Mount Kailash (6,638m) is considered the abode of Lord Shiva by Hindus and the spiritual center of the universe in Buddhist, Jain, and BΓΆn traditions. The sacred Lake Mansarovar is believed to have been created by Lord Brahma. This 10-day short trip via the Kerung border offers the most efficient route to this divine destination.
Airport pickup, hotel check-in, pre-trip briefing covering Chinese visa requirements, packing checklist, altitude preparation, and route overview. Welcome dinner.
Scenic drive along the Arniko Highway through Trishuli river valley to the Nepal-China border at Rasuwagadhi. Cross into Tibet and drive to the Tibetan border town of Kerung. Acclimatize at altitude.
Drive across the vast Tibetan Plateau with views of snow-capped peaks and golden grasslands. Pass through small Tibetan villages. Overnight in Saga for acclimatization.
Drive to the sacred Lake Mansarovar β one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world. Perform ritual bathing (puja) at the lake's edge. The turquoise waters reflecting Mount Kailash create an unforgettable sight. Evening prayer ceremony.
Morning Mansarovar parikrama (circumambulation) by vehicle, visiting Chiu Monastery perched on a hilltop. Drive to Darchen β the starting point of the Mount Kailash trek. Prepare for the 3-day Kailash parikrama.
Begin the sacred 52km circumambulation (kora) of Mount Kailash. Trek 12km along the Lha Chu valley with the dramatic north face of Kailash gradually revealing itself. Overnight at Dirapuk Monastery guesthouse.
The most challenging and spiritual day. Cross the Drolma La Pass (5,630m) β the highest point of the kora. Pass the sacred Gauri Kund lake. Descend to Zutulpuk Monastery.
Complete the kora by walking back to Darchen. Celebrate the completion of your parikrama. Drive to Saga for overnight rest.
Drive back across the Tibetan Plateau to Kerung. Last night in Tibet with reflections on the journey.
Cross back into Nepal and drive to Kathmandu. Airport transfer or extend your stay with a Nepal tour package.
Limited departures each season. Book early to secure your spot.
Book Kailash Trip βIndian passport holders cannot enter Tibet via Nepal. They must use the Lipulekh Pass route organized by India's Ministry of External Affairs. Our Nepal route is available for all other nationalities.
The 52km circumambulation over 3 days is physically demanding, especially crossing Drolma La Pass at 5,630m. We recommend starting fitness training 2-3 months before. Yak and horse support is available.
You need a Chinese Group Visa, Tibet Travel Permit, Alien's Travel Permit, and Military Permit. We handle ALL of these you just need to send us your passport details 4-6 weeks before departure.
The season runs May to September. June and July are the most popular months. The Kerung border closes during winter. Book 2-3 months in advance for permit processing.
Very limited. China Mobile works in some areas but not during the kora. We recommend carrying a satellite communicator or phone for emergencies. Wi-Fi is available at some hotels in larger towns.