Ever since the recent flood in Kerung damaged the iconic Miteri Bridge, often called the Friendship Bridge connecting Nepal and China in Rasuwa district, many pilgrims have been left asking the same question: What are the alternative routes to Kailash Mansarovar now? And what is the cost? This bridge was the main overland gateway for the sacred Kailash Yatra, and with it currently out of service, travel plans have shifted significantly.
In this blog, we’ll explore the updated route options and break down the costs for each, especially focusing on the Hilsa-Simikot route, which is now the primary alternative for 2025.
The Kerung road that connects Rasuwagadhi of Nepal with the Tibetan town of Kyirong was closed after recent floods destroyed a vital bridge in mid-2025. The road had grown popular in the last couple of years as it enjoyed convenient road access. With the destruction caused by floodwaters, the road is closed temporarily until otherwise ordered. Consequently, the only viable and reliable choice is the Hilsa-Simikot route, which not only offers safe access but also a more scenic and spiritually fulfilling experience.
What is the Hilsa Route of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?
The Hilsa tour starts from Kathmandu, where you fly to Nepalgunj in western Nepal. You have a brief stopover before another flight brings you to Simikot, a remote mountain town. A chartered helicopter trip from Simikot brings you to Hilsa, a border village near Tibet. Having crossed the border into Tibet, the land journey starts to Purang, then Lake Mansarovar, and on to the sacred Mount Kailash. While it is more expensive than the Kerung, the Hilsa route offers an exhilarating and unforgettable spiritual experience.
Related Blog: How to Reach Kailash Mansarovar via Hilsa: A Complete Travel Guide (2025 Update)
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Cost via Hilsa in 2025
Considering the high demand and limited logistics, the updated price of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Hilsa in 2025 is between:
- Nepal Tourist Visa (on arrival at the airport) -$30
- Accommodation in Kathmandu (2–3 nights) - $100 – $300
- Domestic Flights: Kathmandu → Nepalgunj → Simikot (round trip)- $400 – $600
- Helicopter: Simikot → Hilsa (round trip)- $300 – $500
- Accommodation & Meals on Nepal Side (7–9 days)- $200 – $300
- (Basic lodges and local food)
- Chinese Group Visa + Tibet Travel Permit- $200 – $250
- Other Permits for Tibet (Alien Travel, Military, National Park fees)- $150 – $200
- Guide, Porters, Support Staff (Nepal + Tibet)- $300 – $500
- (Usually includes Tibetan guide, cook, porters/yaks)
- Ground Transportation in Tibet (Tourist bus/jeep)- $300 – $400
- Travel Insurance (with emergency evacuation)- $100 – $150
- Miscellaneous Expenses (Tips, snacks, gear, SIM, etc.)- $100 – $200
After calculating all the necessary costs and the Kailash Mansarovar yatra via Hilsa after Kerung flood bridge would cost you around USD 3,200 to USD 3,800 per head (10 to 13-day package) This is the standard cost quoted by most Nepal-based tour companies, especially between May and September, which is the peak season.
For inquiries regarding the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Hilsa, please contact us.
What Does the Yatra Price Include?
The cost usually includes most of the services needed for a safe and fulfilling yatra:
- Domestic flights within Nepal (Kathmandu-Nepalgunj-Simikot) and a helicopter flight to Hilsa
- Tibet travel permit and China visa fees
- Nepal and Tibet lodging (basic guesthouses or tents)
- Vegetarian food throughout the trek
- Local guides, sherpas, and support staff
- Transport in Tibet, including Mansarovar and Mount Kailash, drives
- Minimal medical equipment and oxygen cylinders
What's Not Included in the Package?
Some things are typically not included in the yatra cost:
- International flights from and to Kathmandu
- Personal expenses (beverages, snacks, tips, shopping)
- Travel insurance and emergency evacuation
- Horse/Yak rental for the Parikrama (for participants who cannot walk for all three days)
- Extra accommodation in case of weather-caused delays of flights at Simikot or Hilsa
Why the Hilsa Route is More Expensive in 2025?
As the Kerung route has been closed, the yatris are largely choosing the Hilsa route, which increases pressure on the available helicopter flights and accommodation in remote areas. In addition, higher fuel prices and logistic challenges in hilly areas have also contributed to the expenses. There is also more focus by tour operators on the safety of travelers with oxygen assistance, better acclimatization, and experienced guides a must at high altitudes over 5,600 meters like Dolma La Pass.
Is the Hilsa Route Safe and Worth It?
Yes, the Hilsa route is an established and trustworthy route of a few years with majestic Himalayan views, fresh air, and strong spiritual energies. Yes, it is true that the weather is unpredictable, especially in Simikot, and at times results in flight delays. But with a flexible frame of mind and buffer days, the majority of the tourists complete the yatra hassle-free.
This path can challenge your endurance level, but it also offers profound spiritual dividends. The 3-day Parikrama of Mount Kailash, taking a holy bath in the sacred Lake Mansarovar, and sightseeing ancient Tibetan monasteries will remain etched in your memory forever.
Don't Let the Kerung Closure Stop You
Although the collapse of the Kerung flood bridge has cut off the shortest overland journey, it need not deter you from embarking on this holy pilgrimage. The Hilsa-Simikot trek to Kailash Mansarovar is open, picturesque, and spiritually rewarding.
Yes, it will cost a little more, but this pilgrimage is not about comfort. It's about commitment, transformation, and a once-in-a-lifetime experience. And in 2025, now, the Hilsa route is your gateway to divine Mount Kailash.
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