How to Apply for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra (Registration Guide)

Applying for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra requires registration through the Government of India or authorised tour operators. The official Yatra is organised by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and typically opens for registration between January and March each year.

The process involves online registration, document submission, selection through a computerised draw and mandatory medical tests before the pilgrimage begins.

The first step is to complete the online registration form on the official government portal.

During registration, applicants must:

• Fill out the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra application form
• Provide personal and passport details
• Select the preferred travel route
• Upload required documents

Applications are accepted only during the official registration window.

Applicants must select one of the two government-approved routes.

Lipulekh Pass Route (Uttarakhand)

• Longer and traditional route
• Includes trekking at high altitude
• Duration around 22–25 days

Nathula Pass Route (Sikkim)

• Less physically demanding
• Mostly motorable route
• Duration around 20–23 days

Your chosen route will affect the travel duration, cost and physical requirements.

During registration, applicants must upload scanned copies of the following documents:

• Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
• Passport size photograph
• Identity proof such as Aadhaar or PAN card

Make sure documents meet the file size and format requirements mentioned on the application portal.

After registration closes, the Ministry of External Affairs conducts a computerised random selection press.

Selected applicants are notified through email and the official portal.

Those selected must confirm participation and proceed to the next stage of the process.

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra takes place at extremely high altitudes. Because of this, applicants must pass strict medical fitness tests.

The medical examination is conducted at:

Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) Hospital in Delhi

Tests include:

• Cardiac evaluation
• Lung function test
• Blood tests
• General fitness assessment

Only medically fit applicants are allowed to continue the Yatra.

Once applicants pass the medical examination, they must:

• Confirm participation
• Submit final documents
• Pay the Yatra fees

After this step, the applicant officially becomes part of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra group.

To apply for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, applicants must meet these eligibility conditions.

• Indian citizen
• Age between 18 and 70 years
• Physically and medically fit
• Valid passport

Applicants with serious heart, lung or high altitude health risks may not qualify.

The application timeline usually follows this schedule:

Early registration is recommended due to limited seats.

The cost of the Yatra depends on the route selected.

Lipulekh Route

• Approximately ₹1.8 lakh to ₹2.2 lakh

Nathula Route

• Approximately ₹2.3 lakh to ₹2.8 lakh

Private operators offering Nepal routes may charge more depending on services.

Apart from the government route, travellers can also book the Yatra through authorised private tour operators via Nepal.

This route usually starts from Kathmandu and offers a shorter and more flexible travel experience compared to the traditional government routes from India.

Many travellers prefer this option because it reduces travel duration while still allowing pilgrims to complete the sacred Kailash Parikrama and visit Lake Mansarovar.

Advantages include:

• Shorter itinerary
• More flexible scheduling
• Helicopter or vehicle travel options
• Easier logistics and support during the journey

For travellers looking for a well-organised and responsible pilgrimage experience, Encamp Adventures offers guided Kailash Mansarovar Yatra packages, helping pilgrims manage permits, logistics and high-altitude travel safely.

However, permits and visas are still required for all travellers. These typically include the Chinese group visa, Tibet Travel Permit and other regional permissions, which are usually arranged by authorised tour operators.

Start Your Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Journey

Discover the best routes, updated plans and expert support to make your pilgrimage seamless and stress-free.

Get Full Itinerary

Applicants must submit the following documents:

• Valid passport
• Passport size photograph
• Identity proof (Aadhaar or PAN)
• Medical fitness certificate
• Travel insurance (recommended)

All documents must be uploaded during the application process.

Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar lie in a fragile Himalayan ecosystem. Pilgrims are encouraged to travel responsibly.

• Avoid plastic waste
• Respect Tibetan culture and local traditions
• Follow environmental guidelines
• Support operators promoting sustainable travel

Responsible pilgrimage helps preserve this sacred region for future generations.

Applying for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra involves careful preparation, official registration and medical clearance. By following the correct application process and preparing physically for high altitude travel, pilgrims can experience one of the most sacred spiritual journeys in the world.

With proper planning and responsible travel practices, the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra becomes a life-changing experience for both spiritual seekers and adventure travellers.

You can register online through the Ministry of External Affairs Kailash Mansarovar Yatra portal during the official registration period.

Registration usually opens between January and February each year.

You can book the Yatra through the government portal or authorised private tour operators offering Nepal routes.

Yes. A valid passport with at least six months validity is mandatory.

Applicants must be between 18 and 70 years of age.

Yes. Selected applicants must pass a medical examination conducted in Delhi before the journey.