What are some valuable suggestions for taking a trip to Kailash Mansarovar?

If you are planning a trip to Kailash Mansarovar, then it could be a life-changing experience. Mount Kailash is not just a mountain; it is a place of worship that connects devotees and pilgrims from different religions. Believed by the Hindus to be the abode of Lord Shiva, it is a place that is holy, sacred and highly revered. The stunning landscape is just one of the attractions of the Yatra; this journey is more than a simple trip.

People sharing their Kailash Mansarovar Yatra personal experiences talk about how the journey is not just about the outside world, but about one’s inner journey as well. The spiritual connotations of the Kailash Yatra are based on Hindu philosophy, which believes that doing a ‘parikrama’ of Mount Kailash is going to wash away all the sins a person may have committed in past lives. The afterlife is something most devout Hindus believe in, and going to heaven is a desire they have in their hearts. Here are a few valuable tips and suggestions for anyone planning to go on the Yatra of a lifetime.

1. Go to the doctor: Anyone planning to embark on this journey should do so after taking express permission from the doctor. The journey will elevate one to high altitudes because Mount Kailash itself stands tall at 22,000 feet. As such, ensuring that one has the doctor’s permission and advice to do it is the best course of action. This is especially true for children and older people who wish to make the pilgrimage. In MEA route, there is a paid (by pilgrim) medical checkup & in Nepal route, one needs to submit a physical fitness certificate from any MBBS doctor on its letterhead.
2. Keep medicines handy: If you have medications you have to take, make sure you carry them because availability in the region is next to impossible. Even if you are not on medications, it is extremely important to carry basic medications for vomiting, headaches, fever, dehydration and body ache. If you take any pills regularly for ex-, blood pressure or diabetes. Keep it for a few extra days as trip may get extended in an adverse weather scenario.
3. Patients of asthma: People who suffer from bouts of asthma or any other breathing problem should not go on the parikrama. It would be dangerous for asthmatic patients to go to high altitudes and harsh climatic conditions can worsen their condition.
4. Carry good quality bag: It is extremely important to invest in a good quality bag for this pilgrimage because you will need to pack quite a bit of stuff. A bag that is up for rough usage is the best. Bring a duffel bag that can carry all that you need. Trip To Temples provides every pilgrim a lightweight, rough and tough backpack and duffle bag. Duffle bags would be carried by our Sherpas and backpacks by pilgrims. The weight limit will be advised by the agent.
5. Drink lukewarm water: A good idea would be to drink lukewarm water before the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra for the simple reason that you will have to drink lukewarm water throughout the trip because of the cold climatic weather of the region. Lukewarm water helps in keeping the body hydrated and warm. It keeps the immunity strong at high altitude.
6. Carry lightweight clothes: Carry lightweight clothes, as this is going to make movement easier and quicker. You can expect quite a bit of wind, so you must carry a windcheater. The Trip To Temples team will share list of items to be carried for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 1 month before the Yatra. However, every individual should carry a body warmer, a woollen cap and woollen gloves to protect from cold weather.
7. Regarding shoes and socks: People sharing Kailash Mansarovar Yatra personal experiences have suggested that good quality trekking shoes should be your first preference, and it is important that you break into them before the pilgrimage. New shoes are a no-no because they can cause shoe-bite. During the journey, make sure that the shoes are kept dry at all times. Carry 4-5 pairs of woollen and cotton socks.  
8. Water and food items: A pure vegetarian meal will be provided by the private tour operator. However, it is always a good idea to carry your own water and a few food items in times of emergency. Carry high-energy food items like chocolates, sweets, cookies and dry fruits. While going for parikrama, you can carry juice or energy drinks with you.
9. Skincare: Sinkcare is another vital aspect for pilgrims going on Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. The weather is dry and cold, and it can prove to be hell for the skin. Carry a good moisturiser as well as sunscreen and calamine. These skincare medicines will protect you from sunburn as well as the harsh weather.
10. Walk steadily: It is important not to walk too fast when you are trekking. Also, it is crucial that you keep a calm and peaceful mind during the whole trip because that is when you will be able to appreciate the real greatness of the Kailash Yatra.