A sacred journey to Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar, one of the most spiritually significant pilgrimages in Asia, revered by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers. This specially designed overland trip begins in Kathmandu, Nepal, and crosses into Tibet via the Kyirong border, offering a scenic and gradual ascent ideal for acclimatization.
Along the way, travellers will explore the remote beauty of Gyirong Valley, traverse the vast Tibetan Plateau, and witness the awe-inspiring landscapes surrounding Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar. The highlight of the journey is the three-day Kora (circumambulation) around Mount Kailash—considered a path of deep spiritual renewal and inner transformation.
This route is rich not only in natural beauty but also in cultural and spiritual depth. You’ll visit ancient monasteries, interact with Tibetan pilgrims, and gain insight into Himalayan traditions. With careful acclimatization days and professional support, this pilgrimage is suitable for spiritually motivated travellers and adventure seekers looking for a profound high-altitude experience.
Trip Highlights:
Gradual overland journey through the scenic Kyirong Valley
Sacred visits to Lake Manasarovar and Mount Kailash
Guided 3-day Kora trek around Mount Kailash (highest pass at 5,650m)
Visit historical monasteries including Dirapuk, Zutulpuk, and others
Cultural experiences with local Tibetan communities and pilgrims
Suitable for those seeking both spiritual depth and adventure
Kathmandu via Rashuwa/ Gyirong Border
Kathmandu via Rashuwa/ Gyirong Border
Meet and greet at Tribhuvan International Airport. Transfer to a hotel and rest after your journey.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Submit a Chinese visa application (we take care of it). Explore Kathmandu’s UNESCO heritage sites: Swoyambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) – Panoramic city views.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Boudhanath Stupa – Largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal.
Free time for shopping or relaxation. Overnight Sherpa Home Hotel in Kathmandu.
Pick up a Tibet group visa from the Chinese Embassy. Final preparation for Tibet journey (gear check, currency exchange, etc.) Free evening for personal activities. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Early morning drive from Kathmandu to Rasuwagadhi border. Complete Nepal-Tibet immigration procedures. Enter Tibet and drive to Kyirong town for acclimatization. Overnight in Kyirong.
Today is a light day to help your body adjust to the altitude while exploring the cultural and spiritual highlights of Gyirong Valley, often called the “Valley of Happiness.”
Drive through the beautiful Tibetan landscape, passing waterfalls, rivers, and High Mountain passes. Cross the Brahmaputra River near Saga. Arrive in Saga and check into the hotel.
After breakfast, drive from Saga to Payang through the vast Tibetan plateau. Enjoy views of snow-capped peaks and nomadic settlements en route. Arrive in Payang and check into the hotel. Overnight in Payang.
Depart from Payang and continue the drive to the sacred Lake Manasarovar. Enjoy the first views of Mount Kailash and the pristine waters of the lake. Arrive at Lake Manasarovar and check into the guesthouse. Overnight at Lake Manasarovar.
Drive to Darchen, the starting point of the Kailash Kora/ trek. Enjoy your first glimpse of Mount Kailash and begin your spiritual journey around this sacred mountain. Overnight: Stay Hotel in Darchen.
Begin the Mount Kailash Kora with a short drive to Tarboche (7 km). Trek through the beautiful Lha Chu Valley, visiting key pilgrimage spots along the way. Reach Dirapuk, offering majestic views of Mount Kailash’s north face.
Cross the sacred and challenging Dolma La Pass (5,630m), the highest point of the trek. Offer prayers at the top before descending into the valley below and continuing to Zuthulpuk, home to the Milarepa Cave.
Conclude the Kailash Kora with an easy morning walk followed by a short drive back to Darchen. Take time to rest and reflect on your spiritual journey.
Retrace your route across the expansive Tibetan Plateau with a full day’s drive back to Saga.
Overnight: Hotel in Saga
Descend from Tibetan plateau to Nepal border Overnight in Kerung.
Immigration formalities in Nepal/Tibet Border Enter into Nepal Arrive in Kathmandu, trip concludes (or extend stay) Overnight Sherpa Home Hotel Near Swayambhu Stupa.
