Kailash Manasarovar Yatra by Helicopter via SimikotKailash Manasarovar Yatra by Helicopter via Simikot

Kailash Manasarovar Yatra by Helicopter via Simikot 2027

  • Duration12 Days
  • Route Grade Exploratory Travel
  • Trip Style Pilgrimage & Helicopter Yatra
  • Starting City Kathmandu
  • Ending City Kathmandu
Price fromUS$2999US$3199
Kailash Manasarovar Yatra by Helicopter via Simikot 2027 map

Trip Overview

The Kailash Manasarovar Yatra by Helicopter via Simikot is a premium yatra to Mount Kailash and lake mansarovar. It is a sacred pilgrimage which can be done within 12 days including arrival and departures in Kathmandu. This 12 day journey is designed for international travelers who want to experience the Kailash Kora pilgrimage while reducing the long overland travel to and back from the Kailash. 

The best time for this yatra is generally from May to September, when travel conditions in the Kailash region are more suitable. The helicopter route provides a shorter Nepal travel schedule while still including Lake Manasarovar, Mount Kailash, and the complete three day Kora.

Trip Detail

Information
Detail

Trip Code

MK903N

Starting Point / End Point

Kathmandu to Kathmandu

Route

Kathmandu → Nepalgunj → Simikot → Hilsa → Purang → Lake Manasarovar → Darchen → Kailash Kora → Darchen → Purang → Hilsa → Simikot → Nepalgunj → Kathmandu

Accommodations

Hotel in Kathmandu, hotel in Nepalgunj, guesthouse in Simikot, hotel or guesthouse in Purang and Darchen, guesthouse at Lake Manasarovar and along the Kailash Kora

Max Altitude

Approximately 5,630 m at Dolma La Pass

Duration

12 Days, 11 Nights

Country

Nepal and the Tibet Autonomous Region of China

Trip Grade

Challenging, involving a rapid gain in altitude through domestic flights and a helicopter transfer, a three day Kailash Kora reaching approximately 5,630 m at Dolma La Pass. Best suited to physically fit pilgrims in good general health

Activities

Doleshwar Darshan and special Puja at Pashupatinath, domestic flights within Nepal, helicopter flight from Simikot to Hilsa, Lake Manasarovar rituals, Kailash Kora trek over Dolma La Pass

Season

Best undertaken between May and September, when flights on the Simikot Hilsa sector and the Kailash region are most reliably operational

Transportation

Domestic flights in Nepal, helicopter between Simikot and Hilsa, land cruiser in Tibet, and on foot during the three day Kailash Kora

Meals

Full board throughout the entire trip, meaning breakfast, lunch and dinner included on all days

Best For

International travelers who want to reduce long overland travel in Nepal and have limited vacation time.

Itinerary Overview

This 12 day, 11 night yatra combines sacred experiences in Kathmandu with a helicopter supported journey to the Kailash Manasarovar region. You begin in Kathmandu with Doleshwar Darshan and Puja at Pashupatinath Temple, followed by a detailed yatra briefing and preparation  From Kathmandu, you fly to Nepalgunj and then continue to Simikot before taking a helicopter to Hilsa. From Simikot, a helicopter carries you over the mountains to Hilsa on the Nepal Tibet border, from where you drive to Purang. After a day of acclimatization, you continue to Lake Manasarovar and then to Darchen, the starting point of the Kailash Kora. Over three days you circle Mount Kailash on foot, crossing Dolma La Pass, before returning through Darchen and Purang to Hilsa, then flying back through Simikot, Nepalgunj and Kathmandu.

Here is a quick look at how your 12 day yatra unfolds.

  • Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel, rest, and prepare for the pilgrimage.

  • Day 2: Doleshwar Darshan and special Puja at Pashupatinath Temple, followed by the yatra briefing and final preparations.

  • Day 3: Fly from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and stay overnight in Nepalgunj.

  • Day 4: Fly from Nepalgunj to Simikot, take a helicopter flight to Hilsa, and drive to Purang.

  • Day 5: Spend the day in Purang for acclimatization and preparation for the higher altitude journey.

  • Day 6: Drive from Purang to Lake Manasarovar and continue to Darchen.

  • Day 7: Begin the Kailash Kora from Darchen and trek toward Dirapuk.

  • Day 8: Trek from Dirapuk to Zuthulphuk through Dolma La Pass, the highest and most demanding section of the Kora.

  • Day 9: Trek from Zuthulphuk to Darchen, complete the Kailash Kora, and continue by road to Purang.

  • Day 10: Drive from Purang to Hilsa, take a helicopter flight to Simikot, and fly onward to Nepalgunj.

  • Day 11: Fly from Nepalgunj to Kathmandu.

  • Day 12: Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure from Kathmandu.
     

Why You Will Love This Trip

  • Reach Kailash Faster by Air: This itinerary replaces the long overland drive through Kerung with domestic flights and a helicopter transfer, allowing you to reach the Kailash region in a shorter overall time.

  • Doleshwar Darshan and Special Puja at Pashupatinath: Your yatra opens with Doleshwar Darshan and a special Puja at Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest Shiva shrines in the world, giving you a meaningful spiritual start to the pilgrimage.

  • Scenic Helicopter Flight to Hilsa: The helicopter flight from Simikot to Hilsa carries you over dramatic Himalayan terrain in Humla, offering views that are not possible on the overland routes.

  • Experience Lake Manasarovar: Spend time at the sacred Lake Manasarovar before continuing to Darchen. The lake provides an important spiritual experience and a peaceful setting within the high altitude landscape of Tibet.

  • Complete the Sacred Kailash Kora: This itinerary gives you time to acclimatize in Purang before completing the three day Kailash Kora. The route includes the challenging crossing of Dolma La Pass and the sacred landscapes around Mount Kailash.

  • Built In Acclimatization: The itinerary includes a dedicated acclimatization day in Purang before continuing to Lake Manasarovar. This helps you prepare for the higher elevations reached during the pilgrimage and Kora.

  • Cross the High Dolma La Pass: The Kora includes the crossing of Dolma La Pass at approximately 5,630 m. This is the highest and most demanding section of the pilgrimage and an important milestone of the Kailash journey.

  • Designed for Limited Vacation Time: With domestic flights and a helicopter connection replacing much of the long overland travel in Nepal, this itinerary is particularly suitable for international travelers with limited vacation time.

  • A Compact Kailash Pilgrimage: In 12 days, the journey combines Kathmandu's sacred sites, Nepalgunj, Simikot, helicopter travel to Hilsa, Purang, Lake Manasarovar, Mount Kailash, and the complete Kailash Kora into one structured pilgrimage experience
     

Altitude and Activities

This 12 day pilgrimage combines domestic flights, a helicopter transfer, high altitude acclimatization, sacred site visits, and the three day Kailash Kora. The highest point is Dolma La Pass at approximately 5,630 m, making the Kora the most physically demanding part of the journey.

Day
Location
Altitude
Activities
Travel Time

Day 1

Kathmandu

1,324 m

Airport transfer and rest

Airport transfer

Day 2

Kathmandu

1,324 m

Doleshwar Darshan, special Puja at Pashupatinath, yatra briefing

Local sightseeing within Kathmandu Valley

Day 3

Nepalgunj

Approximately 150 m

Flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj

Approximately 1 hour flight

Day 4

Purang

Approximately 3,900 m

Flight to Simikot, helicopter flight to Hilsa, drive to Purang

Approximately 1 hour flight, short heli flight, and 2 to 3 hours drive

Day 5

Purang

Approximately 3,900 m

Acclimatization day, short local walks

Rest day

Day 6

Darchen

Approximately 4,670 m

Drive to Lake Manasarovar, rituals at the lake, continue to Darchen

Approximately 5 to 6 hours drive

Day 7

Dirapuk

Approximately 4,900 m

Drive to Yam Dwar, begin trek to Dirapuk

Approximately 5 to 6 hours trek

Day 8

Zuthulphuk

Approximately 4,760 m

Trek over Dolma La Pass at approximately 5,630 m to Zuthulphuk

Approximately 8 to 9 hours trek

Day 9

Purang

Approximately 3,900 m

Final short trek to Darchen, Kora ends, drive to Purang

Approximately 3 hours trek plus 4 to 5 hours drive

Day 10

Nepalgunj

Approximately 2,910 m in Simikot

Drive to Hilsa, helicopter flight to Simikot, flight to Nepalgunj

Approximately 2 to 3 hours drive, short heli flight, and 1 hour flight

Day 11

Kathmandu

1,324 m

Flight from Nepalgunj to Kathmandu

Approximately 1 hour flight

Day 12

Kathmandu

1,324 m

Departure

Airport transfer

Accommodation and Meals

You will spend two nights in comfortable hotels in Kathmandu, one night in a hotel in Nepalgunj, and guesthouse accommodation in Simikot. In Purang and Darchen, accommodation is in hotels or guesthouses depending on availability, while at Lake Manasarovar and along the Kailash Kora at Dirapuk and Zuthulphuk, accommodation is in guesthouses, as these remote locations do not have hotel infrastructure. This yatra is offered on a full board basis, meaning breakfast, lunch and dinner are included on all days as per the itinerary below.

Day
Location
Accommodation
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Day 1

Kathmandu

Hotel in Kathmandu

N/A

N/A

Included

Day 2

Kathmandu

Hotel in Kathmandu

Included

Included

Included

Day 3

Nepalgunj

Hotel in Nepalgunj

Included

Included

Included

Day 4

Purang

Hotel or guesthouse in Purang

Included

Included

Included

Day 5

Purang

Same hotel or guesthouse as Day 4

Included

Included

Included

Day 6

Darchen

Hotel or guesthouse in Darchen

Included

Included

Included

Day 7

Dirapuk

Guesthouse

Included

Included

Included

Day 8

Zuthulphuk

Guesthouse

Included

Included

Included

Day 9

Purang

Hotel or guesthouse in Purang

Included

Included

Included

Day 10

Nepalgunj

Hotel in Nepalgunj

Included

Included

Included

Day 11

Kathmandu

Hotel in Kathmandu

Included

Included

Included

Day 12

Departure

N/A

Included

N/A

N/A

Cost Includes

Cost and Inclusions

This 12 day Kailash Manasarovar Yatra by Helicopter via Simikot includes accommodation, domestic flights between Kathmandu, Nepalgunj and Simikot, helicopter transportation between Simikot and Hilsa, land cruiser transportation in Tibet, an experienced guide, Tibet Travel Group Visa, all permits required for travel in the Tibet Autonomous Region, the special Puja and Doleshwar Darshan at Pashupatinath, and full board meals throughout the entire trip. Services around Hilsa, the Kailash region and the helicopter sector are subject to weather, aviation regulations, border conditions and local operating availability.

Cost Includes
Cost Excludes

Private airport arrival and departure transfers in Kathmandu

International airfare to and from Nepal

Domestic flights for Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, Nepalgunj to Simikot, and return

Nepal entry visa fee

Helicopter flight between Simikot and Hilsa, and return

Travel insurance, including emergency evacuation coverage

Tibet Travel Group Visa

Personal expenses such as drinks, laundry, shopping and phone calls

Special Puja and Doleshwar Darshan arrangements at Pashupatinath

Tips for guides, drivers and support staff

All permits required for travel in the Tibet Autonomous Region

Costs arising from itinerary changes due to weather, flight delays, or border closures

Experienced English speaking guide throughout the yatra

Extra costs due to helicopter or flight rescheduling caused by weather

Yak or porter support for luggage during the Kailash Kora

 

11 nights accommodation as per the itinerary

 

Full board meals, meaning breakfast, lunch and dinner, on all days as per the itinerary

 

All applicable government taxes and service charges

 
Itinerary

Welcome to Nepal. Once you land in Kathmandu, our representative will meet you outside the arrival terminal and transfer you to your hotel. After check in, you have time to rest and prepare for the beginning of your Kailash Manasarovar Yatra.

  • Route: Tribhuvan International Airport to hotel in Kathmandu

  • Altitude: Approximately 1,324 m

  • Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu

  • Meals: Dinner

  • Highlights: Airport arrival, hotel check in, rest and Kailash Manasarovar Yatra preparation

    After breakfast, attend a special Puja and Darshan at Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest Shiva shrines in the world, and continue with Darshan at Doleshwar Mahadev Temple. After the temple visits, attend the yatra briefing. Your guide will explain the upcoming travel arrangements, flight and helicopter sectors, border procedures, high altitude conditions, accommodation and the Kailash Kora. Use the remaining time to organize your personal equipment and documents.

    • Route: Pashupatinath and Doleshwar Mahadev sightseeing within Kathmandu Valley

    • Altitude: 1,324 m

    • Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu

    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    • Highlights: Special Puja and Darshan at Pashupatinath, Doleshwar Mahadev Darshan, yatra briefing

      After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your domestic flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj. Nepalgunj is located in southwestern Nepal and serves as an important gateway for travelers heading toward western Himalayan regions.

      After arriving in Nepalgunj, transfer to your hotel and rest. Depending on the flight schedule and local arrangements, the remaining time is used to prepare for the next day's flight to Simikot.

      • Route: Kathmandu to Nepalgunj by domestic flight

      • Altitude: Approximately 150 m

      • Accommodation: Hotel in Nepalgunj

      • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

      • Highlights: Domestic flight, arrival in western Nepal, preparation for Simikot

        After breakfast, fly from Nepalgunj to Simikot, the district headquarters of Humla. From Simikot, take a helicopter flight over the mountains to Hilsa, on the Nepal Tibet border. Helicopter operations depend on weather and aviation conditions. Complete border formalities and drive onward to Purang, the first town on the Tibetan side of the route. The landscape changes rapidly as you move from the Himalayan border region toward the high altitude Tibetan plateau.

        • Route: Nepalgunj to Simikot by flight, Simikot to Hilsa by helicopter, Hilsa to Purang by road

        • Altitude: Approximately 3,900 m in Purang

        • Accommodation: Hotel or guesthouse in Purang

        • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

        • Highlights: Flight to Simikot, helicopter flight to Hilsa, border crossing, arrival in Purang

          Spend the day in Purang for acclimatization before continuing toward the higher elevations of Lake Manasarovar and Darchen. The day is intentionally kept at a comfortable pace so that your body has more time to adjust to the altitude.

          Take short and easy walks if advised by your guide, drink sufficient fluids and avoid unnecessary physical exertion. Your yatra team will provide guidance regarding altitude awareness and preparation for the next stages of the pilgrimage.

          • Route: Rest and acclimatization in Purang

          • Altitude: Approximately 3,900 m

          • Accommodation: Hotel or guesthouse in Purang

          • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

          • Highlights: Acclimatization, rest, short local walks and preparation for higher altitude travel

            After breakfast, continue by road from Purang toward Lake Manasarovar. As you approach the Kailash region, the landscape becomes increasingly dominated by wide open Tibetan plateau scenery and high mountain surroundings.

            Spend time at Lake Manasarovar for prayer and pilgrimage activities according to local conditions and the arrangements of your group. After the visit, continue toward Darchen, the main settlement and starting area for the Kailash Kora. Rest and prepare your equipment for the trek.

            • Route: Purang to Lake Manasarovar to Darchen 

            • Altitude: Approximately 4,590 m at Lake Manasarovar, approximately 4,670 m in Darchen

            • Accommodation: Hotel or guesthouse in Darchen

            • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

            • Highlights: First sight of Lake Manasarovar and Mount Kailash, rituals at the lakeshore, arrival in Darchen

              After breakfast, travel from Darchen toward Yam Dwar, the traditional starting point of the Kailash Kora. Begin the trek toward Dirapuk, following the pilgrimage trail through the valley surrounding Mount Kailash.

              The trail gradually gains elevation and the walking pace should remain comfortable because of the high altitude. As you approach Dirapuk, views toward the north face of Mount Kailash become one of the major highlights of the day.

              • Route: Darchen to Yam Dwar, trek to Dirapuk

              • Altitude: Approximately 4,900 m

              • Accommodation: Guesthouse in Dirapuk

              • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

              • Highlights: Beginning of the Kailash Kora, views of the north face of Mount Kailash

                This is the most demanding day of the yatra. After an early breakfast, trek from Dirapuk toward Dolma La Pass, the highest point of the Kora at approximately 5,630 m, before descending and continuing toward Zuthulphuk. This is considered the most spiritually significant day of the entire pilgrimage.

                • Route: Dirapuk to Zuthulphuk via Dolma La Pass

                • Altitude: Approximately 5,630 m at the pass, descending to approximately 4,760 m at Zuthulphuk

                • Accommodation: Guesthouse in Zuthulphuk

                • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

                • Highlights: Crossing Dolma La Pass, completion of the most demanding section of the Kora

                  After breakfast, continue the final section of the Kailash Kora from Zuthulphuk toward Darchen. The walking distance is shorter than the previous day's trek, allowing you to complete the final section of the circumambulation.

                  After reaching Darchen and completing the Kora, meet the vehicle and begin the return journey toward Purang. The gradual descent provides some relief from the extreme altitude experienced during the Kora.

                  • Route: Zuthulphuk to Darchen on foot, then Darchen to Purang by land cruiser

                  • Altitude: Approximately 4,670 m in Darchen, approximately 3,900 m in Purang

                  • Accommodation: Hotel or guesthouse in Purang

                  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

                  • Highlights: Completion of the Kailash Kora, drive back to Purang

                    After breakfast, drive from Purang toward Hilsa and the Nepal Tibet border. Complete the required border formalities before continuing to the Hilsa helicopter point.

                    Take the helicopter from Hilsa to Simikot, subject to weather and operational conditions. From Simikot, continue by domestic flight to Nepalgunj. After arriving in Nepalgunj, transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay.

                    • Route: Purang to Hilsa by road, Hilsa to Simikot by helicopter, Simikot to Nepalgunj by flight

                    • Altitude: Approximately 2,910 m in Simikot, approximately 150 m in Nepalgunj

                    • Accommodation: Hotel in Nepalgunj

                    • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

                    • Highlights: Border crossing back into Nepal, helicopter flight over Humla, arrival in Nepalgunj

                      After breakfast, transfer to Nepalgunj Airport for your domestic flight to Kathmandu. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to your hotel and spend the remaining time resting or preparing for your international departure.

                      • Route: Nepalgunj to Kathmandu by domestic flight

                      • Altitude: 1,324 m

                      • Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu

                      • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

                      • Highlights: Return flight to Kathmandu, final evening of the yatra

                        After breakfast, transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight back home. Your 12 day Kailash Manasarovar Yatra by Helicopter via Simikot comes to an end with your departure from Nepal.

                        • Route: Hotel in Kathmandu to Tribhuvan International Airport

                        • Altitude: 1,324 m

                        • Accommodation: N/A

                        • Meals: Breakfast

                        • Highlights: Airport transfer and departure from Nepal

                          Trip Information

                          Know Before You Book

                          • Visa Requirements: For this 12 day trip, you will need to apply for a 30 day Nepal visa, which comfortably covers your stay. All citizens of the world except Indian passport holders need a visa to enter Nepal, and most travelers can get a Visa on Arrival. The 30 day tourist visa fee is USD 50. You can apply and pay online in advance here: https://nepaliport-new.immigration.gov.np/. We recommend completing the online application ahead of time to save time at the airport.

                          • Border Crossing: The itinerary includes the Hilsa border crossing between Nepal and Tibet in Humla district. Border and immigration procedures must be completed before continuing the journey.

                          • Tibet Travel Permits: The Tibet Group Tourist Visa, Tibet Travel Permit, and Alien Travel Permit for the Mount Kailash region are all included in your trip cost and arranged by us. You will only need to send us your original passport a few weeks before departure so we can process these on your behalf.

                          • Passport Validity: Your passport should be valid for at least six months from your date of entry, with at least two blank pages for visa stamps.

                          • Fitness Level: This yatra involves a rapid gain in altitude through flights and a helicopter transfer, several nights above 3,700 m, and a three day trek that reaches approximately 5,630 m at Dolma La Pass. A good general level of fitness is required, and many operators request a basic medical checkup before booking. Travelers with heart or respiratory conditions should consult a doctor before joining.

                          • Flight and Helicopter Dependency: The Nepalgunj to Simikot flight and the Simikot to Hilsa helicopter flight are both weather dependent and can be delayed by weather condition, poor visibility or high winds , aviation regulations and local operating conditions Flight schedules can change when conditions are unsuitable.

                          • Yatra Timing: The Kailash region is generally traveled during the warmer pilgrimage season, commonly from May through September. Exact operating dates depend on border conditions, permits, weather and local administrative decisions.

                          • Group Nature of the Yatra: Kailash pilgrimage travel is organized under group travel and permit arrangements. Participants should be prepared to follow the group's confirmed schedule because changes can be difficult once permits and transportation have been arranged.

                          • Currency and Payment Methods: Major currencies such as USD, EUR and GBP are commonly accepted for advance payments. It is a good idea to carry some Nepali Rupees and Chinese Yuan for smaller personal expenses along the route.
                             

                          Accommodations, Meals and Transportation

                          • Typical Accommodation Used: You will stay in hotels in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj, and a guesthouse in Simikot. In Purang and Darchen, accommodation is in a hotel or guesthouse depending on availability. At Lake Manasarovar and during the Kailash Kora at Dirapuk and Zuthulphuk, accommodation is in guesthouses, as these remote areas do not have hotel infrastructure.

                          • Meals: The yatra is offered on a full board basis, with breakfast, lunch and dinner included throughout the itinerary. Meals in remote areas of Kailash Kora are generally simpler than those available in Kathmandu and Nepalgunj. 

                          • Guide Support: An experienced guide accompanies you throughout the yatra and coordinates permits, border formalities, flight and helicopter logistics, and daily arrangements, along with monitoring the group for signs of altitude related illness.

                          • Transportation: Domestic flights are used between Kathmandu, Nepalgunj and Simikot, with a helicopter flight connecting Simikot and Hilsa. A land cruiser is used for road travel in Purang, at Lake Manasarovar, and around Darchen. The Kailash Kora itself is completed on foot, with yak or porter support available for carrying luggage.
                             

                          Seasonal and Weather Updates

                          The Kailash Manasarovar Yatra via Simikot takes place during the permitted pilgrimage travel months from around May through September. Weather conditions can vary significantly between Kathmandu, Humla, the Tibetan plateau, Lake Manasarovar, and the higher sections of the Kailash Kora.

                          • Late Spring to Early Autumn: The Simikot to Hilsa helicopter sector generally operates from around May through September. May and June tend to be cooler with more stable flying conditions, while July and August can bring cloud cover and the possibility of flight delay due to monsoon conditions in the hills. September often offers clearer skies as the monsoon eases.

                          • Kailash Kora Weather: Conditions can change quickly around Mount Kailash, particularly near Dolma La Pass. Snow, wind, cold temperatures and reduced visibility can occur even during the main pilgrimage season.

                          • High Altitude Conditions: Temperatures across Purang, Lake Manasarovar and Darchen can be cold, especially at night, even during the warmer months. Warm layered clothing is essential throughout the Tibet portion of the trip.
                             

                          Health and Safety

                          • Altitude Awareness: This yatra involves a fast ascent, moving from Kathmandu to above 3,700 m within a few days, with the highest point at approximately 5,630 m during the Kailash Kora. Symptoms such as headache, fatigue or shortness of breath are possible, and it is important to inform your guide immediately if you feel unwell. The built in acclimatization day in Purang is designed to help reduce this risk.

                          • Healthcare Facilities: Medical facilities become more limited as you travel further into Humla and Tibet. Basic first aid support is generally available with your guide, and more complete facilities are available in Kathmandu. Many operators recommend carrying a basic medical checkup or certificate before the trip and strongly recommend travel insurance that includes helicopter evacuation and high altitude coverage.

                          • Acclimatization: The itinerary includes an acclimatization day in Purang before continuing to Lake Manasarovar and Darchen. However, acclimatization cannot eliminate the risk of altitude related illness. Travelers should follow their guide's instructions and avoid excessive physical exertion. 

                          • Temple Etiquette: Please follow your guide's instructions regarding appropriate dress and behavior at Pashupatinath and Doleshwar temples, as well as around monasteries and religious sites in Tibet.
                             

                          Packing Checklist

                          The packing list should focus on cold weather protection, comfortable trekking equipment, personal necessities, and essential travel documents. Pack carefully because the Kora involves walking at high altitude and accommodation becomes basic.

                          • Essential Clothing: Warm layered clothing is necessary for the Tibet portion of the trip, along with lighter clothing suitable for Kathmandu and Nepalgunj. Modest and comfortable clothing is recommended for temple visits.

                          • Footwear: A sturdy pair of trekking boots with good grip suitable for the Kailash Kora.

                          • Cold Weather Gear: A warm down jacket, gloves, a woolen hat, and a good quality sleeping bag rated for cold conditions, particularly for the nights at Lake Manasarovar and along the Kora.

                          • Personal Items: A daypack for the Kora, trekking poles, a reusable water bottle, sun protection, personal toiletries, a headlamp, and any personal medications you need.

                          • Travel Documents: Keep your passport, permits, travel documents, and other required paperwork safely accessible, particularly for the Hilsa border crossing.
                             

                          Important Notices

                          • Group Visa and Permit Timing: Because this yatra depends on a Tibet Group Visa and additional permits for the Kailash region, passport submission deadlines are strict, and late submissions can jeopardize your place in the group.

                          • Possible Itinerary Changes: Flight schedules, helicopter operations, weather, and administrative decisions on either side of the border can occasionally require changes to the itinerary. Your guide and operator will keep you informed of any adjustments.

                          • Physical Demands: The Kailash Kora, particularly the crossing of Dolma La Pass, is physically demanding and takes place at very high altitude, following a rapid ascent by flight and helicopter. Pilgrims should be realistic about their fitness level before booking.

                          • Responsible Travel: We encourage you to respect local customs, dress appropriately at religious sites, ask permission before photographing pilgrims or monks, and remain mindful during rituals at Pashupatinath, Lake Manasarovar, and along the Kailash Kora.

                          Trip Preparations
                          • What is the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra by Helicopter via Simikot?

                            It is a pilgrimage to Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar that uses domestic flights in Nepal and a helicopter connection between Simikot and Hilsa. The route reduces the amount of long overland travel in Nepal while retaining the main Kailash pilgrimage experience.

                          • This itinerary is particularly suitable for international travelers who have limited vacation time and prefer to reduce long overland journeys in Nepal. However, the Kailash Kora remains physically demanding because it takes place at very high altitude.

                          • The Simikot to Hilsa helicopter sector is weather dependent and can occasionally be delayed by poor visibility or strong winds, so it is wise to build some flexibility into your onward travel plans.

                          • Yes, travel to Tibet for this yatra requires a Tibet Group Visa along with a Tibet Travel Permit and an Alien Travel Permit for the Kailash region, all included in your trip cost.

                          • Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance with appropriate high altitude and emergency evacuation coverage is strongly recommended because much of the pilgrimage takes place in remote, high altitude areas.