New Delhi: Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar are not just geographical wonders of the world; they are symbols of enchantment and spirituality that have fascinated people for centuries. This sacred region is more than just a physical destination—it represents a legend that transcends time and culture. The good news is that India and China have mutually decided to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra this summer after five years of restrictions on flights and the Yatra.
Both countries have agreed in principle to restore direct flights, as the two sides announced several measures to ‘rebuild’ bilateral ties two-and-a-half months after their militaries completed the disengagement of troops in eastern Ladakh.
“In this context, the two sides decided to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in the summer of 2025; the relevant mechanism will discuss the modalities for doing so as per existing agreements,” the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated in an official statement on 28 January 2025.
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2025
Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar hold a special place in the hearts and minds of people across Asia. These two landmarks are deeply cherished by followers of various religions, including Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism, and the Bon tradition in Tibet. They are seen not only as natural marvels but as spiritual hubs that connect people to the divine.
For people in Asia, particularly in India, Mount Kailash is not an ordinary mountain peak. Its unique shape inspires many to believe it is the home of Lord Shiva in Hinduism, while Lake Manasarovar is regarded as a source of purity and salvation. The surroundings also inspire devotees to undertake this pilgrimage at least once in their lifetime and experience its spiritual aura, which is believed to bring enlightenment.
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Costs for Indians
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra as well as direct flights between India and China were suspended in 2020. However, this year, both countries have decided to resume flights for Indian passport holders.
Any Indian citizen holding a valid passport, aged between 18 and 70 years as of 1 January 2025, with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 27 or less, who is physically fit and medically healthy, is eligible to undertake the Yatra for religious purposes. There are additional eligibility criteria for people wishing to travel, which they must fulfil to be eligible to take the flight.
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra cost
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra expense for an Indian traveller is around Rs 1,40,000-1,50,000.
Below is a breakdown of additional costs, as per the official website of the MEA:
| S.No. | Amount | Details of Expenditure |
| 1 | Rs 32,000 | KMVN Fees: Out of this, a non-refundable sum of Rs 5,000/- by bank demand draft payable in Delhi in favour of ‘Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam Limited’ is to be submitted to confirm participation in the Yatra. A balance of Rs 27,000/- is payable on arrival in Delhi to begin the Yatra. |
| 2 | Rs 2,400 | Chinese visa fee. |
| 3 | Rs 3,100 | Payable in cash or by bank demand draft to ‘Delhi Heart and Lung Institute’ for medical tests. |
| 4 | Rs 2,500 | Payable for Stress Echo Test, if required by the medical authority. |
| 5 | Rs 48,861 | Payable to Chinese authorities in Tibet for lodging; meals at Taklakot; transportation, including charges for transporting baggage and hiring of horse/pony at Lipulekh Pass; entry tickets for Kailash, Mansarovar and Kejia Temple. It includes Rs 61 (US $1) towards the immigration fee. |
| 6 | Rs 8,904 | Porter charges for both ways on India’s side (subject to revision by Uttarakhand Government). |
| 7 | Rs 10,666 | Pony with Pony Handler for both ways on the Indian side (subject to revision by Uttarakhand Government). |
| 8 | RMB 360 (Rs 3,600 approx.) | Porter, for both ways, is on the Chinese side (subject to revision by Tibetan authorities). |
| 9 | RMB 1,050 (Rs 10,500 approx) | Pony with Pony Handler for both ways on the Chinese side (subject to revision by Tibetan authorities). |
| 10 | Rs 2,000 | Contribution to Pool Money for group activities. |
| 11 | Other expenses (Rs 20,000 approx.) | Expenditure on cooks in Tibet, clothing, food stores, and other items required for the Yatra. |
The official website of the Ministry of External Affairs is updating the rules and regulations for the Yatra to ensure its smooth conduct and to prevent the spread of false information. Prospective pilgrims can easily download the application form from the MEA website and submit the necessary fees and documentation for quick participation.
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