the most challenging day of the Yatra, with a 19 km trek that includes crossing Dolma La Pass (5630m), the highest point of the entire journey. After crossing the pass, pilgrims descend towards Gauri Kund (Parvati Kund). After a short break and lunch, the trek continues to Zuthulpuk, where the group will stay overnight in a guesthouse or camp.

Meals: Vegetarian Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Accommodation: Guesthouse (Dormitory style)

Elevation: 5630m

Day 9: Final Trek to Darchen & Drive to Taklakot

The final day of the parikrama begins with a 6 km trek from Zuthulpuk to Darchen. From Darchen, you will drive back to Taklakot for an overnight stay. This day provides a final chance to reflect on the journey as you leave behind the sacred mountain.

Meals: Vegetarian Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Accommodation: 4-star equivalent hotel

Elevation: 4575m

Day 10: Return Journey to Kathmandu

After breakfast, the group will begin the return journey to Nepalgunj via Simikot and Hilsa, flying back to Kathmandu. Pilgrims may experience delays due to weather conditions in the high-altitude regions, but this is a known part of the trip. An overnight stay in Kathmandu allows time to rest and reflect on the spiritual journey completed.

Meals: Vegetarian Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Accommodation: 5-star hotel

Elevation: 1400m

Day 11: Departure from Kathmandu

On the final day of the tour, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight back home or to your next destination. It is recommended to book your return flight with a day or two in hand, allowing time to adjust to any potential delays.

Meals: Vegetarian Breakfast