The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is one of the most sacred and spiritually transformative pilgrimages in Asia. Every year, thousands of devotees travel to Tibet to witness Mount Kailash, sacred to Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers. For 2026, fixed departure dates have been announced early to give pilgrims enough time to plan their journey well. This guide presents all Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026 fixed departure dates, including full moon and Saga Dawa Festival departures, along with essential planning considerations.
If you are preparing for your 2026 pilgrimage, this useful resource provides detailed information on dates, benefits of full-moon travel, route insights, weather expectations, and planning recommendations.
Why the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Matters
Mount Kailash, standing at 6,638 meters, is described as the cosmic axis of the universe in ancient scriptures therefore this pilgrimage is believed to cleanse lifetimes of karma. Devotees also take a holy dip in Lake Mansarovar, which is said to purify the body and mind. The Kailash Kora—a 52 km circumambulation—is one of the most profound spiritual journeys on earth. Because of the trek’s complexity and high altitude, booking a reliable fixed departure date is essential.
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Tour Fixed Departure Dates for 2026
All departure dates listed below are confirmed group departures for 2026.As a result these dates cover standard, full-moon, and festival-aligned journeys.
April 2026 Departures
- 26th April 2026
May 2026 Departures
- 16th May 2026
- 25th May 2026 (Saga Dawa Festival Departure)
Saga Dawa is one of Tibet’s most significant festivals, celebrating Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and parinirvana.
June 2026 Departures
- 13th June 2026
- 26th June 2026 (Full Moon Departure)
July 2026 Departures
- 11th July 2026
- 25th July 2026 (Full Moon Departure)
August 2026 Departures
- 22nd August 2026
September 2026 Departures
- 05th September 2026
- 19th September 2026
October 2026 Departures
- 03rd October 2026
- 23rd October 2026 (Full Moon Departure)
These dates offer multiple options across the 2026 pilgrimage season, ensuring flexibility for pilgrims with different schedules and spiritual preferences.
Benefits of Choosing a Fixed Departure Date
Booking a Kailash Mansarovar Yatra on a fixed departure schedule has several advantages:
1. Guaranteed Group Formation
Fixed departures ensure minimum group size,Hence making logistics smoother and cost-effective.
2. Pre-arranged Permits
Travel to Tibet requires several layers of permits. As a result fixed departures help operators organize documentation well in advance.
3. Predictable Itinerary and Safety Support
Organized group departures come with experienced guides, medical support, and reliable transport, essential for high-altitude travel.
4. Festival and Full-Moon Alignment
Many pilgrims prefer full-moon dates or festival departures like Saga Dawa for deeper spiritual experiences.
Why Choose Full-Moon Departures in 2026?
The full-moon period around Kailash and Mansarovar is considered spiritually powerful. During the full moon, the reflection of Mount Kailash on Lake Mansarovar is breathtaking. Many pilgrims also believe that performing the Kora during a full moon accelerates spiritual merit.
Full-moon dates for 2026 include:
- 26th June 2026
- 25th July 2026
- 23rd October 2026
These departures are usually in highest demand, therefore early booking is recommended.
Why Saga Dawa Festival Departure Is Special (25th May 2026)
The Saga Dawa Festival is one of Tibet’s holiest celebrations. It marks:
- Buddha’s birth
- Buddha’s enlightenment
- Buddha’s death (parinirvana)
During this festival, thousands of Tibetan pilgrims gather at Tarboche (Darchen) to witness the ceremonial raising of the Tarboche Prayer Flag Pole, an event symbolizing spiritual renewal. Therefore joining the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra during Saga Dawa offers a rare cultural experience combined with the spiritual power of the pilgrimage.
Best Time to Join Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in 2026
The Yatra season runs from late April to late October. Each period has unique benefits:
April–May
- Clear skies, pleasant temperatures
- Ideal for early-season pilgrims
- Saga Dawa Festival in May
June–July
- Peak travel window
- Warmest period, easier walking conditions
- Full-moon experiences
August–September
- Stable weather
- Smaller crowds compared to June–July
October
- Crisp, clear views
- Final window before winter conditions
Your ideal date depends on your preferred weather, spiritual alignment, and group size.
Typical Itinerary for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026
Although itineraries vary, most follow this structure:
Days 1–3: Arrival and acclimatization in Kathmandu
- Permit preparation
- Yatra briefing
- Sightseeing and rest
Days 4–6: Entering Tibet (Kerung/Saga route)
- Drive through Himalayan valleys
- Gradual altitude acclimatization
Day 7: Arrival at Lake Mansarovar
- Holy Lake exploration
- Rituals and meditation
Days 8–10: Kailash Kora (Circumambulation)
- Trek to Dirapuk
- Dolma La Pass crossing
- Return to Darchen
Days 11–14: Return journey and departure
This structure ensures proper acclimatization and a smooth pilgrimage experience.
Preparing for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026
To fully enjoy your journey, consider the following:
1. Health and Fitness Preparation
The Kora involves high-altitude trekking. Begin cardio and strength training at least three months in advance.
2. Passport and Visa Requirements
A valid passport with at least six months’ validity is mandatory. Your operator will handle Tibetan permits.
3. Clothing and Gear
Pack in layers. Weather can shift dramatically at high altitude.
4. Insurance
Select insurance that covers high-altitude evacuation and medical emergencies.
5. Early Booking
Full-moon and Saga Dawa departures fill quickly. Early reservation ensures availability and better pricing.
Why the 2026 Yatra Is Expected to Be Special
With global travel stabilizing and improved infrastructure in Tibet, the 2026 Kailash Mansarovar Yatra season is anticipated to be smoother, safer, and more accessible than previous years. New accommodations, well-coordinated logistics, and advanced safety protocols make 2026 a promising year for pilgrims.
In Conclusion
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra 2026 fixed departure dates offer multiple options for pilgrims seeking a spiritually meaningful journey. Whether you prefer a full-moon experience, the vibrant energy of the Saga Dawa Festival, or a quieter month later in the season, there is a suitable departure for every traveler.
By planning early and choosing the right date, you ensure a safe, peaceful, and transformative pilgrimage to the sacred land of Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar.