Kathmandu – Lhasa – Everest – Manasarovar – Mount Kailash – Kathmandu
Overview
This extraordinary journey connects the cultural heart of Nepal with the spiritual and scenic wonders of Tibet, taking you from the vibrant streets of Kathmandu to the mystical landscapes surrounding Mount Kailash. Organized by Hiking Friends Travel Nepal, the itinerary blends high-altitude adventure, deep spiritual significance, and rich cultural exploration into one seamless experience.
The trip begins in Kathmandu, where you explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites and prepare for your Himalayan journey before flying across the mountains to Lhasa. In Lhasa, you’ll discover iconic landmarks such as Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple, gaining insight into Tibetan Buddhism, history, and daily life. As the journey continues, you travel across the vast Tibetan plateau, passing turquoise lakes, high mountain passes, and traditional towns.
A major highlight is the visit to Mount Everest from the northern (Tibet) side, where you can witness the world’s highest peak in a raw and less crowded environment. The route then leads to the sacred Lake Manasarovar, revered by Hindus, Buddhists, and Bon followers as a place of purification and spiritual power.
The centerpiece of the journey is the pilgrimage circuit (Kailash Parikrama) around Mount Kailash. This three-day trek, or optional vehicle-supported stay for non-trekkers, is considered one of the most sacred journeys in the world, offering both physical challenge and profound spiritual meaning. Surrounded by dramatic Himalayan landscapes, the experience is as visually stunning as it is deeply personal.
The journey concludes with a return to Lhasa and a flight back to Kathmandu, where you can relax and reflect before departure. Combining culture, nature, and spirituality, this tour is ideal for travelers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime Himalayan experience that goes far beyond a typical sightseeing trip.
Highlights
- Explore the cultural treasures of Kathmandu including UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Swayambhunath Stupa
- Scenic Himalayan flight between Kathmandu and Lhasa with breathtaking aerial views of the Himalayas
- Visit the iconic Potala Palace and sacred Jokhang Temple
- Experience Tibetan monastic culture at Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery
- Cross high-altitude landscapes of the Tibetan Plateau via Yamdrok Lake and Karola Glacier
- Stand at Everest Base Camp (North Face) with stunning views of Mount Everest
- Visit the sacred waters of Lake Manasarovar and nearby Rakshastal Lake
- Experience the holy pilgrimage trek around Mount Kailash (Kora)
- Cross Dolma La Pass (5,630 m), the highest point of the Kailash trek
- Combine adventure, spirituality, and culture in one of the world’s most sacred Himalayan journeys
- Return journey back to Kathmandu for a comfortable conclusion of the trip
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will complete immigration and visa formalities. A representative from Hiking Friends Travel Nepal will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, you can relax or explore the vibrant Thamel area. Overnight in Kathmandu.
After breakfast, enjoy a guided cultural tour of Kathmandu Valley. Visit Pashupatinath Temple, a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site, followed by Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world. Continue to Swayambhunath Stupa, offering panoramic valley views. In the afternoon, attend a briefing about your Tibet and Kailash journey. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Transfer to the airport for your scenic Himalayan flight to Lhasa. Upon arrival, meet your Tibetan guide and transfer to your hotel. Rest and acclimatize to the altitude. Overnight in Lhasa.
Visit the iconic Potala Palace, the former residence of the Dalai Lama. Continue to Jokhang Temple, the spiritual heart of Tibet, and walk around Barkhor Market. Overnight in Lhasa.
Explore Drepung Monastery, once the largest monastery in Tibet, and Sera Monastery, famous for monk debates. Afternoon free for rest. Overnight in Lhasa.
Drive through stunning landscapes via Yamdrok Lake and Karo La Pass. Visit the Gyantse Kumbum Stupa before continuing to Shigatse. Overnight in Shigatse.
Visit Tashilhunpo Monastery, then drive to Everest Base Camp (Tibet side). Enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Everest. Overnight near EBC.
Enjoy early morning views of Everest before driving across the vast Tibetan plateau to Saga. Overnight in Saga.
Drive along the Brahmaputra basin and reach Lake Manasarovar, one of the holiest lakes in Asia. Visit nearby Rakshastal Lake. Overnight near Manasarovar.
Optional morning walk along the lake before driving to Darchen, the base for Mount Kailash. Prepare for the trek. Overnight in Darchen.
Begin the sacred trek around Mount Kailash. Enjoy spectacular views including the north face. Overnight in guesthouse.
Cross the high Dolma La Pass (5,630 m), the most challenging part of the trek. Descend to Zuthulpuk. Overnight in guesthouse.
Complete the trek and drive back to Saga. Overnight in Saga.
Long scenic drive back across the plateau to Shigatse. Overnight in Shigatse.
Drive back to Lhasa. Free time for shopping or relaxation. Optional farewell dinner. Overnight in Lhasa.
Transfer to the airport for your return flight to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy your final evening. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey. Departure with unforgettable memories of Tibet, Everest, and Mount Kailash.
Cost Details
- 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
- Flight to Lhasha and KTM
- Government taxes and service charges
- guided tour with all entrance charges
- Oxygen tank & bottled mineral water in Tibet
- 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
- Any extra costs due to delays, natural disasters, or unforeseen circumstances
- Drinks, snacks, hot showers, and Wi-Fi during the trip if applicable
- International airfare to/from Kathmandu
- Lunch and dinners
- Nepal visa fee on arrival
- 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).
