Arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport. Warm welcome by Hiking Friends Travel Nepal team and transfer to hotel. Trip briefing, document check, and preparation for Tibet journey. Evening free for rest or short walk around Thamel. Overnight in Kathmandu
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Mount Kailash & Lake Manasarovar Tour by land 11 days
11Days
Overview
The journey to Mount Kailash is one of the most profound spiritual and scenic experiences in the Himalayas, combining remote landscapes, ancient traditions, and deep religious significance. Revered by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and followers of Bon, Mount Kailash is considered the center of the universe and a place of immense spiritual power. This pilgrimage, often completed with a sacred circumambulation known as the Kora, is believed to cleanse sins and bring spiritual fulfillment. Starting and ending in Kathmandu, the journey gradually unfolds from the cultural richness of Nepal into the vast, high-altitude wilderness of Tibet. Travelers cross into Tibet via Kerung and move across the dramatic Tibetan plateau, passing through windswept valleys, high mountain passes, and traditional settlements before reaching the holy Lake Manasarovar. This pristine lake, set against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks, offers a peaceful and reflective environment, often considered as spiritually important as Mount Kailash itself. The highlight of the journey is the three-day Kora around Mount Kailash, a challenging yet deeply rewarding trek that takes you through stunning valleys and over the high Dolma La Pass. Along the way, pilgrims and travelers share the trail, creating a unique atmosphere of devotion and endurance. Despite the physical demands, the experience is less about difficulty and more about personal reflection, connection with nature, and spiritual awakening. Overall, this journey is not just a trip, but a meaningful pilgrimage that blends adventure, culture, and spirituality in one of the most remote and sacred regions on earth.
Highlights
- Sacred journey to Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar
- Complete Kailash Kora (3-day trek)
- Cross the high Dolma La Pass (5,630 m)
- Stunning Tibetan plateau landscapes
- Spiritual experience in one of the holiest regions on earth
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Guided sightseeing tour covering: Pashupatinath Temple Boudhanath Stupa Swayambhunath Stupa Final preparation for the journey (permits, packing, briefing). Overnight in Kathmandu.
Early morning scenic drive to Rasuwagadhi border. Complete Nepal–Tibet immigration formalities. Meet Tibetan guide and continue to Kerung. Rest and acclimatization. Overnight in hotel.
Drive across the Tibetan plateau with views of snow peaks and wide landscapes. Cross Brahmaputra River (Yarlung Tsangpo). Gradual altitude gain; important acclimatization day. Overnight in Saga.
Long but spectacular drive across vast plains and desert landscapes. First view of sacred Lake Manasarovar and Mount Kailash (if weather permits). Spiritual time at the lake: meditation, puja, or quiet reflection. Overnight at guesthouse/camp near the lake.
Short drive to Darchen, the base for Kailash Kora. Rest, acclimatization, and trek briefing. Prepare yaks/porters if required. Overnight in Darchen.
Begin the sacred Kora (circumambulation) of Mount Kailash. Trek approx. 18 km through the valley of Yamadwar. Incredible north face views of Mount Kailash. Overnight at basic guesthouse in Dirapuk.
Most challenging and rewarding day. Cross Dolma La Pass (5,630 m), highest point of the journey. Visit Gauri Kund (holy lake) on descent. Continue trek to Zuthulphuk. Overnight in guesthouse.
Easy trek (~10 km) to complete the Kailash Kora. Meet vehicle and drive back to Saga. Celebrate completion of the sacred journey. Overnight in Saga.
Drive back through Tibetan plateau to Kerung. Relax and recover after long journey. Overnight in Kerung.
Drive back to Kathmandu via Rasuwagadhi border. Transfer to hotel or airport for onward departure. End of pilgrimage with unforgettable memories.
Gear List
Essential Documents
- Passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Chinese Visa & Tibet Travel Permit
- Travel insurance copy
- Passport-size photos
- Flight tickets and travel documents
- Cash in Dollars(can be exchanged in Kathmandu)
- Copies of important documents
Duffel Bag & Daypack
- Duffel bag (carried in vehicle/yak during Kailash trek)
- Small daypack (20–35L) for daily essentials
- Waterproof backpack cover
- Waist pouch for passport, money, and phone
Clothing
Base Layers
- Thermal tops and bottoms (2 pairs)
- Moisture-wicking T-shirts
- Comfortable trekking pants
- Innerwear
Mid Layers
- Fleece jacket or warm hoodie
- Light wool sweater
- Softshell jacket (optional)
Outer Layers
- Warm down jacket
- Waterproof and windproof jacket
- Waterproof pants or rain pants
Trekking & Camp Wear
- Comfortable travel clothes
- Extra warm clothing for evenings
- Light clothes for Kathmandu and Lhasa
Headwear & Hand Protection
- Warm beanie or wool hat
- Sun hat or cap
- Neck buff or scarf
- Warm gloves
- Waterproof gloves (optional)
Footwear
- Comfortable trekking boots with good grip
- Lightweight camp shoes or sandals
- Warm trekking socks (4–5 pairs)
Good trekking shoes are especially important during the Kailash Parikrama, where the trail crosses rocky terrain and the high pass near Dolma La (5,630m). (kailash-yatra.org)
Personal Care & Toiletries
- Toothbrush & toothpaste
- Soap & shampoo
- Sunscreen SPF 50+
- Lip balm
- Moisturizer
- Wet wipes
- Hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper/tissues
- Quick-dry towel
The Tibetan Plateau has strong UV exposure and very dry air, so sunscreen and moisturizer are essential throughout the trip.
Medicines & Health Items
- Personal medications
- Pain reliever
- Cold & flu medicine
- Motion sickness tablets
- Band-aids and blister care
- Basic first-aid kit
- Water purification tablets (optional)
Electronics
- Mobile phone
- Camera
- Power bank
- Universal travel adapter
- Charging cables
- Extra batteries or memory cards
- Headlamp or flashlight
Snacks & Hydration
- Reusable water bottle or thermos
- Energy bars and dry snacks
- Electrolyte powder
Optional but Useful
- Trekking poles
- Sleeping bag (-10°C to -15°C recommended)
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Notebook and pen
- Prayer flags or pilgrimage items
Important Tips
- Dress in layers because temperatures can change quickly.
- Keep warm clothing and important medicines in your daypack.
- Drink plenty of water during the journey for better acclimatization.
- Pack light but include proper cold-weather gear for the Kailash trek.
- Modest clothing is recommended when visiting monasteries and sacred sites.
Cost Details
What's Included
- Accommodations twin sharing, breakfast included
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
- All domestic transportation as per itinerary
- All the required Permit charges
- China Visa
- English speaking tibetan guide
- Government taxes and service charges
- guided tour with all entrance charges
- Porter to carry your luggage during the trek (1 porter for every 2 trekkers, with a maximum load of 12 kg per guest and 24 kg per porter).
- Tea house accommodation during the trek
- Tourist accident/casualty insurance in Tibet
Not Included
- Any extra costs due to delays, natural disasters, or unforeseen circumstances
- Drinks, snacks, hot showers, and Wi-Fi during the trip if applicable
- Lunch and dinners
- Nepal visa fee on arrival(15 days: USD 30, 30 days: USD 50, 90 days: USD 125).
- Personal equipment (sleeping bag, warm clothes trekking poles, suitable shoes etc.)
- Tips for the guide, porter, and driver are not included (recommended: USD 8–20 per day, depending on your satisfaction with the service).
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. In addition to a Chinese visa, special Tibet travel permits are required to visit Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar. These are arranged in advance by Hiking Friends Travel Nepal, and you must travel in an organized group.
The Kora is moderately to physically demanding, especially when crossing Dolma La Pass. It involves long walking days at high altitude, so a basic level of fitness and proper acclimatization are important.
In Kathmandu, accommodation is in 3★ hotels. In Tibet (Kerung, Saga, Darchen), 3★ category hotels are used, while during the Kailash Kora, accommodation is in basic guesthouses or dormitory-style lodges.
The best season is from May to September when the weather is relatively stable, roads are accessible, and the views of Mount Kailash are clear.
Yes, as the journey reaches altitudes above 5,000 meters. Proper acclimatization, hydration, and a gradual ascent are essential. It is recommended to consult a doctor before traveling and carry necessary medication and follow the guide instructions.
Trip Map
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