🗻 Essential Packing List for the Mount Kailash Kora

Your Complete Guide to a Safe & Comfortable Pilgrimage

🔹 Core Essentials (All Seasons)

🧥 Layering System

• Base Layers: Thermal underwear (merino wool preferred) for moisture-wicking and warmth.
• Mid Layers: Fleece jacket or down vest to trap heat.
• Outer Layer: Waterproof, windproof hardshell jacket and pants to protect against snow and rain.
• Warm Jacket: 800+ fill power down jacket for sub-zero nights at Drolma La Pass.

🥾 Footwear

• Trekking Boots: Mid-cut, waterproof, and broken-in for 3 days of hiking.
• Camp Shoes: Lightweight sandals or slippers for resting at monasteries.
• Socks: 3–4 pairs of merino wool socks to prevent blisters.

🧤 Head & Hand Protection

• Warm Hat: Fleece or down hat to cover ears (critical for preventing heat loss).
• Gloves: Waterproof, insulated gloves for high passes; lightweight liner gloves for daytime.
• Neck Gaiter: Blocks wind and sun, can be pulled up as a face covering.

🫙 Hydration & Nutrition

• Water Bottle: 1–2L reusable bottle with a straw for easy hydration.
• Hydration Tablets: To purify water from natural sources.
• High-Energy Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits for sustained energy.
• Electrolyte Powder: Replenishes minerals lost through sweating.

🔹 Kailash Kora Exclusive

🪜 Trekking Gear

• Trekking Poles: 2 poles with shock absorption for steep ascents/descents (especially Drolma La Pass).
• Daypack: 30–40L pack to carry water, snacks, and layers for the day.
• Rain Cover: For your daypack to protect gear from sudden showers.

🛖 Monastery Stay Essentials

• Sleeping Bag: Rated for -20°C (even in summer, nights drop below freezing).
• Sleeping Pad: Lightweight inflatable pad for insulation and comfort on monastery floors.
• Headlamp: With extra batteries for navigating dark monastery corridors.

🧭 Navigation & Safety

• Route Map: Physical map of the kora circuit (cell service is non-existent).
• Compass: Backup for navigation.
• First Aid Kit: See dedicated section below.

🔹 Season-Specific Additions

🍂 Spring & Autumn (April–June / Sept–Oct)

• Extra Layers: Additional thermal base layers for variable temperatures.
• Hand Warmers: For cold mornings and high passes.
• Sunglasses: UV-blocking lenses to protect against snow glare.

☀️ Summer (July–August)

• Quick-Dry Shirt: Breathable, moisture-wicking shirt for daytime hiking.
• Waterproof Pack Cover: Essential for monsoon rains.
• Insect Repellent: For occasional mosquitoes in lower valleys.

❄️ Winter (Nov–Mar) – NOT RECOMMENDED

• Extreme Cold Gear: Face mask, insulated boots rated for -30°C, and thermal socks.
• Portable Oxygen: For emergency use at high altitudes.
• Snow Goggles: To protect against snow blindness.

🔹 Altitude Sickness First Aid Kit

• 🩹 Diamox (Acetazolamide): 24–48 hours before ascending to aid acclimatization.
• Painkillers: Paracetamol or ibuprofen for headaches.
• Anti-nausea Medication: For altitude sickness symptoms.
• Bandages & Blister Pads: For foot care.
• Antiseptic Wipes: To clean wounds.
• Altitude Sickness Card: Quick reference for symptoms and response.

🔹 Pro Packing Tips

• 💡 Pack Light: Focus on multi-functional items—less is more at high altitude.
• Test Your Gear: Break in boots and test sleeping bags before departure.
• Waterproof Everything: Use dry bags for electronics and sleeping gear.
• Stay Informed: Check weather forecasts and trail conditions before leaving Darchen.
• Respect Local Customs: Pack a scarf or shawl for covering shoulders at monasteries.

⛰️ Ready to Begin Your Pilgrimage?