Kathmandu to Kailash-Manasaravor - 10 Days
Tour Type: Join in small group tour ( Min 1 – Max 12)
Tour Service: Tibetan Local Tour Guide & Driver
Time to visit: Available all year around
Trip Level: Easy trip for all ages
Tour Itinerary
Drive Kathmandu to Timure
The actual pilgrimage journey begins with an early morning start and a hearty breakfast. We commence the drive from Kathmandu to Timure, covering a distance of approximately 145 kilometers an over duration of about 9 hours. During the journey, we’ll make a stop for lunch at a good restaurant along the way. The scenic drive takes us through Langtang National Park, offering captivating views of the surrounding landscapes. The route leads us to the Nepal-Tibet border through Rasuwagadhi, and finally, we reach our destination, Timure, situated at an elevation of 1,850 meters. Our accommodation for the night is arranged at a comfortable Guesthouse, offering a restful stay amid the anticipation of the sacred journey ahead.
Drive to Kyirong County
Morning enjoy a nourishing breakfast, we start the day by walking to Nepal Immigration for the necessary departure stamp in our passports. Subsequently, we embark on drive to the Nepal-China border. Upon reaching the border, we patiently await the arrival of our Chinese guide who will be picking us up. Once the guide is present, we proceed with Chinese side immigration and customs formalities. Following these procedures, we set out on a scenic drive to Kyirong County, covering a distance of 27 kilometers over the course of about 1 hour. The altitude at Kyirong town is approximately 2,700 meters, providing a unique and picturesque setting for our overnight stay at the hotel.
Drive to Saga
Today’s journey takes us through the mesmerizing and arid Tibetan land, covering a distance of 250 kilometers over the course of 4-5 hours. The route is adorned with nomadic settlements, offering a glimpse into the unique way of life in this region. The drive includes crossing several high mountain passes, each contributing to the breathtaking scenery. Notable passes along the way include Lamu Kungdangla pass at an elevation of 5,200 meters and Jerkyung La, which surpasses 5000 meters in height.
A significant feature of the day’s travel is the crossing of the Brahmaputra (Yarlung Tsangpo) river, a vital waterway that sustains millions of people across Tibet, Nepal, and India. The journey concludes in Saga (4500m), a city known for its nomadic population and cultural richness. Accommodation for the night is arranged at a Hotel in Saga, providing a comfortable rest stop amid the adventure.
Drive from Saga to Mansarovar Lake
Today’s approximately 450 km about 6 – 7 hours drive takes us through the mesmerizing Tibetan landscape, passing nomadic settlements and crossing high mountain passes. The journey includes a stop for a picnic pack lunch at a picturesque location. Before reaching Mansarovar, we’ll have the opportunity to witness the first view of Mount Kailash and Mansarovar from a viewpoint, adding to the anticipation of the sacred site. The day concludes at the holy Mansarovar Lake (4600m), offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. If time permits, there’s an option to undertake the Parikrama of Manasarovar Lake by vehicle (3 hours – 90 km). Our accommodation for the night is arranged at a guesthouse near Mansarovar Lake.
Drive to Darchen
This morning is dedicated to a spiritual retreat at Mansarovar Lake, indulging in rituals, prayers, and a symbolic cleansing bath in the sacred waters. For those with time, an optional visit to the Chiu Monastery provides a serene experience with Mount Kailash as a magnificent backdrop. The afternoon brings a short drive approximately 30km 1hours to Darchen (4650m), the lively base camp for the Holy Kailash trek, characterized by the presence of pilgrims and a multitude of tents. The night is spent in contemplation and rest at a Hotel in Darchen.
First Day of Outer Kora – to Dirapuk
Embark on the 53km Outer Kora trek around Mount Kailash. Drive to Tarboche Flagpole: Begin with a 6 km drive (approximately half an hour) from Darchen to Tarboche. Tarboche is marked by the Flagpole adorned with prayer flags. Visit Yama Dwaar – Commencement of Kora. Explore Yama Dwaar, the Gate of the God of Death, signaling the initiation of the trek (Kora). This spot serves as the official starting point of the Kora. Walk up the picturesque Lha Chu Valley. Traverse through green meadows and alongside streams. Witness the imposing presence of Mount Kailash. Follow the river through a narrow canyon featuring high cliffs and waterfalls. Enjoy panoramic views of the North Face of Mount Kailash. Reach the 13th-century Dira Phuk monastery (4800m). Accommodation: Overnight stay at a mud house in Mount Kailash North Face. After some rest and snacks, embark on a short hike to witness the awe-inspiring North Face of Kailash.
Note:
Travelers who opt not to trek around Kailash (Parikrama) can return to Darchen and await the arrival of the rest of the group from the Parikrama.
Second Day of Outer Kora – to Zuthulphuk
The spiritual and challenging journey continues from Dirapuk to Dolma Chu Valley: Bid farewell to Lha Chu Valley and enter the Dolma Chu Valley. Undertake a demanding climb to reach the high pass, Dolma La (5550m). The summit is adorned with prayer flags, creating a sacred atmosphere. Descending to Syabje Dadok and Flat Walk to Zuthul Phuk Monastery (4700m), Begin the descent from Dolma La to Syabje Dadok. Marvel at the breathtaking views of Gaurikunda Lake (Thukpe Dzingbu), one of the highest lakes globally, known as the Lake of Compassion. Explore the Zuthul Phuk Monastery, which houses meditation caves and an image of Jechun Milarepa. Total trekking Distance 22 km and Duration 8 to 9 hours. Overnight accommodation: Mud house in Zuthul Phuk.
Note:
This day is considered the toughest and holiest of the pilgrimage tour. The journey involves a challenging ascent to Dolma La pass 5550m
Drive to Saga
The last day of the Kailash kora trek 5 km involves a gentle downhill walk along the river, covering a distance of approximately three hours. Upon reaching the Barkha plain, bus will be waiting to drive 10 km back to Darchen to join rest of the group.
The return journey to Kathmandu follows the same route, and accommodation and meal arrangements remain consistent. Overnight accommodation: Hotel in Saga.
Drive back to Kyirong County
The journey continues with a return drive back to Kyirong County. Once again, cross the Brahmaputra (Yarlung Tsangpo) River. Continue the drive to Kerung. The return journey provides an opportunity to revisit landscapes and landmarks encountered earlier in the pilgrimage. Accommodation and meal arrangements remain consistent during the drive back to Kyirong.
Drive back to Kathmandu
Drive to the border checkpoint for customs and immigration formalities. Bid farewell to the Tibetan guide and driver. Walk to Nepalese Immigration for re-entry formalities. Continue the drive to Kathmandu, taking into account road and weather conditions. Overnight Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu. At Evening at diner; enjoy an evening dinner, marking the conclusion of the pilgrimage. Receive the Certificate of completion from Sunrise Kailash Pvt. Ltd.
Departure from Kathmandu
Morning is free for personal activities, relaxation, or additional exploration. Be ready 3-4 hours before your departure time. The Sunrise Kailash team, including a driver and airport representative, will transfer you to the airport in time for your flight back home. Experience the sense of accomplishment and the memories of a lifetime as you depart from Kathmandu.
The pilgrimage concludes with a mix of emotions and a sense of fulfillment.
- All necessary travel permits in Tibet.
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All entrance fees to temples, monasteries and palaces.
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All environmental fees to lakes, glaciers and National Parks.
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Accommodation on a double room basis with breakfast described in the itinerary above.
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Experienced Tibetan guide in Tibet (English language).
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Transportation in Tibet (Airport / train station group pick up & drop off).
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Driver and guide’s food and accommodation. Vehicle fuel, tools and vehicle repairs (if necessary).
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Oxygen tank for emergencies & bottled mineral water available in the group vehicle (fair use).
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Porters / yaks to carry baggage during the trek. Full board during trekking days, with cook and assistant.
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Non-personal trekking equipment (tents, mattress,, cooking tools, etc.)
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Welcome dinner.
- China VISA
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Plane or train tickets in / out of Tibet.
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Meals, drinks and any other personal expenses.
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Personal trekking equipment (sleeping bag, trekking poles, clothes, etc.)
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Extra expenses incurred due to unexpected natural events (delays, road washouts, snowfall…)
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Tips to guide and driver, but this totally depends on you.
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Anything not specified in the “included” section.
Upon joining, each participant will be sent a list of required and recommendedgear for this journey that they will be responsible for.
In Lhasa, Gyantse, Shigatse and Saga, you will be staying in comfortableandpleasant locally-rated 3 or 4 Star Tibetan-owned hotels. At Lake Manasarovar and alongthetrekaround Mt. Kailash, accommodations will be very simple guesthouses as these areas areveryremote and poor. Guesthouses have no heat, but plenty of blankets. Toilets are usuallyoutsideand are not always clean. Showers are often unavailable at guesthouses or are available at alocal
shower house that is not attached to the hotel. Hotel upgrades available in Lhasa upon request.
Breakfast is included in the price for each morning you are in lhasa and shigatse. Lunchand dinner are not included in the price.
Participants must be in good health and be able to spend each day walkingaroundtowns, villages and monasteries. Most of this tour will take place in mountainous terrain between3600 meters and 5200 meters (11,800 feet to 17,000 feet) above sea level. The 3 day trekaroundMt. Kailash is 52 kilometers long and will take 3 days to complete. This trek is beautiful, but isquite demanding as the high pass rises to 5630 meters (18,465 feet). You will spend 3 nightsinLhasa for altitude acclimatization before going above 3600 meters. Ascent will be slowandgradual along the way from Lhasa to Mt. Kailash.
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