Mount Kailash & Lake Manasarovar Tour by land 11 days
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
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 at 4★/5★ hotel.
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.
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
- 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
- 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
- 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).
