By Chetan Gandhi (48), Your Tour Manager & Dedicated Bhakt from the Last Batch

If you’re going to meet Shiva, the road to his darshan is not going to be easy, however when u get to be in the vicinity of the “hometown” of Shiva, I assure you all the struggles on the way will be worth it  

Namaskar, everyone! My name is Chetan Gandhi, and if you’ve done the Kailash Yatra with us, you know me as the guy who carries the biggest smile but also the biggest headache. I’m 48, I’ve done this overland journey Thorowly, and every single time I see the mighty Mount Kailash, I fall to my knees.

But let me be absolutely clear, my friends: We are certainly not on a picnic, but commencing a sacred Yatra—a truly profound spiritual undertaking whose beautiful meaning is self-evident to all of us. The Kailash Manasarovar Yatra is the most beautiful, spiritual, and yes, the most inhuman experience you will ever sign up for. As your manager, my duty is to show you the legitimate, non-rosy picture.

My Dual Duty: The Bhakt vs. The Manager

When I’m checking your visas, arguing with a Tibetan guide about a minor delay, or sorting out fifty pieces of luggage, you’re seeing me as the Manager. My primary job is to ensure 50 souls complete this 14-day journey without tragedy. Honestly, my personal prayer time, the moment the bhakt takes over, only begins after I’ve made sure every single traveler has safely checked into their simple lodge in Kerung (Tibet).

I live this dramatic contrast every day:

  • My Pilgrim’s Vision: To seek moksha (liberation) and dive deep into devotion while doing the 38 km Parikrama.
  • My Reality: I am constantly monitoring the Oxy-meter of every person, managing the Support Truck carrying emergency supplies, and ensuring the Medical Doctor stationed at Lake Manasarovar is ready for any emergency.

The Legit Picture: Where the Air Kicks You

The challenge is the altitude, pure and simple. We start in the luxury stays at the Hyatt / Yak & Yeti in Kathmandu, but by the time we hit Saga, Darchen, and Lake Manasarovar, the world changes. The air is thin, and the goal is the only thing in sight (Devotion).

  1. The Lodges: I see the disappointment on your faces. Yes, the accommodation on the Tibetan Plateau is very basic. Limited heating, shared toilets, mattresses that aren’t quite five-star. This is the truth. But remember: this discomfort is the tapasya. You are earning the Darshan.
  2. The Ascent: When we finally start the Parikrama, especially on that first stretch and the high pass of Dolma-La (nearly 19,000 feet), the air gets vicious. When you try to climb the mount, it feels like somebody is whispering in your ear, “Stop. Go back. I’m taking your energy.” It is an extreme, empty environment, and we carry a full stock of Oxygen Cylinders precisely because of this whispering, draining feeling.
  3. The Parikrama Challenge: The two toughest days are the trek to Dirapuk and the climb over Dolma-La. You will see the North Face of Kailash from Dirapuk . It is pure, divine realization! But to get there, you need honesty. If your legs or lungs are not allowing, DO NOT PUSH IT. My team ensures you have access to Horse / Pony / Porter services (though at extra cost) because safety always comes before misplaced pride.

The Kailash Knowledge: What You Must Keep in Mind

I’ve been here, done that, and bought the t-shirt (though you won’t find many shops). Here’s my honest advice:

  • Acclimatization is Your God: Follow the itinerary’s slow pace religiously (Kathmandu to Kerung to Sagato to Manasarovar to Darchen to Yamdwar). Drink the minimum 2 Bottle Mineral Water per day like it’s holy water. Hydration solves 50% of altitude problems.
  • The Food is Your Fuel: We provide Full Board Vegetarian Meals. It’s clean, simple Indian food (khichdi, dal). Don’t look for pizza! Your stomach is a delicate flower at this height. We are fueling a pilgrimage, not running a five-star buffet.
  • Respect the Rules: Lake Manasarovar and Gauri Kund are sacred. Do not throw garbage. Do not rush. Listen to the English Speaking Tibetan Guide—they know this land like its in the back of their head.

A Final, Jolly Promise

When I finally stand at Lake Manasarovar, and that massive, silent mountain dominates the horizon , I forget the hard lodge, the bumpy ride in the Bus on the Nepal Side, and the cold air.

The logistics disappear. The tiredness vanishes. All that remains is the profound, silent energy of Shiva.

Yes, the Yatra is inhumanly difficult, but that’s what makes the blessing divine. Come prepared, trust my team, and let Lord Shiva handle the rest. I’ll be waiting at the finish line with a huge smile (and maybe a spare oxygen mask, just in case!).

॥ Har Har Mahadev ॥