Rising to 6,740 meters in the heart of western Tibet, Mt. Kailash stands as one of the most revered yet rarely visited holy sites on Earth. Tucked beyond the Himalayan range, this awe-inspiring peak is sacred to billions, worshipped by followers of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon. Despite its immense spiritual significance, the mountain’s remote location means only a few thousand pilgrims make the journey each year.
The Kailash pilgrimage is unlike any other. It begins with a purifying dip in the sacred waters of Lake Manasarovar—crystal-clear and serene, surrounded by the majestic Gurla Mandata range. As you journey across the vast, windswept Tibetan Plateau in a sturdy 4WD vehicle, you’ll encounter ancient cliff-top monasteries, resilient Tibetan communities, and yak caravans slowly weaving their way through high mountain passes.
Along the way, the stark beauty of the Himalayas unfolds before you—glittering turquoise lakes, endless plains, grazing herds, and fluttering prayer flags set the scene for moments of deep reflection and connection. The highlight of the pilgrimage is the sacred kora (circuit) around Mt. Kailash, believed to cleanse one’s soul and erase the sins of a lifetime.
This overland journey is more than just travel—it’s a spiritual awakening. You’ll discover Tibet’s rich cultural tapestry through its vibrant arts, rituals, cuisine, and warm hospitality. Guided by local experts who understand both the land and its sacred stories, you’ll gain insights that go far beyond sightseeing.
After completing your journey around Kailash and taking in the tranquil beauty of Lake Manasarovar, you’ll retrace your route across the grand open plains, eventually returning to Kathmandu. This sacred adventure offers not only incredible landscapes but also a chance to connect deeply—with the land, its people, and your own spirit.
15 days / 14 nights Mt. Kailash Mansarovar trip
Tibet’s Majestic Landscapes Are Calling You
Highlights
- Visit Mt. Kailash, revered by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers as a symbol of divine power and Lord Shiva’s abode.
- Experience a ritual bath in the holy waters of Lake Mansarovar, believed to cleanse sins and purify the soul.
- Complete the 3-day Kora (circumambulation) around Mt. Kailash at over 5,600 meters, considered one of the most sacred pilgrimages in Asia.
- Engage with global pilgrims, observe traditional rituals, and explore ancient monasteries along the route.
- Travel through dramatic Tibetan landscapes—high passes, plateaus, and remote settlements—en route from Nepal to Tibet.
- Enjoy the safety of experienced guides, support vehicles, and planned acclimatization for a smooth high-altitude experience.
- Ideal for spiritual seekers, cultural explorers, and high-altitude adventurers seeking a life-changing pilgrimage.
- Stay in traditional Tibetan guesthouses and savor regional cuisine for an immersive cultural experience.
Itinerary
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representatives will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. After some rest, you'll visit our office to complete the Tibet visa process.
After breakfast, your guide will pick you up for a full-day sightseeing tour.
- Kathmandu Durbar Square (Basantapur): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this former royal palace complex showcases traditional Newar architecture and served as the residence of Malla and Shah kings. Notable features include the Hanuman Dhoka Palace and numerous courtyards and temples.
- Swayambhunath Stupa: Located atop a hill, this ancient religious site is revered by both Buddhists and Hindus. The site includes the main stupa, shrines, temples, and the iconic gilded Vajra.
- Patan Durbar Square: Situated in Lalitpur, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its red-brick courtyards, intricately carved temples, and the ancient Malla royal palace.
Return to your hotel for rest.
Today you’ll visit three major heritage sites:
- Boudhanath Stupa: One of the largest spherical stupas in the world and a UNESCO site, Boudhanath is a spiritual center for Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal.
- Pashupatinath Temple: Located on the banks of the Bagmati River, this sacred Hindu temple complex is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in Nepal.
- Bhaktapur Durbar Square: Located 13 km east of Kathmandu, this site includes four distinct squares filled with temples, palaces, and traditional Newari architecture.
Return to your hotel in Kathmandu.
Take a day to rest and prepare for the journey ahead. You'll receive your Tibet visa today. You may explore Thamel, Kathmandu’s bustling tourist district known for shops, restaurants, and local crafts.
We begin our overland journey with a scenic drive through Nepal’s countryside to the Kerung border town. After immigration formalities, we cross into Tibet and meet our Tibetan guide. Overnight stay in Kerung.
Rest day in Kerung to acclimatize to the higher altitude. Optional short hikes are available.
Drive across Lalung La Pass (5,200m), with stunning views of Shishapangma (8,027m) and the turquoise Peiku Tso Lake. The route follows the Brahmaputra River and passes traditional Tibetan villages before reaching Saga. Overnight in guesthouse or hotel.
Today is a spiritual highlight as we catch our first view of Mt. Kailash and Lake Manasarovar. On arrival, we perform a sacred dip in the lake and explore the area. Overnight in a guesthouse or tented camp.
Lake Manasarovar is a high-altitude freshwater lake surrounded by Mt. Kailash, Mt. Gurula-Mandata, and Lake Rishikesh. After exploring the lake, we drive to Darchen, the starting point of the Kailash Kora (pilgrimage circuit). Overnight at Chu Gumba.
Begin your Kora trek, accompanied by yaks and Tibetan porters. The trail follows the Lha Chu Valley with scenic meadows and streams, offering the first full view of Mt. Kailash’s north face. Visit the 13th-century Dirapuk Monastery, then overnight in a guesthouse or tent.
Ascend through Drolma Chu Valley to Drolma La Pass, the highest point of the trek. At the summit, you’ll see Thukpe Dzingbu Lake (Lake of Compassion). The trail descends to Zutulpuk, home to Milarepa’s meditation cave. Overnight at guesthouse or camp.
Complete your Kailash Kora and return to Darchen. From there, drive back to Saga. After the spiritually fulfilling journey, enjoy a restful night in a guesthouse or camp.
Drive back across the plains, following the Yarlung Tsangpo (Brahmaputra River), and return to Kerung for an overnight stay.
Cross the Friendship Bridge at the Nepal–China border. After clearing immigration at Kodari, meet our Nepalese team and continue the scenic drive back to Kathmandu (5–6 hours). Overnight at a hotel.
After breakfast, you may explore the city or shop for souvenirs. We’ll assist with packing and transfer you to the airport according to your flight schedule. Our team will bid you farewell and wish you a safe journey.
Includes/Excludes
Cost Includes
- Transfers by tourist bus, private van, or coach as per itinerary
- Twin-sharing accommodation with daily breakfast
- Guided sightseeing in Tibet by an experienced English-speaking Tibetan guide
- Monastery entrance fees
- Tibet Travel Permit
Cost Excludes
- Lunch and dinner
- Train or airfare for any sector
- Any type of travel insurance
- Nepal and China visa fees
- Personal expenses (e.g., drinks, tips, porter charges, etc.)
- Yak or horse rental during the Kailash Kora
- Trekking equipment
FAQs
Tibet lies in the southwest of China and borders Nepal, India, Bhutan, and Myanmar. Traditionally, it consists of three provinces: U-Tsang, Kham, and Amdo. Although each region has its own dialect and strong local identity, all are considered part of Tibetan culture.
Under Chinese governance, Tibet has been restructured. The Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR), which China officially refers to as “Tibet,” includes U-Tsang and part of Kham. The remaining areas of Kham and Amdo are now incorporated into the Chinese provinces of Sichuan, Yunnan, Gansu, and Qinghai. Tibet spans approximately 1.22 million km², making up 12.8% of China’s territory. With its snow-capped landscapes, strong Buddhist presence, and proximity to Nepal, Tibet is a prime destination for mountaineering and trekking.
Tibet follows China Standard Time (GMT+8), which is 6 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time.
Traveling to Tibet requires both a Chinese Visa and a Tibet Travel Permit. If entering from Nepal, these can be arranged through a travel agency in Kathmandu. A regular Chinese visa does not replace the Tibet Travel Permit, which is still required even when traveling from within China.
To obtain the Tibet Travel Permit, you must book a guided tour and arrange private transportation for trips outside Lhasa. Additional permits may be required for travel beyond Lhasa, organized by your travel agency.
Passport and Visa Requirements
- Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months.
- Chinese Visa: Apply at a Chinese embassy before entering China. If entering Tibet from Nepal, a Group Visa is required and your existing Chinese visa will be canceled.
- Tibet Entry Permit: Issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau; mandatory for all foreign travelers.
- Travel Permit: Needed to visit restricted areas outside Lhasa; arranged after arrival.
- Military Permit: Required for visiting certain sensitive areas; arranged by your travel agency.
- By Road: Five main highways connect Tibet:
- Sichuan-Tibet Highway (Chengdu to Lhasa)
- Qinghai-Tibet Highway (Xining to Lhasa)
- Yunnan-Tibet Highway
- Xinjiang-Tibet Highway
- China-Nepal Friendship Highway (only international route)
- By Air: Flights to Lhasa require transit through China or Nepal. The international route from Kathmandu to Lhasa is the only direct international flight.
- By Rail: The Qinghai–Tibet Railway connects Golmud (Qinghai) to Lhasa and spans 1,142 km.
Tibet has a high-altitude climate—generally dry and cold. Lhasa enjoys sunny days but cool nights. Temperatures can drop significantly in the evenings and early mornings. Warm clothing is essential year-round.
The ideal travel period is from April to early November, with May, June, and September being the most popular. Lhasa can be visited year-round due to its relatively mild climate. Note that sun exposure is intense due to high elevation.
No. Independent travel in Tibet is not permitted. Travel must be arranged through an authorized tour operator, which handles all permits and logistics.
Yes. Tibet’s high altitude may cause mild symptoms such as headaches, loss of appetite, and fatigue. These symptoms usually subside within a few days. It’s best to spend a few days acclimatizing in Lhasa. Consult your doctor about altitude sickness medication before travel. Your guide will monitor your condition during the tour.
ATMs are available in Lhasa and Shigatse but are rare in smaller towns. Carry enough cash, preferably in smaller denominations.
The official currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). Currency exchange is available at the Bank of China. Traveler’s cheques and credit cards are rarely accepted outside major banks and cities.
As long as you avoid political discussions or activities, you’re unlikely to encounter any issues.
Recommended vaccinations include:
- Chickenpox (Varicella)
- Diphtheria & Tetanus
- Hepatitis A & B
- Influenza
- MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
- Pneumonia
- Polio
- Rabies
- Tuberculosis
- Typhoid
- Yellow Fever (if arriving from an infected area)
Consult your doctor before travel.
No. You’ll be accompanied by an English-speaking guide. In major hotels and tourist areas, basic English is widely understood. The main languages spoken are Tibetan, Chinese, English, and Nepali.
Yes, but access is limited to cities like Lhasa, Shigatse, Gyantse, and Tsedang. Some hotels and cafés in these areas offer Wi-Fi.
The Mt. Kailash Mansarovar Tour – 15 Days offers a deeply spiritual journey to one of the world’s most sacred and remote destinations. Revered by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers, Mt. Kailash is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva and a powerful symbol of divine energy. This 15-day pilgrimage takes you across Tibet’s dramatic landscapes, blending sacred rituals with stunning views of the Himalayas and the Tibetan Plateau.
The journey begins in Kathmandu, Nepal, where preparations are made before crossing into Tibet. You’ll travel through high mountain passes, vast plateaus, and serene monasteries en route to Lake Mansarovar—one of Asia’s holiest lakes. A ritual bath in its sacred waters is believed to purify the soul and cleanse past sins.
The highlight of the Mt. Kailash Mansarovar Tour – 15 Days is the Kora, a 3-day circumambulation of Mt. Kailash. At altitudes above 5,600 meters, this challenging yet profoundly spiritual trek is said to bring immense blessings. Along the way, you’ll meet pilgrims from around the world, united in devotion, chanting prayers, spinning prayer wheels, and walking clockwise around the sacred mountain.
This fully guided tour includes support vehicles and experienced staff to ensure your safety, comfort, and proper acclimatization. From traditional Tibetan guesthouses to authentic local cuisine, every detail is designed to immerse you in the region’s culture and spirituality.
Whether you seek spiritual fulfillment, cultural discovery, or high-altitude adventure, the Mt. Kailash Mansarovar Tour – 15 Days is a transformative experience that touches the body, mind, and soul. Embark on this sacred journey and uncover the profound mystique of Mt. Kailash.
Visa Information
Traveling to Tibet requires both a Chinese Visa and a Tibet Travel Permit, which can be arranged in Kathmandu through a travel agency when entering Tibet via Nepal. Note that a standard Chinese visa is not the same as a Tibet Travel Permit. Even if you already have a Chinese visa, you’ll still need a Tibet Travel Permit to enter Tibet from mainland China or Nepal.
To obtain the permit:
- You must book a licensed guide for the entire trip.
- Private transportation must be arranged for travel outside Lhasa.
- Additional permits may be needed for certain restricted regions, which will be arranged by your travel agency.
Required Travel Documents:
- Passport – Must be valid for at least 6 months.
- Chinese Visa – Required for travelers entering Tibet from mainland China.
- Group Visa – Required for travelers entering Tibet from Nepal. This visa allows continued travel into mainland China but will cancel any individual Chinese visa in your passport.
- Tibet Entry Permit – Issued by the Tibet Tourism Bureau; mandatory for all foreign travelers.
- Additional Permits (for certain areas):
- Travel Permit – Required for visiting restricted or closed areas in Tibet.
- Military Permit – Required for travel to sensitive military zones.
Weather Information
Tibet’s weather is similar to mainland China but colder due to its high altitude.
- Summer: Warm days with intense sun and cool nights. Higher elevations can still be chilly.
- Winter: Cold, but not very snowy. Lhasa is relatively mild and sunny year-round.
- General Climate: Frost is common for half the year. Lakes at high altitudes can freeze from October to March.
Weather varies greatly by region; Lhasa, located in a lower valley, has a more favorable climate.
Safety Guidelines
To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip, please follow these guidelines:
- Always carry two copies of your Tibet Permit.
- Keep personal belongings secure.
- Report any altitude-related discomfort or issues to your guide immediately.
- Avoid rushing to attractions right after arriving in Lhasa; allow time to acclimatize.
- Avoid buying wildlife products, fake herbal medicines, or souvenirs from street vendors.
- Carry your money and valuables with you at all times.
- Spend a few days in Lhasa before ascending to higher altitudes.
- Avoid heavy alcohol and smoking, especially at higher elevations.
- Respect local customs, religious beliefs, and cultural taboos.
- Be cautious of the alpine climate – protect against sunburn and temperature changes.
- Bring necessary medications as advised by your doctor.
- Never travel alone at night or venture off without informing your guide.
- Cash is preferred in most places – carry enough, including small denominations.
- Report any emergencies to your guide immediately.
- Do not carry materials related to the Dalai Lama, Free Tibet, or politically sensitive content.
- Avoid bringing Tibet-specific guidebooks.
