Kailash Mansarovar Overland Tour

13 Days, 12 Nights

Mount Kailash Pilgrimage – Embarking on a Spiritual Voyage to the Heart of the Universe

In the dialects of Tibet, Mount Kailash is known as Khang Rimpoche, signifying a precious jewel of snow. Towering at 6,714m/22,028ft, Mount Kailash is a majestic spectacle, boasting four cardinal faces – the northern face is said to gleam like gold, the western like ruby, the southern like sapphire, and the eastern like crystal. This sacred mountain is revered by countless pilgrims annually, yet no one has dared to attempt its ascent. 

The Mount Kailash overland tour is a journey to the spiritual epicenter of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon religions. Hindus regard Mount Kailash as the divine abode of Lord Shiva, while Jains identify it as Mount Astapada, associated with their Tirthankara. Similarly, adherents of the Bon tradition see it as the Mountain of Tise, believed to be the dwelling of Sipaimen, the Sky Goddess. 

A voyage to Mount Kailash promises an exhilarating expedition into the remote and windswept hinterlands. The Mount Kailash Mansarovar yatra package encompasses all transportation, accommodation, guide services, porterage, and meal expenses throughout the journey.

Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Kathmandu

On your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu (1,300m), our representative will warmly welcome you and escort you to your hotel. Upon reaching the hotel, our trip guide will provide you with a comprehensive briefing about the upcoming journey. Take this opportunity to prepare and get acquainted with the exciting adventure ahead. In the evening, indulge in a delightful dinner with our dedicated team, setting the perfect tone for your Nepal experience.

Day 2: Kathmandu

After breakfast at the hotel, delve into a guided exploration of the city’s rich historical and spiritual heritage. You will visit renowned UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Durbar Squares, Pashupatinath, Swayambhunath, and Boudhanath, immersing yourself in their ancient charm and significance. Later, you will return to the hotel where our team will assist you with gear checks and final preparations for the upcoming journey, ensuring you’re fully equipped for the adventure ahead.

Day 3: Kathmandu-Kerung

We shall start the day with an early breakfast as we embark on a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Kerung, situated at the Nepal/China border (approximately 8-9 hour drive). Brace yourself for an immersive journey spanning approximately 175 kilometers, offering captivating vistas along the way. After a full day of travel, we’ll arrive in Kerung, where you’ll unwind and rest for the night, preparing for the adventures that lie ahead.

Day 4: Kerung

Take advantage of a well-deserved rest this day and acclimatization day in Kerung. Amidst the tranquil setting of the village, engage in leisurely hikes and exploration, allowing yourself to adjust to the altitude and absorb the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Day 5: Kerung-Saga

Embark on a scenic drive from Kerung to Saga (5-6 hour drive), a journey filled with awe-inspiring views of snow-capped peaks and majestic landscapes. Marvel at the panoramic vistas as we traverse the Lalung La Pass, situated at an elevation of 5,000 meters, offering breathtaking views of iconic Himalayan peaks including Gaurishankar, Shishapangma, and Langtang. We’ll pause for a lunch break amidst this natural splendor before continuing our journey, crossing the holy Brahmaputra River and arriving at the charming village of Saga. Relax and unwind as we settle in for the night in Saga.

Day 6: Saga-Mansarovar

We shall continue this trip with a memorable drive from Saga to Mansarovar (6-7 hour drive), a journey that marks a significant highlight of our pilgrimage. As we arrive at the sacred Lake Mansarovar (4,590m), we are greeted by a profound sense of spirituality and awe-inspiring beauty. Take part in sacred rituals by immersing yourself in the holy waters and exploring the serene surroundings, soaking in the spiritual ambiance of this revered destination.

Day 7: Mansarovar-Darchen

Our journey continues with the Mansarovar Parikrama, a sacred circumambulation of Lake Mansarovar by bus/jeep, offering spiritual insights and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Following this spiritual endeavor, we proceed to Darchen (4,575m), a tranquil town nestled in the shadow of the majestic Mt. Kailash. It will take nearly 1 hour to reach Darchen. Formerly known as Lhara, Darchen serves as the starting point for the sacred Kailash Kora pilgrimage. 

Day 8: Darchen-Tarboche FlagPole-Dirapuk

Today, our journey will commence with Mt. Kailash Kora from Darchen Pass, leading us through sacred sites like the Tarboche FlagPole and onwards to Dirapuk (4,765m). Traverse the scenic landscapes and immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere along the trail. Spend the night in a cozy guesthouse or a comfortable tented camp, surrounded by the serene beauty of the Himalayas. 

Day 9: Dirapuk-ZuthulPhuk-Dolma La Pass-Gauri Kunda

This day, we will continue our circumambulation journey from Dirapuk to ZuthulPhuk (4,700m), crossing the challenging Dolma La Pass along the way. As we trek through this sacred terrain, marvel at the breathtaking beauty of Gauri Kunda nestled beneath the pass. Spend the night in a cozy guesthouse or a tranquil tented camp, surrounded by the majestic Himalayan vistas. 

Day 10: ZuthulPhuk-Darchen-Saga

Today, we shall complete the sacred pilgrimage by visiting the third and final prostration point at ZuthulPhuk monastery before retracing our steps back to near Darchen. From there, we embark on a scenic drive back to Saga, following the familiar route and soaking in the mesmerizing landscapes along the way. Rest and rejuvenate for the night in Saga, reflecting on the profound experiences of your journey. 

Day 11: Saga-Kerung

We will retrace our route from Saga to Kerung, the border town nestled between Nepal and Tibet. As we journey back, we will immerse ourselves once again in the captivating landscapes and panoramic views that characterize this scenic route. Arriving in Kerung, we will settle in for the night, cherishing the memories of our remarkable expedition and stay overnight.

Day 12: Kerung-Kathmandu

Following the completion of immigration formalities, we will take on a scenic drive back to Kathmandu, traversing the picturesque Langtang National Park route. Upon arrival, you will settle into your hotel and take a moment to refresh after the journey. In the evening, join us for a special farewell dinner, where we celebrate the successful completion of our extraordinary journey together. Have an overnight stay in Kathmandu.

Day 13: Kathmandu-Final Departure

As your remarkable journey through Tibet and Nepal draws to an end, our dedicated representatives will accompany you on the drive to Tribhuvan International Airport for your final departure.

What to Pack for Mount Kailash?

Clothing:

    • Shoes suitable for trekking
    • Warm and comfortable clothes
    • Long-sleeved shirts
    • Fleece
    • Shorts (for warmer days)
    • Trekking pants
    • Rain jacket

Essentials:

    • Soap/Shampoo
    • Toiletries
    • Dust mask/Sanitizer
    • Toilet paper and Wet tissues
    • Quick-dry towel
    • Sunglasses
    • Sunscreen/Sunblock

Additional Items:

    • Travel Documents (Passport/Permits/Visa)
    • Cash
    • Hiking poles
    • Binoculars 
    • Headlamp
    • Small First-aid kit
    • Camera, Batteries 
    • Water bottle, Plastic bags, Deodorant, Needle and Thread