Mount Kailash Manasarovar Yatra

Mount Kailash is one of the world’s most respected and honored sacred and spiritual destinations for Hindus, Jains, Bons, and Buddists. Mount Kailash is also known as Gang Rinpoche in Tibet; translated to mean “Precious Jewel of Snows”. It is an important pilgrimage destination for these religions and their followers. The pilgrimage involves a 53 kilometer (33 mile) long trekking circumambulation of Mount Kailash that is believed to bring various positive spiritual effects, such as increased good karma, cleansing of the soul, nirvana, and good fortune. Lake Manasarovar is located very close to Mount Kailash and is also considered to be one of the most sacred sites. It is an important destination along the pilgrimage to Mount Kailash. 

Snow-capped Mount Kailash under a clear blue sky
Golden sunrise illuminating the snow-capped peak of Mount Kailash with surrounding mist and rugged terrain.
Mount Kailash with snow and sunlight, surrounded by mountain peaks.
Man in a blue cap and black jacket stands on a dirt path. Behind him, a traditional-style building, mountains, and a lake can be seen under a cloudy sky.
Group of people in red winter jackets posing outdoors in a mountainous area, some holding trekking poles.
Group of people wearing red jackets standing in front of Mount Kailash.
Person wading in a serene lake with mountains in the background under a cloudy sky.
Scenic view of a vast lake with mountains in the background, partially cloudy sky, and people in warm clothing in the foreground.
Group of people sitting outdoors near a lake and mountains, attending a gathering.
Group of people in colorful jackets sitting on grassy hillside
Group of people gathered outdoors performing a traditional ceremony with offerings.
A group of people in red jackets posing outdoors near a mountainous area.
Scenic view of a lake with snow-capped mountains and white stupas along the shore.

Mount Kailash Location

Mount Kailash is a 6,638 meter (21,778 feet) elevation mountain located in Ngari Prefecture of the Tibet Autonomous Region of China near the junction of the borders of China, India, and Nepal. It is part of the Kailash Range of the Transhimalaya Mountains in the western Tibetan Plateau. 

The pilgrimage includes trekking around Lake Manasarovar and Mount Kailash on foot or by pony or yak, with an average pilgrimage taking three days. Starting and ending points for the pilgrimage are in the village of Darchen, Tibet situated very close to Mount Kailash. Darchen is located at an elevation of 4670 meters (15,321 feet) elevation. The pilgrimage of circumambulation around Mount Kailash crosses over the high point of Drolma pass at an elevation of 5,650 meters (18,540 feet). Pilgrimage to Mount Kailash can be the most sacred and important trip of a lifetime.

Travel Details

Due to the remote location of Darchen, Tibet, it can take several days of overland travel in each direction to reach the starting and ending location for the pilgrimage to Mount Kailash. Travel will start and end in the fascinating city of Katmandu, Nepal. For entry into Tibet, United States travelers will need a Chinese Visa and a special Tibet travel permit. Independent travel in Tibet is not permitted, thereby requiring the traveler to make arrangements with a travel and trekking company knowledgeable about travel within Nepal and Tibet. Himalayan Zen can make all arrangements for transportation, lodging, meals, porter service, and language interpretation for travel to Mount Kailash from Katmandu.
See Tour Itinerary for details. 

Spiritual Pilgrimmage

Join us on a sacred journey to the heart of spirituality with our premier trekking experience to Mount Kailash, revered by Hindus and Buddhists alike as the abode of Lord Shiva. The Mount Kailash Mansarovar Yatra offers an unparalleled opportunity for spiritual pilgrims to immerse themselves in the divine aura of this mystical mountain.

As the dwelling place of Lord Shiva, Mount Kailash holds profound significance in Hindu mythology, symbolizing purity, transcendence, and the ultimate spiritual liberation. For Buddhists, it is believed to be the center of the universe and a sacred site where enlightenment is within reach.

Trekker’s Paradise

But Mount Kailash isn't just a place of spiritual devotion—it's also a trekker's paradise. Set amidst pristine beauty, with towering peaks and breathtaking vistas, every step taken on this journey is a testament to nature's grandeur. Traverse high mountain passes, witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the landscape, and feel a sense of serenity that can only be found in the embrace of such sacred surroundings.

Beyond the physical challenge and natural beauty lies a cultural experience like no other. Encounter local traditions, witness ancient rituals, and connect with the spiritual essence that permeates every corner of this sacred land. Our trekking guides at Himalayan Zen ensure that every aspect of your journey is meticulously planned and executed, allowing you to focus on the spiritual awakening that awaits you.

Join us on a transformative expedition to Mount Kailash, where spirituality meets adventure, and every step is a pilgrimage towards inner peace and enlightenment.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1 | Arrival in Kathmandu (1350m)
Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to hotel.  We will host a program briefing in the evening.  3 Star Hotel

Day 2 | Visit Pashupatinath Temple and Budhanilakantha (Sleeping Vishnu) 
In the morning, we will visit Pashupathinath Temple and Budhanilakantha.  We will spend the afternoon preparing for our journey. 
3 Star Hotel

Day 3 | Kathmandu to Syabrubesi/ Ghattekhola (2000m/159km/6-7 hours driving)
We start early with a packed breakfast and a lunch break  on the way.  Our stop is The Guest  House Hotel in Syabrubesi/ Ghattekhola, a small village near the China/Tibet  border.  Syabrubesi/ Ghattekhola Guest House

Day 4 | Ghattekhola to Kyirung (2900m/25km/1 hour driving)
After breakfast we complete the departure immigration for  Nepal and entry immigration for Tibet at the RasuwaGadi border.  After arrival into Tibet we will meet out  Chinese/ Tibetan representative and drive approximately one hour to Kyirung. Kyirung Hotel

Day 5 | Kyirung to Saga (4500m/185km/
5 hours driving)
After breakfast we will head to Saga and on the way we will stop for sightseeing at a beautiful waterfall and  drive over 3 passes including up to 5200m.  We will stop for lunch on the way.    Our final stop for the day will be Saga which is situated on the bank of the holy river Brahmaputra. Saga Hotel

Day 6 | Saga-Mansarovar Chu Gompa (4560m/530km/7 hours driving)
We start early after a light breakfast on our drive to Mansarovar Chu Gompa. We will stop for lunch on the way.  When we reach the Mansarovar checkpoint we will change to an Environmental Bus and start the   Mansarovar Parikrama, stopping at multiple beautiful sites including Rakshasa Tal (Demon Lake)
and for our first view of the southern face of Mount Kailash.  Mansarovar Guest House

Day 7 | Mansarovar to Darchen—The Gateway to Mount Kailash (4620m/40km/1 hour driving)
In the morning you will take a holy bath
in Lake Mansarovar and perform the Puja
and Hawan.  After lunch we will drive approximately 1 hour to Darchen, the base   camp of Mount Kailash.   
Darchen Hotel

Day 8 | Darchen (4620M)
Today we have a rest day. If you are feeling well, you can visit Sersung Monastery or hike toward Nandi Parbat.   
Darchen Hotel

Day 9 | Darchen to Diraphuk (4860m/15km/5-6 hours walking)
After breakfast we will drive a short distance to start the Kailash Parikrama. The Parikrama can either be completed on foot or by horse.  Average walking time to   Diraphuk is 5-6 hours. We will have a packed lunch on the way.  Diraphuk Guest House

Day 10 | Diraphuk-Zuthulphuk   (4790m/22km/9-10 hours walking)
After an early breakfast we will start our longest day of trekking.  We will cross Dolma-La Pass (5630m), the high point
of the trek.  We can see Gaurikund Lake while crossing Dolma-La Pass. Lunch will be pack lunch.  Zuthulphuk Guest House

Day 11 | Zuthulphuk-Darchen-Saga (13km/3-4 hours walking followed by 520km/8 hours driving)
We start the day walking approximately
3 hours down to Darchen. After a relaxing meal we start drive back to Saga. 
Saga Hotel

Day 12 | Saga-Kyirung (2900m/185km/4-5   hours driving)
After breakfast we will drive to Kyirung.  We will have plenty of time to explore and shop in Kyirung City on our last night in Tibet.   Kyirung Hotel

Day 13 | Kyirung-Kathmandu (180km)
After breakfast we head to the border at RasuwaGadi where we will complete our exit of Tibet and re-entry to Nepal. We will eat lunch in RasuwaGadi and then head back to Kathmandu. 3 Star Hotel 

Day 14 | Kathmandu
Free day for exploring and shopping.
3 Star Hotel

Day 15 | Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure.

Overland Tour Details

SHORT INFORMATION
Location: Tibet, China
Maximum Altitude:   5630m (Dolma-La Pass)
Duration: 13 days (KTM to KTM)
Transportation: 9 days by Luxury Bus/4 days walking Kailash Kora
Route: Kathmandu-Kyirong-Kailash-Kathmandu (by Road)
Places to See: Holy River Brahmaputra, Lake Mansarovar, Mt. Kailash, Rakshas Tal, Astapath, Nandi Parbat, Kailash Charan Sparsha, Gauri Kunda, Tirthapuri
Tour Cost:  From $2750 USD
Trip Start Dates:   May-September

Cost Includes:  
TRAVEL 
• Transportation to and from Tribhuvan International Airport
• One day local sightseeing in Kathmandu valley
• Kathmandu-RasuwaGadi-Kathmandu (Nepal travel) by jeep or bus
• RasuwaGadi-Darchen-RasuwaGadi (Tibet travel) by tourist coach with support vehicle

ACCOMMODATIONS
• 4 nights accommodation at a 3-star hotel in Kathmandu with breakfast included
• 10 nights accommodation in Tibetan Hotels and Guest Houses

MEALS
• All vegetarian meals served by our crew in Tibet
• Visa Fees and Permits
• Tibet/China visa fee
• Kailash permit

SUPPLIES
• Duffel bag
• High altitude medicine
• Oxygen cylinders
• Pressure chamber (Portable Altitude Chamber)
• Experienced and friendly English-speaking Nepali guides and Sherpa staff

Cost Excludes:
• International flight to and from Kathmandu and Nepal visa
• Personal medical and travel insurance, rescue, and emergency costs
• Horse and helper, if needed during Parikrama
• Hotel, food, visa fees and transport due
to need for early return from Tibet for any reason
• Delay due to weather or unforeseen circumstances
• Natural disasters, bad weather or for political reasons
• Any extra cost incurred if Yatri/trekker separates themselves from the group for
any reason
• Sleeping bag and down jacket rental,
if needed
• All beverages
• Gratuities/tips for staff

BRING WITH YOU
Sleeping bag, Insulated thermos, sunglasses, sunscreen, headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries, toilet paper, hand soap, routine medications, walking stick and snacks

RECOMMENDED CLOTHING
Comfortable trekking shoes, wool socks, thermal underwear, warm trousers and shirts, warm gloves, balaclava, sun hat, raincoat, fleece jacket, down jacket. 
Warm clothes for nights. 

 DOCUMENTS REQUIRED
• Scanned copy of passport showing 6 months validity from date of entry to Tibet
• 2 passport sized photos
• Original passport must be received by our office upon arrival to Kathmandu for visa application
• Medical insurance with evacuation facility 

BOOKING TERMS & CONDITIONS
35% of trip cost is required at time of booking.  The balance is due in cash upon arrival in Kathmandu. 

CANCELLATION POLICY
We understand that trip cancellations are necessary at times.  If you need to cancel your trip you must email our office immediately at (need email address @himalayan-zen.com)

Payment refunds will be made as per the foreign currency conversion rate in USD prevailing at the time of refund and with
the following terms:
• Trips cancelled 45 or more days before the start of the trip will be levied a 5% cancellation fee.
• Trips cancelled 30-44 days before
the start of the trip will be levied a 10% cancellation fee.
• Trips cancelled 14-29 days before
the start of the trip will be levied a 15% cancellation fee.
• Trips cancelled 2-13 days before the start of the trip will be levied a 20% cancellation fee.
• Trips cancelled less than 48 hours or a
no-show the start of the trip there will be
no refund.