The Kailash Manasarovar Yatra, organized by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), is a spiritually significant and physically demanding pilgrimage to Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar, through either the Lipulekh (Uttarakhand) or Nathu La (Sikkim) route. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply, eligibility conditions, costs involved, and key FAQs.
Before You Apply: Key Preparations
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Eligibility: Must be an Indian citizen, aged 18-70 years as of 1st January 2025, with a valid Indian passport.
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System Requirements: Acrobat Reader is required for document processing.
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Application Mode: Online only, via the MEA Yatra portal.
Yatra Subsidies-
Eligibility Criteria
• Indian citizen with a passport valid for at least 6 months as of 1st September 2025
• Age: Between 18 to 70 years
• Body Mass Index (BMI) should be ≤ 25
• Medically and physically fit for high-altitude trekking
• OCI cardholders are not eligible
Documents & Information Required for Application
Keep the following ready in specified formats: • Passport-size photograph (JPG, ≤ 300 KB)
• Scanned passport copies (first and last page) in PDF format (≤ 500 KB)
• For two-person applications, repeat the above for both individuals
How to Apply Online
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Read eligibility & conditions on the official website.- https://kmy.gov.in/
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Fill in the online form accurately.
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Choose route preferences:
• Lipulekh: End at Dharchula or Delhi
• Nathu La: End at Gangtok or Delhi -
Submit and take a printout of the application.
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Receive confirmation via SMS and email.
Note: A maximum of two applications per user account is allowed.
Fee Structure and Estimated Expenses
| Particulars | Lipulekh Route | Nathu La Route |
|---|---|---|
| Confirmation Amount | ₹5,000 (Non-refundable) | ₹5,000 (Non-refundable) |
| Balance to KMVN/STDC | ₹30,000 | ₹20,000 |
| Return Airfare (Delhi–Bagdogra–Delhi) | — | ₹14,000 |
| Medical Tests (at DHLI) | ₹3,100 + ₹2,500 (if required) | Same |
| Chinese Visa Fee | ₹2,400 (cash) | Same |
| Porter & Pony (Indian side) | ₹12,189 + ₹16,081 | — |
| Pool Fund & Group Logistics | ₹4,000 | ₹4,000 |
| Tibet Expenses (TAR) | US $950 + RMB 3,360 | US $2,200 + RMB 3,360 |
Important: No part of the fee is refundable or transferable once confirmed.
Selection Process
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Computerized Draw: Random, gender-balanced draw of lots by MEA.
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Intimation: Selected applicants are notified by SMS/email.
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Confirmation: Pay ₹5,000 to KMVN/STDC to confirm participation.
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Reconfirmation: Required before arrival in Delhi.
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Medical Test Reporting: At Delhi Heart & Lung Institute on scheduled dates.
Mandatory Documents for Selected Yatris
• Valid Indian passport
• 6 color passport-size photos
• Indemnity Bond (Rs. 100 stamp paper)
• Undertaking for evacuation & cremation consent
Medical Examinations
• Conducted by Delhi Heart and Lung Institute & ITBP Base Hospital
• Mandatory to qualify for high-altitude clearance
• Secondary test at Gunji (Lipulekh) or Sherathang (Nathu La)
Conditions & Restrictions
• Incomplete or incorrect applications will be rejected
• Medical unfitness at any stage disqualifies the Yatri
• Legal or travel restrictions disqualify applicants
• Priority given to first-time applicants
• Those with 4+ past yatras via MEA are ineligible
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Are OCI holders eligible for the Yatra?
No, only Indian passport holders are eligible.
Q: Is there a government subsidy for the Yatra?
No central subsidy. Some state governments offer assistance.
Q: Why is BMI important?
Higher BMI increases health risks at high altitude.
Q: Are private agencies allowed on these routes?
No. Only MEA conducts the Yatra via Lipulekh and Nathu La.
Q: What if I fall sick en route?
ITBP provides medical aid. Evacuation costs are borne by the yatri.
Q: Can medical certificates from private hospitals be used?
No. Only tests from DHLI and ITBP Base Hospital are accepted.
Q: Is the route via Nathu La easier?
Yes. It is mostly motorable with limited trekking (35–40 km).
Q: Can I start the Yatra from Gangtok if I live in Sikkim?
No. All yatris must report in Delhi for visa and medical formalities.
Q: Are refunds possible after confirmation?
No. All payments after batch confirmation are non-refundable.
Travel Agencies & Logistics
• KMVN (Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam): For Lipulekh route
• STDC (Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation): For Nathu La route
These agencies manage accommodation, food, and logistics in India.
Key Contacts
• IVRS Helpline: 011-24300655
• Official Website: MEA Yatra Portal
• KMVN & STDC details: Refer to the official Yatri Guide