Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Nathula Pass, Sikkim: A Complete Guide
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The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is one of the most revered spiritual pilgrimages in the world, attracting thousands of devotees every year. While the traditional routes pass through Uttarakhand and Nepal, the Nathula Pass route in Sikkim offers a shorter, safer, and scenic alternative with modern infrastructure and less arduous travel conditions. Operated by the Government of India in collaboration with China (Tibet Autonomous Region), this route is ideal for those seeking a spiritually fulfilling yet comparatively comfortable journey to the holy abode of Lord Shiva – Mount Kailash and the sacred Mansarovar Lake.
Nathula Pass, located at an altitude of 14,140 ft in Sikkim, near the Indo-China border, serves as the entry point into Tibet for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. This route was officially opened in 2015 and offers a 21-day yatra including acclimatization, medical checkups, and travel.
Unlike the steep trekking route from Lipulekh (Uttarakhand), the Nathula route is largely motorable, making it especially suitable for elderly pilgrims or those not comfortable with high-altitude trekking.
India Side (Sikkim): Bagdogra ➝ Gangtok ➝ Sherathang ➝ Nathula ➝ Doma ➝ Shigatse ➝ Lhasa ➝ Mansarovar ➝ Mount Kailash
Tibet Side (China): Tibet entry point ➝ Lhasa ➝ Shigatse ➝ Saga ➝ Darchen ➝ Mansarovar ➝ Kailash Kora
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Nathula is organized between June and September, during the summer and early monsoon season. These months offer clearer roads, stable weather, and access to high-altitude passes.
June – Early July: Pleasant weather, early batches, less crowd.
July – August: Peak yatra season, ideal for group travel.
September: Cold begins to set in, fewer pilgrims, serene landscape.
Gangtok / Nathula (India Side): 5°C to 20°C during yatra months.
Tibet Region: Daytime temperatures range between 0°C to 15°C; nights can drop to -5°C.
Mount Kailash / Mansarovar Lake: High-altitude cold climate; carry heavy woollens, windproof jackets, and essentials.
Altitude Sickness Tip: Stay hydrated, ascend slowly, and follow acclimatization guidelines provided during the tour.
The yatra is organized by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India, and is open to Indian citizens only.
Online Application:
Visit: https://kmy.gov.in
Choose "Nathula Route" and fill the detailed form.
Documents Required:
Valid Indian Passport (minimum 6 months validity)
Medical fitness certificate
Passport-size photographs
Age: 18 to 70 years
Physically fit (certified by designated medical authorities)
Selection:
Pilgrims are selected via computer-generated draw.
Selected candidates receive email/SMS confirmation and are called for medical tests.
Cost (Approximate):
₹1.80 to ₹2.00 lakhs (subject to change annually)
Includes transport, accommodation, meals, guides, permit fees.
Batch Size & Duration:
60 pilgrims per batch (approx.)
Total duration: 21 days (including stay in Gangtok, acclimatization, and travel to Tibet)
Mount Kailash (6,638 m): Considered the cosmic center of the universe and abode of Lord Shiva.
Mansarovar Lake: Sacred lake believed to cleanse sins and purify the soul.
Kailash Kora (Parikrama): 52-km spiritual walk around Mount Kailash (optional based on fitness and weather).
Lhasa & Shigatse: Explore monasteries and Tibetan culture en route.
Original passport and photocopies
Heavy woollen clothes, thermals, windproof jackets
Sturdy trekking shoes, socks, gloves, mufflers
Raincoat/poncho
Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, moisturizer
Personal medicines, altitude sickness tablets (Diamox)
Water bottles, ORS, dry fruits/snacks
Torch, power bank, camera (optional)
Small backpack and day bag
Ensure physical fitness with at least 2-3 months of cardio, walking, or trekking before the journey.
Attend all mandatory briefings and health check-ups organized by MEA.
Respect local customs and Tibetan cultural sentiments.
Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
No steep trekking like Uttarakhand route
Comfortable for senior citizens and families
Modern facilities, roads, and hotels in Sikkim & Tibet
Additional spiritual and cultural experience with visits to Lhasa, monasteries, and Himalayan villages
If you prefer not to wait for the MEA lottery process, many private travel operators now offer Kailash Mansarovar tours or Kailash Aerial darshan Packages via Nepal. These are ideal for those short on time or unable to undergo rigorous selection and travel process.
Disclaimer: The Nathula route is only accessible via the Government of India’s MEA application process. Private agencies are not authorized to operate on this route.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Nathula Pass offers a unique blend of spiritual depth, natural beauty, and modern travel comfort. While it requires planning, patience, and physical preparation, the experience of witnessing Mount Kailash and bathing in Mansarovar is a once-in-a-lifetime blessing for any devotee. Follow the official procedures, stay informed, and embark on this journey with faith in your heart.