Mount Kailash, revered as the “Center of the Universe” in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon, has long been a dream destination for spiritual seekers and adventurers alike. With its majestic beauty, religious significance, and remote location in the Tibetan Autonomous Region of China, planning a Kailash Mansarovar Yatra (pilgrimage) from Kathmandu is no ordinary journey. But one question remains top-of-mind for many potential travelers in 2025: Is it safe to travel to Kailash from Kathmandu now?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the current safety status of the Kailash Yatra via Kathmandu, including travel regulations, border updates, political considerations, health and altitude-related concerns, natural challenges, and essential tips for a safe and spiritually fulfilling journey. Whether you’re considering a helicopter tour or an overland route, this post has you covered.
Check out our Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Package from Kathmandu for a well-organized and smooth journey.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is one of the most sacred pilgrimages in the world. Mount Kailash, standing at 6,638 meters (21,778 feet), is considered the abode of Lord Shiva and is surrounded by myths, legends, and cosmic reverence. Nearby, Lake Mansarovar, a freshwater lake, is believed to cleanse sins and bring inner peace.
Each year, thousands of pilgrims undertake the journey to circumambulate Mount Kailash (the Kora), a 52-kilometer trek around the mountain that typically takes 3 days.
Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, has long been the preferred starting point for the Kailash Yatra due to its proximity to Tibet, rich spiritual ambiance, and well-connected travel infrastructure. Key reasons to start from Kathmandu include:
Direct access to Simikot, Hilsa, and Tibet border via air or land
Availability of organized helicopter tours to Kailash. A Kailash Mansarovar Yatra tour package by helicopter can significantly reduce travel time while still offering breathtaking aerial views of the region.
Easier visa processing and group travel coordination
Presence of experienced local guides and travel agencies
Spiritual landmarks in Kathmandu Valley add depth to the journey
As of April 2025, travel to Kailash from Kathmandu is open and operational, but with specific guidelines. After COVID-related restrictions disrupted travel between Nepal and Tibet for several years, the Chinese authorities have gradually resumed issuing Group Tourist Visas for the Kailash Yatra.
Chinese border at Hilsa/Purang is open to authorized tour groups
Entry to Tibet is permitted only with pre-arranged group visas and Tibet Travel Permits
Helicopter routes from Nepalgunj-Simikot-Hilsa are running smoothly
Overland travel via Rasuwagadhi-Kerung border is limited and not widely preferred.
Travel must be done through registered travel operators.
In short: Yes, it is safe and permitted, provided you travel with an authorized group and follow the updated protocols.
The safety of traveling from Kathmandu to Kailash also depends heavily on diplomatic relations between Nepal, India, and China. As of 2025:
Nepal and China maintain cordial relations, especially regarding tourism and border trade.
India and China relations remain delicate, especially after the 2020-2022 tensions, but they haven't directly impacted Nepal-Tibet pilgrimage routes.
Kailash Yatra through India (Lipulekh route) is open but has limited capacity.
Pilgrims from India often prefer the Nepal route due to smoother logistics and visa handling.
Thus, geopolitical factors currently support safe travel from Kathmandu to Kailash with minimal disruptions.
While the pandemic has largely subsided, health protocols remain in place:
RT-PCR tests are no longer mandatory for fully vaccinated travelers
Travel insurance with COVID coverage is recommended
Mask-wearing and hand hygiene are advised in group settings
Chinese authorities may conduct random health screenings at entry points
Travelers should carry personal hygiene kits and follow their tour operator’s updated health protocols to stay safe throughout the journey.
Travel to Kailash via Kathmandu involves crossing into Tibet at Hilsa. To ensure safety and legality:
You must travel in a pre-approved group (minimum of 4–5 people)
Chinese Group Visa (arranged by the tour operator)
Tibet Travel Permit
Aliens’ Travel Permit and Military Permit
Individual travelers are not permitted
Border checks are thorough but generally safe and organized
Always verify that your travel agency has secured all permits before departure.
Traveling to Mount Kailash is an extreme journey. Research various Kailash Mansarovar Yatra package and compare them thoroughly. Look for deals that offer the best value without compromising experience.
High-altitude terrain with rapidly changing weather
Landslides during the monsoon season (June to August)
Cold nights and exposure to hypothermia
Difficult terrain during the Kora trek
Travel during the best months: May to mid-September
Wear proper layered clothing and trekking shoes
Always follow the advice of your guide
Despite these challenges, accidents are rare when pilgrims are properly prepared and accompanied. Check out our Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Tour package for a well-organized and smooth journey.
One of the biggest safety concerns is altitude sickness (Acute Mountain Sickness - AMS). Hilsa, Taklakot, and Kailash all lie above 3,600 meters.
Headaches
Nausea
Dizziness
Fatigue
Spend 2–3 days acclimatizing at Taklakot (Purang) before proceeding
Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol
Carry Diamox or consult a doctor for preventive medication
Use supplemental oxygen if needed (available with most tour operators)
Proper acclimatization is key to completing the Kailash Kora safely. We have Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Package from Lucknow for those who want to travel Kailash Mansarovar from Lucknow.
Helicopter Route (Nepalgunj → Simikot → Hilsa → Purang
Faster and popular for older citizens
Less road travel, thus fewer risks of landslides
Higher cost but safer in terms of physical exertion
Overland Route (Kathmandu → Kerung → Saga → Darchen
More scenic but physically demanding.
Longer days of travel (approx. 14–16 days total)
Riskier during monsoon due to landslides. If you like adventurous and thrilling journey then opt for Epic Yatras' Kailash Mansarovar road tour package and enjoy your hassle-free trip.
Verdict: For safety and comfort, the helicopter route is currently more reliable, especially for older pilgrims.
To ensure a safe experience, always travel with a licensed and experienced tour operator. Look for the following credentials:
Positive online reviews and clear refund/cancellation policies
Offers emergency evacuation support
Reliable operators take care of logistics, health safety, language interpretation, and group coordination.
High-altitude medical coverage
Emergency evacuation (helicopter rescue)
Trip cancellation and baggage loss. Check out our Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Package from Kathmandu for a well-organized and smooth journey.
World Nomads
ICICI Lombard (India)
Seven Corners
Trawick International
Always carry a copy of your insurance policy and emergency contact numbers.
Carry altitude medication (Diamox) and basic first-aid
Drink only bottled or boiled water
Pack light but warm – layering is key
Respect local customs and avoid photographing restricted areas
Don’t rush the trek; pace yourself and listen to your body
Inform your guide of any health issues immediately. Luxury Kailash Mansarovar Yatra package will you a best luxurious experience in this fascinating journey.
So, is it safe to travel to Kailash from Kathmandu now in 2025? The answer is a confident yes, with conditions:
Follow health and permit guidelines
Choose the best season for travel
Acclimatize properly and stay hydrated
Prepare mentally, spiritually, and physically
Travel with a licensed group operator like Epic Yatra.
With preparation, awareness, and guidance, your Kailash Mansarovar Yatra from Kathmandu can be both safe and life-changing.