Well Nepal Travel and Treks Pvt Ltd offers an exclusive Pilgrimage Kailash Mansarovar Tour Package for USA (NRI) Citizens from Kathmandu, Nepal. We offer Overland Kailash Mansarovar Tour Package, Kailash Mansarovar Express Tour, and Kailash Mansarovar Tour From Lhasa as well.
Planning a Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Tour Package from the USA ( America)
Embarking on the sacred Kailash Mansarovar Tour Package from the USA is both exciting and challenging. Since you’ll be travelling halfway across the world—into one of the most remote and spiritually powerful regions—careful preparation is essential. From arranging permits and visas to understanding routes, fitness requirements, and cultural expectations, every detail matters.
At the heart of this pilgrimage stands Mount Kailash (6,638 m / 21,778 ft), located in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. Revered across religions, it is considered Lord Shiva’s abode in Hinduism, the centre of the universe in Buddhism, the site of liberation in Jainism, and a sacred mountain in the Bon tradition. Nearby lies Lake Mansarovar, one of the world's highest freshwater lakes. Participating in the 52 km Kailash Parikrama (circumambulation) or simply touching the waters of Mansarovar is believed to cleanse past sins and bring about profound spiritual transformation.
For pilgrims travelling from the USA, this yatra is more than just a religious journey—it’s an adventure involving long-haul flights, high-altitude trekking, and extreme weather conditions. Yet, every year, thousands undertake it with devotion, faith, and the hope of experiencing something life-changing.
This guide covers everything you need to know—from routes and permits to costs, fitness preparation, and essential tips—so you can plan a smooth Kailash Mansarovar Yatra from the USA.
How to Travel from the USA (America) to Kailash Mansarovar ( Tibet)
Reaching Mount Kailash requires multiple steps, and choosing the correct route makes all the difference.
- Via Nepal (most popular and convenient)
- Fly from the USA to Kathmandu (no direct flights—connections are usually through Doha, Abu Dhabi, Istanbul, Delhi, or Singapore).
- From Kathmandu, you can choose:
- Overland route: Drive via the Nepal-Tibet border (Kyirung) and continue to Kailash.
- Helicopter route: Fly from Kathmandu → Nepalgunj → Simikot → Hilsa, then cross into Tibet.
- Lhasa extension: Add a side trip to Tibet’s cultural capital before heading toward Kailash.
- Via China
- Fly directly from the USA to Beijing, Chengdu, or other major Chinese cities.
- Take a connecting flight or train to Lhasa, then continue overland (or fly to Ngari Gunsa Airport) before driving to Kailash.
Each route has its pros and cons: the Nepal route is cheaper and offers flexibility, while the China route may save time but requires more permits and paperwork.
Visa and Permit Requirements for US Citizens
For US citizens, travelling to Kailash Mansarovar involves several layers of documentation:
- Chinese Tourist Visa (L Visa):
- Mandatory for all US travellers (unlike some European countries that get short-term visa exemptions).
- The application requires a passport, photos, travel itinerary, and bookings.
- Takes about 4 working days once submitted.
- Tibet Travel Permit (TTP):
- Required for all visitors to Tibet.
- Cannot be applied for individually—only through licensed travel agencies.
- Must be arranged at least 20 days before travel.
- Additional Permits:
- Alien’s Travel Permit (ATP) and Military Permit are required to enter Kailash Mansarovar and the surrounding areas.
- Your tour operator handles these.
Since independent travel in Tibet is not allowed, you must join a guided group tour (minimum 4 people). Booking with a trusted operator ensures all visa and permit formalities are handled smoothly.
Cost of Kailash Mansarovar Tour Package for a USA Citizen
The total cost varies depending on the route, duration, and level of comfort:
- Budget packages: $4,250 – $5,550
- Luxury/premium packages: $6,750 – $9,100
- Standard group packages (from Nepal): $1,450 – $2,450 per person (excluding international airfare)
- Premium upgrades: $3,595 – $4,450 per person
Additional expenses include:
- International round-trip flights USA → Kathmandu ($1,000 – $1,500 depending on airline & season)
- Travel insurance ($100 – $300)
- Personal expenses, gear, and emergency funds
The cheapest option is the overland route via Nepal (14–16 days). The fastest, but most expensive, option is the helicopter route (10–12 days).
Essential Tips for USA Travellers
- Best time to go: April to October (stable weather; avoid winter months).
- Physical preparation: Train for at least 2–3 months in advance with hikes, cardio, and strength training to prepare for high-altitude trekking.
- Travel insurance: Must cover medical emergencies and high-altitude evacuation.
- Avoid restricted items: Do not carry materials related to the Dalai Lama.
- Currency: Exchange US dollars into Nepalese Rupees (NPR) for Nepal and Chinese Yuan (CNY) for Tibet. ATMs may not work reliably.
- Pack wisely: Warm clothing, sturdy trekking boots, personal medication, energy snacks, and water purification tablets.
FAQs: Kailash Mansarovar Yatra from the USA
- Are there direct flights from the USA to Nepal?
No. All flights are via Middle Eastern or Asian hubs. - What is the easiest route?
The Nepal helicopter route is the easiest and safest option, but it is also the most expensive. The overland route is budget-friendly, but it is longer. - How long does the trip take?
- Helicopter route: 10–12 days
- Overland via Nepal: 14–16 days
- Lhasa route: 12–15 days
- Can I travel solo?
No. Independent travel in Tibet is not allowed. You must join a guided group tour. - Can non-Hindus visit?
Yes. People from all religions are welcome to visit Mount Kailash. - What’s the age limit?
Travellers above 80 are not permitted for safety reasons.