Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026

Darchen is the base camp for the Mount Kailash Parikrama. Pilgrims gather here to begin or end their sacred walk around the mountain. Local shops and medical support are available.

Simikot is a mountain town in far-western Nepal and serves as the main entry point for the helicopter route. It provides stunning views and a taste of Himalayan village life.

Lake Mansarovar is a sacred lake near Mount Kailash. Pilgrims believe bathing in the lake washes away past sins. Many sit by the lake to pray, meditate, and feel a deep spiritual connection.

Nandi Parvat is a sacred mountain located near Mount Kailash. It is believed to be the resting place of Nandi, the divine bull and vehicle of Lord Shiva. Pilgrims see this mountain as a symbol of devotion, loyalty, and service to the divine.

Kathmandu Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of the capital. It contains palaces and temples built over many centuries. Pilgrims explore it to connect with Nepal’s spiritual history.

Gauri Kund is a small lake on the way to Dolma La Pass. It is believed to be where Goddess Parvati bathed. Pilgrims pause here to remember divine energy and dedication.

Often used as a stopover town en route to Kailash, Saga offers accommodation and services for pilgrims. Though not spiritually significant, it helps with altitude adjustment and rest before entering the more remote region.

Hilsa is the border village between Nepal and Tibet, situated on the Karnali River. Pilgrims cross into Tibet here, making it a key point of transition during the journey.

Lake Rakshastal lies next to Lake Mansarovar and looks calm but lifeless. It is linked to the story of Ravana and represents imbalance or ego. Pilgrims observe it to reflect on the need for inner peace.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square is a historical area filled with temples and traditional buildings. It shows the rich culture and heritage of Nepal. Pilgrims visit here to understand the spiritual roots of the region.

Ashtapad is a sacred viewpoint near Mount Kailash. It is believed that Lord Rishabhdev, the first Jain Tirthankara, reached salvation here. Pilgrims visit to see the full view of the mountain and feel peace.

Budhanilkantha temple is a sacred site with a large statue of Lord Vishnu lying on a bed of snakes. The statue rests in a pond and is carved from a single stone. Pilgrims stop here to seek blessings for a safe journey.

Located west of Mount Kailash, Tirthapuri is known for its sacred hot springs and the cave of Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche). Pilgrims often visit after completing the parikrama as a form of spiritual purification.

Dirapuk Monastery, on Mount Kailash’s north face in Tibet, is a sacred stop on the Kailash Kora, offering stunning views and spiritual rest for pilgrims.

Located near Taklakot, this is one of the few surviving Bon monasteries. Bon is Tibet’s indigenous spiritual tradition, predating Buddhism. Visiting here offers insight into Kailash’s importance across different faiths.

Chandragiri Temple sits on a hilltop with views of the Himalayan range. Pilgrims reach it by cable car and visit the temple to pray. It is a peaceful stop before the main part of the yatra begins.

Charan Sparsh is a spot near the base of Mount Kailash. Pilgrims walk close to the mountain to touch the “feet” of Lord Shiva. It is a moment of deep prayer and personal connection.

Overlooking Lake Mansarovar, Chiu Monastery is believed to be built around the meditation cave of Guru Rinpoche. The site offers sweeping lake views and a quiet place for reflection.

Yam Dwar is the gateway to the Kailash Parikrama. It is known as the “Gateway of the God of Death.” Passing through it marks the beginning of the sacred walk around Mount Kailash.

Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most important temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located in Kathmandu on the banks of the Bagmati River. Many pilgrims visit here to pray before starting the yatra.

Swayambhunath Stupa is a Buddhist site also known as the Monkey Temple. It stands on a hill and offers views of the Kathmandu Valley. The stupa symbolises harmony and the start of spiritual awareness.

A small town in Tibet, Taklakot is often the first major stop after crossing the Nepal–Tibet border. It serves as a rest and acclimatisation point before heading to Lake Mansarovar. Local markets and ancient monastery ruins add interest.

Mount Kailash is considered the home of Lord Shiva. Pilgrims come here from all over the world to see the sacred mountain. Walking around Kailash is believed to bring spiritual blessings.