Main Attraction
Here are the main attractions of the Manimahesh Yatra from Bharmour and Hadsar. If you have extra time, consider visiting Khajjiar and Chamba Chugan as well.
Mount Kailash Darshan From Indian Soil | Lipulekh Pass | Registration | Uttarakhand Tourism
In an exclusive spiritual offering, Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam Ltd (KMVN) presents the 'Mount Kailash Darshan from Indian Soil' pilgrimage. This unique journey allows devotees to witness the sacred Mount Kailash from Indian territory, specifically from the Old Lipulekh Peak in the Pithoragarh district. Managed solely by KMVN, this pilgrimage offers Shiva devotees a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with the divine without having to leave India.
Mythology/History of Mount Kailash
In Hindu tradition, Mount Kailash is described as the home of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati . It is here that Shiva is believed to meditate in eternal bliss, embodying the powers of transformation, creation, and destruction. The mountain is not just a physical structure but a living symbol of moksha (liberation) and the ultimate destination of spiritual seekers. Hindus regard circumambulating Mount Kailash, known as performing a 'parikrama' or 'kora', as an act of immense religious merit, believed to cleanse sins and grant blessings from Shiva himself.
Mount Kailash is one of the Panch Kailash (the Five Kailash), which are revered as the holiest abodes of Shiva.
Mount Kailash is mentioned in various Hindu scriptures, including the Vedas, Puranas, and the Ramayana. The Skanda Purana describes the greatness of Mount Kailash in vivid detail, emphasizing its importance as the center of the world and the cosmic connection between the earth and heavens. It is also referred to in the Mahabharata, where it is said that the Pandavas, upon completing their earthly duties, ascended to Mount Kailash to attain liberation.
Getting There
WAY 1 : Kailash Mansarovar yatra via lipulekh pass
The pilgrimage is made comfortable and accessible through an exclusive helicopter service, the only way to view Mount Kailash via the new Lipulekh Pass. This modern route offers a seamless journey from Pithoragarh to Gunji, bypassing the traditional, arduous trekking paths.
Route Overview:
Starting Point : Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand
Helipad Transfer : From KMVN’s Tourist Rest House (TRH) in Pithoragarh to the helicopter helipad Gunji
Vehicle Drive : Gunji to Lipulekh Pass
WAY 2 : Mount Kailash Parikrama/Kora via Nepal
For devotees seeking to undertake the traditional 'kora' around Mount Kailash, an alternative route through Nepal is available. This option provides a comprehensive spiritual experience but involves more extensive planning and higher costs. Click here for more information
Route Overview:
Starting Point : Kathmandu, Nepal
Vehicle Drive : Kathmandu (Nepal) - Rasuwagadi(Nepal/China border) - Gyirong Town (China) - Selong (China)
Comparison of Mount Kailash Darshan Routes
| Feature | Mount Kailash Darshan from Lipulekh Pass (KMVN) | Traditional Kora via Nepal |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Point | Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand | Nepal Border (typically via the Nepalese side) |
| Route | Helicopter transfer from Pithoragarh to Gunji via Lipulekh Pass | Trek through Nepal to the Tibetan side, performing the full circumambulation (kora) |
| Duration | 5 Days | Typically 10-14 Days |
| Cost | INR 80,000 per person | INR 250,000 - 300,000 per person |
| Mode of Transport | Helicopter and Road Transport | Trekking on Foot, with some road transport |
| Permits & Visas | Special permits via KMVN, no international visa required | Chinese Visa and specific permits required, often booked through authorized tour operators |
| Group Travel | Organized group pilgrimage managed by KMVN | Organized group travel typically required, facilitated by travel agencies |
| Accommodation | Homestays and Tourist Rest Houses managed by KMVN | Teahouses and basic accommodations along the trekking route |
| Difficulty Level | Moderate – Helicopter access reduces trekking difficulty | High – Requires extensive trekking and physical endurance |
| Main Attractions | Mount Kailash view from Old Lipulekh Pass, Adi Kailash, Om Parvat | Full circumambulation (kora) of Mount Kailash, experiencing diverse landscapes and sacred sites |
| Permits and Security | Less complicated due to domestic route, but subject to KMVN regulations | More complicated due to India-China border sensitivities and geopolitical tensions |
Things to carry/know before you go
Before embarking on your journey, there are several essential items to carry and important things to know.
ID Card and Permit
Raincoat
Caps
Warm clothes
Hiking shoes
Thermal inners
Water bottle
Socks
Spare underwear
Medicines
Mufler
First Pilgrimage: October 2, 2024
The first group of pilgrims began their journey on October 2, 2024, and saw Mount Kailash on October 3. Along with Mount Kailash, pilgrims also visit holy places like Adi Kailash and Om Parvat, making it a deeply spiritual experience.
Registration Process
Documents Required for Mount Kailash Pilgrimage via Lipulekh Pass
To ensure a safe and smooth journey, several important documents are required for the 'Mount Kailash Darshan from Indian Soil' pilgrimage. These documents must be required in advance:
Medical Fitness Certificate : A certificate from a registered medical practitioner is needed, confirming that the pilgrim is physically fit to undertake the high-altitude journey.
Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) : A Police Clearance Certificate from the local police station is required to verify that the pilgrim has no criminal record.
Declaration Affidavit : Each pilgrim must submit a signed declaration affidavit, stating that they understand the risks and agree to follow KMVN guidelines.
After documents you need to submit these document to KMVN website and check the slot
Mount Kailash itinerary : Lipulekh Pass
This trip, organized only by KMVN, gives Shiva devotees a chance to connect with the divine without leaving India. Click here to apply
Arrive in Pithoragarh by evening and stay at KMVN's Tourist Rest House (TRH).
Inclusions: Evening snack, dinner, night stay, medical check-up.
162 km
Travel by road to the helipad and take a helicopter ride to Gunji. After arriving, transfer to a homestay.
Inclusions: Breakfast, lunch, evening snack, dinner, night stay, helicopter ride, road transport.
35 km
Visit the sacred Adi Kailash by road and return to Gunji by evening.
Inclusions: Breakfast, lunch, evening snack, dinner, night stay, sightseeing, road transport.
55 km
See Om Parvat and Old Lipulekh Pass, with stunning views of Mount Kailash from Indian soil.
Inclusions: Breakfast, lunch, evening snack, dinner, night stay, sightseeing, road transport.
Return to Pithoragarh by helicopter, concluding the pilgrimage.
Inclusions: Breakfast, helicopter ride, road transport.
About Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam Ltd (KMVN)
KMVN is a government body focused on developing the Kumaon region. They organize this pilgrimage and ensure everything is well planned. KMVN also manages tourist rest houses and promotes tourism in places like Nainital, Pindari, and Adi Kailash. They offer customized tours and support the local economy.
FAQ's
Yes, From recently opened Lipulekh Pass
107 KM
The Mount Kailash Darshan from Lipulekh Pass is a unique pilgrimage managed by Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam (KMVN), allowing devotees to witness Mount Kailash from Indian soil, specifically from the Old Lipulekh Peak in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand.
The first Mount Kailash Darshan pilgrimage was launched on October 2, 2024.
The pilgrimage takes 5 days to complete.
The cost for the pilgrimage is INR 80,000 per person.
Pilgrims are transported via helicopter between Pithoragarh and Gunji, with road transport used for the remaining parts of the journey.
No, the full kora requires crossing into Tibet (China), which can be done via Nepal. The cost for the kora is between INR 250,000 to 300,000 per person, and requires a Chinese visa and permits.
Mount Kailash is revered as the abode of Lord Shiva in Hinduism. It is considered the axis of the world and is believed to be the center of spiritual energy, making it a highly sacred site for devotees.
In addition to Mount Kailash, pilgrims also visit Adi Kailash and Om Parvat during the Lipulekh Pass pilgrimage.
Pilgrims should carry warm clothing, personal medicines, travel documents, and essential toiletries. It's also important to be prepared for high-altitude conditions.
Yes, the pilgrimage is organized in groups by KMVN, ensuring a coordinated and safe journey for all participants.
The Panch Kailash refers to five sacred abodes of Lord Shiva, including Mount Kailash, Adi Kailash, Kinnaur Kailash, Manimahesh Kailash, and Shikhar Kailash. Mount Kailash is considered the most important and holiest of the five.
For the Lipulekh Pass pilgrimage within India, special permits are arranged by KMVN. No international visa is required as it remains within Indian territory.
The pilgrimage is considered moderate in difficulty as it includes helicopter travel, minimizing the amount of trekking required.
You can register for the pilgrimage by filling out the application form available through KMVN’s official channels. The cost is INR 80,000 per person.