Ten Common Mistakes in the Kailash Yatra: Travel Guide for First-Time Pilgrims to Avoid Mistakes
Amrit K. AryalAre you planning to go to Kailash for the first time in 2026 and wondering how to avoid common mistakes in the Kailash Yatra? Travelling above 5,000m for the first time can be a daunting experience, as many unwanted incidents can occur, and you want to avoid them. Your hands will be cold, and your chest will rise with nervousness.
Ignorance and silliness will create some mistakes that are necessary to overcome during the Kailash Kora. Dekh lenge, chalega, herdai jau, j parcha tei tarcha, let’s see are some common phrases heard before the Kora starts, but soon they will realise the mistakes they made. Nature is looking at you to see how you follow the rules of nature.
This blog will make you aware of some mistakes pilgrims might make as first-time travellers to Kailash and also help you get some tips to avoid and solve them.
Ten Common mistakes in the Kailash yatra
Starting Kailash Yatra Without Preparation
Kailash Yatra is not a regular vacation trip you plan immediately. This is not a trip like going to Manali, Goa or Pokhara. The biggest mistake people make is that they reach Nepalgunj or Kathmandu without fitness preparation. This will show the result in the first hour of Parikrama.
How to Stay Healthy?
Start walking daily at least one month before your journey to Kailash. Get your health checkup regularly. Your fitness and stamina to walk 52 KM in the next three days matter a lot. At the end of the processing, you need to submit your fitness certificate.
Booking Mistakes in Kailash Yatra 2025
Experience teaches us a lot of things, too. Pilgrims made some Kailash Mansarovar yatra mistakes back in 2025 that we can learn from. People made late bookings and later cried about the price. Many of them made the booking with a cheap package and later found there was no oxygen support, nor was a proper jacket provided. Some package tours were not even provided with an experienced guide. The cheaper package became expensive for many reasons.
How to Avoid Booking Mistakes?
You need to check the agency’s history. Check their return and cancellation policy and ask for route details. Make sure about the arrangements on the Tibetan side. Cheaper packages might come with additional costs. Do not jump on cheaper Kailash Yatra booking mistakes.
Packing Mistakes for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
Travelling to the mountains of Tibet is not a fashionable thing. People bring fashionable clothes and forget to bring thermal inner clothes. Pilgrims bring sandals but forget thick trekking socks. Often, women bring their cosmetics, keeping their sunscreen cream at home.
How to Avoid Packing Mistakes?
Choosing wrong items is a common Kailash Mansarovar Yatra mistakes many pilgrims make. Prepare a list of the items you need during your trek to Kailash Tour. Your list must include warm layers, gloves, wollen hat. A pair of good trekking boots is a must. Get a headlamp with extra batteries, a rain poncho and some snacks for the journey. This is a place to stay healthy and complete the Kora, not a place to show your fashion sense.
Ignoring Altitude Sickness
Yes, altitude sickness exists in the Kailash Yatra. Many of the pilgrims seem to ignore the symptoms. They pretend as if they are fine. But later, they pay a heavy fine. Mountains are not a place to show your ego. This is a place for dedication and devotion. There is no place for ego in the mountains.
Try a gentler approach
Stay hydrated and move slowly. Ask the doctor if Diamox can be used in case of an emergency. Keep some oxygen cans for emergencies. Taking food rich in carbohydrates provides enough calories for your trek to help avoid altitude sickness, too.
Jumping into the Mansarovar Ritual
It is the dream of every pilgrim to take a bath in Lake Mansarovar. Diving directly into the cold water after a long drive could hit the vital organs, such as the chest and make you fall sick. Wait for some minutes. Let your body calm down and rinse your body with the water using a bucket and a jug. You can also take some photos for memories. Do not dare to take photographs in the restricted area. Be aware of the security personnel in Tibet.
A calmer Choice
After a long hour, sit calmly near the water. Start by touching the water and testing the temperature. Also, you must be sure about the photographic zone. Know about the restricted zones, such as army camps.
Inner Kora Without Outer Kora
Among Kailash Mansarovar yatra mistakes, some pilgrims show their courage and want to show bravery to do the inner Kora without doing the outer Kora. The inner Kora is riskier and must not be tried without the outer Kora. It is said that you will be eligible for the inner Kora only after doing the outer Kora multiple times.
A Wiser Step
First-time Kailash yatra tips are to start from the outer Kora. Completing the outer Kora will prepare you physically, mentally and spiritually to face the challenges of the intense inner Kora. The body will learn acclamatization and the spirit settles.
Women Ignoring Periods During Kailash Kora
Many women pilgrims avoid talking about periods during Kailash Kora. Periods during your high altitude can make you uncomfortable during your Kailash Kora. Most of the women hide this information from the team and guide. There could be some issues with bleeding, cramping and body ache.
Choosing a Kinder Option for Yourself:
To avoid these Common mistakes in the Kailash yatra, please carry enough menstrual pads or menstrual cups. Many Westerners prefer tampons, too. Always inform your guide about any physical issues you are facing. This will help them to prepare accordingly. Get rest if cramps hit you strongly.
Food Mistakes
It is a good idea to avoid non-vegetarian items, but many pilgrims wish to fast during the Kailash Kora. They skip meals for reasons. They assume the food is bland, and some do this for religious and spiritual purposes.
A Healthier Choice
This is a bad idea. As you skip a meal, your energy drops, which might create various health issues. Eat simple meals without spices, such as rice, lentil soups, and tsampa. dal rice. There are some good restaurants in the Ngari prefecture of Tibet. Keep some dry fruits and chocolates with you that might be handy during the Kora.
Wrong Expectations About Helicopter vs Land Route
A helicopter ride is faster but not a royal ride. The weather is not consistent, and flight delays are frequent. The land route is long, but is more scenic. You get enough time for a gradual ascent for acclimatisation.
A Realistic Mindset:
The VIP feeling of riding a helicopter is royal, but many regret it later. The helicopter ride is only available within the borders of Nepal. Choose your ride wisely as per your budget and match your health, not ego or pride.
Ignoring the Age Limit and Health
For Kailash Yatra 2026, the age limit is usually above 10 and below 70. But a man of 73 was seen completing Kora, and a mother was carrying a child under 5 on her back. It’s not the age that matters, it’s the willpower and the health condition which play an important role in completing the Kailash Kora.
A Safer Choice
As you get older, some physical challenges hit the body. Old age might demand regular medications and regular health checkups. Be honest with your doctor and travel agent in Tibet. Discuss your health every day with your guides. Better walk slowly and avoid physical exhaustion.
Conclusion
Kailash does not punish or take revenge. It only reflects whatever you bring with you. Some mistakes can be neglected, but not all. These minor and major mistakes can be avoided if you prepare well and stay humble. Respect the rules of nature. Every step you take at high altitude feels like your heart is walking ahead of your feet. Think ahead and communicate well with the team members or your guide during the trek. Early from avoiding Kailash Yatra booking mistakes, make sure to plan ahead for the items you need during the trek. With some smart moves, before and during the Kailash Trek, you can easily tackle some common mistakes in the Kailash yatra.
FAQs
Expand AllWhat should first-time pilgrims avoid during Kailash Yatra?
When first visiting Kailash, avoid rushing and pushing your body when your breath feels tight. Plan for packing your bag, avoiding overpacking.
Can I do Kailash Mansarovar Yatra without training?
It’s possible if you are physically fit. Without some walking practice, there could be some hindrances to climbing the rocky hills in the Dolma La Pass and surviving the thin air of Kailash Parvat. It is recommended to walk daily and practice breathing yog regularly.
How to prevent AMS during the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?
Preparing for walking slowly every day. Drink enough water during your Kailash yatra and eat dietary foods to keep you energetic throughout the Kailash Kora. observe tiny symptoms your body shows and discuss them with your guide.
What are the most common packing mistakes for Kailash Yatra?
The most common Kailash Mansarovar yatra mistakes are packing wrong clothes or wrong shoes. People often pack cosmetics, forgetting sunscreen and gloves. A lot of people neglect packing the first aid kit.
Why are cheap Kailash Mansarovar packages risky in 2025?
The cheap packages compromise a lot of quality and health risks. Such deals cut things you actually need. Even the oxygen supplies might be cut off. The guides are less trained, and the food quality and sanitation are compromised. Is the name of saving few bucks, you might lose more later.
Is it safe to do the Kailash Yatra during the monsoon?
It is considered safe to do the Kailash trek during rain if you are ready for rain and slippery trails. The trail is we, so do your clothes. Carry extra pairs of clothes, waterproof jackets and rain coats. Stay hydrated and walk slowly.
When should I start taking Diamox for Kailash Yatra?
Ask your doctor first. Only if he permits, start by taking half a tablet 24 hours before the Kora starts.
Will I get proper vegetarian food during Kailash Mansarovar?
Yes, there is a choice for both vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian meals during the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Bringing some chocolates and dry food during your Kora will be helpful.
Which is better for first timers: helicopter or overland?
A helicopter ride is quicker but can be affected by the weather. On the other hand, overland is slow but steady and provides more time for body to get used to the changing climate and height. Both routes have pros and cons. Choose your route and vehicle wisely.
Can I do Inner Kora in first Kailash Yatra?
Not really. The inner Kora is tougher and riskier. Completing the outer Kora multiple times will teach your body to adjust to the height and make your legs used to the high rocky trails.
What is the maximum age for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2025?
The age limit for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is 70 years. But, if your health permits, then you can complete the Kora under the supervision of doctors and family members.
Are drones and photography allowed at Kailash and Mansarovar?
You need to have special permits for taking drone shots. But you can take normal photographs with your camera. But watch out for the restricted zones. Ask the locals and your guides to confirm the rules and regulations about photography.
Can women go on Kailash Yatra during menstruation?
Yes, they can unless their health allows them. Carry menstruation pads and stay gentle during painful periods. Get help from your guide and team members if needed. There is no cultural ban on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
Is it safe to do Kailash Mansarovar Yatra alone?
Not a question. The Chinese government does not allow solo travellers for the Kailash yatra. You need to get a visa and permits in a group applied for by a registered tour operator in Tibet.
What happens if my Kailash Yatra gets cancelled?
Every agency has its own policy. Always read the return and cancellation policy before making the purchase of the package. The return policy depends on the cause of the cancellation.
Do I need to carry personal oxygen for Kailash Parikrama?
A small emergency canister might help but how long? Use it only if your chest tightens too much. For a serious case, you will need immediate medical backup.
Related blog posts
Discover a choice of tourist destinations loved by most of our visitors. Whether you're on a jungle safari to spot rare animals or walking through a world heritage site, these well-planned itineraries cover the major highlights of Nepal.
call an expert at: