Sacred travel to Kailash Mansarovar involves planning and adherence to permits and documentation well in advance.
1. Understanding the Permitting Process:
Since the entire Kailash Mansarovar Yatra borders China, it is a sensitive region and, thus, generally has permits required for entry into specific areas. The main licenses are as follows:
Inner Line Permit (ILP): This permit is necessary to travel to border areas and is usually availed through local government authorities.
Restricted Area Permit: A Restricted Area Permit is frequently needed because it is so near the international border.
2. Getting the Inner Line Permit:
Application Process:
You can contact the relevant government office, or we at Himalayan Trekking and Tours can undertake the application process for the Inner Line Permit.
It can include submitting personal information, the itinerary for travel, and other required details, which we will obtain from our pilgrims.
Application in Time:
Apply well ahead of time for the Inner Line Permit, as the time taken for processing may vary. It is better to apply at least a few weeks prior to the planned departure.
Documentation:
Get a set of documents ready, including valid identification proof, passport-size photographs, and details of the travel itinerary.
3. Obtaining the RAP:
Through Tour Operator:
We, from Himalayan Trekking and Tours, will be providing facilitation services for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and will look after the issue of a Restricted Area Permit. We ensure that all the documents are complete.
Verification Process:
The concerned authorities can also conduct a background verification; hence, the information provided when a permit application is made should be valid.
4. Passport and Visa Requirements:
Passport:
Ensure that your passport is valid for six months over and above your return date. Also, carry a photocopy of your passport and other important identification documents.
Chinese Visa:
Since the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra entails travel to Tibet, a Chinese visa is required. We can make some arrangements toward the same, as a group visa usually works out for pilgrims.
5. Health Documentation:
Medical Certificate:
Sometimes, we will need a medical certificate to ascertain that pilgrimages are medically fit for the high-altitude journey. Please consult your doctor and get the necessary certificates.
Emergency Contact Information:
Please provide us with emergency contact details and any relevant medical history as a precautionary measure at Himalayan Trekking.
6. Insurance Cover:
Travel Insurance:
Buy comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other sudden happenings. Check the details about coverage with your provider.
Evacuation Coverage:
Since the trek goes to a very remote and high-altitude zone, consider covering the costs for emergency medical evacuation.
7. Carrying Important Documents:
Document Folder:
Prepare a folder with all the permits, identification documents, travel insurance details, and emergency contact information.
Digital Copies:
Digital copies of very important documents should be kept with a secure cloud platform or email yourself for easy access in case the document is lost.
8. Regular Updates and Communication
Please update us at Himalayan Trekking and Tours if there is any news regarding the permitting process or any future alterations to the regulations.
On the utilization aspect, a particular cellular phone or satellite phone will always be needed when necessary to negotiate and collaborate on problems that affect the tour group.
The most important aspects that any Yatri must consider are the time to prepare for the period, the time to acquire permits, and the time to complete documentation.
This allows pilgrims to present all the necessary paperwork so that whatever is required is accomplished, leaving the spirit to achieve the pilgrimage journey.
