• Himalayan Eco-Culture Treks & Research Expeditions
Mansarovar Pilgrimage Tour

Mansarovar Pilgrimage Tour

Mansarovar is a high-altitude freshwater lake located near the Kailash Mountain in Tibet. It is one of the most revered and sacred lakes in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon religions. Here are some key features and descriptions of Mansarovar:

Geographic and Physical Characteristics

  • Location: Situated in the Tibet Autonomous Region, China, near the base of Mount Kailash.
  • Altitude: Approximately 4,590 meters (15,060 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world.
  • Area: Covers an area of about 320 square kilometers.
  • Depth: The lake reaches a maximum depth of around 90 meters.

Cultural and Religious Significance

  • Hinduism: Believed to be the residence of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Pilgrims undertake the arduous journey to bathe in the sacred waters, which is believed to cleanse sins and bring spiritual merit.
  • Buddhism: Considered a place where Buddha meditated, and it is associated with numerous legends. It holds significant spiritual value and attracts many Buddhist pilgrims.
  • Jainism: Associated with the first Tirthankara, Rishabhadeva, who is said to have attained Nirvana here.
  • Bon Religion: The lake is also considered holy in the indigenous Bon religion of Tibet.

Scenic Beauty

  • Surroundings: The lake is surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Himalayas, including Mount Kailash, which is often snow-capped and adds to the serene beauty of the region.
  • Water: Known for its crystal-clear blue water that reflects the surrounding mountains, creating a picturesque and tranquil environment.
    Accessibility
  • Travel: Reaching Mansarovar is challenging due to its high altitude and remote location. Pilgrims and travelers often trek or use off-road vehicles to navigate the rugged terrain.
  • Permits: Visitors usually require special permits from the Chinese government to access the region.

Flora and Fauna

  • Wildlife: The region around Mansarovar is home to various wildlife species, including Tibetan antelope, wild yaks, and numerous bird species.
  • Vegetation: Due to the high altitude and harsh climate, vegetation is sparse, primarily consisting of alpine plants and grasses.

Mansarovar is a place of immense spiritual importance and natural beauty, drawing pilgrims and adventurers from around the world despite the challenging journey required to reach it.

Mansarovar Activity according to Itinerary 

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

  • Description: Arrive in Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. Transfer to your hotel and check in. You can visit the famous Pashupatinath Temple in the evening and enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner.
  • Activities: City tour, temple visit.
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing

  • Description: After breakfast, visit the Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) and Boudhanath Stupa. In the afternoon, there will be a trip briefing and preparations for the journey ahead.
  • Activities: Sightseeing, trip briefing.
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 3: Fly to Lhasa

  • Description: Take a scenic flight to Lhasa, the spiritual heart of Tibet. Upon arrival, acclimatize to the high altitude and transfer to your hotel.
  • Activities: Flight, acclimatization.
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Lhasa.

Day 4: Lhasa Sightseeing

  • Description: Explore the historical and cultural sites of Lhasa, including the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street.
  • Activities: Sightseeing.
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Lhasa.

Day 5: Lhasa to Shigatse

  • Description: Drive to Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city. Visit the Tashilhunpo Monastery, the seat of the Panchen Lama.
  • Activities: Drive, monastery visit.
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Shigatse.

Day 6: Shigatse to Saga

  • Description: Continue your journey to Saga, a small town located on the banks of the Brahmaputra River. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes along the way.
  • Activities: Drive, scenic views.
  • Accommodation: Guesthouse in Saga.

Day 7: Saga to Lake Mansarovar

  • Description: Drive to Lake Mansarovar, a sacred lake considered holy by Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains. Perform rituals and enjoy the serene environment.
  • Activities: Drive, rituals.
  • Accommodation: Guesthouse near Lake Mansarovar.

Day 8: Lake Mansarovar to Darchen

  • Description: In the morning, take a holy dip in the lake and then drive to Darchen, the base camp for the Kailash Kora (circumambulation).
  • Activities: Rituals, drive.
  • Accommodation: Guesthouse in Darchen.

Day 9: Kailash Kora – Darchen to Dirapuk

  • Description: Start the Kailash Kora with a trek from Darchen to Dirapuk. The trek offers stunning views of Mount Kailash.
  • Activities: Trekking.
  • Accommodation: Guesthouse in Dirapuk.

Day 10: Kailash Kora – Dirapuk to Zuthulpuk

  • Description: Continue the trek from Dirapuk to Zuthulpuk, crossing the Dolma La Pass, the highest point of the trek.
  • Activities: Trekking.
  • Accommodation: Guesthouse in Zuthulpuk.

Day 11: Kailash Kora – Zuthulpuk to Darchen

  • Description: Complete the Kora by trekking back to Darchen. Celebrate the completion of the pilgrimage.
  • Activities: Trekking, celebration.
  • Accommodation: Guesthouse in Darchen.

Day 12: Darchen to Saga

  • Description: Retrace your steps and drive back to Saga. Enjoy the scenic drive and reflect on your journey.
  • Activities: Drive, reflection.
  • Accommodation: Guesthouse in Saga.

Day 13: Saga to Shigatse

  • Description: Drive back to Shigatse, with more opportunities to enjoy the breathtaking Tibetan landscapes.
  • Activities: Drive, sightseeing.
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Shigatse.

Day 14: Shigatse to Lhasa

  • Description: Return to Lhasa and spend the evening at leisure. You can do some last-minute shopping or simply relax.
  • Activities: Drive, leisure time.
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Lhasa.

Day 15: Fly to Kathmandu

  • Description: Take a flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy a farewell dinner.
  • Activities: Flight, farewell dinner.
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 16: Departure

  • Description: After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure flight. Carry home the memories of a lifetime.
  • Activities: Departure.

What is the best time to visit Mansarovar???

The best time to visit Mansarovar is during the summer months from May to September. Here’s why:

Weather Conditions:

  • May to September: The weather is relatively mild and pleasant, making it the most suitable time for travel. Temperatures range from 10°C to 25°C during the day and can drop to near freezing at night.
  • June to August: This period is also the best for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Despite occasional rain, the conditions are generally favorable for trekking and sightseeing.
  • September: The early part of this month still offers good weather before the onset of colder temperatures.

Accessibility:

  • Road Conditions: Roads are more accessible and less prone to closures due to snow or landslides.
  • Permits: Easier to obtain permits for travel during this peak season.

Pilgrimage Considerations:

  • Festivals: Important religious festivals such as Saga Dawa, celebrating the birth of Buddha, take place during this period, attracting many pilgrims.

Recommendations:

  • Clothing: Pack layers, including warm clothing for the night, waterproof jackets for possible rain, and comfortable trekking shoes.
  • Altitude Sickness: Be prepared for high altitudes by acclimatizing properly and carrying necessary medications.

Traveling to Mansarovar outside of these months, especially in winter (October to April), is not recommended due to harsh weather conditions, extreme cold, and the closure of routes.