Trip Overview

A journey not just to a destination - but to inner transformation

Experience a once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage to the sacred Mt. Kailash (6,740 m), one of the most revered spiritual destinations in the world. This 10-day group-joining overland tour takes you deep into the remote landscapes of Tibet, combining adventure, culture, and profound spiritual meaning.

Located north of the Himalayas, Mt. Kailash is worshipped by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers alike. For devotees, it represents the ultimate sacred destination, where the journey itself becomes a path to inner transformation and spiritual awakening.

Travel across the breathtaking Tibetan plateau, passing ancient monasteries, high mountain passes, nomadic settlements, and crystal-clear lakes framed by the Himalayas. A key highlight is the sacred visit to Lake Manasarovar, one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world, set near the majestic Gurla Mandhata.

Guided by experienced teams and supported by reliable 4WD transport, this carefully designed itinerary ensures a safe, comfortable, and meaningful journey through high-altitude terrain and remote regions.

The pilgrimage includes the sacred Kora (circumambulation) of Mt. Kailash—an unforgettable spiritual trek believed to cleanse karma and bring deep inner peace. After completing this transformative experience, the journey returns via the Tibetan plateau to Nepal and concludes in Kathmandu.

Highlights

  • 10-day fully organized group joining tour
  • Sacred Mt. Kailash & Lake Manasarovar visit
  • Scenic overland journey through Tibet
  • Guided support with permits and logistics
  • Sacred Kora (pilgrimage circuit) experience
  • Cultural immersion in Tibetan landscapes & traditions

Outline Itinerary:

Day 01: Kathmandu (1400m) – Kyirong Bazar (2200 m)(145) km.
Day 02: Kyirong Bazar (2200 m) rest and explore around.
Day 03: Kerung – Saga Bazar (4600m).
Day 04: Saga Bazar – Manasarovar Lake – (4560m) 560km– 7 hours drive.
Day 05: Manasarovar Lake – Darchen (4560m) 30km
Day 06: Darchen – Dirapuk (4900m).
Day 07: Dirapuk – Zutulpuk – (4790m) 22km - 10 hours.
Day 08: Zutulpuk - Darchen - Saga Bazar.
Day 09: Saga Bazar– Kyirong Bazar.
Day 10: Kyirong Bazar – Kathmandu (1400m) then transfer to Hotel.

Details Tour Itinerary:

Day 01: Kathmandu (1350m) – Kyirong (2200m - 145 km.

We enjoy an early morning drive through the typical rural landscapes of Nepal from Kathmandu to Kyirong Bazar (145 km), a journey of approximately 8 hours. After completing immigration and customs formalities, we continue uphill to Kyirong Bazar, a Tibetan border town. Upon arrival at the checkpoint, our Tibetan guide will meet the group, and we then proceed along the mountain road, ascending to Kirong Bazar for an overnight stay. Accommodation will be in a guesthouse.

Day 02: Kyirong Bazar (2200 m) rest day for explore.

This day is dedicated to rest and acclimatization, allowing us to adapt to the higher altitudes to come.

Day 03: Kyirung – Saga Bazar (4600m).

As we depart from Kyirung, we continue our journey across the Lalung La Pass (5,200 m), where breathtaking mountain vistas unfold at every turn. The route passes the stunning turquoise waters of Peiku Tso Lake, with spectacular views of Mt. Shishapangma (8,013 m) rising majestically in the background. The trail then follows a course alongside the Brahmaputra River before descending into a wide river valley dotted with traditional Tibetan villages.

This scenically rewarding drive offers countless opportunities for photography and videography. From here, the route continues along the northern approach, winding through the vast Tibetan plateau. After covering approximately 295 km, we arrive at Saga at an elevation of 4,600 meters. Upon reaching Saga, we will either set up camp at a suitable campsite for the night or stay in a local hotel or guesthouse.

Day 04: Saga – Manasarovar (4560m - 560 km – 7 hrs drive

Today is one of the most auspicious days of our journey, as we will catch our first glimpse of the holy Mount Kailash and the sacred Lake Manasarovar. A truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, this is an opportunity to take a holy dip in the lake, relax, and explore the serene surroundings of Manasarovar. The rest of the day is free for personal reflection and enjoyment of this spiritually significant place. Overnight accommodation will be in a tented camp or guesthouse.

Day 05: Manasarovar Lake – Darchen (4560m) 30km

The crystal-clear turquoise waters of sacred Lake Manasarovar make it one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world. The lake is home to a variety of aquatic life and migratory birds, including swans. Surrounded by the majestic Mount Kailash, Gurla Mandhata, and Rakshastal, the region is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and deep spiritual significance. The area is also known for its mineral resources, hot springs, and diverse wildlife.

We spend the day exploring the shores of Lake Manasarovar before driving to Darchen, a journey of approximately one hour. From there, we continue to Chu Gompa, where we will spend the night.

Day 06: Darchen – Dirapuk (4900m).

Early in the morning, after breakfast, our trek begins. You will meet your team of yaks and experienced Tibetan yak handlers, who will accompany and support you throughout the sacred Kora (circumambulation) of Mount Kailash.

Starting from Darchen, the trail leads through verdant meadows and alongside picturesque streams toward the beautiful Lha Chu Valley. Along the way, you will enjoy views of the turquoise river flowing through a narrow canyon framed by dramatic cliffs. As the trek progresses, the magnificent north face of Mount Kailash gradually comes into view, offering one of the most awe-inspiring sights of the pilgrimage.

The route then approaches the historic Dirapuk Monastery, a monastery dating back to the 13th century. Visiting this sacred site is considered a special blessing and is one of the highlights of the Mount Kailash pilgrimage and trekking experience.

After completing the day's trek, we arrive at Dirapuk, where we will spend the night either in a campsite or a local guesthouse.

Day 07: Dirapuk – Zutulpuk – (4790m) 22km - 10 hours.

Leaving the Lha Chu Valley behind, we continue our trek toward the Drolma Chu Valley. Today's journey is the most challenging and rewarding section of the sacred Kora, as we ascend to Drolma La Pass (5,630 m), the highest point of the pilgrimage.

Upon reaching the summit, we are rewarded with spectacular views and a glimpse of the sacred Gauri Kund, also known as the Lake of Compassion. The sight of colorful prayer flags fluttering across the pass adds to the spiritual atmosphere, making the strenuous ascent truly worthwhile.

From Drolma La, the trail descends steeply before easing into the broad plains of Zutul-Puk. This area is home to the revered Zutulpuk Monastery and several meditation caves associated with the great Tibetan yogi Milarepa. Among these is the famous Milarepa Cave, where pilgrims believe his footprints and elbow imprints can still be seen on the sacred rocks and mani stones.

As we continue our Parikrama (Kora) around Mount Kailash, we arrive at Zutul-Puk, where we will spend the night in a campsite or guesthouse. The day's journey is both spiritually uplifting and physically rewarding, offering an unforgettable blend of adventure, devotion, and natural beauty.

Day 08: Zutulpuk – Darchen – Saga Bazar.

Our pilgrimage trek concludes upon returning to Darchen, from where we drive to Saga for an overnight stay in a camp, guesthouse, or hotel. Having completed the sacred Parikrama (Kora) of Mount Kailash, we are filled with a profound sense of spiritual fulfillment and inner peace. The religious rituals and experiences along the journey leave a lasting impression, and despite the physical challenges of the trek, we retire for the night with deep gratitude and a sense of accomplishment after an extraordinary day.

Day 09: Saga Bazar – Kyirong Bazar.

You cross the Yarlung Tsangpo (Brahmaputra River) by ferry and continue your drive for approximately 250 km to Kyirung Bazar. Soon after leaving Saga, the road opens onto the vast Tibetan plateau, offering sweeping views of wide-open plains, distant mountain ranges, and grazing herds of yaks and sheep. The journey passes through picturesque valleys and traditional Tibetan settlements, providing a glimpse into the unique culture and lifestyle of the region. As you approach Kyirung, the landscape gradually becomes greener and more dramatic, with snow-capped peaks and deep river gorges creating a spectacular backdrop. Upon arrival in Kyirung, you will check into a guesthouse or hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 10: Kyirong Bazar – Kathmandu (1400m)

From Kyirung, we descend toward the border town of Zhangmu. From Zhangmu, it is a short journey to the Friendship Bridge, which spans the Bhote Koshi River and marks the China–Nepal border. Here, you bid farewell to your Tibetan guide and driver before walking down to the Nepalese Immigration Control at Kodari, where you will be met by your Nepalese escorts. After completing the re-entry formalities, you continue the scenic drive back to Kathmandu. Depending on road and weather conditions, the journey takes approximately 5–6 hours.

Cost Includes

  • Transfer by tourist or private van or tourist bus
  • Twin-sharing accommodation as per the itinerary on a bed and breakfast (BB) basis
  • Guided by an experienced Tibetan English Speaking guide
  • All entrance fees for monuments
  • Potter (1:2) 2pax 1 potter
  • Emergency Oxygen Cylinder in the Vehicle.
  • Tibet Travel Permit (TTP)
  • Alien's Travel Permit

Cost Excludes

  • Lunch and dinner ($5 to $10 USD per meal depending on the choice of menu you choose)
  • Train or Airfare of any sectors
  • Insurance of any kind
  • Nepal and China Visa fees (Nepal Visa fee $30 on arrival at the airport for 15 days) (Do let us know which passport you hold so that we can let you know if the visa fee is applicable or not and if applicable we will give you the exact visa fee for Tibet)
  • Expenses of any personal expenses such as drinks, tips, potter charge, etc.
  • Any trekking equipment.

Gallery

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