Mount Kailash Pilgrimage Tour

Overview Departures Itinerary Inclusion Exclusion Gallery

Trip Overview

The Mount Kailash Pilgrimage Tour, also known as the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, is one of the most sacred and spiritually significant journeys in the world. Revered by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bonpos as the abode of Lord Shiva and the spiritual center of the universe, Mount Kailash (6,714m) attracts thousands of pilgrims each year seeking spiritual liberation and divine blessings.

This 19-day pilgrimage journey begins in Kathmandu, traversing the breathtaking landscapes of Nepal and Tibet. The route follows ancient pilgrimage trails through the Himalayan foothills, passing sacred monasteries, meditation caves, and holy lakes, before reaching the base of the majestic Mount Kailash. The pilgrimage culminates in the sacred Kailash Kora (circumambulation) of the holy mountain, crossing the formidable Dolma La Pass (5,648m) and paying homage at the pristine Lake Manasarovar.

The journey incorporates visits to some of Tibet's most sacred Buddhist sites, including Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Tashilhunpo Monastery, Samye Monastery, and ancient meditation caves associated with Guru Padmasambhava and Jetsun Milarepa. Pilgrims will experience the rich tapestry of Tibetan Buddhist culture, ancient traditions, and profound spiritual energy that permeates this sacred landscape.

The Mount Kailash Pilgrimage Tour is ideal for devotees and spiritual seekers desiring a transformative journey through the abode of Lord Shiva, combining devotional practices, meditation, and cultural exploration in one of the world's most sacred destinations.

Best Seasons to Travel

Spring (May to June) and Autumn (September to October) are the best seasons for the Mount Kailash Pilgrimage Tour, offering stable weather, clear mountain views, safe trail conditions, and comfortable temperatures. The pre-monsoon (May-June) and post-monsoon (September-October) periods provide the most favorable conditions for crossing Dolma La Pass and circumambulating Mount Kailash.

Notes to Travelers

This pilgrimage is physically demanding and recommended for pilgrims with good fitness levels and prior high-altitude experience. The journey reaches altitudes over 5,600 meters at Dolma La Pass, requiring proper acclimatization and preparation.

Tibet is a restricted region requiring special permits, which include:

  • Chinese Tibet Entry Permit

  • Alien Travel Permit

  • Restricted Area Permit (if applicable)

  • Organized guide and vehicle mandatory

Accommodation ranges from comfortable hotels in major cities (Lhasa, Shigatse, Tsedang) to basic guesthouses at pilgrimage sites (Dirapuk, Zuthulpuk) and at Darchen. At high-altitude locations, facilities are very basic with limited amenities. Temperatures drop well below freezing at night, especially during the Kailash Kora.

The Kailash Kora (Parikrama) involves walking approximately 52 km over 3 days, crossing Dolma La Pass at 5,648m. The terrain includes rocky paths, glacier sections, steep ascents, and high-altitude conditions. Porters and horses are available for those requiring support.

Transportation includes a drive from Kathmandu to the Tibet border (8-10 hours), followed by an overland journey through Tibet using private vehicles. Roads are a mix of paved highways, mountain passes, and rugged terrain. Weather and road conditions can cause delays.

Permits and visas required include the Chinese Tibet visa, Chinese Group Visa, and various travel permits arranged by Himalayan Karma Treks. A valid passport with at least 6 months validity is required.

Health considerations include altitude sickness prevention, proper acclimatization, and travel insurance covering emergency evacuation up to 5,600m. Consult your physician before embarking on this pilgrimage.

Highlights

  • Sacred Circumambulation (Kora) of Mount Kailash – the spiritual center of the universe and abode of Lord Shiva

  • Cross the sacred Dolma La Pass (5,648m) – symbolizing spiritual rebirth and purification of karma

  • Visit Lake Manasarovar (4,590m) – one of Asia's holiest lakes, believed to purify sins and liberate the soul

  • Take a holy dip in the pristine waters of Lake Manasarovar for spiritual cleansing and merit accumulation

  • Explore Potala Palace – the magnificent former winter palace of His Holiness the Dalai Lama

  • Visit Jokhang Temple – Tibet's holiest shrine housing the revered Jowo Shakyamuni statue

  • Explore ancient monasteries including Tashilhunpo, Samye, Sakya, and Palcho Monastery

  • Visit sacred meditation caves associated with Guru Padmasambhava (Milarepa Cave, Chimphu Caves, Drak Yerpa)

  • Circumambulate the Barkhor Market pilgrimage circuit with Tibetan devotees

  • Experience authentic Tibetan Buddhist culture and ancient traditions

  • One of the world's most spiritually significant pilgrimages

Fixed Departure Dates

Early booking recommended due to limited seats.

August 22, 2026
⟶
September 10, 2026
Request a Slot

Itinerary

  • Day 1 : Kathmandu → Rasuwagadhi Border→ Kyirong

    • Highlights: Sacred journey begins, scenic Himalayan drive, Nepal-Tibet border crossing, arrival at the gateway to Tibet

    • Activity: Early morning departure from Kathmandu (4:00 AM), drive to Rasuwagadhi border, complete immigration and border formalities, continue to Kyirong (2,700m), acclimatization and rest

     

  • Day 2 : Kyirong → Shigatse via Milarepa Cave

    • Highlights: Scenic drive through the Himalayas, visit sacred Milarepa Cave associated with the great Tibetan yogi, meditation and prayers

    • Activity: Depart Kyirong, drive to Shigatse (3,836m), visit Milarepa Cave for meditation and prayers, Himalayan panoramas, overnight at Shigatse

     

  • Day 3 : Shigatse → Gyantse

    • Highlights: Tashilhunpo Monastery (traditional seat of the Panchen Lama), golden stupas, giant statues, vibrant murals, Tibetan market exploration

    • Activity: Visit Tashilhunpo Monastery, explore the monastery complex and murals, wander through the local Tibetan market, drive to Gyantse (3,977m), overnight at Gyantse

     

  • Day 4 : Gyantse → Tsedang via Yamdrok Lake

    • Highlights: Kumbum Stupa and Palcho Monastery, turquoise waters of Yamdrok Lake, Mindroling Monastery, arrival in the cradle of Tibetan civilization

    • Activity: Visit Kumbum Stupa and Palcho Monastery, drive across Tibetan landscapes to Yamdrok Lake (holy lake with prayer rituals), visit Mindroling Monastery, arrive at Tsedang (3,500m), overnight at Tsedang

     

  • Day 5 : Tsedang Exploration

    • Highlights: Yumbu Lhakhang Palace (oldest building in Tibet), Tandruk Monastery (one of the earliest Buddhist monasteries), Yarlung Sheldrak Cave (Padmasambhava's meditation cave)

    • Activity: Full-day exploration in the Yarlung Valley, visit Yumbu Lhakhang Palace, explore Tandruk Monastery, visit the sacred Yarlung Sheldrak Cave for meditation, overnight at Tsedang

     

  • Day 6 : Tsedang → Samye Monastery

    • Highlights: Tibet's first Buddhist monastery, mandala-style architecture, Hepuri sacred site

    • Activity: Drive to Samye Monastery, explore the monastery complex built in a mandala pattern, visit Hepuri sacred site, overnight at Samye

     

  • Day 7 : Samye → Chimphu Cave Day Trip

    • Highlights: Sacred Chimphu Meditation Caves (Guru Rinpoche's practice site), Drakmar Yamalung meditation site

    • Activity: Excursion to Chimphu Meditation Caves, meditation and prayers at sacred cave sites, return to Samye, visit Drakmar Yamalung, overnight at Samye

     

  • Day 8 : Samye → Lhasa

    • Highlights: Arrival in the holy city of Lhasa, Norbulingka Palace (Summer Palace of His Holiness the Dalai Lama), Drepung Monastery, Sera Monastery with Buddhist debating sessions

    • Activity: Drive to Lhasa (3,656m), visit Dolma Lhakhang Temple, explore Norbulingka Palace, visit Drepung Monastery (one of the "Great Three" Gelug monasteries), attend daily Buddhist debating sessions at Sera Monastery, overnight at Lhasa

     

  • Day 9 : Lhasa Sacred Sites Exploration

    • Highlights: Potala Palace (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Jokhang Temple (Tibet's holiest shrine), Barkhor Market pilgrimage circuit

    • Activity: Visit Potala Palace (winter palace of the Dalai Lamas), explore Jokhang Temple housing the Jowo Shakyamuni statue, circumambulate the sacred Barkhor pilgrimage circuit with Tibetan devotees, spinning prayer wheels and chanting mantras, overnight at Lhasa

     

  • Day 10 : Lhasa Day Trip

    • Highlights: Drak Yerpa Cave Complex, Gangri Tokhar meditation site, sacred cave exploration

    • Activity: Day trip to Drak Yerpa Cave Complex (meditation caves of Guru Rinpoche and Songtsen Gampo), explore Gangri Tokhar meditation site, meditation and prayers, overnight at Lhasa

     

  • Day 11 : Lhasa → Lhatse via Sakya Monastery

    • Highlights: Sakya Monastery (principal monastery of the Sakya tradition), ancient scriptures, thangkas, distinctive grey-and-white architecture

    • Activity: Drive toward Lhatse, visit Sakya Monastery, explore vast collection of ancient scriptures and thangkas, continue to Lhatse, overnight at Lhatse

     

  • Day 12 : Lhatse → Saga

    • Highlights: Tibetan plateau, panoramic Himalayan views, Mount Shishapangma (8,027m) views

    • Activity: Drive across the vast Tibetan plateau to Saga (4,640m), enjoy panoramic Himalayan views including Shishapangma, overnight at Saga

     

  • Day 13 : Saga → Lake Manasarovar → Darchen

    • Highlights: LAKE MANASAROVAR (4,590m) – one of Asia's holiest lakes, Chiu Monastery, holy dip and prayers, arrival at Darchen base town

    • Activity: Drive to Lake Manasarovar, perform prayers and meditation at the lake's pristine shores, take a holy dip (purification of sins), visit Chiu Monastery overlooking the lake, continue to Darchen (4,575m), overnight at Darchen

     

  • Day 14 : Tirtha Puri Day Trip

    • Highlights: Sacred Tirtha Puri hot springs, purification rituals, meditation, associated with Guru Padmasambhava and Yeshe Tsogyal

    • Activity: Excursion to Tirtha Puri hot springs, perform purification practices, meditate, offer prayers, return to Darchen, overnight at Darchen

     

  • Day 15 : Tarboche → Dirapuk (Kailash Kora Begins)

    HOLY MOUNT KAILASH KORA (PARIKRAMA)

    • Highlights: Start of the sacred circumambulation, north face of Mount Kailash, Dirapuk Monastery, Lha Chu Valley

    • Activity: Drive to Tarboche (4,750m), begin the holy Kailash Kora trek, follow the Lha Chu Valley with prayer flags and views of Kailash, arrive at Dirapuk Monastery (4,890m), overnight at Dirapuk guesthouse

     

  • Day 16 : Dirapuk → Zuthulpuk via Dolma La Pass

    • Highlights: DOLMA LA PASS (5,648m) – spiritual rebirth and purification of karma, Gauri Kund (Lake of Compassion), Zuthulpuk Monastery

    • Activity: Early morning start, cross the sacred Dolma La Pass (5,648m), visit Gauri Kund (offerings and prayers), descend to Zuthulpuk Monastery (4,700m), overnight at Zuthulpuk guesthouse

     

  • Day 17 : Kailash Kora Completion → Saga

    • Highlights: Completion of the sacred circumambulation, celebration, reflection, return to Saga

    • Activity: Complete the final section of the Kailash Kora (approximately 3-4 hours), reflect on the transformative spiritual journey, drive back to Saga (4,640m), overnight at Saga

     

  • Day 18 : Saga → Kyirong

    • Highlights: Return through the Tibetan plateau, Himalayan scenery, reflection on pilgrimage experiences

    • Activity: Drive back to Kyirong (2,700m), enjoy majestic Himalayan scenery, rest and reflect on the profound experiences, overnight at Kyirong

     

  • Day 19 : Kyirong → Rasuwagadhi Border → Kathmandu

    • Highlights: Conclusion of the sacred pilgrimage, return to Kathmandu, farewell dinner

    • Activity: Early morning drive to Rasuwagadhi border, complete immigration formalities, continue to Kathmandu (1,400m), farewell dinner, pilgrimage completion

Cost Inclusion

  • Airport transfers on arrival and departure in a private vehicle
  • 2 nights hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on BB plan (twin-sharing basis)
  • Kathmandu to Kyirong and Kyirong to Kathmandu transportation by private vehicle
  • Tibet side transportation (all ground transfers with private vehicle)
  • All Tibet Travel Permits and Chinese Tibet Visa (Group Visa)
  • Hotel accommodation in Tibet (3-star equivalent in major cities, guesthouses in Darchen, Dirapuk, Zuthulpuk, and Saga)
  • Accommodation at Dirapuk and Zuthulpuk (basic guesthouses during Kailash Kora)
  • Meals in Tibet (breakfast and dinner)
  • One experienced, English-speaking Tibetan guide
  • Porter service for the Kailash Kora (1 porter for every 2 trekkers) for luggage only
  • Medical kit (basic first aid)
  • All government taxes and official expenses
  • Farewell dinner in Kathmandu on the last evening
  • Complimentary duffel bag from Himalayan Karma Treks for storing and carrying your pilgrimage gear

Cost Exclusion

  • International airfare to and from Nepal
  • Nepal entry visa fee (available on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport)
  • Travel and medical insurance (mandatory, covering emergency evacuation up to 5,600m)
  • Lunch in Tibet (generally USD 5-7 per meal)
  • Yaks/porters for personal carrying during Kailash Kora (available on request for additional cost)
  • Horse hire for Dolma La Pass crossing (available on request for additional cost)
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, internet, battery charging, hot showers, etc.
  • Alcoholic beverages, cold drinks, bottled water, and snacks
  • Extra meals and accommodation in Kathmandu beyond the itinerary
  • Tips for guide, drivers, and porters (recommended but at your discretion)
  • Any additional costs due to flight cancellations, weather delays, natural disasters, border closures, or other unforeseen circumstances
  • Personal pilgrimage gear and equipment
  • Emergency evacuation and medical treatment costs
Altitude
5,648m
Duration
19 Days
Group Size
10-20 Climbers
Best Season
Spring and Autumn
Personalize Background

Want to
Personalize Your Trip?

Tell us your goals, schedule, and experience level. We'll design a custom itinerary tailored just for you.