Mount Kailash Kora Trek Package
Book This Trip
Trip Information
The Mount Kailash Kora Trek is one of the most sacred pilgrimages and trekking adventures in the Himalayas. Mount Kailash (6,638m) is revered by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers as the spiritual center of the universe. The 3-day circumambulation (Kora) around this holy mountain offers breathtaking scenery of snowcapped peaks, sacred lakes, and Tibetan plateaus. The journey also includes a visit to the mystical Lake Manasarovar, believed to purify the soul and wash away sins.
Starting from Kathmandu, this overland journey takes you through Kyirong, Saga, and Lake Manasarovar, blending natural beauty with deep spiritual energy.
Itinerary
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu — the vibrant capital of Nepal. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel in the city center. After check-in, take some time to relax from your journey or stroll through the bustling streets of Thamel, known for its lively atmosphere, shops, and cafes. In the evening, attend a briefing session about the upcoming Mount Kailash Kora Trek, covering travel permits, altitude preparation, and equipment checks.
Today begins with a hearty breakfast before exploring some of Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visit the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, followed by a trip to the Boudhanath Stupa, the largest stupa in Nepal and a major center of Tibetan Buddhism. Later, continue to Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) for panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley.
In the afternoon, return to your hotel for a trip briefing and Tibet visa preparation. Your guide will assist in collecting necessary documents and ensure all travel permits for Tibet and Mount Kailash are in order.
After breakfast, begin your overland journey toward the Nepal–Tibet border. The scenic drive follows the winding Trishuli River Valley, offering beautiful views of terraced fields, rural villages, and lush green hills. Enjoy glimpses of the snow-capped Langtang Himalaya range along the way.
As the road climbs higher, the landscape becomes more rugged, with cooler air and mountain views becoming more prominent. Arrive in Syabrubesi, a small settlement that serves as the gateway to Tibet. Take the evening to relax and prepare for the next day’s border crossing.
After an early breakfast, drive a short distance to the Rasuwagadhi border (Nepal–Tibet frontier). Complete the immigration and customs formalities on both sides before crossing into Tibet, where you’ll meet your Tibetan guide and driver.
From the border, continue your journey through the stunning Kyirong Valley, surrounded by forested hills and snow-capped peaks. The gradual ascent helps you adapt to the higher altitude. Upon arrival in Kyirong town, check into your hotel and take a gentle walk around the area to aid acclimatization.
Today is set aside for rest and acclimatization to help your body adjust to Tibet’s high altitude before proceeding to higher elevations. After breakfast, take a leisurely walk around Kyirong town and its peaceful surroundings.
You can visit the Kyirong Monastery and enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayan foothills, with glimpses of Shishapangma (8,013m) in the distance. The valley’s mild climate and rich vegetation make it one of the most beautiful regions in Tibet.
Spend the afternoon relaxing, hydrating well, and preparing for the long drive to Saga the following day.
After breakfast, continue your overland journey deeper into the vast Tibetan plateau. The drive from Kyirong to Saga offers ever-changing landscapes — from lush green valleys to arid highlands dotted with grazing yaks and nomadic settlements.
En route, cross several high passes with spectacular views of snowcapped peaks and turquoise lakes. Stop along the way for photos and light refreshments. Upon reaching Saga, the main trading town of western Tibet, you’ll notice the dramatic increase in altitude. Take the evening to rest and keep hydrated to avoid altitude-related discomfort.
Today’s journey takes you across the vast and breathtaking Tibetan plateau to the sacred Lake Manasarovar, one of the holiest lakes in Asia. The drive passes through stunning highland scenery, crossing the Mayum La Pass (5,200m) with spectacular views of the Himalayan and Trans-Himalayan ranges.
As you approach Lake Manasarovar, you’ll be rewarded with the first majestic view of Mount Kailash (6,638m) standing proudly in the distance — a spiritually moving moment for many travelers. Upon arrival, take time to walk along the lake shore, meditate, or simply enjoy the serene beauty of this sacred site believed to cleanse the soul of sins.
Rise early to witness the sunrise over Lake Manasarovar, a breathtaking sight as the first rays of light illuminate Mount Kailash and its reflection shimmers on the crystal-clear waters. After breakfast, spend time exploring the lake’s sacred surroundings — you may take a short kora (circumambulation) of part of the lake, meditate by the shore, or collect holy water believed to bring spiritual purification.
In the afternoon, drive to Darchen, the base town for the Mount Kailash Kora (trek). Darchen lies directly in front of the south face of Mount Kailash and serves as the starting and ending point for all pilgrims and trekkers. Upon arrival, check into your guesthouse and prepare for the challenging yet spiritually rewarding three-day Kora trek starting the next morning.
After an early breakfast, begin the Kailash Kora Trek, starting from Darchen. The trail first passes through the Barkha plain, offering panoramic views of the southern face of Mount Kailash. You will walk alongside the Lha Chu River and cross gentle valleys dotted with prayer flags and small shrines.
Reach Dirapuk Monastery by late afternoon, located near the base of Mount Kailash’s north face. The monastery is a quiet and spiritual resting place, with stunning views of the sacred mountain. Take time to explore the monastery and offer prayers if you wish.
This day helps your body adapt to higher altitude while starting the circumambulation of this sacred mountain.
Today is the most challenging and rewarding day of the Kailash Kora Trek. After an early breakfast, begin the ascent toward the Dolma La Pass, the highest point of the Kora at 5,630 meters. The climb is steep but offers breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Kailash, surrounding snow-capped peaks, and the expansive Tibetan plateau.
After reaching the summit, descend gradually toward Zutulpuk Monastery, which sits in a peaceful valley at 4,790m. Along the way, you may see pilgrims performing full-body prostrations, a traditional Tibetan Buddhist devotion. The evening provides a quiet moment for reflection and appreciation of the spiritual significance of this sacred journey.
After breakfast, complete the final stretch of the Kailash Kora Trek as you trek from Zutulpuk Monastery back to Darchen, retracing the trail along the valley. The trek is relatively easier today, allowing you to enjoy final views of Mount Kailash and reflect on your spiritual journey.
Upon arrival in Darchen, board the vehicle and begin the drive back across the Tibetan plateau to Saga. The journey passes vast highland landscapes, yak pastures, and small Tibetan villages, offering ample opportunities for photography and cultural observation.
After breakfast, begin the scenic drive back toward Kyirong, retracing the route across the vast Tibetan plateau. Enjoy views of rolling hills, grazing yaks, and distant snow-capped peaks. The gradual descent to lower altitude helps your body readjust comfortably.
Upon arrival in Kyirong, check into your hotel and take a short walk to relax and stretch after the long drive. Use the evening to rest, hydrate, and prepare for the return journey to Nepal the next day.
After an early breakfast, cross the Tibet–Nepal border at Rasuwagadhi and complete all immigration and customs formalities. Continue the drive through the scenic Trishuli River Valley, passing terraced fields, rivers, and traditional Nepali villages.
Arrive in Kathmandu by evening and check into your hotel. Take the rest of the day to relax, enjoy a warm shower, and savor your first night back in Nepal after the long overland journey.
Today is a free day to relax and explore Kathmandu at your own pace. You can shop for souvenirs in Thamel, visit local markets, or enjoy optional cultural tours and experiences. Some travelers choose a spa or traditional massage to unwind after the long trek and drives.
In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with your group or guide, celebrating the completion of the Mount Kailash Kora journey.
After breakfast, check out from your hotel and transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. Take with you the memories of the spiritual and scenic journey around Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar, along with the unique experiences of Tibetan culture and the high Himalayan plateau.
Last Minute Deals
Tibet Panorama Tour
Lhasa to Shigatse Tour
Namtso Lake Day Tour
Lhasa to Kathmandu Overland Tour
Price Inclusion
-
Tibet travel permits and visa assistance
-
Private transportation throughout the tour (Nepal & Tibet segments)
-
Accommodation in hotels/guesthouses (Bed & Breakfast basis)
-
Professional English-speaking Tibetan guide
-
Entrance fees and monastery permits
-
Kailash Kora trekking permit
-
Meals as mentioned (breakfast included daily)
-
Oxygen cylinder and basic first-aid kit for emergencies
-
Border assistance at Nepal–Tibet crossing
Price Exclusion
-
International flights to/from Kathmandu
-
Lunches and dinners (unless specified)
-
Personal expenses (laundry, drinks, tips, phone calls, etc.)
-
Travel and medical insurance
-
Optional porter/horse rental during Kailash Kora
-
Emergency evacuation costs, if needed
-
Nepal visa and Tibet visa fees (if not arranged by the tour)
-
Any services not explicitly mentioned in the inclusions