Golden Buddha Nepal Tours 2025-09-16
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a sacred journey, but it requires careful planning, as Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar are located in Tibet under Chinese administration. Independent travel is not permitted; all visas and permits must be processed through authorized tour operators. With all paperwork arranged in advance, pilgrims can focus fully on the spiritual experience.
All pilgrims must obtain a Chinese Group Visa, as individual visas or on-arrival options are not accepted. The visa is applied collectively by your tour operator through the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu.
Documents Required:
Original passport, valid for at least 6 months from travel date
Two recent passport-sized photographs
Completed visa application form
Proof of tour booking with an authorized operator
Processing Time: Typically 3–5 working days, depending on embassy schedules and peak travel periods.
2. Tibet Travel Permit (TTP)
The Tibet Travel Permit (TTP) is mandatory to enter Tibet. Only registered tour operators can apply on behalf of pilgrims. Entry into Tibet without this permit is strictly prohibited.
Processing Time: Usually 5–7 days after approval of the Chinese Group Visa.
3. Alien Travel Permit (ATP) & Restricted Area Permits
For travel beyond Lhasa, including Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar, an Alien Travel Permit (ATP) is required. Some regions along the route may also require Military Permits or special clearances, all of which are arranged by your tour operator.
Tip: Permits are limited and in high demand. Booking your Yatra 1–2 months in advance is strongly recommended.
A. Yatra from Nepal
Many pilgrims begin the journey from Kathmandu, Nepal, which offers scenic Himalayan views and Tibetan villages along the route.
Required Permits:
Nepal Tourist Visa (available on arrival for most nationalities, including Indians)
Chinese Group Visa (applied through operator at Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu)
Tibet Travel Permit (TTP)
Alien Travel Permit (ATP) & Military Permit for restricted areas
B. Visa Requirements for Indian Pilgrims
Indian travelers must obtain a Chinese Group Visa along with all necessary permits, either through licensed tour operators or the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) route. Independent travel is not allowed.
Documents Required:
Original passport, valid for at least 6 months beyond travel date
Two recent passport-sized photographs
Completed Chinese visa application form
Proof of tour booking with licensed operator or MEA-approved package
Health certificate (sometimes required for high-altitude travel.
All travelers must go through authorized tour operators; individual visas are not accepted.
Chinese Group Visa + Tibet Travel Permit (TTP) + Alien Travel Permit (ATP) are mandatory for entry and travel to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar.
Book your Yatra well in advance to avoid delays due to limited permits.
Health checks are recommended, given the high-altitude nature of the journey.
Embark on your spiritual journey to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar with complete peace of mind. Golden Buddha Nepal Tours and Travels brings years of expertise in organizing successful Kailash Yatras, ensuring your trip is safe, smooth, and spiritually enriching.
We take care of all the essential visas and permits, including Chinese Group Visa, Tibet Travel Permit (TTP), and Alien Travel Permit (ATP), so you can focus entirely on the pilgrimage. From paperwork to travel guidance, our team supports you at every step, making your sacred journey truly unforgettable.
Choose Golden Buddha Nepal Tours and Travels — where devotion meets seamless planning.
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