Distance vs. Psychology

Altitude psychology

The duration of the trek and hardness level of the Kailash Mansarovar trip depends on the height of the destination (altitude) as well. Pilgrims / Travelers usually walk to slow pace when the altitude increases because the level of oxygen declines with the rise in height or altitude.

Steep Climbs

During the Kailash Mansarovar trip , a 3 k m distance can feel and take more duration than a flat 9 k m route. Some trails have the stairs to climb. While climbing the stairs up, pilrgrim / travelers feel difficulty in breathing and tiredness. Coming down the stairs might look easy , but it increases stress on the feet and strain on the knee / leg.

Breathtaking views

Picturesque scenes and views during the Kailash Kora can make a longer trail feel simpler and satisfied.

Terrain Conditions

Terrain conditions like steep, stony and rocky trails, old type of bridges and landslide prone areas in the Kailash Kora are dangerous to come across. Sometimes much heavy rainfall and strong storm makes the ways and passes impassable.

Requirements for Tibet Group Visa

• PP – sized photos ( 4 – 5 )
• Color scanned print of your passport , it should be clear.
• 25 % advance payment of the total cost , at least 30 days in advance.
• Medically fit assured document / certificate.

Packing list for Kailash Mansarovar trip

• Your regular and prescribed medicine
• Comfortable shoes with multiple pair of socks and woolen socks
• Raincoat , torch light , trekking stick , water purifiers , power bank
• Warm clothes with warm jacket , wind proof jacket
• Toiletries such as: toilet paper , sanitizer , soap , face wash , shampoo , towels , toothpaste , toothbrush , body spray , lip care etc.
• Abundant inner wears , thermal wears.
• Sunglasses and sun cream
• Mini bag for daily purpose , energy bars , chargers , extra batteries
• Important ID documents
• Cash in hand
• Trekking / Tour bag
• 4- 5 passport sized photographs
• Water bottle or Thermos ( min/max. 2 liters )

Overview of Lhasa, an ancient town in Tibet

Lhasa, an ancient town in Tibet watches for and welcomes tourists that seek social episode, art experineces, cultural heritage with grand traditions. On this incredible trip from Kathmandu to Lhasa followed with Kailash Mansarovar, you will see the majestic Nepal and magical Tibet. Such tour experience takes you to ancient towns, holy temples, sacred stupas, grand monasteries, scenic white mountains and along with serene lakes and streams, which is the blend of serenity, picturesque views, enthralling adventure and center of spiritual meditating energy.

This journey covers Nepal world heritage sites in Kathmandu, the sacred temples, awe striking Potala palace which was the home palace of the Great Dalai Lama, Barkhor market which is busy, bustling, the center of Kosang in Lhasa, and Shigatse which is recorded as the second largest city of Tibet.

The overland journey from Kathmandu to Lhasa in Tibet before going to Kailash mansarovar encompasses various adventures like exploring far deserts, deep caves, and imposing religious monasteries. The drive from an elevation of 3000 m to 5000 m still keeps the travelers invigorated because they freshen their feelings by the stunning views of Mount Everest too.

Historical and Religious Significance of Mount Kailash

Hinduism

In Hinduism , it is believed that Mount Kailash is the residence to Lord Shiva and his family. In Hindu cosmology , Mount Kailash is considered as the center of the universe. It is said that Lord Shiva meditates here and awakens his spiritual aspect. Those who make their foot forward towards the Kailash Mansarovar yatra gets his blissful blessings and he bestows the best upon the pilgrims. There’s a belief of erasing sins through Parikrama ( circumambulation )  around majestic Mount Kailash.

Buddhism

In Buddhism , it is believed that Mount Kailash is the dwelling place and home of Demchok ( Chakrasamvara ) . In Buddhist cosmology , Mount Kailash is considered as the spiritual center of the universe. And , the mountain is viewed as the cosmic Mandala. There is a belief of being led to enlightenment through Kora ( circumambulation )  around majestic Mount Kailash. Also , there is the cave of a highly renowned Buddhist Seer ( Sage )  Milarepa. This cave is also visited by the pilgrims who are revered by Buddhism philosophy.

Jainism

In Jainism , it is believed that Mount Kailash where their first spiritual teacher Tirthankara Rishabhadeva got liberation , or attained Moksha. Mount Kailash is considered as the sacred place where pilgrims and travelers get spiritual awakening , spiritual liberation and sublime feeling of divine blessings. Jain people often come to Kailash Mansarovar yatra seeking blessings and cleansing the soul by nature’s pristine source of spiritual energy.

Bon religion

In Bon religion , it is believed that Mount Kailash is considered as the spiritual center of the universe. And , the mountain is viewed as the seat of the founder of Bon belief , religion and faith Shenrab Miwo. This religion believes this region for Bon religion dates way before Buddhism entered Tibetan land. Bon followers come to Kailash Mansarovar yatra seeking deep spiritual connection with the region and seek bestows for their happiness and prosperous life.

• Ascending the Mount Kailash is prohibited due to deep spiritual respect. Although , it has great religious importance it is forbidden to climb.
• This unaltered peak has maintained its original shape since many years , this has added infinite aura of divine and majestic Himalaya with mystery hidden within it.

Historical and Religious Significance of Lake Mansarovar

Hinduism

In Hinduism , it is believed that Lake Mansarovar was created by the God of Creation Lord Brahma. It is believed that with the sacred dip in the fresh water of Lake Mansarovar , it cleanses the soul to provide spiritual awakening. Pilgrims fill holy water from the Lake Mansarovar ( Jal , as the sign of purity )  in the bottle while heading via Mansarovar. Its holy water , either you drink it or dip in it , cleanses sins and helps in attaining Moksha i.e. liberation. It is also said to be the source of holy rivers like Ganga , Saraswati and Brahma Putra.

Buddhism

In Buddhism , it is believed that mother of Lord Buddha Queen Maya Devi was bathed by the almighty Gods in the Lake Mansarovar prior to giving birth to the Light of Asia Lord Buddha. There is a belief of being led to enlightenment through Kora ( circumambulation )  around serene Lake Mansarovar. Many pilgrims , monks and nuns who to Kailash Mansarovar yatra meditate by the shores of Lake Mansarovar for the spiritual awakening.

Jainism

In Jainism , it is believed that the Lake Mansarovar where their first spiritual teacher Tirthankara Rishabhadeva performed intense meditation and practices that triggered powerful spiritual energy. Lake Mansarovar is considered as the sacred place of moral cleansing and inner self-realization.

Bon religion

In Bon religion , it is believed that Lake Mansarovar connects to the soul of pilgrims and is the foundation of cosmic balance. Bon followers come to Kailash Mansarovar yatra seeking deep spiritual connection with the region and seek bestows for their happiness and prosperous life. Bon followers also perform Parikrama / Kora ( Circumambulation )  around the shores of the Lake Mansarovar like Hindus and Buddhists in process of getting enlightenment.

• Lake Mansarovar has been the section of great historic and religious significance representing prehistoric and earliest pilgrimage routes , most famous because of the conjunction with Mt. Kailash.
• Lake Mansarovar being located at an altitude of 4590 m ( 15060 ft. ) above the sea level , making it one of the highest freshwater lakes of the world. This highlights the geographical importance of the tranquil Lake Mansarovar.

Physical preparation for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

Lhasa and Kailash Mansarovar Tour journey is full of challenges and hardships with enthralling experience. It is an exciting experience to be a pilgrim of Kailash Mansarovar yatra. People say in Nepal , “Gods and supernatural spiritual energy locates in the places and areas that are not easily accessible for human beings.” Thus , the pristine unblemished center of religious and spiritual environment is extra hard to go than any other pilgrimage location. It is the reason behind recommending towards being physically and mentally prepared before starting off your journey to Kailash Mansarovar. “How to prepare yourself considering the challenging journey to Kailash Mansarovar ?” here are some suggestions:

• Regular morning walk and regular evening walk of 5 k m or 3 miles altogether.
• Routine basis Yoga and exercise of Yoga Pranayams.
• Get your food on time. This will contribute a person with the matter related to daily Latrine functions.
• For Diet, include healthy foods, vegetables, dry fruits and fresh fruits to increase power and spirit of immune system.
• Perform cardiovascular exercise activities like Jogging , Cycling ,  Running and Swimming to get your pulmonary organs stronger.

*Keep in mind that these suggested activities should be started at least one month prior to Lhasa and Kailash Mansarovar tour.

Sorts of Food during Lhasa and Kailash Mansarovar Tour

The local cuisine reflects the diverse cultural scape of Alpine Himalayan Nepali culture and ancient Tibetan food heritage on the foundation level. The food availabilities on the tour are categorized on three meals per day. ( Breakfast , Lunch and Dinner.

Timing:  6 A M – 8 A M

Breakfast food items: Toast , Bread , Butter , Honey , Jam , Muesli , Cereals , Cornflakes , Aalu Paratha , Rotis ( Tortillas )  , Puri Sabji , Dough nuts etc.

Breakfast drinks: Milk , Tea , Coffee , Juice , Hot chocolate , hot water with / without honey etc.

Timing:  11 A M – 1 P M

Lunch food items: Tibetan Dumplings , Rice , Vegetable , Curry , Daal , Achar , Butter Naan , Plain Paratha , Rotis ( Tortillas )  , Noodles , Spaghetti , Chow Mein , Pasta , Salad , Deserts etc.

Lunch drinks: Juice , Soft Drinks – Coke , Red Bull , energy drinks , Sodas , Cold drinks , hot water with / without honey etc.

Timing:  4 P M – 5 P M

Snacks food items: Tibetan Dumplings , Samosa , Pakodas , and Biscuits etc.

Snacks drinks: Tea , Milk , Coffee , Juice , Soft Drinks – Coke , Red Bull , energy drinks , Sodas , Cold drinks , hot water with / without honey etc.

Timing:  7 : 30 P M – 9 : 30 P M

Dinner food items: Plain Rice , Vegetable , Curry , Daal , Achar , Plain Paratha , Rotis ( Tortillas )  , Masala Roti , Fry vegetables , Pasta , Salad , Deserts etc.

Dinner drinks: Milk , hot water with / without honey etc.

* The options for food items decreases with the rise in altitude due to lesser ways to reach and availability of raw groceries.

Dietary Restrictions

If the travelers hold any dietary restrictions like being vegan , vegetarian , gluten free or allergen to lactose , this thing is very important as trekkers to give detailed information to trek / travel agency or the guide or the cooks.

The menu has to be changed with choices. We recommend the travelers in order to carry their preferred snacks on hand to avoid such problems.

Water Facilities plus Proper hydration

Proper hydration is important for Lhasa and Kailash Mansarovar tour. Dehydration might be a major cause of altitude sickness too and also may affect your locomotive health. You cannot drink or carry water from resources wherever you see.

Water purification is crucial while travelling through the remote trails and routes. For your safety , the tap water, lake and stream water is not healthy to drink. There are some techniques to purify the water.

• Ask for boiled water at hotels / guest houses / tea – houses, they will give it for free but some might charge you a little.
• Apply iodine , chlorine and UV treatment, use purification tablets , squeeze filters ,  sterilizers on the way.

Sorts of Accommodation during Lhasa and Kailash Mansarovar tour

Lhasa and Kailash Mansarovar tour does have hotels and guest houses to serve the pilgrims and travelers a comfortable living and grand cultural living experience.

The types of accommodation are:

1. Hotels and Lodges

• Usually at lower altitude like Kathmandu obviously , Kerung , Saga , Lhasa.
• Found in villages and town developing with facilities
• Comparatively Larger in space
• Comfortable living experiences
• Room Attached bathrooms and toilets
• Bathing Hot showers
• Choice in Veg. food menu esp. English & Western
• Quick Wi-fi and internet facilities

1. Guest Houses / Tents

• Typically found at higher altitude like aside shores of Lake Mansarovar , Darchen , DeharaPuk , JuthulPuk
• Found in villages , main trails / routes that are less developed
• Comparatively Smaller in space
• Traditional and shared living experiences on group basis
• Communal bathrooms and shared toilets
• Bathing Hot showers and Wi-fi depends upon guest houses’ quality for a charge
• Choice in Menu depends upon guest houses’ quality
• Simple & traditional
• Like homestays , tea – houses.

Rooms and facilities

1. Basic rooms with basic furnishing
2. Shared Dining room / table
3. Blankets and stove / firewood heaters available in dining room.
4. Electricity is available as basic necessity
5. Some of the guest houses provide Wi-Fi connection for some fees / payments. But , the connection usually remain slow and sometimes inactive in the higher altitude.
6. Laundry facility is not available , if available need to pay.
7. Very fundamental medical facility might be available like: bandages , paracetamols , painkillers , joint spray etc. in the guest houses. Self-dependent with your regular medicines is a great aspect.
8. Toilets are communal at higher altitude. Toilet papers are available , but self – dependent with toilet tissues is a great aspect too.

Initiating the Lhasa and Kailash Mansarovar tour are more than drives, hikes and treks. It is an important content for a place where you can get the blessings of Lord Shiva and get the centralized spiritual energy around the Kailash region.

Our proficiently crafted tour and travel package will provide travelers one wholesome travel experience to one earth’s unblemished land of sublime spiritual prodigy and historic religious experiences.