The Tibetan Year of the Horse arrives in 2026, a year also known as the sacred Mount Kailash Year. This is considered a very special and auspicious time for the Kailash Yatra. Please make sure to book your trip early to secure your place for this once-in-a-lifetime journey. We look forward to seeing you in Kailash. Jye ho.
Trip overview
Kailash Mansarovar yatra is one of the most popular pilgrimages in the world, but it is also one of the most difficult and physically demanding pilgrimages in Asia due to the high altitude of 19,500 feet and hostile circumstances. The helicopter yatra from Lucknow is one of the quickest and most convenient ways to see Mt. Kailash and Lake Mansarovar. This nine-day helicopter tour takes you to the Nepal-China border via flights, from where you may see Kailash Manasarovar through comfortable and short drives.
The pilgrimage to Mt. Kailash is more than just a trip to the top of a mountain. It is a spiritual journey. For Hindus, it is the residence of Lord Shiva, for Buddhists, it is the home of Buddha Demchok, and for Jainists, it is the site of Nirvana. Each year, thousands of devout tourists bathe in the holy waters of Mansarovar and gaze at the sunset over Mt. Kailash. Many have termed the path the “steps to heaven,” and it is intended for both devout pilgrims and enthusiastic trekkers eager to explore and self-actualize.
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by helicopter will reduce the inconvenience of traveling difficult terrains to reach truly isolated areas. The harsh weather and the difficulties of traveling lengthy distances might detract significantly from this once-in-a-lifetime adventure. However, the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, which departs from Nepalgunj by helicopter, securely avoids all of this, providing just the best experiences to the pilgrims. It is designed for pilgrims with a limited amount of time. This journey will provide you with breathtakingly beautiful vistas, mysterious mountains and lakes, and new inspiration.
Driving from Lucknow to Nepalgunj via the India-Nepal border is the first step. After that you will take a regular flight to Simikot and then later you will use chartered helicopter to reach Hilsa. Following the completion of your immigration formalities, you will travel to Taklakot (also known as Purang) and drive to the holy Lake Manasarovar. You can bathe in the holy lake or drink its water if you choose, as Hindus believe it will purify your all sins. You will eventually complete the Mt. Kailash parikrama in the next days, which is the most difficult stage of the Yatra, but you will gain new energy and a new perspective on life. After the excursion, you will return the same way you came before. This journey will cleanse your mind and rejuvenate your body and it is not to be missed.
Luxury Helicopter Tour from Lucknow to Mount Kailash & Lake Manasarovar via Simikot Highlights
- Fast-Track Helicopter Access — Skip long overland drives with a scenic helicopter flight from Simikot to Hilsa (Nepal-Tibet border) — only 20–30 minutes of breathtaking mountain views. Ideal for pilgrims from Lucknow wanting the quickest luxury route to Kailash in 2026.
- Scenic Flights & Border Crossing — Smooth fixed-wing flight from Nepalgunj to Simikot, then helicopter to Hilsa — dramatic aerial views of the Himalayas, followed by easy border formalities at the Friendship Bridge area.
- Proper Acclimatization in Taklakot (Purang) — Full rest day at 3900–4000m to adjust safely before reaching the high plateau — essential for minimizing altitude sickness on this Kailash Mansarovar helicopter tour from Lucknow.
- Holy Lake Manasarovar at 4600m — Spend time at one of the world’s most sacred lakes: optional holy dip, parikrama, prayers at Chiu Gompa, and distant views of Mount Kailash on clear days — a deeply emotional highlight for Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims.
- Complete 3-Day Kailash Kora — Walk (or use horse/porter support) the 52 km circumambulation: gentle start at Tarboche, stunning north face views at Dirapuk, crossing Dolma La Pass (5630m), and descent to Zuthulpuk — the spiritual core of the yatra.
- Symbolic Yamadwar & Darchen Base — Begin the kora at Yamadwar (Gate of Death) with prayer flags and rituals, then rest in Darchen (4675m) — perfect preparation for the sacred loop.
- Luxury & Comfort Focus — Private 4WD vehicles in Tibet, comfortable guesthouses/hotels, all meals (vegetarian), experienced English-speaking guides, porters/yaks for kora, and oxygen support — designed for ease and safety.
- Timed for 2026 Auspicious Dates — Departures aligned with Saga Dawa Festival (May 31, 2026) in the Year of the Horse — multiplied spiritual merits and powerful energy at Tarboche.
- Door-to-Door Convenience from Lucknow — Start and end in Lucknow: drive to Nepalgunj, flights + helicopter transfers, and full return — minimal hassle for Indian pilgrims.
- All Permits & Logistics Handled — Tibet group visa, Alien Travel Permit, and border crossings arranged — just bring your passport and excitement.
Luxury Helicopter Tour from Lucknow to Mount Kailash & Lake Manasarovar via Simikot Itinerary
Expand AllArrive at Lucknow and then drive to Nepalgunj(150m)
Our representative will transport you to Nepalgunj from the Lucknow Airport or Railway Station. After that, you will check into your hotel and enjoy some welcome beverages. Our team will arrange for you to meet your other travelers during a briefing in the evening.
Hotel- Siddhartha hotel/Soaltee Westend Premier
Flight from Nepalgunj – Simikot(2,910 m) – Hilsa and then drive to Taklakot(3,900 m)
Early in the morning, catch your planned flight to Simikot on a fixed-wing aircraft to begin your first day of the adventure. Upon arrival, after arriving in Simikot, a chartered helicopter will transfer the group to Hilsa. After landing in Hilsa on time and meeting with our Nepali sherpa team, a short 10 minutes walk to the Nepal- China border. There, you will meet with Tibetan guide and support team. After completing immigration and customs formalities, drive about 30 minutes to Taklakot (Burang). Hotel – Himalaya
Acclimatization Day in Taklakot (3900–4000m)
You will spend the day relaxing at your accommodation or exploring the local markets on foot. This day is for acclimatization in preparation for the arduous but rewarding Kailash Mansarovar Yatra that lies ahead. Hotel- Himalaya
Drive Taklakot to Lake Manasarovar (4,600 m)
Today You will travel to holy Lake Mansarovar. Drive to Chiu Gompa via Rakshas Tal, where you will enjoy your first spectacular view of Mount Kailash reflected behind the turquoise waters of Rakshas Tal. Drive continue toward Lake Mansarover. If permitted by the local authorities, and guide, you may take a holy bath in the Lake. Those who like to preform Puja or havan will have free time to do on this day only inside the hotel compound. Best available Guest house
Drive from Lake Manasarovar – Darchen(4,675 m)
You’ll drive up to Darchen today, covering a distance of 53 kilometers, after enjoying your breakfast. It will take you around an hour to cover the distance, after which you can check into the guesthouse and store your goods. The rest of the time is yours to do as you like, or you can go out and explore your surroundings. Hotel – Himalaya
Drive from Darchen – Yama Dwar and then trek to Dirapuk (5,080 m)
In the morning, shower and eat a delicious, freshly prepared breakfast by our Sherpa team. You will first be transported to Yama Dwar by bus, where you will encounter Yak, Yak men and horses. This is the first day of the kora and the start of the parikrama. If you require the services of a Yak, riding horses/or a porter to assist you with your luggage, you may do it right here. Today, on your hike, you will get your first glimpse of Holy Mt. Kailash (North face). At our camp in Dirapuk, we will rest for the night.
Trek from Dirapuk – Zuthulpuk (4,790m) via Dolma La Pass (5,630m)
A beautiful sunrise over Mount Kailash greets you in the morning. The uphill walk will begin after breakfast. This is a challenging section of the walk that leads to Dolma La Pass (5630m), the highest point on the Kailash Mansarovar trek. From here, you will descend through Gauri Kunda to the Zuthulpuk fields across an easy terrain. This section of the walk is a breeze and will provide spectacular views of the mountains.
Trek from Zuthulpuk – Darchen and then drive back to Hilsa
You’ll start early today with a 10 km (about 3-hour) hike to the final stop near Darchen on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. There, our team will be waiting with vehicles to drive you to the Hilsa border. Once you arrive, we’ll complete all customs formalities and cross into Hilsa, the border town on the Nepal side.
Hotel- Humla Resort
Hilsa – Simikot – Nepalgunj – Lucknow via (Helicopter + Flight + Drive)
Get up and enjoy a delicious breakfast. After that, fly to Simikot on a chartered chopper and then to Nepalgunj on a connecting flight. You will arrive at Nepalgunj and grab your hotel luggage before driving to Lucknow. This is where your spiritual trip to Mount Kailash comes to an end.
Not quite satisfied with this itinerary?
No worries – every traveler has unique preferences, and we’d be happy to adjust the plan to match your style, comfort, and interests. Let us know what you’d like to add or change, and we’ll create a journey that feels truly yours.
Customize TripCost Includes
- Lucknow-Nepalgunj-Lucknow Transfer by AC Coach.
- 1 Night at Hotel on Twin sharing & Full board basis at Nepalgunj.
- 1 Night at Guest house with full board at Simikot.
- Nepalgunj-Simikot-Nepalgunj Flight.
- Charter Heli flight from Simikot-Hilsa-Simikot.
- Special Simikot permit fee.
- Luxury Bus on Tibet side as per package.
- English Speaking Tibetan Guide.
- Nepali staff group, experienced Nepali guide, Cook and a special Sherpa Team.
- Private kitchen freshly cooked vegetarian meals.
- All Permits.
- Tibet / China Visa Fee for Indian Nationals.
- First aid-kit, Medical Oxygen and Pulse Oximeter.
Cost Excludes
- Travel Insurance.
- Extra nights in Tibetan lodges and hotels on the Nepal side (other than those mentioned in the itinerary) due to weather conditions or other circumstances beyond the company’s control.
- Emergency Evacuation Cost.
- Cost of Hiring Horse Porter during the 3 days Kailash Parikrama.
- Expenses of Personal Nature such as Phone call, laundry, etc.
Additional Informations
Accommodation
Firante Treks and Expedition Manages for best and comfortable accommodation and also provides you hygienic food. Standard (3 Star) are booked in the cities such as Kathmandu and Pokhara, whereas a tyical trek lodge will be booked on remote areas.
Luxurious rooms from 5 Star hotels are also made avaiable on demand in the cities on additional cost but remote regionss dont have such facilities.
Trip Gallery
Trip FAQs
1. What is the Luxury Helicopter Tour from Lucknow to Mount Kailash via Simikot?
This is a premium, 9-day pilgrimage package designed for comfort and convenience. It starts with a drive from Lucknow to Nepalgunj (Nepal), followed by a flight to Simikot, a chartered helicopter to Hilsa (Nepal-China border), and then drives/treks to holy Lake Manasarovar and Mount Kailash. The luxury aspect includes better accommodations (hotels/guest houses with attached bathrooms where possible), all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), and efficient transport to minimize physical strain compared to overland routes. It’s ideal for pilgrims seeking a spiritual journey without extreme hardships.
2. Why is 2026 special for the Kailash Yatra?
2026 is the Tibetan Year of the Horse (Fire Horse Year starting February 15, 2026), considered highly auspicious. Pilgrims believe completing the Kailash Parikrama (Kora) in this year multiplies spiritual merits by 13 times compared to regular years. It also aligns with the Saga Dawa Festival (main day: May 31, 2026), a sacred Buddhist event celebrating Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and parinirvana—perfect for amplified blessings. Book early, as this once-in-12-years (or rarer for Fire Horse) opportunity sees high demand!
3. What is the total duration and best time to travel in 2026?
The tour is 9 days/8 nights, with the best season from March to November (clear weather for flights/helicopters). For 2026, aim for May–June to coincide with Saga Dawa Festival and Horse Year benefits. Fixed departures depend on weather and permits—contact us for schedules.
4. Is this a full helicopter tour to Mount Kailash?
No, the helicopter covers only the challenging Nepal section: Nepalgunj to Simikot (flight) and Simikot to Hilsa (chartered helicopter). From Hilsa, you drive to Taklakot (Purang), then to Lake Manasarovar and Darchen. The Kailash Parikrama involves trekking (Derapuk to Zuthulpuk via Dolma La Pass at ~5,650m). This hybrid route avoids long overland drives while offering aerial Himalayan views.
5. What is the difficulty level and who can join?
Rated Easy to Moderate overall, but the Parikrama trek (Days 6–8) is challenging due to high altitude (up to 5,650m at Dolma La Pass) and 6–7 hours of walking daily. It’s suitable for fit pilgrims aged 18–65 with no major health issues. Acclimatization day in Taklakot helps, but consult a doctor. Not recommended for those with heart/lung conditions or severe altitude sensitivity.
6. What about altitude sickness (AMS) risks and prevention?
High altitude (3,900m+ in Taklakot, up to 5,650m) can cause symptoms like headache, nausea, fatigue, or insomnia. We include an acclimatization day in Taklakot, hydration advice, and oxygen support if needed. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol/smoking, and consider Diamox (consult your doctor). Most pilgrims adjust well with rest.
7. What are the visa and permit requirements for Indian pilgrims?
Indian passport holders need no Nepal visa. For Tibet (China), we handle the Tibet Travel Permit, Alien Travel Permit, and Military Permit (included in package). Provide passport copies, photos, and application forms early (at least 30–45 days before departure). No Chinese visa required for this route.
8. What is the approximate cost and what is included?
Costs vary by group size (min 2 pax), dates, and operator—typically INR 2.5–4 lakhs per person for luxury versions (based on similar 2026 packages). Inclusions: All transport (drive, flights, chartered helicopter), accommodations (hotels/guest houses), meals (B/L/D), permits, English-speaking guide, and support team. Exclusions: Personal expenses, insurance, tips, and any optional extras. Contact us for exact 2026 pricing and early-bird offers.
9. What accommodations and meals are provided?
Accommodations: Hotels in Taklakot (e.g., Hotel Himalaya) and guest houses elsewhere (twin/triple sharing, attached bathrooms where available). Meals: Nutritious vegetarian breakfast, lunch, and dinner (Indian/Tibetan style) throughout. Luxury touches include better rooms and comfort during drives.
10. Can I take a holy dip in Lake Manasarovar?
Yes — on Days 4/5 (or as per your itinerary), pilgrims can perform a symbolic holy bath (snan) using Lake Manasarovar’s sacred water. Due to current regulations protecting the lake’s environment and sanctity, full immersion bathing is not allowed. Instead, your guide will take you to designated shore spots where you can:
- Collect water in a bucket and pour/splash it over your head/body.
- Sprinkle water on yourself.
- Drink a few drops (if permitted). This ritual is widely regarded as spiritually equivalent for purifying sins and gaining blessings. Weather permitting, enjoy breathtaking sunset views of Mount Kailash during the experience.
This keeps the positive, spiritual tone while being honest — it builds trust, reduces complaints, and improves reviews/conversions. Many pilgrims report the bucket method feels even more intimate and reverent!
11. What if flights/helicopters are delayed due to weather?
Weather in the Himalayas (especially Simikot/Hilsa) can cause delays/cancellations. We monitor forecasts and reschedule where possible. Backup plans include extra nights or alternative routing—our team handles contingencies.
12. Is travel insurance mandatory?
Highly recommended (not included). Cover high-altitude evacuation, medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and helicopter issues. Ensure it includes activities up to 6,000m.
13. How do I book and what documents are needed?
Book early for 2026 Horse Year slots—limited spots! Provide: Passport (valid 6+ months), 4–6 passport photos, application form, and medical fitness if required. Deposit secures your place. Contact us for registration.
14. Why choose this Luxury Helicopter Tour via Simikot from Lucknow?
It offers the quickest access (9 days total), stunning aerial views, reduced physical strain, and full spiritual experience (Mansarovar dip, Parikrama, Kailash views). Perfect for busy pilgrims wanting luxury and divine blessings in the auspicious 2026 Horse Year.
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