The Mt. Kailash tour from Kathmandu offers a unique and spiritually enriching experience for travelers seeking, cultural immersion, and a deeper connection with nature. Located in western Tibet, Mt.ailash is considered one of the most sacred mountains in the world by several religions includingism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon.
The journey begins in Kathmandu where will meet your guide from Tashi Delek Nepal Trek office early in the morning. there, you will drive to Kyirong through scenic landscapes and picturesque villages. The follows the Trishuli River Galchi before heading north towards the border with China.
completing immigration formalities on both sides of the border, you continue your journey towards Kyirong where you will spend a day acclimatization at an elevation of 2700m. This allows your body to adjust to higher altitudes continuing further into Tibet.
From Kyirong, the route takes you through breathtaking landscapes as you drive across Lalung La (5200m) and pass by turquoise lakes such as Peiku-Tso with stunning views of Shishapangma (8027m). The trail then follows a river valley dotted with traditional villages before reaching Saga at an elevation of 4600m.
After spending a night in Saga or staying at a guest house/hotel depending on availability, you embark on a long drive towards Manasarovar Lake at an elevation of 5200m. This part of the journey takes approximately 9-10 hours but rewards travelers with magnificent views of snow-covered peaks and arid landscapes that define Tibet's unique beauty.
At Manasarovar Lake, also known as "the jewel born out of Lord Brahma's mind," we take time to explore its turquoise waters surrounded by sacred mountains such as Holy Kailash Parbat and Mt. Gurula-Mandata. The region is believed to be rich in gold mines, hot springs, and diverse wildlife.
After immersing ourselves in the spiritual energy emanating from Manasarov Lake, we continue our journey towards Darchen - the starting point for circumambulating Mountailash or undertaking its kora (pilgrimage trek). Darchen is located at an altitude of 4560m and serves as a base camp for trekkers preparing themselves physically and mentally for this challenging adventure ahead.
The kora around Mount Kailash covers approximately 52 kilometers over three days with overnight stays at Dirapuk (4900m) and Zutul Puk (4790m). On these treks/treking days one gets mesmerized by verdant meadows adorned with colorful flowers,
picturesque streams flowing alongside their trails,
and breathtaking views that unfold along every step - including glimpses
of majestic Mount Kailash itself.
Each day presents new challenges but also provides moments
of deep introspection
and profound connection with nature.
Visiting monasteries like Dira-Puk Monastery adds another layer
of spiritual significance.
Here it is believed that blessings are bestowed upon those who pay homage during their pilgrimage journey.
Zutul-Puk monastery has fascinating caves used primarily for meditation,
with Milarepa's cave being particularly noteworthy-
it bears evidence
of his presence through footprints imprinted on mani stones.
These ancient sites enhance one's understanding
of Tibetan Buddhist traditions
Upon completing our trek around Mount Kailash,
we return to Darchen where we rest before driving back towards Saga -
retracing our steps through beautiful landscapes where nomads can be seen welcoming us warmly along remote stretches -
offering hot tea & supplies while dressed beautifully in traditional costumes.
We spend another night either camping or staying at guest houses/hotels depending on availability
On our way back to Kathmandu from Saga,
we cross Yarlung Tsangpo (Brahmaputra River)
via ferry,
then drive around 220km back to Kyirong -
where we first entered Tibet -
the road opens up into wide plains offering spectacular views once again!
In Kyirong,you can get some well-deserved rest after adventurous travel experiences…
Overnight stay can be arranged either camping or staying guest houses/hotels based on availability
From Kyirong,a final scenic drive leads us back across Nepalese border town Rasuwagadi –
where farewells are made between Tibetan guides/drivers & Nepalese escorts-
before continuing further down toward Kathmandu…
This could take about7-8 hours depending on weather conditions & road conditions
Overall,the Mtailash tour from Kathmandu offers so much more than just physical endurance;
It about experiencing spiritual awakening&
deepening connections between nature&inner self.
With each step taken along this incredible pilgrimage route,tourists find themselves enveloped within powerful energy fields generated by sacred mountains,lakes&a vibrant mix cultures&traditions.The serenity&majesty encountered throughout entirejourney creates lifelong memories&inspires personal growth
Cost Details
Accommodation: Standard 3-star hotels and the best available guest houses.
Group Size and Pricing Per Person (3-Star Hotel)
• 4–5 Pax: USD 1955 per person
• 6–9 Pax: USD 175 per person
• 10–14 Pax: USD 1555 per person
• 16–20 Pax: USD 1355 per person
Group Size and Pricing Per Person (2-Star Hotel)
• 4–5 Pax: USD 1795 per person
• 6–9 Pax: USD 1655 per person
• 10–14 Pax: USD 1415 per person
• 16–20 Pax: USD 1255 per person
Single Supplement: An additional USD 365 for single occupancy.
Additional Visa Costs
• Standard Visa Fee: USD 125 per person
• USA and Canadian Passport Holders: Additional USD 215 per pers
Required Documents
Passport scan copy – Must be submitted at least 25 days before the travel date.
Original passport – Must be submitted at least 3 official working days before the departure date.
Passport-size photo – Recent (taken within the last 6 months), with a white background.
Clothing
Thermal tops and bottoms
Down jacket (waterproof and windproof)
Waterproof and windproof pants
Quick-dry T-shirts
Trekking pants
Head cap
Gloves
Trekking boots (well broken-in)
Comfortable camp shoes or sandals
Warm socks (wool or synthetic)
Backpack and Gear
30–40-liter daypack with rain cover
Adjustable trekking poles
Headlamp with extra batteries
Personal Hygiene
Biodegradable soap and shampoo
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Hand sanitizer
Toilet paper
Health and Medication
Personal medications
High-altitude medication (as prescribed by your doctor)
Travel insurance details (if possible)
Sun and Weather Protection
Sunglasses with UV protection
Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Lip balm with SPF
Charging & Electronics
Portable charger/power bank
International adapter
Compact camera or smartphone with extra memory cards
Money & Snacks
Sufficient cash in small denominations (local currency preferred)
High-energy snacks (nuts, dried fruits, energy bars
Begin your spiritual journey with a scenic drive from Kathmandu, traveling north through the lush hills of the Langtang National Park. After crossing the Nepal-China border at Rasuwagadhi, you’ll clear immigration and continue to Kerung town, your first stop in Tibet. This drive introduces you to the dramatic shift in landscapes from Nepal's greenery to Tibet’s arid highlands.
Distance: ~170 km
Drive Duration: 7–8 hours including immigration
Highlights: Langtang National Park, Border formalities, Tibetan terrain
Accommodation: Hotel in Kerung
Meals: Breakfast
Spend the day acclimatizing to the altitude to ensure a smooth journey ahead. Enjoy light walks around the quiet yet culturally rich town of Kerung. Visit local monasteries, browse Tibetan markets, and soak in your first real experience of Tibetan Buddhism and architecture.
Activities: Light walking, local sightseeing
Purpose: Altitude acclimatization
Accommodation: Hotel in Kerung
Meals: Breakfast
Ascend into the high Tibetan plateau, passing dramatic landscapes, snow-capped peaks, and vast open valleys. Drive over scenic passes such as Thong La (5,200m) and La Lung La. Reach Saga, a bustling Tibetan town on the banks of the Yarlung Tsangpo (Brahmaputra) River.
Distance: ~230 km
Drive Duration: 5–6 hours
Highlights: Himalayan vistas, Tibetan nomad lands
Accommodation: Hotel in Saga
Meals: Breakfast
Today’s journey leads to the sacred Lake Mansarovar, believed to be formed from Lord Brahma’s thoughts. Stop along the way for Himalayan views and arrive at the lake in the late afternoon. Take in the serene beauty of this holy site nestled beneath Mount Kailash.
Distance: ~450 km
Drive Duration: 6–7 hours
Highlights: First view of Mt. Kailash, Mansarovar Lake
Accommodation: Guest House near the lake
Meals: Breakfast
Wake early for a sacred dip (optional) and perform puja rituals by the lake. After spiritual activities, enjoy a quiet breakfast before heading towards Darchen, the base town for the Mt. Kailash Kora (parikrama). Rest and prepare for your spiritual trek.
Drive Duration: 1.5–2 hours
Highlights: Holy bath at Mansarovar, puja, first full view of Kailash
Accommodation: Hotel in Darchen
Meals: Breakfast
After a short drive to Yamadwar (the "Gateway of the God of Death"), begin the first day of the sacred Kora (circumambulation) around Mt. Kailash. Walk along the Lha Chu Valley to Dirapuk, with a detour to touch the divine footprint of Lord Shiva at Charan Sparsh, if energy and weather permit.
Trek Distance: ~12 km + Charan Sparsh (optional ~6 km)
Trek Duration: 5–6 hours (without Charan Sparsh); 7–8 hours (with)
Elevation Gain: ~540m
Accommodation: Guest House in Dirapuk
Meals: Breakfast
The toughest and most sacred section of the trek. Ascend steadily to Drolma La Pass, the highest point of the Kora, then descend steeply past Gauri Kund — believed to be the lake where Goddess Parvati bathed. End the day at Zuthulpuk Monastery, where Guru Rinpoche meditated.
Trek Distance: ~22 km
Trek Duration: 8–9 hours
Highlights: Drolma La Pass, Gauri Kund
Accommodation: Guest House in Zuthulpuk
Meals: Breakfast
Walk the final stretch of the Kora along a gentle valley trail back to Darchen. Meet your vehicle and begin the long drive back to Saga. Today marks the completion of your Kailash Parikrama – a spiritually significant and physically rewarding achievement.
Trek Distance: ~10 km (2–3 hours)
Drive Distance: ~450 km to Saga
Drive Duration: 6–7 hours
Accommodation: Hotel in Saga
Meals: Breakfast
Retrace your route across the Tibetan plateau. Relax in the familiar surroundings of Kerung, sharing stories and reliving the moments of your spiritual journey.
Drive Duration: 5–6 hours
Accommodation: Guest House in Kerung
Meals: Breakfas
Cross the border back into Nepal and drive through the beautiful hill region of Rasuwa. Arrive in Kathmandu in the late evening, concluding your overland pilgrimage to the sacred Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar.
Drive Duration: 7–8 hours
Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu (arrangement only if requested)
Meals: Brefast
Accommodation: Twin-sharing accommodation in standard 3-star hotels and the best available guest houses as per itinerary.
Meals: Bed and breakfast basis throughout the trip.
Guide: Experienced English-speaking Tibetan guide for the entire journey.
Transportation: All ground transport as per itinerary by private van or bus (depending on group size).
Entrance Fees: All monastery entrance fees during the trip.
Permits: All necessary Tibet travel permits and documents for the Kailash region.
Transfer: Kathmandu city to Kerung border pickup by private jeep.
First Aid: Basic first aid kit (bandages, antiseptic, blister care, etc.
Meals: Lunch and dinner throughout the trip.
Insurance: Personal travel insurance (highly recommended).
Unexpected Costs: Expenses due to natural calamities, political unrest, or events beyond control.
Personal Expenses: Alcoholic drinks, laundry, telephone bills, and other personal items.
Porterage: Porter and yak services during the Kailash Kora (optional).
Helicopter (Optional):
Private helicopter from Kathmandu to Rasuwagadhi: USD 1525
Shared helicopter: USD 355 per person
Porter Services for Kora: USD 355 total for 3 days (includes porter’s food and accommodation, carries up to 12 kg).
Pony Services (Optional): USD 555 total for 3 days during the Kora.
Tipping: Tips for guide, driver, and support staff.
Miscellaneous: Any service or item not specifically mentioned in the inclusions.
Oxygen Cylinder (Optional): Small size – USD 5 each.
If this trip is not suitable for you. We can make Tailor Made Trip for you.