Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by Helicopter from Kathmandu
Overview
One of the most challenging pilgrimage routes in the world, characterized by harsh conditions and high-altitude travel, the helicopter journey to Kailash Mansarovar from Kathmandu offers a more expedient and comfortable alternative. For those pilgrims who find it difficult to undertake this journey due to time constraints, a chartered helicopter service now provides an opportunity to participate in this sacred pilgrimage. This service swiftly transports pilgrims to the Nepal-China border, alleviating the burden of lengthy road travel. The journey begins with a scheduled flight from Kathmandu to Simikot, followed by a chartered helicopter ride from Simikot to the border, placing Lake Mansarovar and Mount Kailash just a short drive away.
Included/Exclude
Nepal portion of the trip
- 02 nights stay in 4 star hotel in Kathmandu on twin sharing basis,
- Return airport transfers in Kathmandu with group,
- Sightseeing tour of Kathmandu including Pashupatinath & Jal Narayan Temple,
- Kathmandu–Nepalgunj–Kathmandu flight tickets in economy class,
- 01 night stay in a 4 star equivalent hotel in Nepalgunj on sharing basis,
- 01 lunch, 01 dinner and 01 breakfast in Nepalgunj hotel,
- Nepalgunj to Simikot return air tickets in scheduled flights,
- 01 night stay at Simikot or Hilsa in a guesthouse with local meals on group sharing basis,,
- Simikot to Hilsa return helicopter flights on sharing basis,
- Humla restricted area permit to fly from Simikot,
- Nepal-China border tax,
Tibet portion of the trip
- Return transfers from border to Taklakot hotel,
- 02 + 01 night stay in a hotel at Taklakot with all meals,
- 01 night stay in dormitory near Lake Manasarovar on sharing basis with all meals,
- 01 night stay at Dirapuk with all meals (Light food and snacks) on group sharing basis,
- 01 night at Zuthulpukh with all meals (Light food and snacks) on group sharing basis,
- Transportation in Tibet side by deluxe non air-conditioned bus,
- Basic first aid kit with tour guide,
- Oxygen cylinders/pillow during trekking in Tibet for emergency,
- English speaking Tibetan tour guide cum officer,
- Nepalese chef with helper and sherpa crew to cook hot food/tea/coffee in Tibet side,
- Support van/truck to carry kitchen equipments and other material,
- Necessary group permits for travelling to restricted areas in Tibet,
- Normal Tibet single entry group visa to visit Kailash Manasarovar region,
- Yak to carry kitchen and trekking equipment during Kailash parikrama,
- 01 bottle of mineral water complimentary everyday in Tibet side,
Other Inclusions
- English and Hindi speaking tour leader from Nepal,
- 01 duffle bag, 01 backpack bag and 01 rain poncho or cap on complimentary basis,
- Down Jacket on returnable basis (subject to availability),
- Kailash Mansarovar Yatra completion certificate,
- All Nepal and Tibet Govt taxes,
Important Remark: All meals on Kailash Mansarovar Yatra will be pure vegetarian (without onion & garlic). All above services and facilities are subject to availability. We do not warrant for the accuracy and completeness of services in adverse conditions.
Please check the list of extra expense that may have to be paid by the traveller for this trip:
- Travel expense for travelling from home to Kathmandu and back,
- Travel and medical insurance (kindly buy an insurance which is valid for high altitude travel and emergency evacuation expense),
- Mule (Pony) and porter charges for Mount Kailash parikrama,
- GST 5% by India Govt (Goods and Service Tax),
- TCS (Tax Collection at Source) 5% (if foreign travel expense is below INR 7,00,000/-) or 20% (if foreign travel expense has exceeded INR 7,00,000/-) Payable by Indian residents on total cost of the tour package),
List of other cost exclusions that may have to be taken care by travellers in extreme cases:
- Additional hotel accommodation and meals for extra stay in the event of delay of the trip or change in itinerary/ route due to any unavoidable reason,
- Transport services for any additional sightseeing service which is not mentioned in the itinerary,
- Emergency evacuation expenses,
- Emergency medical expenses in the event of hospitalisation,
- Extra expense for additional necessary permissions or visa splitting charges and all additional services in the event of change in tour plan by the traveller before or during the yatra,
- Urgent visa fee if required,
- All additional expense for returning early from the trip due to any personal reason,
- Any and all additional expense or increase in cost of any trip item or service due to sudden hike in permit fee, visa charges, flight fares, hotel prices or price for other trip services by concerned authorities or flight companies or hotel owners or vendors etc. or due to any other reason or situation which is beyond our control,
- Our services also does not include any other additional expense incurred before or during the trip due to any unforeseen circumstances including, but not limited to, weather conditions, natural disaster, act of God, technical failure, flight delay or cancelation, delay by authorities in issuing permits or entry visa, strikes, riots, political closures, not opening of the borders due to lockdown situation or any other reason, war situation, and/or any other situation or circumstances which are beyond our control,
- Any service/s which is not mentioned in our above 'list of package cost inclusions' does not fall under the liability of the Company and the same will be paid by the traveller only in advance or at the time of consuming the service, as may be the requirement of the case,
- Any expenses of personal nature,
Tour Plan
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu to begin your spiritual journey. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by a representative from Max Holidays, who will assist you with your transfer to the hotel. After checking in, you can settle in for your overnight stay.
Included meals: Vegetarian dinner at the hotel
Maximum elevation: 1400m
Distance covered: 5-10 km
Accommodation type: 5-star hotel on a sharing basis.
Nepal Tourist Visa : The Indian passport holders do not require a visa to visit Nepal. However, while travelling to Tribhuvan International airport, Kathmandu from any international airport in India, an Indian citizens require to show a valid Indian passport OR Voter Identity Card (Indian Electrol Card). Kindly take a note that Aadhaar Card and Driving Licence are not valid documents to board a flight to Kathmandu from Indian airports. On the other hand Nepal visa for all non Indian passport holders is available on arrival at Kathmandu international airport. Non-Indian passport holders may also apply such Nepal entry visa online to save their time at the Kathmandu airport.
Tibet Group Travel Visa : In order to obtain Chinese visa, the Indian passport holders, irrespective to their country of residence and geographical location, have to present their original passport in China embassy New Delhi through the tour Company who has obtained the necessary Tibet entry permit and invitations for them. The China Embassy in Delhi takes minimum 4-5 working days to give a decision on such visa. All other travellers holding a non-Indian passport (Including NRIs with non Indian passport, OCI card holders and Green Card holders) require to go through biometrics in China Visa Center Kathmandu for submission of their China entry visa application. The original passport with visa application documents and coloured recent photographs (in a prescribed size and format) are to be the provided to the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu. The Chinese Embassy takes minimum 3-4 working days to give decision on such visa.
Begin your day with breakfast at your hotel before heading to the famous Pashupatinath Temple. Following this, you will visit the Jal Narayan Temple and the Guheshwari Temple. Subsequently, our representative will escort the group to the domestic terminal of Kathmandu airport for your flight to Nepalgunj. After a one-hour flight, you will arrive in Nepalgunj and board a bus that will take you to your pre-arranged hotel. Here, you will have the opportunity to meet fellow travelers who have joined the group from Lucknow. In the evening, a brief orientation session will be conducted, where our Kailash Yatra guide will share valuable insights and address any questions you may have regarding the Kailash Mansarovar journey. Dinner and overnight accommodation will be provided at the hotel in Nepalgunj.
Meals included: Vegetarian Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Maximum Elevation: 152m
Distance Covered: 522 km / 1 hour by flight
Accommodation Style: 4-star hotel on a sharing basis.
The journey from Nepalgunj to Simikot presents a challenging aspect of this trip, as the operation of the small aircraft is heavily reliant on weather conditions. The weather along this route can change rapidly, leading to potential short or extended delays in flights to and from Simikot. To facilitate a timely departure, we will arrive at Nepalgunj airport early in the morning, as advised by our local guide, to secure the earliest available flight to Simikot. Upon landing at the small airport in Simikot after a 45-minute flight, you will find our representative ready to escort you to the guesthouse that has been arranged for your stay. Our representative will also handle the coordination with the airline regarding your checked luggage, ensuring it is delivered to your accommodation in Simikot. The remainder of your time in Simikot will be free for acclimatization to the local weather conditions.
Meals included: Vegetarian Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner,
Maximum Elevation: 2910m,
Distance Covered: 297 km by flight / 45 minutes,
Accommodation Style: Shared guesthouse.
Important remark: Based on our past experience with weather problems, we have added a night stay at Simikot prior to reaching Tibet. If weather and situation permits, the local representative may organize helicopter trip to Hilsa or Taklakot today itself
Begin your day with an early breakfast or packed snacks before heading to Simikot airport to board your helicopter to Hilsa. Upon arrival in Hilsa, you will need to walk across a swinging bridge to cross the river and reach the other side, where you will complete the necessary formalities at Nepal immigration. After crossing the border on foot, you will board a Chinese bus that will take you to the China immigration office, located just a five-minute drive away. A brief 22-kilometer drive will bring you to your hotel in Taklakot. Before arriving in Taklakot, you will need to go through a customs check at the Burang customs office. After a long day, you will find yourself in Taklakot, which is situated at an elevation of 4,025 meters. If you experience breathlessness or any symptoms of altitude sickness, please remain calm and consult our tour guide for advice. Health issues related to high altitude are common in this region. It is important to eat well, stay hydrated with water, juices, and other healthy beverages, follow your guide's instructions, and avoid exposure to strong winds. Spend time at the hotel to acclimatize. Dinner and overnight accommodation will be provided at the hotel in Taklakot.
Meals included: Vegetarian Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner,
Maximum Elevation: 4,025 meters,
Distance Covered: 25 minutes by helicopter on the Nepal side + 22 kilometers by road on the China side,
Accommodation Style: 4-star equivalent hotel in Taklakot (or lodge if staying in Hilsa).
Important remark: Hilsa is a remote border village in Nepal characterized by extremely harsh climatic conditions. It is essential for all group members to cross the Nepal-China border together, as travel is conducted under a group permit and visa. Should there be any delays in crossing the border, participants are encouraged to spend their time relaxing, practicing yoga, meditating, or engaging in other personal activities. Delays may lead to health concerns due to the challenging environment, including dusty air, intense heat, or cold winds. Although a stay in Hilsa is not scheduled, if it extends beyond a day, we may encounter shortages of food and other essential supplies. Please ensure you bring water bottles, light snacks, dried fruits, energy bars, and remain patient. It is important to cooperate with the crew members, who are dedicated to providing you with the best possible comfort in these difficult conditions.
This day is designated for acclimatization in Taklakot (Burang). You are encouraged to relax at your hotel and take it easy. If you feel inclined, you may take a short stroll to explore the nearby markets. For those interested in purchasing items such as trekking sticks, gloves, hats, shoes, empty water bottles, fruits, or similar supplies for the journey, there are a few shops available in the Taklakot market. Please note that the shops close as night falls, so plan your visit accordingly.
Meals included: Vegetarian Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner,
Maximum Elevation: 4025m,
Distance Covered: 0km,
Accommodation Style: 4-star equivalent hotel on a sharing basis.
Today marks a significant occasion as we journey to the sacred site of Lake Manasarovar. Following breakfast, we will embark on a bus ride to Lake Mansarovar. The drive, lasting approximately one and a half hours, will take us through stunning mountainous landscapes, leading us to Lake Rakshas Taal, located in close proximity to Lake Mansarovar. Known as the ‘Lake of Demons’ or ‘Ravan Taal,’ this site offers a breathtaking view of Mount Kailash, which majestically rises above the surrounding peaks. We will pause at Rakshas Taal to appreciate the natural beauty and capture it through photographs before continuing our journey to Lake Mansarovar. A brief drive will bring us to Chui Gompa, our accommodation for the night near Lake Mansarovar. The remainder of the day is yours to explore the enchanting Mansarovar Lake, partake in a holy bath, perform rituals and prayers along the riverbank, and engage in personal activities. We will arrange a shower tent for the ladies by the lake. You are encouraged to find a suitable spot near the lake for puja/havan and to conduct rituals according to your traditions. Meals and overnight accommodations will be provided at the guesthouse.
Meals included: Vegetarian Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Maximum Elevation: 4590m.
Distance Covered: 70 km to Chiu Gompa + 90 km parikrama of Mansarovar by bus.
Accommodation Style: Guesthouse Dormitory Style.
About Lake Mansarovar: Kindly take a note that here the only source for water is the holy lake Manasarovar. This is one of the highest fresh water lakes in the world and its water is considered to be good for the purification of body and soul. This natural water is used in cooking, bathing, washing clothes etc and boiled / hot water of the lake is served for drinking in the event when we have shortage of packaged water . If you are not comfortable with this you should use water purifier tablets.
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Mansarovar Lake in the night: Mansarovar Lake is just few minute walk away from your guesthouse. You may go to the lake in the night to explore its beauty under the moon. There are many myths and stories associated with the night view of the holy lake which the travelers may experience by themselves. Though it is safe to go out late in the night but it is advisable to remain in a group and take one of your guides/sherpas with you for help.
This morning, we will rise early, refresh ourselves, and embark on a drive to Darchen, located just 35 kilometers from Chiu Gompa. Darchen serves as the primary administrative center of the Kailash region, featuring basic infrastructure and facilities. It is also recognized as the base camp for Mount Kailash, from where the circumambulation (parikrama) around the mountain begins. Please remember to fill your water bottle with hot water and bring along the snack pack provided by our team this morning. All pilgrims will have the chance to pass through Yama Dwar before the trek starts. After visiting Yama Dwar, you can either continue trekking on foot or hire a horse or pony for the journey. Those interested in hiring a horse or pony, as well as a porter, can arrange this directly with the Tibetan guide on a cash basis. You will receive a name coupon to select your horse and porter, who will accompany you throughout the trek.
As you complete the 12-kilometer gradual trek, you will pass through picturesque rivers and grasslands, eventually encountering a magnificent black mountain towering on the right side of your path. This is the North Face of Mount Kailash. Be sure to take photographs and selfies to capture this breathtaking view. Upon reaching Dirapuk, you will check into the guesthouse where accommodations and dinner will be provided for the night. Expect cold temperatures and low oxygen levels, so it is advisable to rest as much as possible to ensure good health for the trek the following day.
Meals included: Vegetarian Breakfast, Packed Lunch/Snacks, Light Dinner.
Maximum Elevation: 5210 meters.
Distance Covered: 35 kilometers by drive + 13 kilometers of trekking.
Accommodation Style: Guesthouse Dormitory Style.
Note : Those who wish to change their schedule and do not want to go for trekking will stay at Darchen and pay directly for their accommodation, food and other additional expenses. However, if health permits they should visit Yam Dwar and have close darshan of Mt. Kailash.
Visit Charan Sparsh from Dirapuk : Charan Sparsh (5475m is 3 kms one side trek from Dirapuk. One can consult with tour guide to take this short trek to touch the feet of Mt. Kailash (considered to be Lord Shiva Himself). This trek is not a part of the package and depends on weather conditions and guide’s advise. (Distance 03 kms / 02 hours one side / very challenging trek)
Rise early in the morning, just before dawn, and if the skies are clear, take the opportunity to behold the magnificent sight of ‘Golden Kailash’ as the first rays of sunlight illuminate the peak. Following this breathtaking moment, it is time to continue our journey and embark on the trek to Zuthulpuk. This 22-kilometer trek represents the longest and most challenging day of the entire Yatra, as it involves ascending to the highest point at Dolma La pass, which stands at 5630 meters. Along the route, prior to reaching Dolma La, you will encounter sites marked by the footprints of Milarepa and Shiva Tsal. At Shiva Tsal, pilgrims traditionally leave behind personal items, donate a drop of blood, or a lock of hair, symbolizing their desire to relinquish worldly attachments and seek liberation from suffering. According to Tibetan Buddhist beliefs, offerings made at this site are said to be rewarded in the afterlife. Continue your ascent towards Dolma-La pass (5630m) and then descend steeply to Gauri Kund. It is advisable to cross the high pass as early as possible to avoid the onset of strong winds.
Upon descending from Dolma-La, Gauri Kund, also known as Parvati Kund, will be visible on the right side of your path. After continuing downhill for a short distance, we will pause for a packed lunch near a tea stall. The descent from Dolma La can be challenging due to the presence of rocky and loose stones, so it is essential to proceed with caution and stay close to the group for any necessary assistance. Shortly thereafter, you will encounter a flat trail leading to Zuthulphuk Gompa (4790m). In Zuthulphuk, accommodations will be provided in either a lodge or a fixed tent, complete with a bed, bed sheet, and warm blanket. We will enjoy a quick dinner before settling into our warm beds to unwind.
Meals included: Vegetarian Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Maximum Elevation: 5630m.
Distance Covered: 19 km of trekking.
Accommodation Style: Guesthouse Dormitory Style.
Important remark: Those who do not wish to continue trek further to Zuthulpuk from Dirapuk will trek back to Darchen. At Darchen their extra expense for accommodation, food etc is to be taken care by themselves. Our guide may assist them in organizing their stay at Darchen in hotel, subject to availability. are not doing parikrama will still wait at Darchen and relax or meditate.
Important Note : About 3-4 kms trek (ascend and descend) near Dolma La pass is steep and rocky and it is the toughest part of this trip. Also it is not advisable to go down to touch Gauri Kund as it may be risky. While starting the trek to Zuthulpuk, don’t forget to fill up your flask with hot water made ready by our kitchen team in the morning.
Breakfast will be provided near the guesthouse or camp, allowing guests to enjoy the morning by exploring the nearby caves and visiting the temples and shrines in the area. You will encounter an elderly married couple overseeing the temple, which serves as a residence for several Tibetan devotees, helpers, and relatives who are engaged in maintaining the facilities. The cave also features meditation platforms. Ascending to these caves before concluding the final trek of the holy Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a rewarding experience. We will trek approximately 6 kilometers from Zuthulpuk to Chongdo, where our vehicles will be ready for pick-up. A further 6-kilometer drive will take us to the Darchen hotel, where other group members (who did not attempt the trek or returned from Dirapuk) will be waiting. We will then continue our drive to Taklakot for an overnight stay.
Meals included: Vegetarian Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Maximum Elevation: 4575m.
Distance Covered: 110 kilometers, 3 hours of driving.
Accommodation Style: Equivalent to a 4-star hotel.
Following an early breakfast, embark on a 45-kilometer drive to the China-Nepal border. After crossing the border on foot and completing the necessary immigration procedures, you will arrive at Hilsa on the Nepal side. From there, take a 25-minute helicopter ride to Simikot, followed by a connecting flight to Nepalgunj. Upon arrival in Nepalgunj, you will catch a connecting flight to Kathmandu.
Optional Trip: The air travel between Hilsa, Simikot, and Nepalgunj can be quite complex and is entirely dependent on weather conditions. Delays, rescheduling, or interruptions in flights on this route are common. Should you find yourself stranded in Hilsa or Simikot due to weather, flight shortages, or other unforeseen circumstances, please be aware that accommodations will be in small guesthouses with shared bathroom facilities. In the case of extended delays, you may have to rely on natural water sources, limited food, and basic living conditions. Health issues, particularly among older travelers, can arise, so it is advisable to remain with the group to ensure assistance is available if needed.
Any additional overnight stays in Hilsa, Simikot, or Nepalgunj on your return are not included in the tour package. Should the need arise, travelers will be responsible for any extra accommodation and meals, payable directly to the Nepalese leader. There will be no refunds or adjustments for any unused stays, meals, or services. While we provide first aid facilities, all other medical expenses related to hospitalization or emergency evacuation will be the sole responsibility of the traveler.
Included Meals: Vegetarian Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Maximum Elevation: 3640m (Hilsa), 2910m (Simikot), 152m (Nepalgunj), 1400m (Kathmandu)
Total Distance: 1.5 hours driving + 25 minutes by helicopter + 45 minutes of flights + 1 hour flight
Accommodation: 5-star hotel on a sharing basis.
You will be transferred to Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport in due course to catch your flight back to your hotel or next destination. We advise travelers to schedule their outbound flights from Kathmandu to their home at least a day or two in advance to account for any potential delays during the trip.
Included meals: Vegetarian breakfast.
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