Lhasa – Everest – Manasarovar – Mount Kailash Trek – Lhasa
Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey across the vast Tibetan Plateau, combining Tibet’s rich cultural heritage with some of the most sacred and breathtaking landscapes in the Himalayas. This 15-day adventure begins and ends in Lhasa, the spiritual heart of Tibet, where ancient monasteries, vibrant traditions, and iconic landmarks offer a fascinating introduction to Tibetan Buddhism.
Travel westward through dramatic high-altitude scenery, crossing remote valleys, turquoise lakes, and expansive grasslands on the way to the mighty Everest region. Witness spectacular views of Mount Everest from the Tibetan side before continuing to the holy waters of Lake Manasarovar and the revered Mount Kailash, one of the world's most sacred pilgrimage destinations.
The highlight of the journey is the Mount Kailash Kora (Parikrama), a rewarding trek around the holy mountain that attracts pilgrims and travelers from around the globe. Along the route, experience traditional Tibetan culture, visit historic monasteries, encounter nomadic communities, and enjoy some of the most awe-inspiring mountain panoramas on Earth.
Perfect for pilgrims, cultural explorers, and adventure seekers alike, this tour offers a unique blend of spiritual discovery, natural beauty, and high-altitude adventure in one of the world's most extraordinary destinations.
Highlights
- Explore the spiritual city of Lhasa, including Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street.
- Visit some of Tibet's most important monasteries and cultural landmarks.
- Enjoy a scenic journey across the vast Tibetan Plateau.
- Witness breathtaking views of Mount Everest from the Tibetan side.
- Travel through remote Himalayan landscapes, high mountain passes, and traditional Tibetan villages.
- Experience the sacred beauty of Lake Manasarovar, one of Asia's holiest lakes.
- Complete the legendary Mount Kailash Kora (Parikrama), a sacred pilgrimage route around Mount Kailash.
- Cross the challenging Dolma La Pass (5,630 m), the highest point of the trek.
- Encounter Tibetan nomadic culture and centuries-old Buddhist traditions.
- Capture spectacular views of snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and dramatic high-altitude scenery.
- Travel with experienced Tibetan guides and support staff.
- A unique combination of culture, spirituality, pilgrimage, and adventure in one unforgettable journey.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
• Arrival at Lhasa Gonggar Airport / railway station • Meet local guide and transfer to hotel • Rest for acclimatization • Light walk around hotel area • Overnight in Lhasa
• Visit Potala Palace (historic palace & museum) • Visit Jokhang Temple (cultural heritage site) • Walk around Barkhor old town market • Overnight in Lhasa
• Visit Drepung Monastery (largest monastery in Tibet) • Visit Sera Monastery (famous for monk debate courtyard) • Afternoon free for rest • Overnight in Lhasa
• Scenic drive via Yamdrok Lake • Stop at Karo La Pass (glacier viewpoint) • Visit Gyantse Kumbum Stupa (architectural landmark) • Continue to Shigatse • Overnight in Shigatse
• Visit Tashilhunpo Monastery (historical site) • Drive towards Everest region • Reach Everest Base Camp (North Face, Tibet side) • Sunset view of Mount Everest (weather permitting) • Overnight at guesthouse near EBC
• Early morning Everest view • Drive across vast Tibetan plateau landscapes • Reach Saga town • Overnight in Saga
• Drive along Brahmaputra River basin • Visit Lake Manasarovar for scenery and photography • Visit Rakshastal Lake (unique saltwater lake) • Overnight near Manasarovar
• Morning walk along lake shore (optional) • Scenic drive to Darchen town • Rest and prepare for trek around Mount Kailash • Overnight in Darchen
🥾 Mount Kailash Trek (Cultural & Adventure Experience) (Trek is optional; vehicle stay possible for non-trekkers) • Start trek around Mount Kailash • Enjoy dramatic mountain landscapes • North face view of Mount Kailash • Overnight at basic guesthouse
• Cross Dolma La Pass (5,630 m) • High-altitude trekking experience • Descend to Zuthulpuk valley • Overnight at guesthouse
• Complete trek • Drive back to Saga • Overnight in Saga
• Long scenic drive across Tibetan plateau • Overnight in Shigatse
• Drive back to Lhasa • Free time for shopping and rest • Optional farewell dinner • Overnight in Lhasa
• Leisure day • Optional short walks, café time, photography • Overnight in Lhasa
Transfer to airport / railway station
Gear List
Essential Documents
Passport (minimum 6 months validity)
Chinese Visa & Tibet Travel Permit
Travel insurance copy
Passport-size photo
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).
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. (tibettourism.com)
Medicines & Health Items
Personal medications
Altitude sickness medicine (consult doctor)
Pain reliever
Cold & flu medicine
Diamox (if recommended by your doctor)
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
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
- All necessary travel permits in Tibet.
- All entrance fees as described in the itinerary above.
- Experienced Tibetan guide in Tibet (English language).
- Transportation, we will arrange a comfortable mini van for the whole trip.
- Vehicle fuel, tools and vehicle repairs (if necessary).
- Driver and guide’s food and accommodation.
- Accommodation. 1 single room during g the stay at hotels with breakfast
- In Lhasa Banashol hotel or similar
- In Shigatse, Gesar hotel or similar
- In Saga : Northern Holiday Hotel or similar
- In Darchen Mt Divine Recreation Hotel or Kailash Castle Hotel
- In EBC, tent guesthouse (Mt Everest Base camp )
- Guest houses dorm bed without bath room during the trek around Mt Kailash.
- Your all entrance fee for monasteries or lakes,Mt Everest and Mt kailash, listed on an itinerary.
- Tourist accident/casualty insurance.
- Travel agency service fee.
- Oxygen tank & bottled mineral water...
- Porters or yaks to carry your language during the kora around Mt Kailash
- China VISA fee
- Plane or train tickets to or out of Tibet.
- Meals and drinks except breakfasts . Our guide who will recommend local Tibet restaurant, here food costs is about 50-100Yuan per person each time.
- Personal expenses
- Horse for personal use during the Kora around Mt kailash, if you need it.
- Important Note:
- The Mount Kailash Kora is optional. Travelers who choose not to trek may remain in Darchen and rejoin the group upon completion of the pilgrimage circuit.
