The short answer
Korala (Kora La) is the pass between Upper Mustang in Nepal and Tibet. It is a restricted-area route, and border opening for tourists has been limited, so it is not a normal choice for Kailash pilgrim groups.
It is sometimes mentioned in plans for Mustang-based journeys or special trips, but you should not book it as your main route. If it is part of your interest, ask your operator whether it can legally and safely be used for your dates, and always keep Kerung or Hilsa as the main plan.
Key facts
- Region
- Upper Mustang
- Use
- Special or limited
- Status
- Check; not a standard Kailash route
- Backup
- Kerung or Hilsa
How it works
- Ask your operatorIs it possible for you?
- Confirm restricted-area permitsUpper Mustang rules.
- Keep a main routeKerung or Hilsa.
A restricted and special route
Korala is the high pass between Upper Mustang and Tibet. It lies in a restricted area, and border opening for tourists has been limited, so it is not a standard route for Kailash groups.
Occasionally it appears in special plans, usually for small groups with the right permits and approvals. The landscape of Upper Mustang is spectacular, but logistics are complex.
If you are curious
Treat Korala as an idea to ask about, not a plan to rely on. Ask your operator whether your nationality can use it, and what permits are needed.
Always keep a main route as a backup, and do not pay for a departure that depends on the Korala crossing without written approval. Rules can change at short notice.
Insider tip
Treat Korala as an add-on idea, not the plan.
Avoid this
Do not pay for a Korala departure without written approval for your nationality.
Related questions
Is Korala the same as Kora La?
Yes, spellings vary.
Can Indians use it?
Check with an operator; rules are limited.
Plan your Nepal trip in 60 seconds
Answer four short questions. We show trips that fit, and a planner can send a route and price. Free, no payment.
Trips that match this guide
- Kailash Mansarovar Overland Yatra via Kodari13 days · see itinerary and dates
- Kailash Mansarovar Overland Yatra via Korala16 days · see itinerary and dates
- Kailash Mansarovar Helicopter Yatra ex-Kathmandu11 days · see itinerary and dates
- Kailash Mansarovar Helicopter Yatra ex-Lucknow9 days · see itinerary and dates
Keep reading
More guides to explore
- Tibet TravelPermits, Lhasa, Everest north side, Kailash and altitude.
- Kailash and Muktinath by Language and GroupKailash and Muktinath for language groups and group yatras.
- Spiritual Nepal: Yoga, Meditation and RetreatsYoga, meditation, retreats and spiritual culture.
- The Buddhist Circuit Around LumbiniThe sites around Lumbini connected to the Buddha.
- All Nepal guidesBrowse every place and theme.








