Mount Kailash Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Chronological Planning

-6 Months Before

Tour Operator Selection:
Research and select a reputable, licensed Tibetan tour operator. This represents the main step.
Book Kailash Tour:
Book your Mount Kailash Tour, including all necessary permits.
Fitness Regimen:
Initiate a physical fitness regimen, including cardio and strength training.
Endurance Focus:
Focus on endurance training for high-altitude trekking.
Permit Clarity:
Confirm all inclusions and exclusions related to permits.

-3 Months Before

Chinese Visa Application:
Apply for your Chinese L (Tourist) Visa at your local Chinese Embassy or Consulate. Do this after receiving your Tibet tour invitation letter.
Travel Doctor Consultation:
Consult a travel doctor about vaccinations and altitude sickness prevention (e.g., Diamox).
Travel Insurance:
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance, ensuring coverage for high-altitude trekking and emergency medical evacuation with World Nomads.
Flight Bookings:
Book international flights to and from China, plus domestic flights or trains to and from Lhasa.
Policy Review:
Review your insurance policy for altitude limits and specific terms.

Essential Gear & Digital Prep

Trekking Gear

Purchase and break in hiking boots. Acquire all necessary trekking gear, including a sleeping bag, layering clothes, and a headlamp. Eagle Creek offers solutions for packing organizers.

Shop Eagle Creek

Digital Tools

Download essential apps like VPN, translation tools, and offline maps on your devices. Test your VPN for functionality before you go.

Secure Your Connection (NordVPN)

Document Copies

Make copies of all important documents: passport, visa, insurance policy, and tour confirmation. Keep digital and physical copies separate from originals.

-2 Weeks Before Departure

Final Confirmations

Reconfirm all bookings and permits with your tour operator.
Withdraw sufficient Chinese Yuan (CNY) cash.
Cash is necessary for the entire Kailash trip, where ATMs are unavailable.
Inform your bank of your travel plans.

Packing & Preparations

Pack your bags, focusing on layering and essential items.
Utilize a detailed packing list.
Set up a VPN on all devices you plan to use for internet access.
Charge all electronics.

Required Bookings & Research

Mandatory Bookings

Tibetan Tour Package (mandatory for permits, guide, transport).
International and domestic flights or trains.
Travel Insurance.
Secure these early to avoid complications.

Pre-Trip Research

Read on Tibetan culture, history, and Kailash significance.
Understand altitude sickness symptoms and prevention.
Familiarize yourself with basic Mandarin phrases.
A few Tibetan phrases also represent a respectful gesture.

Home Preparations

Inform family or friends of your itinerary and emergency contacts.
Arrange for mail and pet care.
Organize plant care.
Secure your home before departure.

Important Arrival & Departure

Upon Arrival in Lhasa

First Steps

Meet your tour guide at the airport or train station.
Present your Tibet Travel Permit; your guide handles checkpoint interactions.
Begin acclimatization: rest, hydrate, avoid strenuous activity.
Your tour operator provides transportation to your accommodation.

Orientation & Initial Purchases

Listen carefully to your guide's briefing on the itinerary and customs.
Take a slow, gentle walk around your hotel area for acclimatization.
Exchange cash at the airport or in Lhasa city if needed.
Purchase a local SIM card for easier communication.

Last-Minute Supplies

Buy any last-minute snacks or supplies in Lhasa for your journey.
This preparation prevents inconvenience in remote areas.
Your guide remains your main information source.
Follow their advice for a smoother transition.

Departure Preparation from Lhasa

Souvenirs & Shipping

Buy any final souvenirs in Lhasa before departing.
Barkhor Street has a wide selection.
If shipping items, arrange with local postal services.

Departure Logistics

Confirm you possess all necessary documents: passport, visa, boarding pass.
Allow ample time to reach the airport or train station.
Consider potential traffic and security checks.

Return Trip Details

Ongoing Travel

Reconfirm onward travel plans, like connecting flights in mainland China.
Confirm you possess all your belongings.
Leave nothing behind in your accommodation.

Final Checks

Confirm any transfers arranged by your tour guide.
Ensure your guide is aware of your departure schedule.
This approach makes for a smoother exit from Tibet.

Financial Considerations

Currency & ATMs

Chinese Yuan (CNY) is the local currency.
ATMs are scarce in remote areas, especially along the kora.
Carry sufficient cash for all expenses in the Kailash region.
Exchange currency at major banks or airports in larger cities.
Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card blocks.

Spending & Budgeting

Most tour packages cover major expenses like permits and transport.
Budget for personal expenses, souvenirs, and extra snacks.
Bargaining is common in markets for local crafts.
Set a daily budget for incidentals.
Unexpected costs may surface, so a small contingency fund is wise.

Other Preparations

Home Security

Secure your home, arrange for mail, pets, and plants. Notify a trusted contact of your itinerary and emergency details.

Connectivity

Download essential apps (VPN, translation, offline maps). Test your VPN before arriving in China to ensure functionality.

Document Access

Make physical and digital copies of passport, visa, and tour documents. Store them separately from originals.

Final Reminder:

Always communicate with your tour guide for any needs or changes during your journey. They are your main on-the-ground support.

Mount Kailash Travel Resources