Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026 Calendar & Dates for Indian Tourists
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The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is one of the most sacred pilgrimages in the world. Every year, thousands of devotees from India and across the globe set out on this life-transforming journey to witness Mount Kailash, believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva, and Lake Mansarovar, revered as the divine lake of purity and salvation. For Indian pilgrims, this yatra is not just a travel experience but a deep spiritual quest.
As the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026 approaches, planning ahead is essential. Since the yatra is open only for a few months each year due to weather conditions, departure dates are fixed, and permits are issued in batches. This article provides a detailed yatra calendar for 2026, along with essential information for Indian tourists including registration process, eligibility, routes, documents, and travel tips.
Before we look at the 2026 dates, it’s important to understand why this pilgrimage is so revered.
Mount Kailash (6,638 m) is worshipped as the sacred abode of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is considered the center of the universe in Hindu, Buddhist, Jain, and Bon traditions. Hindus believe that performing a parikrama (circumambulation) of Mount Kailash washes away sins of a lifetime.
Lake Mansarovar (4,590 m) is one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world. Bathing in the holy waters and drinking a few drops are believed to purify the soul and grant liberation (moksha). The lake is particularly mesmerizing during full moon nights, when its waters reflect the divine glow.
Thus, every Indian devotee dreams of undertaking this pilgrimage at least once in a lifetime.
The yatra season generally begins in May and continues until September. These months provide the safest weather conditions to cross into Tibet and travel in high-altitude areas.
May to June: Pleasant daytime weather, clear views of snow peaks, and the beginning of yatra season.
July to August: Warmer days, higher chances of rain in Nepal, but Tibet remains dry. Lake Mansarovar appears vibrant in these months.
September: Post-monsoon clarity, clear skies, and one of the best times for photography and parikrama.
Many pilgrims prefer to align their yatra with Purnima (Full Moon) dates, as the experience of seeing Lake Mansarovar glowing under moonlight is considered especially auspicious.
Here is the official Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026 Departure Schedule for Indian Tourists (Overland Route) with both regular departures and full moon departures:
Regular Departures: 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th May
Full Moon Yatra: 26th May (Kathmandu arrival)
Regular Departures: 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th June
Full Moon Yatra: 24th June
Regular Departures: 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th July
Full Moon Yatra: 24th July
Regular Departures: 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th August
Full Moon Yatra: 23rd August
Regular Departures: 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th September
Full Moon Yatra: 21st September
With this calendar, Indian pilgrims can choose a suitable batch depending on availability, personal preference, and spiritual goals.
The Full Moon (Purnima) Yatra is considered highly auspicious because:
The moonlight reflects on Lake Mansarovar, creating a divine spectacle.
Performing rituals and a holy dip on Purnima night is believed to grant special blessings.
Many saints and yogis consider it the most spiritually charged time for meditation.
If you want to experience this mystical phenomenon, try booking in advance as Full Moon dates are always in high demand among Indian devotees.
_Registering for the Kailash Yatra 2026 involves multiple steps. Pilgrims can join either:
The Government of India’s official MEA-organized batches (if announced for 2026), or
Private authorized tour operators, who manage all logistics, visas, and permits.
Choose your route and operator – Decide between Overland (road) or Helicopter-assisted routes.
Select departure batch – Based on 2026 calendar dates.
Submit documents – Passport copy, photos, ID proof, application form, and medical certificate.
Make payment – A deposit is required at the time of booking; final payment is due before departure.
Medical fitness screening – Certification from a doctor is mandatory. Senior citizens or those with medical history may require detailed reports.
Visa and permit application – Your operator applies for the Chinese Group Visa and Tibet Travel Permits.
Pre-departure briefing – Pilgrims receive instructions on packing, health precautions, and yatra rules.
Nationality: Indian passport holders only.
Age Limit: Generally between 18 and 70 years.
Health: Must be physically fit for high-altitude trekking and travel.
Passport Validity: Minimum 6 months’ validity beyond yatra dates.
Group Travel: Individual permits are not issued; travel must be with an authorized group.
Indian tourists must keep the following ready for 2026 registration:
Original passport + 2–3 photocopies
Passport-size color photographs
Aadhaar/PAN/Driving License copy
Medical fitness certificate (signed by a doctor)
Insurance policy details (recommended for high-altitude travel)
Application/consent form provided by operator or MEA
There are two main ways for Indians to undertake Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026:
Duration: 14–18 days
Starts from Kathmandu, proceeds via Kyirong, Saga, Lake Mansarovar, and then to Mount Kailash.
Ideal for pilgrims who want a gradual journey and more time for acclimatization.
More economical than the helicopter option.
Duration: 9–11 days
Faster, with flights and helicopter rides reducing travel time.
Suitable for those who cannot spend many days but still wish to complete the pilgrimage.
Costs are higher than the overland option.
Start physical preparation early: Practice walking, yoga, and breathing exercises.
Altitude medicine: Consult your doctor for Diamox or similar preventive medication.
Packing essentials: Woolen layers, thermal wear, trekking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, water purification tablets.
Health first: Do not ignore symptoms of high-altitude sickness like dizziness, nausea, or breathlessness.
Spiritual mindset: Remember, this yatra is more about devotion and inner peace than luxury or comfort.
The cost varies depending on the route chosen:
Overland Yatra: Approx. 2–2.5 lakhs per person
Helicopter Yatra: Approx. 2.5–3.5 lakhs per person
These usually include accommodation, vegetarian meals, Tibet group visa, permits, guide services, and transfers. Flights, insurance, and personal expenses may be extra.
Q1. When is the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra happening in 2026?
👉 Between May and September 2026, with fixed overland and helicopter departure batches.
Q2. Which is the best month for Indians to go?
👉 May–June and September are best for clear weather, while July–August are good for warmer temperatures.
Q3. Can Indian tourists apply individually for a Tibet visa?
👉 No. All permits and visas are arranged only through authorized group operators.
Q4. Is Full Moon Yatra mandatory?
👉 No, but it is considered more spiritually rewarding.
Q5. What is the minimum fitness required?
👉 You should be able to walk at least 5–6 km comfortably, and your heart and lungs should be healthy.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026 is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Indian devotees to connect with divinity and experience the majesty of the Himalayas. With fixed departure dates from May to September 2026, and special Full Moon Yatras, pilgrims can plan their journey in advance and secure their registration.
By preparing documents, maintaining fitness, and booking through a reliable operator, Indian tourists can ensure a smooth and spiritually fulfilling journey. Whether you choose the Overland Yatra for its scenic beauty or the Helicopter Yatra for its convenience, the blessings of Lord Shiva at Mount Kailash and the divine purity of Lake Mansarovar will make this pilgrimage unforgettable.