Required Permits for Mount Kailash Trip by Route

Nepal Route Permits (Kathmandu-Kerung-Saga)

Most popular for Kathmandu travelers; overland via Rasuwagadhi border. Needs:

• Chinese Group Visa (issued in Kathmandu embassy).​

• Tibet Travel Permit (TTP) for Tibet entry.​

• Alien’s Travel Permit (ATP) for Ngari region.​

• Military Permit for border zones.​
  Optional: Border Pass; 7-10 days processing.​

Helicopter Route Permits (Nepalgunj-Simikot-Hilsa)

Faster aerial border cross from Nepal. Same core Tibet permits as overland:

• Chinese Group Visa.​

• TTP, ATP, Military Permit.​
  Plus Nepal domestic flight permits; border coordination at Hilsa.​

China Mainland Route Permits (Lhasa Fly/Drive)

Enter China first (e.g., Beijing-Lhasa flight), then west. Requires:

• Individual Chinese Visa (pre-arrival).​

• TTP (issued post-Lhasa arrival).​

• ATP, Military Permit (sometimes Foreign Affairs Permit for east Tibet).​
  20-25 days advance application via agency.​

Indian Government Routes (Limited 2026)

For Indians only: Lipulekh or Nathula passes via MEA lottery.

• Special Chinese Group Visa via MEA.​

• TTP, ATP, Military Permit handled by government agency.​
  Registration closes early; private Nepal tours alternative.