Check eligibility for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

Many travellers search for how to go to Kailash Mansarovar, but the first step before planning is checking if you are eligible for the journey. 

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra takes you through long road drives, high mountain passes and altitudes that cross 4,500 metres and reach up to 5,600 metres during the parikrama. Because of these conditions, the authorities in Nepal, Tibet and India follow strict rules for who can apply, travel and complete the yatra.

Below is a simple and clear guide to understand the eligibility for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.

General Eligibility

First of all, a traveller must hold a valid passport and should be medically fit to handle high-altitude travel 

Most yatris who search how to go to Kailash Mansarovar start their journey either from Kathmandu or through the Uttarakhand border, but entry into Tibet is possible only after group permits and visa clearance. Travellers are usually accepted up to the age of 70.

In some cases, people above 70 years are also considered, but they must follow extra conditions set by the Chinese authorities. These include full medical tests, a fitness certificate, travelling with a family member, and a refundable security amount. These rules change from time to time, so travellers should always check the latest update before booking.

Age Requirements

The accepted age group for most departures is between 12 and 70 years. Young children below 12 often find it hard to adapt to the altitude, and people above 70 are allowed only after strict checks. If someone above 60 wants to complete the Kailash parikrama, the final decision is taken by officers in Lhasa and Darchen.

This is important because the route involves steep climbs and long walking hours at an altitude above 18,000 ft during Dolma La. This is one of the highest points of the entire Kailash region.

Physical Fitness

Even if you walk daily or stay healthy, altitude affects everyone differently and it doesn’t make you fit for the journey 

Many travellers who ask how to go to Kailash Mansarovar are surprised to know that even simple movements feel tiring above 4,000 metres.

Before the trip, a doctor must confirm that you are fit for this kind of travel. During the journey, if you feel headache, dizziness or breathlessness, you must slow down and inform the guide. The body needs time to adjust, and pushing yourself when the oxygen level is low can be risky. Guides have the right to stop a traveller from continuing if health issues appear.

Medical Background

Travellers must share correct medical information. Conditions like asthma, heart issues, COPD, recent surgery or serious joint problems require special review. Many camps and checkpoints also reassess your condition during the trip. Hiding a medical issue can put your life at risk once you enter the Tibetan plateau, where hospitals are limited and far apart.

Mental Readiness

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a long journey with unpredictable weather, slow travel and limited facilities. Mental strength is as important as physical fitness. Long drives, sudden changes in plans and simple stay arrangements are part of the experience.

Financial Preparation

Understanding the total cost is also part of eligibility. Apart from the package, there are other expenses like flight tickets, insurance, porter/mule charges, extra nights due to weather, and medical evacuation if needed. High-altitude rescue can be costly. Travellers should keep a buffer amount beyond their main package cost.

Understanding the Risks

Before joining the trip, read all booking terms and cancellation rules. Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026 depends strongly on weather, road conditions and government policies. Helicopter routes especially face delays. Sometimes trips are postponed or cancelled for safety reasons. Travellers must accept these conditions before confirming their booking.

Knowing how to go to Kailash Mansarovar is only the second step. The first step is knowing if your health, age and readiness match the demands of the journey. 

Once you cross that stage, the experience becomes meaningful. With proper checks and the right guidance the yatra becomes a smooth experience for everyone.