Mount Kailash Pilgrimage Tour - 12 Days

Mount Kailash Pilgrimage Tour Highlights

• Enjoy a spiritual tour of Mt. Kailash and Lake Mansarovar in Tibet spanning 110km, and take a dip in Lake Mansarovar.
• Explore two of the highest oligotrophic lakes on earth, Lake Mansarovar and Lake Rakshastal.
• Enjoy three days, Kailash Kora or Mansarovar Parikrama, on foot overlooking the beautiful surroundings of western Tibet.

• Duration12 Days
• Max. Altitude5600m
• Trip GradeModerate_strenuous
• Group Size1 - 20
• Meals Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner in Tibet
• Accommodation3-Best available accommodation in Tibet

Itinerary

• Day 1: Drive to Syabrubensi (1600m / 145 km / 6.5 hrs.) or Timure (1800m / 157 km / 7 hrs.).

  The day begins with a delicious breakfast at the hotel. Afterward, you'll embark on a jeep and drive to Syabrubensi village located in Rasuwa District. You'll start driving alongside Trishuli River and continue along the Budi Gandaki River towards Syabrubensi. Syabrubensi serves as the gateway to the Langtang Region. You can continue driving uphill from Syabrubensi and reach Timure village. Spend the rest of the day overlooking the beautiful view of the nearby mountains.

• Day 2: Drive to Rasuwagadhi (1950m / 15 km / 45 min from Sybrubensi), and drive to Kerung town (2900m / 1hrs / 35 km)

  After breakfast, you’ll embark on the road journey and drive towards Rasuwagadhi. You’ll continue driving through the Friendship Highway that goes into Tibet in the north. Driving almost 45min from Syabrubensi, you’ll arrive at Rasuwagadhi village that lies close to the Tibetan border. Here, you’ll get your permits checked and then continue your journey towards Tibet. Almost an hour-long road journey will bring you to the populated Tibetan city of Kerung. Spend the rest of the day exploring Kerung.

• Day 3: Drive to Saga (4400m / 150 km / 4 hrs)

  From Kerung, you’ll begin driving northwest towards Saga County. Kerung is the southernmost part of the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. A four-hour-long journey will take you through the hills and into the Tibetan plateau towards Saga. Saga County is a part of Shigatse prefecture that connects the rest of Tibet with the Kailash Region. A scenic road journey will climb up to 850 meters in altitude. Overnight in Saga.

• Day 4: Short walking to Brahmaputra River and Rest day in Saga for acclimatization

  Instead of moving forward, you’ll spend the day acclimatizing at Saga. After breakfast, you’ll embark on a short journey to the Brahmaputra River. You’ll continue walking alongside Dargye Tsangpo River towards the Brahmaputra. Because of its close location to the Mansarovar region, the river is highly revered by pilgrims. You can also choose to tour around and explore Lhartse in the east, Dzongkha, in the south of Purang in the west. Spend the rest of the day exploring Saga County.

• Day 5: Drive to Lake Manasarovar (4600m / 9 hrs. / 510 km)

  Leaving Saga, you’ll begin driving through the rugged and remote part of Saga country towards Mansarovar. The entire journey may last 9hr and climb almost 200 meters in altitude. Enjoy the majestic sights of snowcapped peaks and High Mountain passes en route to Lake Mansarovar. Witness the nomadic villages en route to your destination. Cross Paryang (4550m) and the high mountain pass of Mayam La (5150m) en route to Lake Mansarovar. Overnight in Horpa town.

• Day 6: Puja / holy dip in Lake Manasarovar & drive to Darchen (4700m / 1hr / 40 km)

  Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Horpa, and embark on a scenic tour of Lake Mansarovar. You can choose to take a holy dip in Lake Mansarovar during the tour. The pilgrims believe that taking a dip in the lake rids the humans of their sins. You’ll explore both Lake Mansarovar and Lake Rakshastal. A Hindu legend suggests that Lord Rama meditated in Lake Mansarovar while Ravana meditated in Lake Rakshastal. After a brief tour session, you’ll begin driving towards Darchen village.

• Day 7: Drive to Yamadwar (9 km / 30 min), start Parikrama on foot to Dirapuk (4950m / 5 hrs / 12 km)

  After breakfast, you'll begin driving towards Yamadwar. Yamadwar or Tarboche marks the starting point of Parikrama or the Kora. The first day of the Parikrama may last almost 5hr. Catch the majestic sight of Mt. Kailash along the tour. You will also witness many Buddhist Chortens and stupas along the way. It's common for you to meet and greet pilgrims. The first day of Parikrama ends at Dirapuk village. Overnight in Dirapuk.

• Day 8: Parikrama continues, Dirapuk to Zuthrul Phug (4950m) crossing Dolma La Pass (5600m / 8-10 hrs / 22 km)

  A challenging part of the Parikrama will follow today. After breakfast, you'll embark on the second day of Parikrama and begin trekking towards Dolma La Pass (5600m). The weather around the Dolma La remains famous for being unpredictable. You'll start climbing the pass overlooking the beautiful glacial lake of Gauri Kunda. The trail continues towards another high pass of Khanda Sanglo. From here, you'll start climbing down towards Zuthrul Phug. Spend the evening visiting the magnificent Zuthrul Phug Gomba (monastery).

• Day 9: Our Parikrama continues up to near Darchen (2 hrs / 08 km) and drive to Saga (4400m / 9 hrs / 560 km)

  The third day of the Parikrama takes you around the trail towards Lake Mansarovar. After breakfast, you'll embark on an easy trail and begins climbing towards Darchen village. It may take almost 2-3hr to reach Darchen. You’ll continue towards Lake Mansarovar. After a brief tour of the lake, you’ll embark on a road journey back to Saga County. Continue driving through the rugged terrain towards Saga.

• Day 10: Drive to Kerung (150 km / 4 hrs)

  After breakfast, you'll leave Saga town and begin driving south towards Kerung County. The trail goes along the beautiful mountainous pass and hills towards Kerung town. A short journey spanning almost 4hr will bring you back to Kerung. Enjoy the rest of the day, exploring the quaint and beautiful surroundings.

• Day 11: Drive to Kathmandu via Rasuwagadhi (8-10 hrs / 195 km).

  Leaving Kerung, you'll begin driving back to Nepal. After breakfast, you'll embark on a road journey and head south through the Friendship Highway. After getting your permits checked, you'll cross the border and continue driving through Rasuwagadhi towards Syabrubensi village. Catch the beautiful sights of some of the highest mountains on earth as you make your way back. From Syabrubensi, you'll begin driving along Budi Gandaki River and Trishuli River towards Kathmandu. Spend the evening enjoying a delicious farewell dinner in one of the most excellent restaurants in Kathmandu.

• Day 12: Departure Day

  On the last day in Kathmandu, you can indulge in a brief shopping spree and visit the nearby Thamel to buy souvenirs. We’ll drop you off at the airport in time of your flight back home.

Inclusion

Notes

Travel Visa Information

The Mount Kailash Pilgrimage Tour requires two major documentation in order for you to visit. They are China Visa and Tibet Travel Permits. Since the tour takes place in the two key locations, you must prepare all of your documents prior to the tour without any delay. 

In order to obtain the Tibet Travel Permit, it usually takes around 15 days for a regular tour. As for obtaining all the essential permits required for the Mount Kailash Pilgrimage Tour, it is common for it to take 20 days. 

Therefore, travelers must submit all the necessary information and documentation at least 20 days before the scheduled departure date.

People out of Nepal must arrive in Kathmandu at least 3 days before the tour. Remember that the Chinese visa can be applied only during working days (Saturday and Sunday are holidays). 

Essential Documents for the Tour

The following documents are essential for the Mount Kailash Mansarovar Tour: 

• Passport having validity of at least 6 months. 
• Make sure to carry a few passport-size photographs.
• A Chinese Visa is necessary to travel through China. 
• A Chinese Group Visa is mandatory while traveling through Nepal. 

(Note: For now, only a group of 4 people or more can apply for the Chinese Group Visa.)

• Tibet Travel Permit is crucial for entering Tibet which is issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau. 
• Nepal Visa - if you are traveling through Nepal. 
• Travel insurance.

Who Can Join the Mount Kailash Pilgrimage Tour?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the criteria for anyone to undertake the Mount Kailash Pilgrimage Tour: 

• To join the Mount Kailash Pilgrimage Tour, you must:
  • Hold a valid passport
  • Be between 18-70 years old (in some cases, up to 75 years is allowed)
  • Be in good physical and mental health
  • Get medical clearance from a qualified doctor
• For travelers aged 70+ (if allowed):
  • Must undergo all necessary medical tests
  • Obtain a No Objection Certificate from their doctor
  • Be accompanied by family members (blood relatives only)
  • Submit a refundable $1000 security deposit for potential emergencies
• Travelers below 12 years old can travel but under strict restrictions which must be accompanied by family members
• Declare any pre-existing medical conditions like:
  • Lung problems (asthma, COPD)
  • Heart problems (cardiovascular disease, prior heart attacks)
• Be mentally prepared for the challenging high-altitude terrain
• The purpose is inner peace, so focus on maintaining mental health
• Have sufficient finances for:
  • Tour package costs
  • Flights, insurance, porters/mules
  • Personal expenses during travel
  • Potential medical costs and evacuation charges
• Carefully review and accept the company's booking, cancellation, and terms of service policies acknowledging the risks involved

Tour Booking and Cancellation Guide

The Mount Kailash Pilgrimage Tour is possible only when it is planned before a month of the tour. This is because most travelers need to apply for a Chinese visa and then apply for all the essential permits in Tibet. And when it comes to obtaining all the permits in Tibet, it typically takes around 15 days minimum.  

Here are the key points about the booking and cancellation policies:

Booking Policy:

• A 20% deposit is required to secure your tour booking
• This deposit amount is fully refundable if you cancel

Cancellation Policy:

• You will receive a complete refund of the money if you cancel more than 30 days prior to the start of the tour. (minus any fees associated with bank transfers or other services)
• If you cancel less than 30 days before the tour start date
  • A 10% cancellation fee will be deducted from the tour cost
  • This 10% fee covers the expenses for arranging your tour

Best Time for Mount Kailash Pilgrimage Tour

The months from April to October are the best times for Mount Kailash Pilgrimage Tour yet it can be done all year round. 

When undertaking the tour during spring and autumn, the weather during the day is pleasant however, the higher altitude experiences cold weather. During these times, the skies are clear with dry air making it ideal for the tour and even the trek. And thus witness the majestic views without any obstructions. 

As for traveling during summer which is the rainy season, the tour is still enjoyable. This is because this part of Tibet receives less rainfall. 

However, traveling during winter can be challenging, especially for trekking. The walking trail is blocked by a lot of snow and the bitterly cold temperature. 

Maximum Elevation of the Mount Kailash Pilgrimage Tour

Though the journey begins from Syabrubensi (1600m) or Timure (1800m), the actual parikrama begins from Saga at an altitude of 4400m. Some travelers may currently encounter moderate altitude sickness symptoms. Due to the high altitude, the first day is scheduled for an acclimatization day. 

The journey continues to Mount Kailash while traversing through several high passes. Dolma La Pass is the highest point of this trip at an elevation of 5,600 meters. For additional support, travelers can hire porters or yaks in Darchen. 

Food and Accommodation During the Mount Kailash Pilgrimage Tour

For those on the Kailash Pilgrimage Tour, the food options are rather minimal. Along the route, the only accommodation alternatives with shared restrooms are tent teahouses, guesthouses, or modest inns. Simple meal alternatives like egg-fried rice and instant noodles are available here. 

In comparison to other cities, the cost of the meal is higher. This is due to the limited availability of vegetables and meat in the surrounding area. Every ingredient comes from other bigger cities like Lhasa and Shigatse and is transported here.

Health and Safety Considerations

There is a significant altitude involved in the Kailash Pilgrimage Tour. At 5,600 meters, Dolma La Pass is the highest point on the journey. The trip can be challenging since traveling above 3,000 meters increases the risk of altitude sickness. 

We put your safety first, so don't worry. We've created the ideal schedule, which includes a day for acclimatization. Additionally, you are led by our knowledgeable guides for an excellent journey. 

Our guides have received extensive training in first aid and high-altitude survival. They will always keep an eye on your health status. If there are any discomforts, it is preferable to let trip guides know.

Equipment

Packing List For Mount Kailash Pilgrimage Tour

Clothing:

• Base layers (moisture-wicking shirts, thermal underwear)
• Insulating mid-layers (fleece/wool sweaters, down jacket)
• Waterproof & windproof outer shell jacket and pants
• Quick-dry hiking pants
• Warm hat, gloves, neck gaiter/balaclava
• Thick wool or synthetic socks
• Hiking boots with good traction and ankle support
• Sandals/flip-flops for camp

Head & Hand Wear:

• Sun hat/cap
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Warm insulated gloves/mittens
• Liner gloves

Accessories:

• Backpack (30-40 liters) with hip belt
• Trekking poles
• Water bottles or hydration bladder
• Sunscreen and lip balm
• Personal toilet kit & medications
• Headlamp/flashlight with extra batteries
• Trekking snacks (energy bars, nuts, etc.)
• Water purification tablets
• Basic first aid kit

Documentation:

• Passport with visa
• Printed copy of permits
• Insurance documents
• Extra passport photos

Optional:

• Camera, batteries/charger, memory cards
• Power bank for charging devices
• Reading/writing materials
• Binoculars
• Basic repair kit for minor gear fixes

FAQs of Mount Kailash Pilgrimage Tour

• How can I get Tibet Visa? Can I get my visa for Tibet from home?

  Authorized travel agencies in Lhasaare responsible for providing your Tibet Travel permit(Tibet visa). You should pre-arrange your trip itinerary through these travel agencies in Lhasa.The strict tourism policy of Tibet requires travelers to have the permit in hand to board the flight or drive overland to Tibet. If you are planning to travel to Tibet from Nepal, you should prepare for a Chinese Group Visa through legal travel agencies in Kathmandu.

• Can I organize a Tibet visa myself? Can I travel alone in Tibet? If No How do you organize Tibet Tour?

  No, you cannot organize a Tibet visa by yourselfand travel alone in Tibet. The Tibet Travel Permit (TTP) is issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau (TTB) in Lhasa, and to obtain this permit, you will need to contact a legal travel agency in Lhasa. Only these registered agencies are permitted to apply for the TTP. So, you should provide the required documents to a trustable travel agency to process for your Tibet tour. You can choose to join a group or customize your private tour with the help of your travel agency.

• Where is Tibet? What is Tibet known for?

  Tibet is situated in the southwestern part of China, bordering Nepal, India, Bhutan, and Burma. Tibet is famously known as the "Roof of the World." The plateau landscape, vast Himalayan Mountains, colorful monasteries, trekking destinations, sacred lakes, and unique Tibetan culture makes this country stand out from the rest of the world.

• Do you have Airport pickup facilities? What kinds of vehicles are available for getting around Tibet?

  Yes, there are airport pickup facilities available for the tourists. In Lhasa, there are many options for vehicles to travel around, such as taxis, jeeps, and minibusses. Outside Lhasa, you can travel by van or a 4-wheeler. You can discuss the mode of transportation with your travel agency and local guide.

• What do you suggest including in the clothing list if we travel to Tibet?

  You should pack casual clothing and dress with layers as the daytime can be pretty warm, and the evenings can be chilly. You should pack cotton t-shirts, jackets, warm pants, and warmers. If you are traveling further from Lhasa to places like Shigatse and Mt. Kailash, you should pack gloves, sunblock cream, sunglasses, warm trousers, thermal wears, hats, sleeping bags, raincoat, and thick socks.

• What currency do I have to use in Tibet? Are there ATMs counters in Tibet?

  The currency used in Tibet is the Chinese Yuan. In Lhasa, you can exchange money in banks. Remember, the banks remain closed on Saturdays and Sundays. Also, some 5-star hotels can provide facilities for currency exchange services. Outside Lhasa, you can exchange money in Shigatse and Purang. Similarly, ATM facilities are available in Lhasa, Shigatse, and Gyantse. However, as the Chinese banking system is not linked to many international banks, it is best to have a UnionPay card for your stay in Tibet.

• What kind of weather (how cold does it get) can we expect while in Tibet?

  The winter season in Tibet occurs from November to March. The weather is quite cold; however, there is not much snowfall. The winter in Lhasa, located at 3685m, is dry, with temperatures ranging from around 16 degrees in April to 8 degrees in December. If you are traveling to Shigatse, at a slightly high altitude (3836m) than Lhasa during winter, be prepared to face harsh climatic conditions with the temperature dropping as low as minus 13 during nighttime in peak winter months of December and January.

• How bad is Altitude Sickness in Tibet, and what can I do to avoid or treat it?

  Tibet is one of the highest places on Earth. Many visitors traveling from lower altitude regions may suffer from altitude sickness. Generally, many visitors suffer only from minor symptoms of altitude sickness like headaches and loss of appetite. However, with time and rest, the body adjusts to the surrounding, and the symptoms go away. In any case, you should be prepared to tackle altitude sickness by packing necessary medicine and taking care of your body with enough rest and hydration. Your tour guide will be there to assist you too.

• What is the electricity supply in Tibet, and what plugs are used? Is there internet access in Tibet for the foreign traveler?

  The electricity supply in Tibet is 220V, 50HZ. You should pack master plug-ins to charge your electronic devices while in Tibet. You can access the internet in Tibet, but only in places like Lhasa, Shigatse, Gyantse, and Tsedang. Hotels and cafes in cities like Lhasa and Shigatse also offer internet facilities to foreign travelers.

• What type and standard of accommodation will I encounter? Is tap water safe to drink in Tibet?

  Accommodation in Lhasa ranges from basic guesthouses to 5-star hotels. Other cities like Shigatse and Gyantse also have some 3-star hotels for accommodation. However, in other remote regions, travelers will be accommodated in simple guesthouses. Drinking from tap water can be risky when traveling to a foreign place. So, you should take precautions and follow the safety measures. It is recommended that you buy bottled water instead of drinking from tap water.

• Is it safe to travel in wintertime, especially from Tibet to Kathmandu? What is the Time Zone of Tibet?

  Wintertime means that the Chinese-Nepal highway can be blocked due to snowfall. Driving during such harsh conditions is also not a good option. So, it is recommended that you do not travel during wintertime. Tibet follows China Standard Time (GMT +8). It is 2 hours 15 minutes ahead of Nepalese Standard Time.