| Trip code | |
| Package name | Kailash Manasarovar Overland Tour |
| Duration | 13 |
| Max. elevation | 5630 m |
| Level | Moderate |
| Transportation | All ground transportation as per itinerary |
| Accomodation | 3*** Hotel in Kathmandu and Tea House / Lodge during the trip |
| Starts at | Kathmandu |
| Ends at | Kathmandu |
| Trip route | |
| Cost | USD 2,500 per person |
Welcome to Kathmandu, the gateway to the Himalayas and your pilgrimage journey to Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar. Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative from Sky Treks and Pilgrimages will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. Take the rest of the day to relax and acclimatize to the altitude. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner and briefing about the tour, where your guide will explain the schedule and what to expect over the next few days. Overnight stay at the hotel in Kathmandu.
After breakfast, you will explore on a half-day sightseeing tour of Kathmandu, exploring some of the most significant cultural and religious landmarks. You will visit the UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, and Pashupatinath Temple, which are all important places of pilgrimage for both Hindus and Buddhists. These sites will give you a glimpse of the spiritual heart of Nepal and allow you to connect with the region's rich cultural heritage. After the tour, return to your hotel for an overnight stay.
Today marks the start of your overland journey towards Tibet. After an early breakfast, you'll drive through the scenic landscapes of Nepal, crossing the border at the Friendship Bridge into Tibet. The journey from the border town of Rasuwagadhi to Kerung (2800m) takes about 8 to 9 hours, including immigration formalities and lunch en route. The road gradually climbs up through picturesque villages, lush valleys, and the majestic Himalayan backdrop. Upon reaching Kerung, a small Tibetan border town, you’ll check into your hotel and have the evening to rest and acclimatize to the higher altitude.
Today is a vital rest and acclimatization day in Kerung. Although the altitude is moderate, it’s important to allow your body to adjust to the thinner air. You can spend the day exploring the town, visiting local Tibetan monasteries, or simply resting. Your guide will provide tips for staying hydrated and avoiding altitude sickness as you prepare for the journey ahead. Overnight in Kerung.
After breakfast, you will continue your overland journey to Saga, located at an altitude of 4600 meters. The drive will take around 6 to 7 hours, passing through vast open plains, Tibetan villages, and nomadic settlements. As you move deeper into Tibet, the terrain becomes more rugged and barren, giving you the first real glimpse of the Tibetan Plateau’s unique beauty. Saga is a small town with basic facilities, and it's an important stop for pilgrims. Once you arrive, check into your hotel and rest for the night.
Today is a long but scenic drive from Saga to Darchen, the base camp for your Kailash Kora (circumambulation). The road gradually ascends, and as you approach Darchen, you’ll be able to see the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kailash in the distance, a sight that will inspire awe and reverence. Darchen itself is a small, bustling town and the starting point for the trek around Mount Kailash. After arriving in Darchen, check into your hotel and take some time to relax and prepare for the trek ahead.
This is a significant day of your journey. After breakfast, you’ll drive to Lake Manasarovar, one of the most sacred lakes in Hinduism and Buddhism. It is believed that taking a holy dip in the lake will cleanse your sins and bring spiritual purification. You will spend some time reflecting by the lake, taking in the pristine beauty and serenity of the area. After the excursion, you’ll return to Darchen for an overnight stay, where you can prepare for the trek around Mount Kailash, which begins the following day.
Today marks the start of your sacred Kailash Kora trek. After breakfast, you’ll drive to Yamadwar, the “Gateway to Yama,” the Hindu God of Death, where the trek officially begins. From Yamadwar, you’ll begin your journey on foot toward Derapuk, which lies at an altitude of 5060 meters. The trek takes approximately 6 to 7 hours and involves gradual ascents with stunning views of Mount Kailash and the surrounding landscape. Derapuk is a small monastery and campsite at the foot of Kailash, offering a truly breathtaking view of the north face of the mountain. After the day’s trek, settle into your guesthouse in Derapuk for a well-deserved rest.
On the second day of your Kailash Kora, you will trek from Derapuk to Zuthul Puk, located at an altitude of 4790 meters. This day is challenging as you will cross the Dolma La Pass (5630 meters), which is the highest point on the Kailash Kora. The trek involves steep ascents and descents, but the effort is rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and the pristine landscape. Zuthul Puk is a beautiful and peaceful place, and the evening will be spent reflecting on the spiritual significance of the trek. Overnight at a guesthouse in Zuthul Puk.
On the final day of the Kailash Kora, you will complete the trek by walking from Zuthul Puk to the final point of the pilgrimage, where you will be picked up and driven back to Saga. The trek from Zuthul Puk to the end of the Kora is about 10-12 kilometers and will take 4 to 5 hours. Once you finish the trek, you’ll return to the vehicle for the long drive back to Saga. This drive offers a chance to reflect on your incredible spiritual journey. Overnight stay in Saga.
After a restful night in Saga, you will begin your drive back towards the Tibetan border. The journey takes around 6 to 7 hours as you retrace your route from Saga to Kerung. Upon reaching Kerung, check into your hotel and relax for the evening, knowing that the high-altitude journey is nearly complete. This is your last opportunity to reflect on your experiences and the significance of the Kailash pilgrimage.
Today, you will cross back into Nepal and head back to Kathmandu. The drive will take approximately 8 to 9 hours, passing through the picturesque landscapes of the Tibetan Plateau and the beautiful countryside of Nepal. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, check into your hotel and take the rest of the day to relax, freshen up, and reflect on your journey. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with your group and guide, marking the end of an extraordinary spiritual journey.
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight back home. We hope you have had a transformative experience on the Kailash Manasarovar Overland Tour with Sky Treks and Pilgrimages. Safe travels, and may the blessings of Mount Kailash stay with you always.