Kailash Mansarovar Overland Trek and Kora

Tour Info

trip code

EN-46

Starting Point/ End Point

Kathmandu

Accommodations

Lodge/ Tea House

Max Altitude

5630m (Dolma La Pass)

Duration

19 days

country

Tibet

Trip grade

Easy

Activities

Trekking , Flight and Tourism

Best Season

May, June, September, October

Overview

The Kailash Mansarovar Overland Trek and Kora is a journey that goes through beautiful landscapes of Nepal and Tibet. It is a spiritual tour that starts from Kathmandu. Here, you get to visit the religious heritage sites of Nepal such as the Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa. Moreover, you can also appreciate Nepal’s valleys and villages. Later, the trip moves to Tibet. Upon reaching Tibet, you can see the landscape shift to high plateaus and mountains. At Tibet, you witness bon religion, Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar. This religion was originated in the Zhangzhung kingdom near Mount Kailash, combining animism and shamanism. It was first introduced by Tonpa Shenrab Miwoche in Tibet. The kora around Mount Kailash symbolizes purification and spiritual renewal. This trek blends the culture of culture and Serene landscape of Tibet, offering inner peace, reflection, and devotion.

Details

Kailash Mansarovar Overland Trek and Kora is a spiritual journey linking Nepal and Tibet. This journey begins from Kathmandu which is a place famous for its rich religious heritage and breathtaking Himalayan sceneries. Nepal is popular for the sites such as Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa, where centuries-old rituals and vibrant festivals reflect the traditions. You go through the valleys, terraced hills, and quaint villages to complete this journey.

As the journey continues, you enter the Tibet Autonomous Region. While entering Tibet, you can notice the landscape changes to wide plateaus, high mountains and a serene atmosphere. In this place, you can find the breathtaking close-up views of Mt. Kailash, Lake Mansarovar and the Rakshas Tal. Mount Kailash is known as the cosmic center in several religious groups and Lake Mansarovar is seen as the symbol of purity and cleansing of sins.

Bon is the oldest spiritual tradition in Tibet that was introduced by Tonpa Shenrab Miwoche. It originated as an indigenous, shamanic, and animistic faith system in the Zhang Zhung area before Buddhism arrived. This religion revolves around nature worship and shamanic rituals. Now, the Bon religion established its own monasteries and customs.

The kora, or circumambulation around Mount Kailash, carries the profound significance that is related with purification and spiritual renewal. Completing the kora is believed to cleanse the sins, lead to enlightenment, release from rebirth and grant inner peace. The Kailash Mansarovar Overland Trek and Kora combine the culture of Nepal with the peaceful landscape of Tibet. This helps in creating a journey of calm, devotion, and inner reflection.

Highlights

  • Warm welcome in Kathmandu.
  • Take scenic domestic flights from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and then to Simikot. 
  • Witness aerial views of rivers, hills, and Himalayan peaks.
  • Trek through the remote Humla region.
  • Walk alongside the Karnali River, deep gorges, pine forests, and rugged landscapes.
  • Experience authentic Himalayan life. 
  • Explore the ancient monasteries and Tibetan-influenced villages. 
  • Cross the high Nara La Pass and enter Tibet at Hilsa.
  • Witness the sacred beauty of Lake Manasarovar and the Rakshas Tal. 
  • Explore the ancient Garuda Valley. 
  • Get your first close view of Mount Kailash. 
  • Complete the sacred three-day Kailash Kora.
  • Visit significant spiritual landmarks such as Dirapuk Monastery and Zuthulpuk Monastery. 
  • Experience the serene and spiritual atmosphere of Lake Manasarovar with time for reflection and exploration.

Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400m)

Your Kailash Mansarovar overland trek and Kora journey starts once you arrive at the international airport of Nepal (TIA). Once you reach there, the EverNepal representatives greet you and transfer you to your hotel. There, you take a short rest and go exploring the popular places in the Kathmandu Valley. During visiting, you can buy souvenirs, explore the Thamel area, visit local shops and cafes. At night, you attend the welcome dinner at your 3-star hotel. After that, you go to your room, pack your belongings and spend the night. 

  • Max Elevation: 1400 meters (Kathmandu)

  • Travel Distance: 5 to 6 kilometres

  • Travel Hours: 20 to 30 minutes   

  • Accommodation: 3-star Hotel

  • Meals Included: Dinner

Day 02: Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour

Once you are done with breakfast, you can freely explore the city of Kathmandu and make all the preparations required for the Kailash Mansarovar Overland Trek & Kora. This is an ideal time to familiarize yourself with the spirituality associated with Nepal before entering the region.

A. Explore the heritage and culture of Kathmandu

There are a lot of historically and spiritually significant places located in Kathmandu. One can visit ancient temples and religious stupas. You can also explore traditional squares and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This will help you understand the architecture, history, and spiritual significance of Nepal.

B. Thamel and local markets should be explored

The busy streets of Thamel and the local markets of Kathmandu are excellent for exploration and shopping. Browse handicrafts and souvenirs as well as traditional artwork, clothing and trekking supplies in the heart of Kathmandu's tourist district. There are also many cafes, local shops, and restaurants that offer a look at everyday life in Kathmandu.

C. Gear Checking and Prep Day

This is one day in which it would be good to get your gear sorted out. You will find many outdoor shops in Kathmandu that sell whatever equipment, clothing or accessories that you may require to complete your preparation for trekking.

D. Relaxing and Acclimating

You can also spend a part of your day at your hotel to relax after your long journey. Relaxation, proper hydration and adjustment to local surroundings would make sure that you are well-prepared for your upcoming flight or trekking expedition.

It is always better to relax in your hotel room before leaving for the pilgrimage after you have completed all your preparations.

  • Max Elevation: 1,400 meters (Kathmandu)

  • Travel distance: Flexible

  • Travel Hours: Leisure Day

  • Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel

  • Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 03: Flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (150m / 367 km / 1 hr flight)

Following a hearty breakfast, your driver comes to pick you up from your hotel. After that, you are transferred to TIA for the scenic flight to Nepalgunj. Once you reach the airport, the EverNepal team assists you in the check-in and boarding process. After that, you fly towards Nepalgunj, offering the stunning views of the mid-hills, landscapes, the Rapti River, and peaks like the Langtang and Ganesh range. You take a scenic flight of around 1 hour, covering a distance of 367 km to reach Nepalgunj Airport. From here, you are transferred to your luxury hotel where you relax, explore the city during the day and eat a warm dinner before staying overnight.

  • Max altitude: 150 m

  • Flight hours:  1 hour

  • Travel distance: 367 km

  • Accommodation: Hotel

  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 04: Flight from Nepalgunj to Simikot (2,985m / 1 hr), then trek to Darapori (2,300m / 5.5 km / 3-4 hrs)

After a hearty breakfast, you are transferred to the Nepalgunj airport by our driver in a private vehicle. After that, you board a flight and have a scenic journey with aerial views of gorges, villages, Karnali River, landscapes and snow-capped peaks. You fly for around 1 hour to land at the Simikot airport. Then, you take a short break to relax and prepare for the trek towards Dharapori. After that, you start your trek while witnessing beautiful sights of the Karnali River, pine forests, streams, suspension bridges, and remote settlements. While trekking for around 3 to 4 hours, covering a distance of 5.5 km, you arrive at Dharapori, where you enjoy a delicious dinner before spending the night.

  • Max Elevation: 2,985 meters

  • Travel Distance: 5.5 kilometres

  • Travel Hours: 3 to 4 hours  

  • Flight hours: 1 hour

  • Accommodation: Tea house/lodge

  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 05: Trek from Darapori to Kermi (2860m/ 8 km / 5-6 hrs)

You eat a hearty breakfast early in the morning. After that, you continue your trek towards Kermi. The route goes through the Karnali River, pine forests, farmlands, and the steep terrain, before leading towards the Day 5 destination. While trekking for around 5 to 6 hours, covering a distance of 8 km, you are offered the breathtaking views of the Sali River, deep gorges, waterfalls, Buddhist monasteries, mani walls, and prayer flags. After trekking for a few hours, you arrive at Kermi. At this place, you are served a delicious dinner at night. After that, you can sleep well. 

  • Max Elevation: 2,860 meters

  • Travel Distance: 8 kilometres

  • Travel Hours: 5 to 6 hours  

  • Accommodation: Tea house/lodge

  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 06: Trek from Kermi to Yalbang (3,020m / 10 km / 5-6 hrs)

Following a relaxed breakfast at Kermi, on this day, you trek towards Yalbang by following the route of the Karnali River and Sali Khola. While trekking towards the day 5 destination, you witness flora, traditional mule caravans, Namkha Khyung Dzong Monastery, Karnali river gorges, Sali river suspension bridge, and cliffs. Moreover, you also observe the panoramic views of mountains, pine forests, and high rocky slopes. After trekking for 5 to 6 hours, covering a distance of 10 km, you reach Yalbang. This is the place where you eat a warm dinner before spending the night at the lodges. 

  • Max Elevation: 3,020 meters

  • Travel Distance: 10 kilometres

  • Travel Hours: 5 to 6 hours  

  • Accommodation: Tea house/lodge

  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 07: Trek from Yalbang to Tumkot (3,380m / 9 km / 5-6 hrs)

After a leisurely breakfast, you head towards Tumkot. The trails go through Yangar and Muchu village, offering beautiful views of the Karnali River, rocky Himalayan landscapes, pine forest, and flora. Along with this, you also witness Tibetan-influenced villages, terraced fields, the Dhungkar Choezom Monastery and mountains. After trekking for around 5 to 6 hours, covering a distance of  9km, you arrive at Tumkot. Upon reaching here, you take a short rest. At night, you receive your warm dinner before spending the night at your comfortable lodge. 

  • Max Elevation: 3,380 meters

  • Travel Distance: 9 kilometres

  • Travel Hours: 5 to 6 hours  

  • Accommodation: Tea house/lodge

  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 08: Trek from Tumkot to Yari (3,700m / 13 km / 6-7 hrs)

Following the relaxed breakfast, you continue your trekking journey to Yari. The route continues through the Tumkot, Pani Palwang village, before arriving at the Day 7 destination. While trekking for 6 to 7 hours, covering a distance of 13 km, you get the opportunity to witness low juniper bushes and beautiful landscapes. After trekking for a few hours, you arrive at Yari, where you are served a delicious dinner before spending a comfortable night at your cozy lodge. 

  • Max Elevation: 3,700 meters

  • Travel Distance: 13 kilometres

  • Travel Hours: 6 to 7 hours  

  • Accommodation: Tea house/lodge

  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 09: Trek from Yari to Hilsa via Nara La Pass (4,620m) (3,720m / 15 km / 6-7 hrs)

Your journey of this day begins from the Yari after having a warm breakfast. You trek through Yari, Thado Dhunga, and Nara La pass in order to arrive at Hilsa. While trekking through these routes, you witness high altitude terrain, Tibetan-style villages, gorges, the Karnali River, and mountain views such as Mt. Kailash. After trekking for around 6 to 7 hours, covering a distance of 15 km, you reach Hilsa, where you have a relaxed dinner before spending the night. 

  • Max Elevation: 4,620 meters

  • Travel Distance: 15 kilometres

  • Travel Hours: 6 to 7 hours  

  • Accommodation: Tea house/lodge

  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 10: Drive from Hilsa to Purang (3,800m / 30 km / 1-2 hrs)

From this day, you conclude the first part of your trekking and begin on a driving adventure. Following a hearty breakfast at your lodge, you begin your driving journey towards Purang. To arrive at Day 09 destination, you need to cross the Hilsa border bridge over the Karnali River and then travel to Taklakot (Purang). While having a scenic drive for around 2 to 3 hours, covering a distance of 30 km, you get the chance to observe the Karnali River, high-altitude arid landscapes, the Tibet gate, prayer flags, mani walls, the local Tibetan lifestyle and their traditional architecture. After a picturesque drive for a few hours, you arrive at Purang, where you eat a leisurely dinner before staying overnight. 

  • Max Elevation: 3,800 meters 

  • Travel Distance: 30 kilometres

  • Travel Hours: 1 to 2 hours  

  • Accommodation: Tea house/lodge

  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 11: Drive from Purang to Monster (4,280m / 75 km / 2-3 hrs)

In the early morning, you are provided with a hearty breakfast at your lodge. After that, you, along with the EverNepal representatives, continue the driving journey towards the place called Monster. You have a scenic drive for around 2 to 3 hours, covering a distance of 75 km to arrive at the day 10 destination. While having a drive, you go through the lake of Rakhsas (Monster) and Mansarovar. After a few hours, you arrive at Monster, where you are served a delicious dinner before spending a comfortable night.

  • Max Elevation: 4,280 meters

  • Travel Distance: 75 kilometres

  • Travel Hours: 2 to 3 hours  

  • Accommodation: Tea house/lodge

  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 12: Sightseeing at Garuda Valley (4,500m), then drive to Darchen (4,575m / 60 km / 1.5 hrs)

After a relaxed breakfast, you first explore the Garuda valley, where you visit Meditation Caves, cave dwellings, Gurugyam monastery, Khyunglung Silver Palace and the ancient Bon religion. After exploring these places in the morning, you take a seat and continue your picturesque drive towards Darchen - the starting point of the first Kailash Kora. It takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes, covering a distance of 60 km, to arrive at the Day 11 destination. During a scenic drive, you witness the Sutlej River, Nomadic Life, Guge Kingdom Ruins, and the sight of sacred Mount Kailash. At Darchen, you eat a warm dinner before spending the night. 

  • Max Elevation: 4,575 meters

  • Travel Distance: 60 kilometres

  • Travel Hours: 1 hour and 30 minutes  

  • Accommodation: Tea house/lodge

  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 13: First day of Kora: Trek from Darchen to Dirapuk Monastery (5,080m / 18 km / 6-7 hrs)

From this day, the Kailash kora begins. After a hearty breakfast, you continue your trek from Darchen towards the Dirapuk Monastery. During trekking, you witness the breathtaking views of the Yamadwar, the Lha Chu River valley, local pilgrims, and the north face of Mt. Kailash and the Dirapuk monastery at the final time. Once you explore these attractions, you go to your lodge and sleep after eating a warm dinner.

  • Max Elevation: 5,080 meters

  • Travel Distance: 18 kilometres

  • Travel Hours: 6 to 7 hours  

  • Accommodation: Tea house/lodge

  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 14: Second day of Kora: Trek from Dirapuk to Zuthulpuk via Dolma La Pass (5,630m) (4,800m / 22 km / 8-9 hrs)

This is the second day of Kailash Kora. On this day, you trek towards the Zuthulpuk through the Dolma La pass. On the way to Dolma La pass, you get the opportunity to witness the north face of Mt. Kailash, countless prayer flags, Gauri kund Lake, Shiv Tsal and Zuthulpuk Monastery at the end. After trekking for around 8 to 9 hours, covering a distance of 22 km, you arrive at Zuthulpuk. At this place, you are served with a warm dinner before staying overnight at the comfortable lodge.

  • Max Elevation: 5,630 meters

  • Travel Distance: 22 kilometres

  • Travel Hours: 8 to 9 hours  

  • Accommodation: Tea house/lodge

  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 15: Third day of Kora: Trek to Darchen, then drive to Lake Manasarovar (4,590m / 14 km trek + 35 km drive / 6-7 hrs total)

On this day, your Kailash kora ends. Following a warm breakfast at the Zuthulpuk, you continue your kora towards Darchen, the final destination of the Kailash kora. It takes around 14 km. During trekking, you are offered a beautiful view of scenic river valleys, Mani Walls, small monasteries, and the west face of Mount Kailash. Upon reaching Darchen, you take a small moment to rest. After that, you continue your driving journey towards Lake Mansarovar. While taking a scenic drive, you see prayer flags, mani walls, wildlife, spiritual landmarks and mountain views such as Mount Kailash's south face and Mount Gurla Mandhata. After having a drive for around 35 km, you arrive at Lake Mansarovar, where you eat a warm dinner before staying overnight. 

  • Max Elevation: 4,590 meters

  • Travel Distance: 35 kilometres

  • Trek distance: 14 km

  • Travel Hours: 6 to 7 hours  

  • Accommodation: Tea house/lodge

  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 16: Tour around Lake Manasarovar (4,590m / 90 km / 2-3 hrs drive)

On this day, you spend the time exploring the villages and attractions of Lake Mansarovar. You, along with your guide, go exploring the places after having a delicious breakfast. At first, you explore Lake Manasarovar - a turquoise lake surrounded by five Buddhist monasteries. While exploring this place, you can get the sense of deep spiritual peace and natural serenity. Moreover, you can find a peaceful atmosphere here. You can click the pictures and capture the serene beauty of the surroundings. After that, you explore the other villages and attractions. At night, you return to your hotel, where you eat a warm dinner before staying overnight. 

  • Max Elevation: 4,590 meters

  • Travel Distance: 90 kilometres

  • Travel Hours: 2 to 3 hours  

  • Accommodation: Tea house/lodge

  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 17: Drive from Manasarovar to Saga (4,640m / 470 km / 7-8 hrs)

Following a hearty breakfast, you continue your driving journey towards Saga in a private vehicle. To arrive at the Day 16 destination, you need to cross the small settlements such as Hor Qu, the town of Darchen, the village of Paryang, and the city of Drongba (Zhongba). While heading through these routes, you get the opportunity to witness turquoise Peiku Tso Lake, culture, the Brahmaputra River, and mountain views such as Shishapangma. After a scenic drive for around 7 to 8 hours, covering a distance of 470 km, you arrive at Saga. At this place, you get a leisurely dinner before spending the night.

  • Max Elevation: 4,640 meters

  • Travel Distance: 470 kilometres

  • Travel Hours: 7 to 8 hours  

  • Accommodation: Tea house/lodge

  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 18: Drive from Saga to Kerung (2,800m / 305 km / 6-7 hrs)

In the morning, you get a relaxed breakfast. After that, you continue your drive towards Kerung. You follow the paved highway, crossing through the high-altitude landscapes of the Brahmaputra River valley and numerous mountain passes. While following these routes, you get to witness high passes, Peiku Tso Lake, Himalayan peaks, the Brahmaputra River, Grazing Herds and the Tibetan plateau landscape. After a drive of around 6 to 7 hours, covering a distance of 305 km, you arrive at Kerung, where you eat a warm dinner before spending the night.  

  • Max Elevation: 2,800 meters

  • Travel Distance: 305 kilometres

  • Travel Hours: 6 to 7 hours  

  • Accommodation: Tea house/lodge

  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 19: Drive from Kerong to Kathmandu via Rasuwagadhi (1,400m / 175 km / 7-8 hrs)

On this day, your Kailash Mansarovar Overland Trek and Kora journey concludes. Moreover, you also return to Nepal from Tibet on the same day. You return to Kathmandu through the Galchhi, Bidur (Trishuli), Dhunche, Syabrubesi, and finally to the Rasuwagadhi border. While returning, you witness the Trishuli River valley, Langtang National Park views, Rural Nepali life, and Mountain views. After around 7 to 8 hours of driving, covering a distance of 175 km, you arrive at Kathmandu.

  • Max Elevation: 1,400 meters

  • Travel Distance: 175 kilometres

  • Travel Hours: 7 to 8 hours  

  • Accommodation: Tea house/lodge

  • Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Trek Route

Kailash Mansarovar Overland Trek and Kora route map

What's included

  • Exit arrangements.
  • Travel permit and visa for visiting Tibet.
  • Touring attractions in Tibet and Nepal.
  • Authorized Tibetan guide for English speakers by the Tibet Tourism Board (TTB).
  • English-speaking Nepali guide.
  • All personal and comfortable land transportation during the trip.
  • Lodging throughout the trip.
  • Food while traveling.
  • All applicable taxes and service charges.

What's excluded

  • Global aviation travel.
  • Each separate expense.
  • Any additional expenses resulting from circumstances that are beyond our control, such as natural disasters, flight delays, cancellations or rescheduling, accidents, etc.
  • Extra days spent in Kathmandu or any other place.

Document Required

As it is a restricted area within the Tibet Autonomous Region, several permits and approvals are needed to travel to the sacred region of Mount Kailash. Prior to arriving at the property, all documents have to get arranged by way of an authorised tour operator.

  • Valid Passport: Passport should have 6 months remaining validity for visa processing, permit issuance and entry into a border. Must be in good condition and have sufficient blank pages. The information in the passport should be identical to that found on travel documents and group visa applications.

  • Chinese Group Visa: A Chinese Group Visa is necessary for all trips to Tibet and must be obtained from a registered travel agency in China. It is issued as a group document, i.e. the entire travelling party must use the same itinerary. The price typically comes to USD 70 to 150 per person and service charges.

  • Tibet Travel Permit: Tibet Travel Permit is the most important document needed for foreign visitors to enter the Tibet Autonomous Region. It is issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau and it is compulsory to travel to Lhasa and Kailash regions. The agency handling fee is typically $50 to $100 per person, and the government fee is usually free.

  • Alien Travel Permit & Special Area Permits: Other permits are needed for other restricted areas like Kailash and vicinity of Lake Manasarovar. They are sold within Tibet (after arrival) by local authorities. The cost is typically bundled, and can cost anywhere from USD 30 to USD 80 per person.

  • Passport Photos: Bring several recent passport sized photos for permits, processing of visas and emergency documents during the journey.

  • Travel Insurance: Travel insurance for high altitude climbing and evacuation by helicopter is highly recommended as extreme altitude and remote terrain conditions require travel insurance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many hours do we need to walk during Kailash Kora?

It takes about 3 days (walking 4 to 10 hours a day) to complete the Kailash Kora. The second day will cover the trail of Dolma la Pass, which is the hardest and longest path of the trek, uphill, and downhill.

What is the biggest challenge during Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?

The main difficulty is that it is a high elevation trip (over 5,000meters). Low levels of oxygen can lead to fatigue, headache, and difficulty breathing. It is also a physically and mentally strenuous trip in cold weather and with long travel hours for many pilgrims.

Do we get ponies or porters during Kailash Kora?

Yes there are ponies and porters in some parts of the Kora route. They are used for transporting suitcases or luggage or for helping trekkers not able to walk for long distances. But this too is in limited supply, and on steep slopes such as Dolma La Pass, it is still walked on foot.

How should I prepare physically for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?

Before the trip, you should take a bit of exercise like walking, light jogging and breathing in order to increase their stamina. It is also recommended to practice stair climbing and cardio workouts. With good physical preparation comes better acclimatisation to long hours of walking and high altitudes.

What kind of weather conditions should I expect?

In summertime, the weather in Kailash is cold. Days may be sunny and nights freezing with stirring and strong winds. Weather changes rapidly and warm layered clothing is essential all the way.

Is bathing in Lake Mansarovar safe?

Lake Mansarovar is a holy lake and many pilgrims take a dip in the lake for spiritual reasons. The water, however, is very cold because it's so high. It is typically a brief ritual bath and travelers need to not stay in the water too long.

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