Each year, thousands of individuals participate in the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. The Yatra takes you to Tibet's remote western region, home of the revered Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar. You won't need to go on a high-altitude walk to get to Mansarovar Lake, but you still need to be aware of and prepared for the altitude. Many people dream of traveling on this spiritual journey which also includes the High-Altitude circulation of Mount Kailash also regarded as Kora. To succeed, pilgrims must plan properly and get ready both before and after enrolling for the yatra. Kailash Kora is difficult and requires expert direction.
The Holy Kailash Mansarovar Yatra entails some challenging terrain at higher altitudes as well as occasionally extreme weather events. Once you've decided to devote Kailash, there is no turning back. You must be ready to face Mother Nature's risky attitude and be prepared for extreme conditions. This article will guide you on how to get prepared for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra so that you can travel in comfort and safety.
Research and Planning
Doing in-depth research on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is the first step in getting ready for it. You should become knowledgeable about the essential permissions, the terrain, the altitude, the weather, and the travel requirements. Also, you should do some study on the ideal times to go, the travel options, the lodging possibilities, and the regional traditions and customs.
Planning your itinerary should begin after you have completed your study. You should choose the route you wish to take, the length of your trip, and the destinations you want to see. To minimize any last-minute headaches, you should also reserve your flights, lodging, and transportation in advance.
Physical Fitness
It might be physically taxing to travel and circulate (Kora) at the high heights of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. So, it is commanding to be physically well and strong before beginning the Yatra. Start working out and getting ready for the trip at least three to four months in advance. To increase your stamina and endurance, concentrate on cardiovascular exercises like jogging, cycling, and swimming. To increase your strength and flexibility, you should also engage in strength training activities like bodyweight exercises and weightlifting.
Before beginning any workout program, it is highly advised that you speak with your doctor, especially if you have any underlying medical issues. Your doctor can give you advice on any safety measures you should take and any medications you should carry.
Mental Preparation
You need to mentally prepare for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. There are several factors to take into account. You must have a thorough understanding of the geography, altitude, accommodation options, food selections, etc. Travelers will have a terrible time if they are not aware and mentally prepared for the yatra. Pilgrims must mentally train before and throughout the yatra by engaging in activities like yoga, meditation, etc.
Altitude Sickness
Traveling to high altitudes during the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra can result in altitude sickness. The shortage of oxygen at high altitudes causes the common symptom of altitude sickness. Altitude sickness symptoms include headache, nausea, vertigo, exhaustion, and shortness of breath.
You should gradually acclimate yourself to the high altitude if you want to avoid getting altitude sickness. Maintaining hydration, abstaining from alcohol and cigarettes, and eating light, easily digestible foods are all recommended. Also, you must travel with AMS medication, like Diamox, and take it as prescribed by your doctor.
Packing Essentials
A comfortable and secure journey to Kailash Mansarovar depends on having the correct essentials packed. Pack layers of warm gear, including thermals, jackets, gloves, and socks. To shield yourself from the sun and wind, you should also pack a pair of durable trekking shoes, a hat, and sunglasses.
A first-aid kit, a water bottle, a headlamp, a power bank, a camera, and a trekking pole are additional necessities. Moreover, make sure you have all the required paperwork with you, including your passport, visa, permits, and travel insurance.
Cultural Sensitivity
Since the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a spiritual trek, it's important to observe the regional traditions and customs. You ought to wear cover-ups and dress modestly. Also, you should take off your shoes before entering any places of worship and should refrain from touching any holy artifacts or materials.
Also, keep in mind the traditions and culture of the area. You ought to smile when you welcome locals and respect their cultural practices and beliefs. Avoid any conduct that could be interpreted as disrespectful or offensive.
Travel Insurance
Any overseas trip, including the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, requires travel insurance. You should buy travel insurance that includes evacuation, trip cancellation, baggage loss or delay, and medical emergencies. It's important to properly study the policy and comprehend the coverage and exclusions but make sure that you won't be prey in rescue scams.
One of the challenging routes for visitors is the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Travel insurance is primarily for the trip because this Yatra is reputed to be among the hardest in high-altitude terrain. Planning insurance that meets all standards is a must.
Currency Exchange
The Chinese Yuan is used as the native currency in Tibet, and it might be difficult to exchange foreign currencies in isolated places. Thus, it is advised to bring along enough Chinese Yuan in cash to cover any unforeseen expenses you may incur while traveling. As a backup, you have to always have a credit or debit card that may be used abroad.
To gain a general understanding of the payment system and a sense of how much cash you should bring, work with travel agents in advance. You will often finish paying for your Yatra as soon as you get to Kathmandu. Foreigners and NRIs may pay in USD, while Indian pilgrims may pay in INR.
Language and Communication
It can be difficult to interact with natives in Tibet because English is not a language that is frequently spoken during Yatra. As a result, it is advised to learn some fundamental Chinese words and phrases and travel with a phrasebook or translation tool. To stay connected and use navigational tools or translation apps, you should carry a local SIM card with a data plan.
Travel agencies will connect you with English-speaking Tibetan guides who can answer your questions, while Nepalese guides and sherpas can assist you with your needs and assist with coordinate while you travel.
Food and Water
It is important to use caution when choosing what you eat and drink in Tibet because the food and water may not be suitable for everyone. Use only bottled or heated water and avoid drinking tap water. Also, stay away from undercooked or raw food and only eat freshly prepared meals.
Every tourist will reserve a spot on the Kailash Yatra through a travel agency or the government, and travel operators will oversee your access to food and water during the Yatra. You should ask about the food and services offered by the agency while selecting it. Also, you will have vegetarian meals that are hygienic for your health and in some areas, the cooks are organized by the operators.
Environmental Responsibility
Due to the remoteness and fragility of the area where the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is taking place, environmental responsibility is crucial. Pilgrims should avoid leaving behind trash and properly dispose of their garbage. Also, you must respect and keep your distance from the native flora and fauna. Use eco-friendly products as well, including reusable cloth bags and reusable water bottles.
In order to preserve the environment, taking a dip at Mansarovar Lake is also forbidden. Visitors are also advised not to throw away their clothing into the lake, and taking a bath with soap is not recommended at all. Because Mansarovar Lake is sacred to four different religions, visitors must behave properly.
Conclusion
Careful planning, preparation, and research are necessary to get ready for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Fitness, avoiding altitude sickness, carrying the essentials, cultural sensitivity, travel insurance, currency conversion, language, and communication skills, food and water, and environmental responsibility should all be top priorities. By adhering to these rules, you can go to Kailash Mansarovar in safety and comfort and get the most out of your spiritual experience.
