Trip Facts
Duration
14 Days
Trip Grade
Moderate
Country
Tibet (China)
Maximum Altitude
5,630m
Group Size
Minimum 2
Starts
Kathmandu
Ends
Kathmandu
Activities
Trekking
Best Time
Mar–May & Sept–Nov
Highlights
- Experience one of the holiest journeys on Earth to Mt. Kailash (6,638 m) and Lake Mansarovar (4,590 m).
- Witness the sacred landscapes shared by four major religions: Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon.
- Enjoy scenic drives across Nepal and Tibet, passing through high mountain passes and vast plateaus.
- Complete the spiritual Kora (circumambulation) of Mt. Kailash, believed to cleanse sins and bring inner peace.
- Take a holy dip in Lake Mansarovar, the most sacred lake in Asia.
- Visit monasteries, Tibetan villages, and ancient landmarks along the way.
- Comfortable accommodation, experienced guides, and full support throughout your spiritual journey.
Overview
The Mt. Kailash and Mansarovar Tour is not just a trip — it’s a spiritual and life-changing journey. Located in the remote western region of Tibet, Mount Kailash is considered the “Center of the Universe” by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers. Every year, thousands of pilgrims travel here to perform the Kailash Kora, a 52-kilometer circuit around the sacred mountain that symbolizes purification and rebirth.
Nearby lies Lake Mansarovar, a crystal-clear blue lake at 4,590 meters, representing purity and wisdom. Taking a bath or even touching its waters is believed to wash away past sins and bring spiritual peace.
This 14-day journey begins in Kathmandu, Nepal, and takes you through the scenic border of Kerung, crossing into Tibet’s high plateau where the landscape turns into vast deserts surrounded by snow peaks. Along the way, you’ll explore ancient monasteries, meet Tibetan locals, and experience the calmness of nature that feels far away from the modern world.
Eco Himalaya Trek ensures your journey is safe, comfortable, and meaningful — with expert guides, proper acclimatization, and high-quality transportation. Whether you come for faith, adventure, or peace of mind, the Mt. Kailash and Mansarovar Tour is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that stays with you forever.
Itinerary
Welcome to the heart of Nepal! Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, one of our friendly Eco Himalaya Trek representatives will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Take some time to rest after your journey. In the evening, we’ll host a short orientation about the upcoming Mt. Kailash and Mansarovar Tour, explaining the travel route, required permits, and packing tips. You can also take a relaxed walk around the bustling streets of Thamel, filled with shops, cafés, and handicrafts.
Hotel
Overnight at hotel.
Dinner
Included
Today is dedicated to exploring the spiritual side of Kathmandu and finalizing your Tibet travel permits. After breakfast, you’ll visit Pashupatinath Temple, a sacred site dedicated to Lord Shiva — a fitting start to your Kailash journey. You’ll also explore Boudhanath Stupa and Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), both UNESCO World Heritage Sites that reflect Buddhist and Hindu harmony. In the afternoon, our team will help you prepare documents, exchange currency, and answer any final questions before the overland trip begins
Hotel
Overnight at hotel.
Dinner
Breakfast
After an early breakfast, we start our scenic drive towards Syabrubesi, the gateway to the Langtang region and the Nepal–Tibet border. The road passes through terraced hills, rivers, and small villages surrounded by forested mountains. You’ll get a glimpse of rural Nepalese life and mountain views along the Trishuli River. On arrival at Syabrubesi, you can relax and prepare for the next day’s border crossing. Overnight stay at a comfortable local guesthouse.
Today we head toward the Rasuwagadhi border and complete immigration formalities before entering Tibet. Once you cross into China’s Tibetan Autonomous Region, the landscape changes dramatically — wide plateaus, distant snow peaks, and dry mountain valleys. We then continue driving to Kerung, the first Tibetan town on our route. Spend the rest of the day resting or exploring nearby markets. Overnight at a Tibetan guesthouse.
Altitude adjustment is essential for a safe and comfortable journey ahead. Today is a rest and acclimatization day in Kerung. You can take short walks around the town to stretch your legs and help your body adapt to the thinner air. Our guide will brief you about altitude sickness precautions and check your oxygen level. The view of Tibetan plateaus and traditional houses here is beautiful and peaceful.
After breakfast, we drive across the vast Tibetan plateau, following winding mountain roads. Along the way, you’ll see herds of yaks and sheep grazing on open grasslands, prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and nomadic tents dotting the horizon. We cross high passes and rivers before reaching Saga, a small but vibrant Tibetan town. Take the evening to rest and enjoy a warm meal.
This day marks one of the most special moments of your Mt. Kailash and Mansarovar Tour. The drive from Saga to Lake Mansarovar takes you through beautiful scenery, including Paryang and open stretches of high desert. When you finally see Mount Kailash and the turquoise waters of Lake Mansarovar, it feels truly magical. You’ll have time to walk by the lake, take photos, and perform rituals if you wish. The lake’s peaceful reflections make this a perfect place for meditation.
Start your morning with a holy dip or prayer at Lake Mansarovar, which is said to purify the soul and wash away sins. Pilgrims from different parts of the world come here for spiritual cleansing. Later, we drive a short distance to Darchen, the base of Mount Kailash and the starting point of the sacred Kora (circumambulation). Spend the afternoon exploring the area and preparing for the trek.
Your Kailash Kora begins today! After breakfast, we start walking along the Lha Chu River Valley with Mount Kailash standing tall ahead. The route passes through yak pastures, prayer walls, and Chukku Monastery. You’ll gradually gain altitude and reach Dirapuk Monastery, located directly in front of the north face of Mt. Kailash — a breathtaking view that few places on Earth can match.
This is the most challenging but also the most sacred day of the tour. Early in the morning, you’ll ascend to Dolma La Pass (5,630 m), the highest point of the trip. The pass represents the moment of spiritual cleansing — many pilgrims leave prayer flags or tokens here. After enjoying the view, descend carefully toward Gauri Kund (Lake of Compassion), and continue walking through a rocky valley to reach Zuthulpuk Monastery, where the great Tibetan saint Milarepa is said to have meditated.
Today completes your sacred Kora around Mount Kailash. After breakfast, follow an easy trail along the river valley until you reach the exit point near Darchen. Reunite with your vehicle and crew and begin the drive back to Saga, retracing the road across the plateau. It’s a relaxing day to reflect on your spiritual journey.
Enjoy another scenic drive across open plains and mountain landscapes on your return to Kerung. The altitude gradually decreases, making breathing easier. You can spend the evening exploring local Tibetan shops or simply resting.
After completing border formalities, cross back into Nepal and continue the drive to Kathmandu. The green hills and winding roads provide a refreshing contrast to Tibet’s dry landscapes. Once you reach your hotel, take a warm shower, rest, or go for some last-minute shopping in Thamel. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with the Eco Himalaya Trek team.
Your sacred Mt. Kailash and Mansarovar Tour concludes today. After breakfast, our team will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight back home. You’ll carry with you not just photos but deep spiritual memories of the journey — the calm of Mansarovar Lake, the silence of Mount Kailash, and the sense of peace that only such a holy place can give.
Cost Details
Included
- All ground transportation by private vehicle
- Twin-sharing hotel accommodation in Kathmandu and Tibet
- All meals during the Tibet portion of the tour
- Necessary Tibet Travel Permit and entry fees
- Experienced Tibetan and Nepali guide
- Oxygen cylinder and first aid kit
- Supporting crew and vehicle during Kailash Kora
- Government taxes and service charges
Excluded
- Nepal visa fee and Tibet visa cost
- International flights
- Personal travel insurance and medical expenses
- Tips for guide, driver, or staff
- Horse riding or porter during Kailash Kora (optional)
- Extra nights due to delays, weather, or personal reasons
Useful Information
- The best time for the Mt. Kailash and Mansarovar Tour is from May to September, when the weather is most favorable.
- This journey involves high altitude; proper acclimatization is included in the itinerary.
- The Kailash Kora takes three days and requires moderate physical fitness.
- Drinking plenty of water and walking slowly helps with altitude adjustment.
- Pack warm clothes, sunglasses, sunblock, and basic medicines.
- Eco Himalaya provides professional guides to assist you throughout the journey.
- Respect local culture and spiritual sites — both are deeply sacred to the people of Tibet.
FAQs
It’s a 14-day spiritual and adventure journey from Nepal to Tibet, visiting the sacred Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar.
Mount Kailash is believed to be the home of Lord Shiva in Hinduism and a holy site for Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers.
Yes, anyone in good health can complete the 3-day Kora. It’s a spiritual walk around the mountain symbolizing purification.
The highest point is Dolma La Pass (5,630 m). Acclimatization days help reduce altitude sickness.
Yes, you need both a Nepal visa and a Tibet Travel Permit, which Eco Himalaya arranges for you.
Hotels in Kathmandu and Tibet are comfortable, while guesthouses during the Kora are basic but clean.
Yes, with proper preparation and guidance, many elderly travelers successfully complete this journey every year.