Kailash Mansarovar Tour – 12 Days

Upon arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Later in the day, meet our Tibetan partner agent for a comprehensive trip briefing and the start of your Tibet visa process. Your original passport will be collected to prepare the entry visa for China, which usually takes three working days. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Nepali welcome dinner accompanied by cultural performances, a perfect beginning to your spiritual journey.

After breakfast, embark on a guided tour of Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visit Pashupatinath Temple, the most sacred Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, where pilgrims gather for rituals along the Bagmati River. Continue to Boudhanath Stupa, one of the world’s largest stupas and a hub of Tibetan Buddhist culture. Finally, explore Swoyambhunath (Monkey Temple), perched on a hilltop with sweeping views of the Kathmandu Valley. In the afternoon, return to your hotel for final preparations and packing for the journey into Tibet.

Begin your overland journey with a scenic 5–6 hour drive northward from Kathmandu. The road winds through lush hills, terraced fields, and charming villages, offering a glimpse of Nepal’s countryside. By afternoon, arrive at Ghattekhola or Rasuwagadhi, near the Nepal–Tibet border. Settle into a guesthouse and take the evening to rest and prepare for the border crossing tomorrow.

After breakfast, complete immigration formalities on both sides of the border before entering Tibet. From there, drive to the vibrant town of Keyrung, located at 2,700 meters. Spend the rest of the day walking lightly around the town to acclimatize to the altitude. Explore bustling markets, meet friendly locals, and immerse yourself in the authentic Tibetan atmosphere while your body adjusts to the higher elevation.

Travel across the breathtaking Tibetan plateau, passing through high mountain passes like Thong La and La Lung La. The journey offers panoramic views of rugged valleys and snowcapped peaks. Along the way, encounter vast grasslands dotted with grazing yaks and traditional nomadic tents. By afternoon, reach Saga, an important settlement along the pilgrimage route. Overnight stay in a guesthouse.

Continue driving across Tibet’s vast expanse, gradually approaching the sacred Lake Mansarovar. As you arrive, the turquoise waters of the lake shimmer against the backdrop of towering Himalayan peaks. Considered holy by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers, Mansarovar is believed to cleanse sins and purify the soul. Pilgrims often perform prayers or ritual baths along its shores. The peaceful environment of the lake creates the perfect setting for reflection and meditation.

Spend a spiritual morning by the sacred waters of Lake Mansarovar before driving to Darchen, the base camp of Mount Kailash. Located at the foot of the holy mountain, Darchen is the gateway to the Kailash Kora (circumambulation). Spend the afternoon preparing for the trek and enjoy awe-inspiring views of Mount Kailash, which dominates the skyline with its majestic presence. Overnight at a guesthouse.

After breakfast, drive about 20 minutes to Yamadwar, the “Gateway of the God of Death,” where the sacred Kora begins. From here, trek through a wide valley with fluttering prayer flags and rugged landscapes. The highlight is reaching Driaphuk Monastery, situated beneath the north face of Mount Kailash. The trek takes 6–7 hours at a steady pace, with pilgrims who cannot walk able to hire horses or porters. Overnight stay near Driaphuk, with the sacred mountain standing tall above.

Rise early for the most challenging day of the Kora. Ascend steeply to cross the Dolma-La Pass (5,670m), the highest point of the pilgrimage, adorned with prayer flags. From the top, descend past the holy Gauri Kund and Shivasthali, sacred spots of immense spiritual significance. Continue walking across rocky terrain until reaching Zhuthulphuk Monastery, known for its meditation caves linked to great Tibetan saints. Overnight at a simple guesthouse.

Complete the final stretch of the Kailash Parikrama with a 3-hour trek to the endpoint, where vehicles will be waiting. From here, begin the long drive back across the Tibetan plateau to Saga. The journey offers one last chance to appreciate Tibet’s rugged beauty and vast horizons. Arrive by evening and rest in your hotel.

Retrace your route back through the Tibetan plateau to Keyrung. After clearing Chinese immigration, cross into Nepal and continue driving through lush hills and valleys. Arrive in Kathmandu by evening and celebrate the successful completion of your Kailash–Manasarovar Yatra with a farewell dinner and cultural performance.

After breakfast, transfer to Tribhuwan International Airport for your onward journey. For those wishing to extend their stay, additional tours and treks in Nepal can be arranged. This concludes your once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar.