The sacred journey to Kailash Mansarovar is one of the most spiritually significant pilgrimages in the world. Located in western Tibet, the region is under special administrative control, which means travelers must obtain a China Visa and multiple Tibet-related permits before starting the yatra.
This complete guide explains everything you need to know about China Visa & Tibet Permit requirements for Kailash Mansarovar, including documents, processing time, rules, and how Himalayan Social Journey (HSJ) assists pilgrims from start to finish.
Why Special Permits Are Required for Kailash Mansarovar
Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar lie in the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) of China. Foreign travelers cannot travel independently in Tibet. Entry is allowed only through government-authorized travel agencies, and several permits are mandatory in addition to a China Visa
Required Visa & Permits for Kailash Mansarovar
To visit Kailash Mansarovar, you need:
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China Tourist Visa (L Visa)
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Tibet Travel Permit (TTP)
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Alien Travel Permit (ATP)
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Military Permit
All permits must be arranged in advance through an authorized agency like Himalayan Social Journey.
1. China Tourist Visa (L Visa)
The China Tourist Visa (L Visa) allows you to enter mainland China and is the first mandatory step.
Where to Apply?
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Your home country
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Or Nepal (Kathmandu) if eligible
⚠️ Important:
You must not mention “Tibet” or “Kailash” in your visa application if you are applying from your home country. Mention destinations like Beijing, Chengdu, or Lhasa only.
Documents Required
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Original passport (minimum 6 months validity)
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Passport-size photos
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Completed visa application form
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Flight details (real or tentative)
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Hotel booking (provided by HSJ if applying via Nepal)
Processing Time
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4–7 working days (standard)
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Express options may be available
2. Tibet Travel Permit (TTP)
The Tibet Travel Permit is issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau and is required to:
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Board flights or trains to Tibet
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Enter Tibet at checkpoints
Who Arranges It
✅ Only a licensed Tibet tour operator
❌ Individuals cannot apply directly
Documents Required
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Scanned passport copy
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China Visa copy
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Travel itinerary
Processing Time: 10–15 working days
3. Alien Travel Permit (ATP)
Why Is It Needed?
The ATP is required for travel beyond Lhasa, including:
Issuing Authority
Public Security Bureau (PSB), Tibet
👉 HSJ arranges this permit after your arrival in Tibet.
4. Military Permit
Why Is It Required?
Kailash lies in a restricted border region close to Nepal and India. Special military clearance is mandatory.
Who Issues It?
Chinese Military Authorities
Key Point
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Issued only through registered agencies
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Processing takes 7–10 days
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Route-specific and non-transferable
