Helicopter + road 20–30 min flight + 1 h, then 1.5–2 h
The usual yatra route. Helicopters shuttle pilgrims from Simikot (≈ 2,910 m) to Hilsa (≈ 3,640 m) in sorties of four or five on calm mornings. After Nepali exit and Chinese immigration, vehicles reach Purang (≈ 3,900 m) in about an hour. Groups normally spend one or two nights there before the 75 km, 1.5–2 hour drive past Rakshastal to Manasarovar.
Trek + road 4–5 days on foot + 1 day by road
Trekkers walk from Simikot to Hilsa in 4–5 days along the Humla Karnali, over the Nara La at about 4,560 m and through Thakuri and Tibetan-style villages. It needs a Humla restricted area permit and a licensed guide, and gives excellent acclimatisation before Tibet. Some groups take the longer Limi valley route instead.
Jeep road Long day, when passable
A motor road has been pushed north from Simikot towards Hilsa for years. Some sections take jeeps in dry weather, but landslides, river crossings and closures make it unreliable for pilgrim groups. We do not plan yatras around it. Check current status before you travel.
Stops on the way
- Humla Karnali gorge
- Hilsa
- Sher (Tibetan border post)
- Purang
- Rakshastal
Pack your warm jacket and passport in the bag you carry on the helicopter; checked bags may follow on a later shuttle.
Questions travellers ask
How do I get from Simikot to Lake Manasarovar?
By a 20–30 minute helicopter flight to Hilsa, a walk across the border bridge, a one-hour drive to Purang and, after acclimatising, a 1.5–2 hour drive to the lake. Most groups take two to three days for this section, including one or two nights in Purang.
Can I reach Manasarovar from Simikot in one day?
It is physically possible on a clear morning with early border clearance, but we do not recommend it. Jumping from about 2,910 m to 4,590 m in one day raises the risk of altitude sickness. A night or two in Purang at about 3,900 m is much safer.
Is there a road from Simikot to Hilsa?
A motor road has been under construction for years and some sections take jeeps in dry weather, but it is rough and often blocked, so yatra groups fly. Trekkers walk the 4–5 day trail. Check current status before you travel.
What altitude gain is involved from Simikot to Manasarovar?
About 1,700 m in total: Simikot is at about 2,910 m, Hilsa about 3,640 m, Purang about 3,900 m and Manasarovar about 4,590 m. Splitting it with nights in Purang keeps each step manageable.