Explained: What Is The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra And How To Plan For It

The revered Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is set to resume this year after a five-year hiatus, rekindling hope among devotees eager to embark on this spiritual journey. The pilgrimage, which was suspended due to geopolitical and pandemic-related challenges, is once again opening its rugged trails to seekers from across the world.For many, the journey to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar isn't merely a trek—it's a profound inner calling. But this calling comes with its own challenges. Harsh weather conditions, high altitudes, and difficult terrain make preparation essential. If you're planning to undertake the pilgrimage this year, here's everything you need to know about the route options, health requirements, permits, and what to pack to make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime experience.What Is The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra? After a five-year hiatus, the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra will resume this year. The pilgrimage will begin on June 30, as announced by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). It has remained disbanded since 2020, initially because of the COVID-19 outbreak and later because of severed ties between India and China. The Kailash Parvat and Lake Mansarovar are located within the Kailash Range in the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) of China. The pilgrim spot is west of the Tibetan plateau, specifically in the Ngari Prefecture. Finally, the spiritually significant Yatra, which usually lasts between two and three weeks, has opened up for devotees. The Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam has been entrusted with conducting the pilgrimage, which will host 250 people (five groups with 50 people in each group). The Yatra will pass through the Lipulekh Pass, which is located at an altitude of 17,000 ft. in Uttarakhand's Pithoragarh district. Each of the five groups will depart from Delhi and, after staying a night in Tanakpur in the Champawat district of Uttarakhand, another night in Dharchula in Pithoragarh, two nights in Gunji, and two nights in Nabhidang, will enter Taklakot in China. The first group will enter China on July 10, and the last will depart for India on August 22. What Is Kailash Mansarovar's Spiritual Relevance? Both Lake Mansarovar and the adjacent Kailash Parvat, which is considered to be the abode of Lord Shiva and his wife, Goddess Parvati, hold immense spiritual significance not just for Hindus but also for Jains, Buddhists, and Tibetans. According to Hindu mythology, the lake was formed in Lord Brahma's mind before it appeared on Earth. It is believed that a sip of water from the lake and a parikrama, or circumambulation of the inner and outer Kora of Mount Kailash, could free an individual from the sins committed in the current and next hundred lifetimes. Undertaking this pilgrimage is not only a means to cleanse the soul but also a step towards achieving salvation. It is said that you don't usually return a new person from the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. The pilgrimage site holds much significance for followers of Jainism, too. Mount Ashtapada, where the first Tirthankara, Rishabhadev, attained nirvana or moksha, lies close to the Kailash Parvat. A Journey Of The Mind, For The Soul While the journey is studded with picturesque views and high altitudes, it is a challenging endeavour that needs immense willpower, courage, and physical and mental agility. "The magnitude of such places brings into focus the minuteness of self. I am reminded that my bones, my breath, the vicissitudes of my everyday life are mere flickers in an infinite universe," said Kavitha Yaga Buggana, who undertook the pilgrimage in 2011. She has also authored a book called Walking in Clouds, which is about her journey to Kailash Parvat and Lake Mansarovar. "The most challenging part of the trek is the 52-km-long Kailash Kora or parikrama that takes you to the highest altitude of 5,630 m (18,471 ft.) at the Dolma Pass. The inner Kora is much more strenuous than the outer one," Buggana added. This year, each group will complete the Yatra in 22 days. After visiting Mount Kailash, the pilgrims will depart from China. After staying one night in Bundi of the Pithoragarh district, one night in Chaukori, and another night in Almora, they will reach Delhi. Also, while the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is often described as a path to spiritual awakening, it’s far from easy. “This isn’t an ego trip—listen to your body and slow down if needed,” said Buggana, emphasising the physical demands of the journey. She also advised this year’s pilgrims to be prepared for unexpected logistical challenges, especially with the Yatra resuming after a five-year pause.Things To Keep In Mind For The Yatra“Don’t go if you’re simply looking for a trek or a scenic escape. This isn’t a pleasure trip—it’s a pilgrimage. The journey to Kailash Mansarovar demands immense faith, and without it, you may not make it through,” says Dhritiman Biswas, who has completed the yatra four times—in 2013, 2014, 2016, and 2019.Biswas also advised pilgrims to embark on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra with a clear mind and heart. “You must leave behind all negative feelings before you start,” he said, urging travellers to shed emotional baggage just as they would physical ones.Some rules permit only individuals between 12 and 70 to undertake the Yatra. However, people over 70 with an NOC from the doctor are also permitted. Pilgrims must undergo medical examinations that prove they are physically fit to face the harsh climate and terrain that await them. The government will carry out health checkups for the pilgrims first in Delhi and then in Gunji. What To Pack For Kailash Mansarovar YatraBiswas and Buggana suggested a list of things that pilgrims should pack in addition to other essentials. Pack layers, thermals, mittens, and all kinds of warm and breezy clothes because it can get very hot and cold on the same day. A raincoat or a waterproof jacket is also recommended. Pack some snacks, spicy mixtures, namkeens, and munchies. Ensure that you carry high-altitude sickness medicines as prescribed by your doctor. Pay close attention to picking out the most comfortable hiking boots and a backpack. Don't invest in sneakers. Try on your boots and walk with them in the store for a while before purchasing. Carry a hydration reservoir with a straw that you can strap to the side of your backpack. This will allow you to drink water while walking without constantly reaching out for your water bottle. A head-mounted torch or flashlight is crucial. This will free both hands when you are out and about in the evening or night. Investing in two good-quality hiking sticks would be a good idea. Blister tape can be helpful sometimes. Here's How To Plan For Your Adi Kailash Yatra