Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our friendly representatives from Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expedition will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, you will have some time to relax and recover from your journey. In the evening, we will take you for a short walking tour around the vibrant streets of Thamel, a popular tourist hub known for its bustling shops, cafes, and local markets. You can explore handicraft stores, taste local cuisine, or simply soak in the spiritual ambiance of Nepal’s capital city. Later, we will gather for a briefing session about the upcoming adventure to Tibet and Mount Kailash.
Today, we undertake on a full-day guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu, visiting some of the most significant UNESCO World Heritage Sites. We start at Pashupatinath Temple, the holiest Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, where we can witness sacred rituals along the Bagmati River. Next, we visit Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world, where you can observe monks in prayer and spin the massive prayer wheels. Our tour continues to Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), offering panoramic views of Kathmandu and a glimpse into Buddhist culture. Lastly, we explore Kathmandu Durbar Square, a historic palace complex showcasing exquisite architecture. In the evening, we will complete last-minute trip preparations, ensuring everyone is ready for the adventure ahead.
Today, we take a scenic flight to Lhasa, the spiritual heart of Tibet. The flight offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan range, including Mount Everest, Makalu, and Kanchenjunga. Upon landing at Lhasa Gonggar Airport, our Tibetan guide will welcome us and transfer us to our hotel. Since Lhasa is at a high altitude, we will take the rest of the day to rest and acclimatize, allowing our bodies to adjust to the thin air. You can take a leisurely walk around your hotel to observe Tibetan culture and prepare for the journey ahead.
Today, we explore the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Lhasa. We start with a visit to the Potala Palace, the magnificent former winter residence of the Dalai Lama, perched atop a hill with stunning views of the city. Inside, we will witness centuries-old murals, chapels, and the tombs of past Dalai Lamas. Next, we visit Jokhang Temple, Tibet’s most revered Buddhist temple, home to the sacred statue of Jowo Sakyamuni. Our day concludes at Barkhor Street, a bustling marketplace where pilgrims perform the kora (circumambulation) around Jokhang Temple. Here, you can shop for Tibetan handicrafts, prayer flags, and souvenirs.
After breakfast, Scenic drive from Lhasa to Shigatse (3,900m), Tibet’s second-largest city. Along the way, we cross breathtaking high mountain passes and turquoise lakes. We visit Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet’s three sacred lakes, with its deep blue waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Next, we stop at Gyantse, a historic town famous for the Pelkor Chode Monastery and the Kumbum Stupa, a magnificent tiered structure adorned with murals and chapels. We continue our journey to Shigatse, where we check into our hotel and relax.
Today, we continue our overland journey toward Saga (4,450m). The drive takes us through vast Tibetan plains, traditional villages, and high-altitude passes, offering spectacular views of rugged mountains and pristine landscapes. Along the way, we pass the Brahmaputra River (Yarlung Tsangpo), an important lifeline of Tibet. We stop for lunch in Lhatse, a small Tibetan settlement, before continuing through winding roads to reach Saga. Upon arrival, we check in to our guesthouse and rest to prepare for the next leg of our pilgrimage.
Today is one of the most spiritually significant days of the journey. We drive from Saga to the holy Lake Mansarovar (4,590m), a sacred body of water believed to cleanse sins and purify the soul. As we approach, we get our first breathtaking view of Mount Kailash, the holiest mountain in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon religion. Upon arrival, we perform ritual bathing in Lake Mansarovar, meditate by the lakeside, and absorb the peaceful surroundings. Later, we settle into our guesthouse near the lake.
We spend the morning at Lake Mansarovar, soaking in its divine energy. Pilgrims can participate in prayers, meditation, and a short kora (circumambulation) around the lake. After lunch, we drive to Darchen (4,575m), the base camp of Mount Kailash and the starting point of the Kailash Parikrama (circumambulation). In the evening, we prepare for the trek and rest for the upcoming spiritual journey.
Our sacred trek around Mount Kailash begins today. We start with a drive to Yam Dwar (Gateway of the God of Death), where we begin our 13km trek to Derapuk. The trail follows the Lha Chu River, passing prayer flags and chortens. As we reach Derapuk Monastery, we witness a spectacular north face view of Mount Kailash, an awe-inspiring sight for pilgrims. We stay overnight in a simple guesthouse.
Today is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. We ascend towards Dolma La Pass (5,645m), the highest point of the journey, where pilgrims offer prayers and leave personal tokens. The pass is adorned with prayer flags symbolizing spiritual liberation. We then descend toward Gauri Kund, a sacred lake where Hindu pilgrims take holy dips. The trek continues to Zutulpuk Monastery, where we stay overnight.
Today marks the completion of the Kailash Kora. You will trek from Zutulpuk back to Darchen, completing the full circuit around Mount Kailash. After reaching Darchen, we drive back to Saga, where you can rest and reflect on the incredible spiritual journey. The drive offers a chance to soak in the Tibetan landscape one last time before returning to lower altitudes. Overnight in Saga.
This morning, we begin the drive towards Kerong, a town near the Nepal border. The scenic drive takes you through remote Tibetan villages and picturesque landscapes, offering beautiful views of the mountains and valleys. Upon arrival at Kerong, you’ll check in to your hotel for an overnight stay. This is the final night in Tibet before crossing the border back into Nepal.
After breakfast, we cross the Tibetan-Nepalese border and drive into the charming town of Rasuwa. From here, we make our way to Kathmandu, enjoying the scenic drive through the Himalayan foothills and rural Nepali villages. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, check into your hotel and relax after the long journey. In the evening, gather for a farewell dinner to celebrate the completion of this once-in-a-lifetime spiritual pilgrimage.
After breakfast, depending on your flight schedule, you will have some free time to explore Kathmandu or purchase any final souvenirs. The Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expedition team will assist you with airport transfer for your departure. We bid you farewell, and wish you safe travels home, taking with you memories of the sacred journey to Kailash and Mansarovar.
Mount Kailash is considered one of the holiest peaks in the world by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers. Hindus believe it to be the abode of Lord Shiva, while Buddhists associate it with Chakrasamvara. For Jains, it is Mount Ashtapada, where their first Tirthankara attained liberation, and for Bon followers, it is a spiritual axis of the universe. Lake Mansarovar, located near Mount Kailash, is believed to cleanse one’s sins and provide spiritual enlightenment. Pilgrims from around the world visit this sacred region to perform the Kailash Parikrama (circumambulation) and take a ritual bath in Mansarovar.
The journey is moderately difficult, mainly due to high altitude and the physical challenge of the Kailash Parikrama (Kora). While most of the trip involves comfortable road travel, the three-day trek around Mount Kailash can be strenuous, especially at Dolma La Pass (5,645m), the highest point of the journey. The thin air and altitude sickness can affect travelers, so proper acclimatization, hydration, and a slow pace are necessary. Travelers with pre-existing medical conditions should consult a doctor before undertaking the pilgrimage.
In major cities like Lhasa, Shigatse, and Saga, travelers stay in 3-star hotels with modern amenities such as hot showers, Wi-Fi, and Western-style toilets. However, as the journey progresses into remote areas like Darchen and Mansarovar, accommodation becomes more basic. Guesthouses along the Kailash Parikrama provide simple dormitory-style rooms with shared bathrooms. While these facilities are not luxurious, they are clean and sufficient for the spiritual and adventurous nature of the trip.
The tour provides three meals per day consisting of Tibetan, Nepalese, Chinese, and basic Western cuisine. In Lhasa and Shigatse, food options are diverse, including rice, noodles, vegetables, soups, momos (dumplings), bread, and yak-based dishes. In remote areas like Saga, Darchen, and along the Kailash Kora, meals are simpler, typically consisting of vegetable soup, instant noodles, Tibetan bread, and butter tea. Since food variety is limited in high-altitude areas, we recommend carrying dry snacks like nuts, energy bars, and chocolates for extra nutrition.
Since the Kailash Mansarovar journey involves traveling to elevations above 4,500m, altitude sickness is a common concern. Symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, loss of appetite, and breathlessness. To minimize risks, travelers should spend 2–3 days acclimatizing in Lhasa before heading to higher altitudes. Drinking plenty of water, avoiding alcohol, and walking at a slow pace can also help. Carrying Diamox (altitude sickness medication) and an oxygen cylinder (provided by our team) is recommended for emergency use.
To enter Tibet and complete the Kailash Mansarovar journey, travelers need a Tibet Travel Permit, Alien Travel Permit, and a Chinese Group Visa. If entering Tibet from Nepal, the Chinese Group Visa must be obtained in Kathmandu, which takes about 3–4 working days. Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expedition handles all necessary permits, ensuring a smooth travel experience. Travelers should carry a valid passport (with at least six months' validity) and a few passport-size photos for visa processing.
The best seasons for the Kailash Mansarovar Tour via Lhasa are April to June (spring) and September to October (autumn). These months provide clear skies, moderate temperatures, and stable weather, making the journey more comfortable. July and August are also suitable but may experience occasional rainfall due to the monsoon. The Saga Dawa Festival, held in May or June, is a spiritually significant time when thousands of Buddhist pilgrims perform rituals and prayers near Kailash. Winter (November–March) is not recommended due to extreme cold, snow-covered trails, and travel restrictions in Tibet.
Wi-Fi and mobile network services are available in Lhasa, Shigatse, and Saga, but coverage becomes weak or unavailable in Darchen, Mansarovar, and during the Kailash Parikrama. Chinese SIM cards can be purchased in Lhasa for better connectivity, but it’s important to note that Google, Facebook, WhatsApp, and other foreign social media sites are blocked in China. Installing a VPN before arriving in Tibet can help access restricted websites. Our team provides a satellite phone for emergency communication in remote areas.
Packing appropriately is essential for a comfortable journey. Travelers should bring warm clothing (down jacket, thermals, gloves, and woolen socks) as temperatures can drop below freezing at night. Comfortable hiking boots, sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen are necessary to protect against strong UV radiation. Other essential items include a water bottle with purification tablets, dry snacks, personal medications, and wet wipes (as shower facilities are limited during the trek). A walking stick is highly recommended for support during the Kailash Parikrama.
Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expedition offers a seamless and well-organized Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage, ensuring a safe, comfortable, and spiritually fulfilling experience. Our team of experienced guides, Tibetan travel experts, and professional support staff ensures that travelers receive personalized attention and expert guidance throughout the trip. We handle all logistics, including permits, transportation, accommodations, and meals, so travelers can focus on their spiritual journey.
We prioritize small group sizes for a more intimate experience, provide oxygen cylinders and first aid kits for safety, and maintain high standards of ethical tourism and responsible travel. Whether you are a devout pilgrim or an adventurous traveler, we ensure that your journey to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar is one of the most memorable and transformative experiences of your life.
For a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual adventure, book your Kailash Mansarovar Tour via Lhasa with Nepal Adventure Pilgrimage Treks & Expedition today!
