Mt. Kailash Spiritual Tour
Mt. Kailash Spiritual Tour
Mt. Kailash Spiritual Tour
Mt. Kailash Spiritual Tour
Mt Kailash Spiritual Tour - 16 Days
Activity
Tour
Duration
16 Days
Grading
Difficult
Max Altitude:
5,600m. / 18,373ft.
Best Season
April-June & September-October
Style of Trip
Spiritual
Group Size
4 to 10 People
Accommodation
Hotel & Lodges
Meals
Breakfast
Why Mt Kailash Spiritual Tour ?
- Cultural Exploration: Discover Kathmandu’s temples and Tibetan Buddhist monasteries.
- Spiritual Experience: Immerse in the divine aura of Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar.
- Scenic Adventure: Traverse breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, high-altitude lakes, and remote Tibetan villages.
- Mount Shishapangma: Witness the 14th highest peak in the world (8,027 m).
- Holistic Journey: A once-in-a-lifetime spiritual and adventurous pilgrimage.
Trip Introduction
Overview: Mt Kailash Spiritual Tour
Mt Kailash Spiritual Tour is a 16-day program to Mt Kailash (6,714 m), located in southwestern Tibet. This is a sacred site revered by four major religions: Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon. Hindus worship it as the divine abode of Lord Shiva, while Buddhists consider it the home of Demchok, an enlightened deity. Jains revere it as the site where their first saint attained liberation, and Bon followers see it as a nine-stacked swastika mountain where their founder Shenrab descended from heaven. According to the Vishnu Purana, Mt Kailash represents Mount Sumeru, the cosmic center of the universe.
Mt Kailash Spiritual Tour Parikrama (Kora) – 53 km
The 53 km circumambulation, known as Parikrama or Kora, is one of the holiest pilgrimages for Hindus and Buddhists. Completing a single Parikrama is believed to cleanse a lifetime of sins, while 108 circumambulations are said to bring salvation. This challenging trek, taking three days, traverses’ altitudes above 4,500 m and crosses the Dolma Pass at 5,600 m. The trail offers breathtaking views of cascading waterfalls, lush meadows, and the majestic Mt. Kailash. Accommodations along the route are basic, with simple meal options available.
Holy Lake Manasarovar
Nestled at an altitude of 4,510 m beneath Mt Kailash, Lake Manasarovar is another sacred pilgrimage site. Hindus believe that bathing in its water’s grants passage to Brahma’s paradise, while drinking from the lake purifies a hundred lifetimes of sins. The serene blue waters of this glacial lake enhance the spiritual ambiance of the journey.
Overland Journey: Mt Kailash Spiritual Tour
The overland journey to Mt Kailash Spiritual Tour begins in Kathmandu and follows a rugged yet spiritually rewarding route. The trip crosses the Nepal-Tibet border at Kerung (2,700 m), with an essential two-night acclimatization stay. The drive ascends beyond 4,000 m, revealing stunning views of Mount Shishapangma (8,027 m) and the turquoise Pieko-Tso Lake. Passing through picturesque Tibetan settlements such as Saga, New Dongba, Manasarovar, and Darchen, travelers witness Tibet’s mesmerizing landscapes and rich culture.
Highlights: Mt Kailash Spiritual Tour
- Explore sacred Hindu temples in and around Kathmandu Valley
- Witness the breathtaking Pieko-Tso Salt Lake at 4,590 m
- Experience Tibet’s dramatic high-altitude landscapes
- Visit the revered Holy Lake Manasarovar
- Embark on the challenging Parikrama of Mount Kailash
Challenges and Considerations: Mt Kailash Spiritual Tour
- High-altitude trekking above 4,500 m poses risks, including altitude sickness.
- The 53 km Parikrama is physically demanding, reaching the 5,600 m Dolma La Pass.
- Accommodations are basic, with simple dormitory-style rooms.
- Limited meal options along the journey.
- Proper physical fitness and medical consultation are essential before embarking on the trek.
Travel Tips and Safety Recommendations: Mt Kailash Spiritual Tour
- If you lack prior high-altitude experience, consider acclimatizing in Lhasa (3,650 m) before proceeding.
- Alternatively, spend a few days at high-altitude locations in Nepal, such as Muktinath (3,800 m), to reduce risks.
- Always consult your physician before undertaking this journey, especially if you have heart or respiratory conditions.
- Ideal for travelers under 60 years of age in good health.
- Small group sizes ensure a personalized and comfortable experience.
Conclusion: The Divine Call to Mt Kailash Manasarovar
For countless generations, Mt Kailash and Lake Manasarovar have been revered as the ultimate spiritual destinations for Bon, Buddhists, Hindus and Jains. Hindus believe it to be the abode of Lord Shiva, where He resides in eternal meditation, blessing devotees who undertake this sacred pilgrimage. The Mansarovar Lake is believed to cleanse the sins of lifetimes, paving the way for Moksha (liberation). For Indian pilgrims, this journey is not just an adventure but a deeply soul-stirring and transformative experience that strengthens one’s spiritual connection with the divine.
Despite the physical challenges, Mt Kailash Spiritual tour provides once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to seek blessings, offer prayers, and experience the divine energy of this mystical land. As you embark on this sacred Yatra, you join the ranks of sages and saints who have walked this path before you, drawn by an unexplainable divine pull. May your pilgrimage be blessed with safety, strength, and spiritual fulfillment!
Detail itinerary of Mt Kailash Spiritual Tour
Day 01: Arrive KATHMANDU
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport. Finish immigration formalities, collect your baggage then you be received by our staff at the arrival lounge. From there drive to the hotel, assist in check in at the hotel. After briefing about the Mt Kailash Spiritual tour. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.
Activity: Airport transfer : Approx. 30m
Location: Kathmandu
Max. Altitude: 1,300m/4,265ft.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meal: NA
Day 02: Visit Temples, Stupa around KATHMANDU VALLEY
Our Mt Kailash spiritual tour begins in Nepal, the land where ancient scriptures reveal the birth of this sacred country. According to legends, Buddha Manjushree used his sword to carve a gorge through rocks, causing a lake to dry and turning the land into fertile soil, thus creating Nepal.
Swayambhunath Stupa – the oldest and most important shrine in Kathmandu which mark the birthplace of the Kathmandu Valley which later developed into the country of Nepal. It offers peace, freedom and joy to the whole world and ultimately helps us to obtain perfect enlightenment.
After visit Budhanilkantha Temple located in Budhanilkantha, Nepal. This temple is dedicated to Lord Mahavishnu. Budhanilkantha Temple is also known as the Narayanthan Temple and can be identified by a large reclining statue of Lord Mahavishnu.
Later, go to Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most revered Hindu temples in Nepal, for an evening Aarti performance.
Activity: Tour approx : 6 to 7 hours
Location: Kathmandu
Max. Altitude: 1,300m/4,265ft.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meal: Breakfast
Day 03: Visit Changunarayan Temple, Bhaktapur Durbar Square & Doleshwor Mahadev Temple
Third day of Mt Kailash Spiritual tour begins with a visit to Changunarayan Temple, the oldest Hindu temple in Nepal, dating back to the Lichhavi period. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this temple is an architectural marvel and offers insights into Nepal’s ancient culture. From here, we embark on a gentle hike to Nagarkot, passing through charming villages and lush forests. Situated at 2,195 meters, Nagarkot is renowned for its stunning Himalayan sunrise and sunset views (weather permitting).
In the afternoon, we will visit Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a historical and architectural gem. The 55-window palace, pagoda temples, and intricately crafted courtyards make this square a must-see destination. Also, we will be visiting Doleshwor Mahadev Temple.
Return to Kathmandu for an overnight stay.
Activity: Approx.: 07 hours
Location: Kathmandu
Max. Altitude: 1,300m/4,265ft.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meal: Breakfast
Day 04: Visit Patan Durbar Square & Boudhanath Stupa
Another great day of our Mt Kailash Spiritual tour as we will be visiting other important spots of the valley. Also, this day we will be obtaining Chinese visa, and we will have some time for final preparation of our Mt Kailash spiritual journey.
Patan Durbar Square: Visit another ancient palace of Nepal situated 7 kms south of Kathmandu. Here we will visit Krishna Mandir which is the famous Hindu temple.
Boudhnath Stupa: Later in the late afternoon visit Boudhnath stupa the spiritual center for Buddhist followers. Engaged in Kora, Prayer Wheel Spinning, Butter Lamp Offering, get blessing from Lama and listened to brief talks about Buddhism.
Later if required last minute shopping for the 10 days trip to Mt Kailash.
Activity: 7 hours
Location: Kathmandu
Max. Altitude: 1,300m/4,265ft.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meal: Breakfast
Day 05: Drive to Nyelam (Tibet) – 3,750 m
Mt Kailash Spiritual tour continues with an early morning drive through typical Nepalese rural landscapes (Approx. 7 hours) from Kathmandu to Nyelam (115 km). After completing immigration and customs formalities we will then drive uphill to Nyelam. This is a border town between Nepal and Tibet. The Tibetan guide will meet the group on arrival at the check post, finish immigration formalities, then drive further up to Nyelam (Tibet) for an overnight.
Activity: 6 hours approx
Location: Nyelam
Max. Altitude: 3,750m/12,303ft.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meal: Breakfast
Day 06: Acclimatization Day at Nyelam
This is an acclimatization day in our Mt Kailash spiritual tour before proceeding towards higher elevation. We will take it easy and try to get acclimatization. Overnight at the Simple Hotel.
Activity: Acclimatization Day
Location: Nyelam
Max. Altitude: 3,750m/12,303ft.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meal: Breakfast
Day 07: Drive to Saga
Mt Kailash Spiritual tour today drives you to the next destination, ascending further through mountainous terrain and the Tibetan plateau. The journey offers breathtaking views of the vast, bluish Salt Lake Pieko-Tso and the stunning Mt. Shishapangma (8,027 m, the world’s 14th highest peak). We cross the Tsangpo River (Brahmaputra River) and continue the northern route until we reach Saga for an overnight stay. Saga has good accommodation we will have twin sharing rooms with attached bathroom.
Important Notes:
- Drink plenty of fluids (water, tea, etc.) to prevent dehydration, which can worsen altitude-related problems.
- As we will be ascending approximately 2,000 m in a single stretch—exceeding the recommended 500 m per day—you may experience altitude sickness symptoms such as headaches, insomnia, and shortness of breath. Stay strong, eat well, reduce stress, avoid smoking, and hydrate frequently. Consult your guide if needed.
- Altitude sickness should not be taken lightly, as it can be fatal.
- Recommendation: To better adapt to the altitude, a safer approach would be to fly to Lhasa first before proceeding to Mt Kailash, allowing your body to acclimatize gradually.
Activity: 7 hrs approx
Location: Saga
Max. Altitude: 4,650m/15,256ft.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meal: Breakfast
Day 08: Drive to Chiu Gompa near Lake Manasarovar
Mt Kailash Spiritual tour takes us to sacred Lake of Manasarovar which is at an elevation of 4,590 m. Journey involves crossing of Mayumla Pass (4,900 m) from where you can have a view of snowcapped mountains with nice landscape then we continue on Paryang county. Here our permit will be checked before moving further to the holy lake for an overnight stay.
Sometimes you might have to change the vehicle here and travel in local eco buses operated by the local authority. A special day in our Mt Kailash Spiritual tour as you will have a good chance to darshan holy Mt Kailash from the Lake Manasarovar. This day we will also be doing the Parikrama of 70% of Lake Manasarovar.
Activity: Drive : 270km/approx. 7 hrs.
Location: Chiu Gompa
Max. Altitude: 4,590m/15,059ft.
Accommodation: Guest House
Meal: Breakfast
Day 09: Drive to Darchen
Today start with a simple puja in Lake Manasarovar then explore the lake before lunch. Afterward, a short drive to Darchen, the base camp of Mt Kailash and the starting point for the Parikrama of Mt Kailash Spiritual tour.
En route to Darchen, you will witness a panoramic view of Rakshas Tal (The Demon’s Lake), located on the opposite side of Lake Manasarovar. Darchen is a small town situated directly opposite Mt Kailash and serves as the primary administrative hub of the Kailash region, with basic infrastructure and amenities. You can spend the evening exploring the town.
Important Note:
- If you require a porter for the upcoming Parikrama, please inform your guide today. Porter services require additional payment.
Activity: Drive : Approx. 40 kms/1 hour
Location: Darchen
Max. Altitude: 4,650m/15,256ft.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meal: Breakfast
Day 10: Drive to SHARSHUNG Valley-7 kms. Start Parikrama to DIRAPUKH– 13 kms / 6 hours trek
Today Mt Kailash Spiritual tour marks the beginning of the Parikrama of Holy Mt Kailash. First take an eco-bus and drive to the trek’s starting point, Sharshung Valley, near Yama Dwar. Upon arrival, pilgrims can receive blessings and have an ultimate darshan of the South Face of Mt Kailash.
- Those unable to complete the full Kora of Mt. Kailash can pray and perform three circumambulations of Yama Dwar in devotion to Lord Shiva & Parvati, then return to Darchen, awaiting the other trekkers who will complete the 3-day Parikrama.
- Those continuing the Parikrama will follow a flat trail with a gradual ascent along the Glacier River. The trail is moderate. We will then take a lunch break before continuing slightly uphill to Dirapukh (4,920m). From here we will have breathtaking views of the North Face of Mt Kailash.
Important Notes:
- If you do not wish to complete the full Parikrama, you may return to Darchen after visiting Yama Dwar at an extra cost. Coordinate with your guide.
- You may also visit Charan Sparsh (5,475m), located 3 km from Dirapukh. This short trek (2 hours each way) allows pilgrims to touch the feet of Mt Kailash, believed to be Lord Shiva Himself. However, this is a challenging trek and should be discussed with your guide beforehand.
Activity: Drive : 7 Kms + Trek : 13 Kms/approx. 6 hours
Location: Dirapuk
Max. Altitude: 4,920m/16,142ft.
Accommodation: Guest House
Meal: Breakfast
Day 11: Trek to ZUTHULPHUK
Mt Kailash Spiritual tour most difficult and long trek day. We will wake before dawn to witness the first rays of sunlight on Mt Kailash, a truly divine experience. After breakfast, we will embark on the most challenging section of the trek, including the ascent to Dolma La Pass (5,630m).
- The trek starts with a steep 4-hour climb to Dolma La Pass, followed by a 3-hour steep descent to Gauri Kund.
- The final stretch consists of a 3-hour flat trail leading to Zuthulphuk (4,670m).
- At Dolma La Pass, you will see Shivasthal, adorned with prayer flags, clothing, and ornaments left by pilgrims as sacred offerings.
- Along the trail, you will witness Tibetan locals prostrating along the Kora path, a practice believed to bring great spiritual merit.
Important Notes:
- If you feel unable to continue the trek due to health or other reasons, please communicate with your guide to arrange a return to Darchen (additional costs apply).
Activity: 22kms/08 hrs approx trek
Location: Zuthulphuk
Max. Altitude: 4,670m/15,322ft.
Accommodation: Guest House
Meal: Breakfast
Day 12: Trek to ZONGTA & drive to DARCHEN and drive to DONGBA
Today is the final parikrama day of Mt Kailash Spiritual tour, it is shorter and easier than the previous day. We will descend for about 4 hours to Zongta, passing piles of Mani Stones along the way.
- The trek will end by noon, after which we will board our vehicle and drive to Darchen for lunch.
- After collecting our baggage, we will travel to New Dongba/Saga for an overnight stay.
- We will transfer from the Manasarovar bus stand to our private bus from Lhasa, retracing our journey back.
Activity: 7 kms trek/3 hours trek; Drive: 6 hours approx.
Location: Saga
Max. Altitude: 4,650m/15,256ft.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meal: Breakfast
Day 13: Retreat back to Nyelam
Our Mt Kailash Spiritual tour journey continues returning back. After breakfast, we will continue our return journey to Kerung, following the same route. Along the way, we will pass Tibetan villages, scenic Himalayan landscapes, and Lake Pieko.
Activity: Drive : Approx. 275/ 06 hours' drive
Location: Nyelam
Max. Altitude: 3,750m/12,303ft.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meal: Breakfast
Day 14: Drive to Kathmandu
Activity: 8 hours approx./180 Kms
Location: Kathmandu
Max. Altitude: 1,300m/4,265ft.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meal: Breakfast
Day 15: Back Up Day In Kathmandu
We will use this day for shopping and relaxing in Kathmandu. Also, this day will act up as a backup day for Mt Kailash Spiritual Tour in case of any problem in the journey.
Activity: Backup Day
Location: Kathmandu
Max. Altitude: 1,300m/4,265ft.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meal: Breakfast
Day 16: Departure (Hotel Check Out Time is before 1100 hrs)
Activity: Airport transfer : 30 mins
Location: Kathmandu
Max. Altitude: 1,300m/4,265ft.
Accommodation: Hotel (Hotel Check Out Time is before 1100 hrs)
Meal: Breakfast
Need assistance with booking your trip? Inquire Now
Inclusions in Mt Kailash Spiritual Tour
- Arrival / Departure Transfers by A Private Vehicle
- Twin Sharing Accommodation at Four Star Category hotel on BB in Kathmandu
- Local English-Speaking guide in Kathmandu during Sightseeing Tours with monumental entrance fees
- Kathmandu/Nyelam/Kathmandu by a Private Vehicle
- Luxury Bus on Tibet Side
- Best available accommodation during Mt. Kailash Spiritual tour on a BB basis
- Local English-Speaking Tibetan Guide in Tibet
- All Permits for Mt. Kailash Spiritual Tour
- Tibet / China Visa Fee
- Complimentary Duffel Bag
- Basic First Aid Kit
Trip Excludes
- Travel Insurance
- Evacuation Cost in the event of emergency
- Meals lunch & dinner in Kathmandu and Tibet
- Cost of Hiring Horse/Pony/Porter during the 3 days Kailash Parikarma
- Expenses Of Personal Nature
- Anything not included in our include box
Trip map of Mt Kailash Spiritual Tour
Trip Information
Pre-Departure Information for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
Duration:
16 Days (05 Nights in Kathmandu for Visa Processing + 9 Nights in Tibet)
Difficulty Level:
This is a challenging and strenuous journey, reaching up to 5,600 meters in a short span of time with no acclimatization period. Altitude sickness is a possibility and should be considered seriously.
Health Considerations & Altitude Sickness
Altitude Sickness: Rapid ascents above 2,500 meters can lead to altitude sickness due to reduced oxygen levels. Symptoms may develop quickly and can be life-threatening if not treated in time. As this tour moves quickly to high altitudes, it is ideal for individuals who have prior experience with high-altitude conditions.
Health Requirements:
- A health certificate from a certified doctor confirming fitness for travel up to 5,700 meters is mandatory.
- Prior high-altitude acclimatization is recommended.
- Individuals with heart conditions are advised against this tour.
- Carry a personal first aid kit, including prescribed medications, antiseptic cream, band-aids, blister treatment, and Diamox for altitude sickness.
- Oxygen cylinders will be provided in each vehicle and during the Parikrama, strictly for emergencies.
Weather and Best Travel Period
Best Months: May, June, and September
- May & June: Summer season, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 15°C during the day and 5°C to -5°C at night.
- September: Ideal for trekking with clear skies and comfortable temperatures between 5°C to 23°C. After mid-September, temperatures drop, and conditions become drier.
Packing Essentials & Clothing
- Comfortable trekking shoes (preferably broken-in boots)
- Warm clothing: Thermal innerwear, down jacket, raincoat, woolen gloves, scarves, and hats
- Sunglasses for UV protection
- High-SPF sunscreen and wet tissues for dust protection
- Essential toiletries and personal medications
- Snacks such as chocolates, dry fruits, and energy bars
- Strong water bottles with purification tablets
- Sleeping bag suitable for sub-zero temperatures
- Sari is not recommended for this trip due to practical difficulties
Currency & Customs
- Currency Exchange: Chinese Yuan (CNY) is the accepted currency. Approximate conversion rates:
- 1 USD = 7.26 CNY (as of March 2025)
- 1 CNY = INR 11.78 (subject to fluctuation)
- Credit cards are not accepted; cash exchange is recommended.
- Valuable personal items must be declared at customs.
- Antiques without proper certification may be confiscated.
Accommodation & Meals
- Accommodation is in basic lodges and shared tents.
- Single-room accommodation is not guaranteed.
- Vegetarian meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be provided.
Group Size & Private Travel
- Minimum Group Size: 24 participants (can go up to 40 participants)
- Private Travel Option: Available upon request
Visa & Documentation
- Passport Validity: At least 9 months
- Documents Required:
- Passport copy (to be submitted 45 days before departure)
- Original passport (to be sent 15 days before departure)
- Two passport-sized photographs
- Medical certificate from a recognized doctor
- Indian passport holders must obtain a Chinese Visa through our Indian agent (subject to government policies).
Insurance, Communication & Risk Management
- Travel insurance covering medical emergencies, helicopter evacuation, and trip cancellations is highly recommended.
- Photography: Still cameras and home video cameras are permitted.
- Liability: Far Out Nepal is not responsible for itinerary changes due to roadblocks, landslides, weather conditions, political unrest, or other unforeseen circumstances. Extra costs arising due to such factors must be borne by the traveler.
- Booking Amount: Advance payment in INR is required to confirm participation.
- Payment Terms:
- 50% payment 20 days before departure
- Full payment 10 days before departure
- Cancellation Charges:
- 30 days before departure: 25% cancellation fee
- 15 days before departure: 50% cancellation fee
- No refund for cancellations made thereafter