Arrive in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, where your Kailash Manasarovar pilgrimage adventure begins. Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our Sky Treks and Pilgrimages representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in the heart of Kathmandu. The rest of the day is free for you to rest and recover from your travels. You will meet your fellow pilgrims during the evening briefing, where your guide will give you an overview of the itinerary and important tips for the journey ahead. Overnight stay in Kathmandu.
After breakfast, today is dedicated to sightseeing around Kathmandu, with visits to the important cultural landmarks. You'll explore the UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and the historic Patan Durbar Square. This day will also be used for completing necessary formalities for your visa application, ensuring everything is in place for the Tibet part of the journey. We will also review the upcoming stages of the pilgrimage, so you’re fully informed about the sacred journey. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Nepali dinner. Overnight in Kathmandu.
On this day, we’ll visit two important spiritual sites. First, we’ll travel to the Kailashnath Mahadev, a magnificent statue of Lord Shiva situated on the outskirts of Kathmandu. Then, we’ll visit the Doleshwor Mahadev temple, which is believed to be the head of the famous Kailash Mountain, an important connection for our Yatra. These sacred sites are an excellent way to prepare spiritually for the journey ahead. After visiting these temples, we return to the hotel for overnight stay.
After breakfast, we’ll explore on a trip to two iconic Buddhist stupas: Boudhanath Stupa and Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple). These stupas are rich in spiritual significance, and you’ll have time to immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere. In the evening, we will gather for a comprehensive briefing about the Kailash Yatra. Our expert guides will go over the entire pilgrimage process, the physical demands, and the cultural importance of the sacred journey. Prepare yourself mentally for the adventure ahead. Return to the hotel for rest.
This day will be dedicated to shopping and packing, ensuring that you have all the necessary clothing, gear, and supplies for the Kailash Yatra. Our team will assist you in preparing, ensuring that you are fully equipped for high-altitude travel. We will also provide you with special items such as a Yatra kit with sacred offerings for the pilgrimage. The rest of the day is free for final preparations. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful dinner and get a good night’s rest before your flight to Lhasa.
Today marks the first leg of your journey into Tibet. After breakfast, we will fly from Kathmandu to Lhasa, Tibet’s spiritual capital. Upon arrival at Lhasa’s Gonggar Airport, our local team will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. The rest of the day will be spent acclimatizing to the high altitude (3,650 meters). It’s essential to rest and avoid overexertion. Lhasa is a place of peace and ancient Tibetan culture, so take the opportunity to relax and soak in the surroundings. Overnight stay in Lhasa.
After breakfast, we’ll explore the cultural heart of Tibet with a visit to several of Lhasa’s most important landmarks. Our first stop is the Potala Palace, the iconic hilltop palace that was once the winter residence of the Dalai Lama. Then, we’ll visit Jokhang Temple, the most sacred site for Tibetan Buddhists, followed by the bustling Barkhor Street. Take time to explore the local markets and enjoy the rich Tibetan culture. Return to the hotel for a rest and overnight stay.
Today, we will leave Lhasa and begin our drive to Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city, situated at an altitude of 3,900 meters. Along the way, you’ll witness breathtaking landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, river valleys, and traditional Tibetan villages. Upon reaching Shigatse, you can explore the Tashilhunpo Monastery, home to the Panchen Lama. We’ll rest here for the night, acclimatizing further in preparation for the next stages of the journey.
After breakfast, we’ll begin our journey towards Saga, located at an altitude of 4,600 meters. This long drive takes us through the rugged Tibetan plateau, passing through remote landscapes and offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Along the route, we’ll stop for refreshments and scenic photos. Upon arrival in Saga, check into your hotel for the night. This is another opportunity to acclimatize to the high altitudes before our journey continues.
Today is one of the most significant days of your Yatra. After an early breakfast, we’ll drive to Lake Mansarovar, situated at an altitude of 4,588 meters (15,000 feet). The journey is long, around 8-9 hours, but the beauty of the area makes it worthwhile. Lake Mansarovar is considered one of the holiest lakes in Hinduism and Buddhism. Upon arrival, take in the tranquil beauty of the lake, where you’ll have the chance to perform sacred rituals, offer prayers, and experience spiritual peace. Overnight camping near the lake.
Today, you’ll have the opportunity to take a holy dip in the waters of Lake Mansarovar, which is believed to cleanse sins and purify the soul. You’ll also take part in a Havan (sacred fire ceremony) at the lakeside, followed by a drive to Darchen, the base camp for the Kailash Parikrama. After arriving in Darchen, you can rest, as tomorrow marks the beginning of the parikrama (circumambulation) of Mount Kailash.
Your sacred Kailash Parikrama begins today. Starting from Darchen, we’ll trek towards Deraphuk (4,920 meters), the first stop on the circuit. The trek covers about 18 km, with an option to use a horse or yak for part of the journey. The route offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers, and as you approach Deraphuk, you’ll be able to see the magnificent north face of Mount Kailash. After a challenging but rewarding day, we’ll rest overnight at Deraphuk.
The second day of the Kailash Parikrama is the most physically demanding, as we ascend to Dolmala Pass, the highest point of the trek at 5,860 meters (19,500 feet). After crossing the pass, we’ll descend towards Zuthulphuk Gompa (4,790 meters). The total trek distance is 18 km, and the challenging terrain will test your endurance. Once at Zuthulphuk, you’ll rest and take in the sacred surroundings of this remote monastic site. This day is crucial for spiritual growth and deep reflection.
Today, you will complete the final leg of the Kailash Parikrama, trekking back to Darchen. This relatively easier stretch allows for reflection on the profound spiritual journey you’ve undertaken over the past days. After returning to Darchen, you can relax and enjoy a sense of accomplishment. A ceremony will be held to mark the completion of the sacred Parikrama.
The return journey begins as we drive back to Saga from Darchen, retracing our steps through the beautiful Tibetan plateau. This 8-9 hour drive gives you a chance to reflect on the spiritual journey you’ve completed. Arriving in Saga, we will rest and prepare for the next day’s journey to Kerung.
Today, we’ll drive to Kerung, a border town between Tibet and Nepal, situated at 4,500 meters. The scenic route is breathtaking, and the higher altitude provides a gradual transition back to lower elevations. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax after the long journey. This will be your last stop before heading back to Kathmandu.
In the morning, you’ll board a helicopter for a scenic flight from Kerung back to Kathmandu. The flight offers spectacular views of the Himalayas and Tibetan landscapes. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll be transferred to your hotel to rest. This is your opportunity to reflect on the sacred journey and share your experiences with fellow pilgrims.
After breakfast, we bid you farewell as your Kailash Manasarovar Yatra concludes. Our team will transfer you to the airport for your departure. We hope you carry with you the profound spiritual experiences of the Yatra and the blessings of Lord Shiva. Safe travels!
The Kailash Manasarovar Tour via Lhasa is a special pilgrimage route that begins in Lhasa, the spiritual and cultural heart of Tibet. From there, travelers journey towards Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar, two of the most sacred sites in the world, which are considered holy in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon traditions. The route via Lhasa typically offers an immersive experience of Tibetan culture and Buddhism, allowing travelers to visit famous monasteries, such as the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Sera Monastery, before embarking on the overland journey towards Kailash and Manasarovar.
Lhasa, the capital of Tibet, is considered a spiritual gateway for those traveling to Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar. It is a key stop for pilgrims and travelers, offering the opportunity to explore important Buddhist landmarks such as the Potala Palace (the former residence of the Dalai Lama) and Jokhang Temple (one of the holiest sites in Tibetan Buddhism). Lhasa’s rich religious heritage and high-altitude environment help pilgrims acclimatize to the region before continuing the journey to Mount Kailash. The time spent in Lhasa allows for necessary rest, acclimatization, and spiritual enrichment, making it an integral part of the overall pilgrimage experience.
The Kailash Manasarovar Tour via Lhasa typically lasts around 13 to 18 days, depending on the specific itinerary and the tour operator. The first few days are spent in Lhasa for acclimatization and exploration of the city’s historical and religious sites. After that, travelers embark on a road journey toward Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar, which can take several days, depending on road conditions and the pace of travel. The tour also includes time for trekking around Mount Kailash and spiritual rituals at Lake Manasarovar, extending the total duration of the trip.
The best time for the Kailash Manasarovar Tour via Lhasa is from May to September, when the weather is more stable and accessible. The months of June, July, and August are especially popular as they coincide with Tibet’s main pilgrimage season. During this period, temperatures are moderate, and the roads are more likely to be clear of snow. However, temperatures at high altitudes can still drop significantly, especially at night, so travelers should be prepared for cold weather.
Travelers must obtain a Chinese visa to visit Tibet, and a Tibet Travel Permit is also required. These permits can only be issued through an authorized tour operator, and travelers cannot visit Tibet independently. Since the tour typically starts in Nepal, a Chinese visa for entry into Tibet will need to be arranged through a tour agency, which will also assist in securing the necessary permits. Additionally, a special permit is required for crossing the Nepal-Tibet border. It’s essential to apply for these permits well in advance, as processing can take several weeks.
The overland route from Lhasa to Kailash and Manasarovar is a long and scenic journey that crosses high-altitude passes, remote Tibetan villages, and breathtaking landscapes. The distance from Lhasa to Kailash is approximately 1,000 kilometers (620 miles), and the journey typically takes around 5 to 7 days by road, depending on the conditions. Some of the key stops on the route include:
Lhasa: The starting point, where travelers acclimatize and visit key Tibetan Buddhist sites.
Shigatse: Tibet’s second-largest city and home to the famous Tashilhunpo Monastery.
Saga: A remote town that serves as a base for travelers on the way to Mount Kailash.
Paryang: A stop for rest before heading to the final destination.
Darchen: The closest town to Mount Kailash, where the trek around the mountain begins.
The journey is often conducted in 4x4 vehicles or buses, as the terrain is rough and the roads are sometimes unpaved.
Accommodation on the Kailash Manasarovar Tour via Lhasa varies depending on the location and level of infrastructure. In Lhasa, travelers can stay in comfortable hotels or guesthouses. However, once you leave Lhasa and begin the overland journey, the accommodations become more basic. In towns like Shigatse, Saga, and Darchen, accommodations are typically in simple guesthouses or Tibetan-style inns. During the trek around Mount Kailash, some pilgrims stay in tents or basic shelters, as options are limited in the remote areas. It’s important to manage expectations regarding comfort, as the focus of the tour is on the spiritual journey rather than luxury.
The Kailash Manasarovar Tour via Lhasa involves high-altitude travel, with some areas exceeding 4,500 meters (14,763 feet) in elevation. The journey can be physically demanding due to the high altitudes, the challenging terrain, and the long travel days. While the road journey itself is relatively straightforward, travelers should be prepared for occasional long drives on bumpy, unpaved roads. The trek around Mount Kailash (the Kailash Kora) is particularly challenging, as it involves walking at high altitudes and in rugged conditions. For those planning to undertake the Kora, it’s important to be in good physical condition and to acclimatize properly before attempting the trek.
Physical preparation is key to ensuring a successful and enjoyable journey. It’s advisable to engage in cardiovascular exercises, such as walking, hiking, or swimming, to build endurance. Since the tour includes high-altitude destinations, acclimatizing to higher elevations before departure is essential. If possible, spend a few days in a high-altitude area before the trip to help your body adjust. Additionally, travelers should pack appropriately for the journey, bringing warm clothing, sturdy footwear, and essential travel gear, such as a sleeping bag (for certain parts of the trip), sunscreen, and a first-aid kit.
Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended for the Kailash Manasarovar Tour via Lhasa. Due to the challenging nature of the tour, which includes high-altitude travel and remote areas, it’s important to have comprehensive insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and emergency evacuation. Make sure your insurance covers altitude-related illnesses and accidents, as evacuation from high-altitude regions can be expensive and complicated.
Yes, the Kailash Manasarovar Tour via Lhasa is open to all travelers, regardless of religious background. While the primary attraction for many is the spiritual significance of Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar, the tour also offers a unique opportunity to explore Tibetan culture, experience incredible landscapes, and immerse oneself in the natural beauty of the region. Whether you’re drawn to the journey for personal reflection, adventure, or cultural exploration, it’s a rewarding experience for all types of travelers.
