kailash mansorover 12 days
kailash mansorover 12 days

Kailash Mansarovar Trek - 12 Days

Tour Info

trip code

EN-039

Starting Point/ End Point

Kathmandu

Accommodations

Lodge/ Tea House

Max Altitude

5630m (Dolma La Pass)

Duration

12 days

country

Tibet

Trip grade

Easy

Activities

Trekking

Best Season

March, April, May, September, October, November

Overview

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is one of the most sacred pilgrim tours of the Himalayas that takes visitors on a tour of the picturesque lands of Nepal and the Tibetan Plateau up to the sacred Mount Kailash and the holy Lake Mansarovar. The journey begins with an overland tour starting from Kathmandu through the Rasuwagadhi-Kerung border, followed by passing traditional Tibetan towns, wide expanses of grasslands, high mountain passes and amazing scenery of the Himalayas until reaching these sacred destinations. During the tour, pilgrims can gradually acclimatize to the altitude that will be needed when undertaking the sacred Kailash Kora.

Details

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is one of the most sacred pilgrim tours of the Himalayas that takes visitors on a tour of the picturesque lands of Nepal and the Tibetan Plateau up to the sacred Mount Kailash and the holy Lake Mansarovar. The journey begins with an overland tour starting from Kathmandu through the Rasuwagadhi-Kerung border, followed by passing traditional Tibetan towns, wide expanses of grasslands, high mountain passes and amazing scenery of the Himalayas until reaching these sacred destinations. During the tour, pilgrims can gradually acclimatize to the altitude that will be needed when undertaking the sacred Kailash Kora.

Highlights

●       Join a pilgrimage tour to the holy Mount Kailash, one of the most holy sites for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon believers.

●       Discover the holy Lake Mansarovar (4,590 m), one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world, used in religious ceremonies.

●       Have a road tour from Kathmandu to Tibet using the Rasuwagadhi-Kerung border pass.

●       Get acclimatized in Kerung and Saga to make your high-altitude travel much safer and more comfortable.

●       Drive through the vast Tibetan plateau in between mountains, rivers, green grassland, and villages of Tibet.

●       Complete the three-day Mount Kailash Kora via Yam Dwar, Dirapuk, Dolma La Pass, and Zutulpuk.

●       Climb up the strenuous Dolma La Pass (5,630 m), which is the highest pass on your pilgrimage route.

●       Enjoy Tibetan culture, ancient monasteries, Tibetan prayer flags, and views of majestic Himalayas throughout your route.

●       Travel with comfortable transportation, necessary Tibet travel permits, and carefully arranged accommodation throughout the journey.

●       Witness a breathtaking sunrise over the sacred Lake Mansarovar with magnificent views of Mount Kailash.

Itinerary

Day 01: Kathmandu Arrival

You will arrive at the international airport in Kathmandu, the main gateway for travel in Nepal and Tibet. Once you are through with the immigration and airport formalities, you will be met by our representative and handed over to the hotel in the city. The hotel is approximately 20-30 minutes away by road. Kathmandu is situated at approximately 1,350m, and it is the central point of departure in the Kailash pilgrimage. The rest of the time is at liberty after check-in to prepare the trip. In the evening, a briefing session concerning the journey and travel plans can be done in the hotel.

  • Max Elevation: 1,350 m

  • Travel Distance: 6 km (approx.)

  • Travel Hours: 20 to 30 minutes drive

  • Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu

  • Meals Included: Dinner

 

Day 02: Tour in Kathmandu

Your day starts with breakfast at your hotel, followed by a guided cultural tour of Kathmandu in a private vehicle. You will be visiting some of Nepal’s most respected spiritual sites under the guidance of an expert guide who will introduce you to the spiritual practices of this land, which have flourished over the centuries. There is plenty of leisure time available in between to visit and understand each place and its significance.

A. Pashupatinath Temple

Pashupatinath Temple is one of the most important Hindu temples in the world and serves as a place of worship for Lord Shiva. It is located near the Bagmati River, which is considered to be sacred in the Hindu religion, and features magnificent pagoda-style architecture, sacred ghats where the dead are cremated, and religious services performed throughout the year. Even though entrance to the temple is not allowed to people other than Hindus, tourists can freely roam around the site and witness spiritual practices performed there.

B. Bouddhanath Stupa

The Bouddhanath Stupa is among the largest stupas in Buddhism in the world, and it is also one of the most important sites of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal. The white dome with its golden spire is a spectacular landmark of this place, where numerous prayer flags, monasteries, and prayer wheels create an aura of sacredness around the stupa. It is common to meet pilgrims and monks performing their circumambulation clockwise around the stupa, praying as they do. This is a great place to get acquainted with Buddhist culture and tradition and learn more about the cultural links between Nepal and Tibet.

After the tour around the city ends, you return to your hotel to spend the remaining part of the day at leisure in preparation for your further travels.

  • Max Elevation: 1,350 m

  • Travel Distance: 15 to 20 km (approx.)

  • Travel Hours: 4 to 5 hours sightseeing

  • Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu

  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

 

Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Kerung (2,700 m)

Upon having a quick breakfast, set out on an overland transfer to the Nepal/Tibet border via Rasuwagadhi starting off from Kathmandu. You will pass through stunning mountain roads on the way, following the course of the Trishuli River with numerous traditional rural settlements, terraced farms, waterfalls, and forests. Once you get to the border, take care of your immigration and customs formalities in order to cross into Tibet. There you will be met by your Tibetan guide and driver who will take you further, driving along the gorgeous Kyirong Valley in order to get to Kerung, a calm border town that is surrounded by lovely green hills and snowy mountains. Since Kerung lies at medium altitudes, it’s an excellent place to acclimatize before entering Tibet.

  • Max Elevation: 2,700 m

  • Travel Distance: Approximately 175 km

  • Travel Hours: 7 to 9 hours drive (including border formalities)

  • Accommodation: Hotel

  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 04: Acclimatization Day in Kerung (2,700 m)

This day will be completely reserved for acclimatization, giving your body sufficient time to get used to the increased altitude before moving further into Tibet. Good acclimatization makes one less vulnerable to altitude sickness and prepares well for the tough days to come. In the morning, you could have an easy walk around Kerung, hiking on the nearby hillsides, studying the serene Tibetan way of life, or just sitting back in your hotel room. With beautiful scenery all around, you will have plenty of photo opportunities along with the fresh mountain air that will be a welcome change from the atmosphere of Nepal.

  • Max Elevation: 2,700 m

  • Accommodation: Hotel

  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 05: Drive from Kerung to Saga (4,640 m)

After breakfast, you start an unforgettable drive of the trip as you head west through the large Tibetan Plateau en route to Saga. The drive will gradually ascend through some breathtaking mountain ranges, valleys, glaciers, rivers, and huge expanses of grasslands where you will see grazing yaks and sheep. On a clear day, you can catch sight of several peaks of the Himalayas from a distance. In addition to this, there are a number of beautiful Tibetan villages as well as prayer flags along the way that can give you cultural insight into the region. Today, your destination will be Saga, one of the biggest transit towns in the western part of Tibet. Along the route, you may enjoy beautiful views of Peikutso Lake and, on clear days, the magnificent Shishapangma Peak. 

  • Max Elevation: 4,640 m

  • Travel Distance: Approximately 230 km

  • Travel Hours: 6 to 7 hours drive

  • Accommodation: Hotel

  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 06: Acclimatization Day in Saga (4,640 m)

This is yet another day of getting acclimatized before we start our journey to our holy destination of Mt. Kailash and Lake Mansarovar. Spending this day at an elevation of 4,600+ meters at Saga gives us enough time to get used to the thin air, thus making the journey easy and comfortable for us. We can stroll around the town of Saga, observe the lifestyle of the local Tibetans, or even sit back and relax while admiring the scenic beauty of the plateau surrounding Saga. Our guide will be taking care of your health all day long and providing you with tips for our journey.

  • Max Elevation: 4,640 m

  • Accommodation: Hotel

  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 07: Drive from Saga to Lake Mansarovar (4,590 m)

After having breakfast, you set off to drive further on this scenic route to reach the revered Lake Mansarovar, which is among the highest freshwater lakes in the world and also a holy site visited by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and followers of Bon. This long but enjoyable road trip will pass through vast expanses of plains, gleaming rivers, high mountain ranges, and small Tibetan villages. The moment you reach the lakes of Mansarovar, your eyes will see the beautiful sight of the crystal clear waters against the majestic background of Mount Kailash that would rejuvenate you spiritually. Spend some peaceful time at your guest house close to the lake and have the experience of your life by relaxing amidst the tranquil ambiance of the lake or by praying or meditating.

  • Max Elevation: 4,590 m

  • Travel Distance: Approximately: 450 km

  • Travel Hours: 8 to 10 hours drive

  • Accommodation: Guesthouse

  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 08: Drive from Lake Mansarovar to Darchen (4,670 m), visit Yam Dwar, and Trek to Dirapuk (4,920 m)

You wake up at dawn to watch a serene sunrise at Lake Mansarovar and have your breakfast. This will be followed by your travel for some time to reach Darchen, which marks the start of the Mount Kailash Kora pilgrimage circuit. After going through all the necessary arrangements, proceed further to Yam Dwar, also referred to as "Gateway of the God of Death," where circumambulating Mount Kailash generally begins. Start walking for the first day on the trek along the Lha Chu Valley. The track is not too tough and provides you with beautiful views of prayer flags, grazing yaks, and stunning cliffs with amazing views of the western face of Mount Kailash. Arriving at the Dirapuk Monastery, you will get to see wonderful views of its north face before you reach your guesthouse for the night.

  • Max Elevation: 4,920 m

  • Travel Distance: Approximately 40 km drive and 12 km trek

  • Travel Hours: 1 to 2 hours drive and 5 to 6 hours trekking

  • Accommodation: Guesthouse

  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 09: Trek from Dirapuk to Zutulpuk (4,790 m) via Dolma La Pass (5,630 m)

This is certainly the toughest and most spiritual day during the Kailash Kora walk. Begin your day early in the morning after eating your breakfast. You will have to walk on an uphill route that will take you to Dolma La Pass, the highest point of the entire trek at 5,630 meters above sea level. The ascent is difficult, but you will be able to enjoy some breathtaking Himalayan views during this ascent. On your way up, you will pass by the Gauri Kund, a blue glacial lake, which is very important for both Hindus and Buddhists. Once you have crossed this pass, make your descent carefully through rocky paths before descending to Zutulpuk.

  • Max Elevation: 5,630 m

  • Travel Distance: Approximately 22 km trek

  • Travel Hours: 8 to 10 hours trekking

  • Accommodation: Guesthouse

  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 10: Complete the Kailash Kora and Drive to Saga (4,640 m)

Having finished with your breakfast, proceed with the final segment of the Kailash Kora trek in the picturesque valley to Darchen. On finishing with your pilgrimage, embark on your transport and head back to Saga. Your route is going to pass via the picturesque Tibetan plateau that is abundant with pastures, rivers, mountains, and Tibetan villages. You will be spending the night in a hotel in Saga in the evening.

  • Max Elevation: 4,790 m

  • Travel Distance: Approximately 8 km trek and 450 km drive

  • Travel Hours: 2 to 3 hours trekking and 8 to 9 hours drive

  • Accommodation: Hotel

  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 11: Drive from Saga to Kerung (2,700 m)

After breakfast, begin the return trip to Kerung on the same path, passing through the magnificent Tibetan Plateau. While continuing your descent into lower regions, use this opportunity to view the stunning scenery, snowcapped mountains, meandering rivers, and typical Tibetan villages of this fantastic region. You will find the ride more comfortable because of the descent, and it also gives your body some time to recuperate from the Kailash Kora. On the way back, there may be chances to make a stop and take photos and rest along with enjoying the last sights of the magnificent scenery of Tibet.

  • Max Elevation: 4,640 m

  • Travel Distance: Approximately 230 km

  • Travel Hours: 6 to 7 hours drive

  • Accommodation: Hotel

  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Day 12: Drive from Kerung to Kathmandu

Following breakfast, proceed to the border between Kerung and Rasuwagadhi to clear immigration and customs procedures and then proceed into Nepal. Now, having crossed the border, you can take an interesting journey back to Kathmandu, via the Trishuli River, which will take you through some very scenic villages set on hills, some fertile terraced fields, dense forests, and amazing waterfalls. It will certainly be a pleasant change from the vast Tibetan plateau that you have been exploring all this while. On reaching Kathmandu, you need to check into your hotel. Spend the evening in Kathmandu enjoying the leisurely pursuits of souvenir shopping.

  • Max Elevation: 1,350 m

  • Travel Distance: Approximately 175 km

  • Travel Hours: 7 to 9 hours drive (including border formalities)

  • Accommodation: Hotel

  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

 

Trek Route

kailash mansarover route 12 days

What's included

●       Twin-sharing room according to the itinerary on a bed and breakfast (BB) basis.

●       A Tibetan guide who speaks English throughout the trip.

●       Itinerary transportation by van or jeep.

●       Monastery entrance fees and all the documents required for the Kailash trip.

●       Tibet Travel Permit

●       Kerung border to Kathmandu pick-up by jeep.

What's excluded

●       Lunch and dinner

●       Travel or health insurance

●       Any losses or delays due to natural incidents or political circumstances that are outside our control.

●       Personal expenses during the Kora. This includes drinks, tips, or hiring helpers and yaks to carry your luggage while walking around Mount Kailash.

Packing List for Kailash Mansarovar Trek

Kailash Mansarovar trek is a spiritual and high altitude trek which takes you near to the sacred Mount Kailash and the holy lake Manasarovar. The route passes through cold and windy, and remote Himalayan areas,  where weather conditions can change quickly. It is essential to take warm clothes, personal medications, and reliable trekking equipment for the safe and comfortable pilgrimage experience.

Head and Face Gear

●       Warm woolen cap

●       Wide-brim trekking hat

●       UV-protected sunglasses

●       Neck buff or scarf

●       Sunscreen with a high Sun Protection (SPF)

●       Lip balm

●       Lightweight headlamp and extra batteries

●       Dust mask or face covering

Upper Body Clothing

●       Thermal base layers

●       Quick-dry trekking t-shirts

●       Full-sleeved hiking shirts

●       Warm fleece jacket

●       Insulated down jacket

●       Waterproof and windproof shells jacket

●       Raincoat or poncho for slight rain (light weight)

Lower Body Clothing

●       Trekking trousers

●       Thermal inner pants

●       Comfortable hiking shorts

●       Waterproof pants

●       Warm fleece pants for evenings

●       Casual camp pants

Gloves and Handwear

●       Inner liner gloves

●       Warm insulated gloves

●       Waterproof outer gloves

Footwear

●       Waterproof and durable trekking boots

●       Relaxed sandals or slippers

●       Moisture-wicking trekking socks

●       Warm wool socks

●       Gaiter for dusty or snowy areas

Toiletries and Personal Hygiene

●       Toothbrush and toothpaste

●       Soap or body wash

●       Wet wipes and tissues

●       Hand sanitizer

●       Quick-dry towel

●       Small shampoo bottle

●       Skin moisturizing lotion

●       Toilet paper

Trekking Equipment

●       Trekking poles

●       A sleeping bag

●       Duffel bag

●       Day pack with a rain cover

●       Reusable water bottles

●       Water purification tablets or filter

●       Dry bags for electronics and clothing

Medical and First Aid Supplies

●       Diamox for altitude sickness

●       Personal medicines

●       Painkillers

●       Antiseptic cream

●       Blister care pads

●       ORS packets

●       Bandages and tape

●       Remedies for cold and flu

Electronics and Miscellaneous Items

●       A cell phone or camera

●       Power bank

●       Charging cables

●       Universal adapter

●       Snacks and energy bars

●       Notebook or travel journal

●       Binoculars for mountain views

Extra Essentials for Female Travelers

These items are helpful for women pilgrims as the trek is remote and not many facilities are available.

●       Sports Bra and comfortable underwear

●       Proper sanitary pads or tampons

●       Intimate hygiene wipes

●       Hairbands or fleece headband

●       Apply a moisturizer and skin-care products

●       Fleece combed leggings for evenings

Documents

There are a number of travel documents and permits needed to reach Kailash Mansarovar as the area is where restricted areas in Tibet are traversed.

●       Valid Passport: Passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of travel. It is needed for visa applications, permit processing, and at the borders.

●       Chinese Group Visa: Most people visiting Tibet from Nepal require a Chinese Group Visa which is organized by the travel agency. It's not recommended to take China tourist visas individually for this trip.

●       Tibet Travel Permit: Tibet Travel Permit is a kind of permit which must be obtained before entering Tibet Autonomous Region. This is usually organized by the tour company prior to embarking on a tour.

●       Alien Travel Permit and Military Permit: Alien Travel Permit and Military Permit: There are other permits issued by Chinese authorities for some restricted areas around Kailash. These are usually taken care of by the trekking or pilgrimage agency.

●       Passport-Sized Photographs: Keep at least 4 to 6 recent passport-sized photos for permits and travel documentation.

●       Travel Insurance: Travel insurance with high-altitude trekking, medical treatment and emergency evacuation coverage is highly recommended as it is a remote trek with difficult weather conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Kailash Mansarovar Trek?

The journey is deemed physically challenging due to the long walking distances, cold temperatures and altitude. The Dolma La Pass is a particularly difficult section so it is recommended that trekkers exercise regularly and build up their fitness level before attempting the trek.

What is the best time for Kailash Mansarovar Trek?

The ideal period is from May to September when the weather is somewhat predictable and the road access is better. During this time, weather is more stable, and mountain views are typically much clearer in the surrounding areas of Kailash and Mansarovar.

Is altitude sickness common during the trek?

Yes, everybody is concerned about the risk of altitude sickness, which becomes a major problem while climbing to heights of more than 5000 meters. Proper acclimatization, hydration, slow walking pace, and carrying altitude medicine like Diamox can help reduce health risks.

Do I need trekking experience for Kailash Mansarovar?

It's preferable but not required, if you have trekking experience. The trek can be completed successfully if a traveller is physically and mentally fit. But older travelers and novices need to plan carefully as there are challenging high altitude conditions.

 

How many days does the Kailash Mansarovar Trek take?

The duration of most trips range from 12 to 18 days, depending on your travel route, acclimatization scheme and the formalities and requirements of the borders. Some packages have overland trips from Nepal or some packages have flight connections for a shorter time.

Can I do the Kailash Parikrama by horse or yak?

Yes, horses or yaks can be rented to do the Kailash Parikrama and are specifically available for tourists who cannot walk long distances. However, steep sections near Dolma La Pass can still require some walking effort.

What kind of accommodation is available during the trek?

In Tibet, the basic guesthouses, dormitory-style hotels or lodges are commonly referred to as accommodation. Facilities are simple with limited heating, and basic toilets, particularly in the remote pilgrimage areas around Mount Kailash.

Is vegetarian food available during the journey?

Yes, vegetarian food is available as many pilgrims have a preference for eating vegetarian food during the sacred walk. Teahouses typically offer rice, noodles, soup, vegetables, potatoes, bread and simple Tibetan or Nepali cuisine.

Why is Mount Kailash considered sacred?

Mount Kailash is sacred to four religions Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Bon religion. Pilgrims feel that the journey of Kailash Parikrama releases spiritual purification and blessings, thus one of the most venerated pilgrimages in Asia.

Can I take a bath in Lake Mansarovar?

Yes, many pilgrims take a holy bath in Lake Manasarovar, for religious purposes. The water is very cold, however, travellers should exercise caution and stay for no longer than they are able to given the high altitudes and the conditions, as the water will be very cold.

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