The Mount Kailash tour is a spiritual journey to the sacred mountain and lake in Western Tibet. The tour includes sightseeing in Kathmandu, Lhasa, and other Tibetan cities, as well as a challenging 3-day trek around Mount Kailash and a visit to the sacred Lake Mansarovar. It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines culture, religion, and adventure.
Mount Kailash Tour-Trip Information
The Mount Kailash Tour is a pilgrimage to the sacred mountain of Kailash in Western Tibet. The tour typically includes a visit to the nearby Lake Mansarovar, which is also considered a sacred site. The tour can be done by trekking or jeep, but most commonly it is done on foot as a Kailash Kora, a traditional pilgrimage circuit around the mountain.
The trek typically takes 3 days and the trail reaches an altitude of 5630 meters at the Drolma-la pass. The tour also includes visits to local villages and monasteries, and the opportunity to experience the unique culture and traditions of the region.
It is important to note that a permit is required to visit the Kailash region and the tour may be subject to strict regulations and restrictions. Additionally, proper physical fitness and acclimatization are essential as the tour takes place at high altitudes.
When is the best time to Visit Mount Kailash?
The best time to visit Mount Kailash depends on the specific itinerary and mode of transportation. Generally speaking, the best time to visit the Kailash region is from May to October, which is considered the peak season. During this period, the weather is relatively mild and the trails are clear, making it easier to complete the trek.
However, it’s also important to note that the tour is also possible during the winter, but it can be much colder and the trail may be covered in snow and ice, making it difficult to complete the trek. Also if you want to avoid the crowds and have a more peaceful experience, consider visiting the region during the shoulder seasons of April and November, when the weather is still mild and the trails are less crowded.
It’s always important to check the current weather conditions and the availability of the tour before booking, as the tour might be affected by the restriction or covid-19.
Accommodation, food, & Price During the mount Kailash tour:
Accommodation during a Mount Kailash tour can vary greatly depending on the tour package and level of service chosen. Basic guesthouses and budget accommodation options are available for those on a tighter budget, while luxury resorts are also available for those looking for a more comfortable and upscale experience.
Food during the tour will typically include a mix of Tibetan and Chinese cuisine, with vegetarian options available for those with dietary restrictions. Meals are generally included in the tour package and can range from basic to more elaborate, depending on the level of service chosen.
The price of a Mount Kailash tour can vary widely, with costs ranging from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars depending on factors such as the length of the tour, level of service, and time of year. It is best to research different tour operators and compare prices and services to find the best option for you.
Trekking gear list for the Mount Kailash tour:
When trekking to Mount Kailash, it’s important to bring the appropriate gear to ensure a comfortable and safe journey. Below is a list of recommended items to pack for the trek:
Please note that you can rent some of the equipment like sleeping bags and a down jackets in Kathmandu, but it’s better to check the quality and the condition of the gear before renting. Also, make sure to check the current regulations and restrictions for the tour before your departure.
Short Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to hotel
Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu and preparation for the trip
Day 3: Fly to Lhasa (3650m) , transfer to hotel
Day 4: Sightseeing in Lhasa, visit Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Bazaar
Day 5: Visit Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery
Day 6: Drive to Shigatse (3900m), visit Tashilhunpo Monastery
Day 7: Drive to Saga (4600m), overnight at guesthouse
Day 8: Drive to Darchen (4575m), trek to Dirapuk (4890m)
Day 9: Trek to Zutulphuk (4790m)
Day 10: Trek to Darchen, drive to Mansarovar (4500m)
Day 11: Drive to Saga, overnight at the guesthouse
Day 12: Drive to Shigatse, fly back to Kathmandu (1300m), transfer to hotel
Please note that this is a general itinerary, and the specific details and activities may vary depending on the tour operator, weather conditions, and individual preferences.
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu, transfer to hotel
On the first day of the itinerary, you will arrive in Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. You will be greeted by a representative of the tour operator and transferred to your hotel. This will give you an opportunity to rest and recover from your flight.
Day 2: Sightseeing in Kathmandu and preparation for the trip
On the second day, you will explore the cultural heritage of Kathmandu. You will visit some of the UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. The tour guide will help you to prepare your travel documents and will give you the necessary information about the tour.
Day 3: Fly to Lhasa (3650m), transfer to hotel
On the third day, you will fly to Lhasa, the capital city of Tibet. The flight takes about 1 hour and it’s a scenic mountain flight. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel in Lhasa and have time to rest and acclimatize to the high altitude.
Day 4: Sightseeing in Lhasa, visit Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Bazaar
On the fourth day, you will visit some of the most famous landmarks in Lhasa, including the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Bazaar. The Potala Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a historic palace of the Dalai Lamas. The Jokhang Temple is the most sacred temple in Tibet and the Barkhor Bazaar is a traditional Tibetan market.
Day 5: Visit Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery
On the fifth day, you will visit two of the most important monasteries in Lhasa, Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery. Drepung Monastery was once the largest monastery in the world and Sera Monastery is known for its debating monks.
Day 6: Drive to Shigatse (3900m), visit Tashilhunpo Monastery
On the sixth day, you will drive to Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet. Along the way, you will visit Tashilhunpo Monastery, the seat of the Panchen Lama, one of the most important figures in Tibetan Buddhism.
Day 7: Drive to Saga (4600m), overnight at guesthouse
On the seventh day, you will continue to drive to Saga, a small town located on the banks of the Brahmaputra River. This is a long drive, but the scenery is beautiful. You will stay overnight in a guesthouse in Saga.
Day 8: Drive to Darchen (4575m), trek to Dirapuk (4890m)
On the eighth day, you will drive to Darchen, the starting point of the Kailash Kora trek. From Darchen, you will begin the trek to Dirapuk, the first stop on the trek. The trail takes you through beautiful landscapes and traditional Tibetan villages.
Day 9: Trek to Zutulphuk (4790m)
On the ninth day, you will continue the trek to Zutulphuk, the second stop on the trek. This is the most challenging day of the trek, as it includes a pass at 5630m and the trail is steep and rocky.
Day 10: Trek to Darchen, drive to Mansarovar (4500m)
On the tenth day, you will complete the trek and return to Darchen. From here, you will drive to the sacred Lake Mansarovar, which is considered one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the region. You will have the opportunity to take a dip in the lake and perform rituals and prayers.
Day 11: Drive to Saga, overnight at the guesthouse
On the eleventh day, you will drive back to Saga, where you will spend the night in a guesthouse. This will give you an opportunity to rest and relax after the trek.
Day 12: Drive to Shigatse, fly back to Kathmandu (1300m), transfer to hotel
On the last day of the itinerary, you will drive back to Shigatse and take a flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be transferred to your hotel, where your Mount Kailash tour will come to an end.
In Kathmandu:
In Tibet:
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What is the best time to visit Mount Kailash?
The best time to visit Mount Kailash is from May to September when the weather is warm and dry.
How difficult is the trek to Mount Kailash?
The trek to Mount Kailash is considered to be quite challenging, as it involves a high-altitude trek and requires a good level of physical fitness.
How long does the trek to Mount Kailash take?
The trek to Mount Kailash typically takes around 3 days to complete.
What kind of equipment do I need for the trek to Mount Kailash?
You will need appropriate clothing and footwear, a backpack, a sleeping bag, a tent, and other camping equipment.
Is a guide or porter necessary for the trek to Mount Kailash?
A guide or porter is not strictly necessary, but they can be helpful in navigating the trail and carrying equipment.
Is there a road to Mount Kailash?
There is no road to Mount Kailash, and the only way to reach the mountain is by trekking.
Are there any facilities at Mount Kailash?
There are no facilities at Mount Kailash, and trekkers must be self-sufficient in terms of food, water, and shelter.
What is the altitude of Mount Kailash?
Mount Kailash has an altitude of 6,638 meters (21,778 feet)
Can I drive to the base camp of Mount Kailash?
The nearest road to the base camp of Mount Kailash is in the city of Darchen, which is around 45km away.
Are there any restrictions on climbing Mount Kailash?
Mount Kailash is considered a sacred mountain and climbing it is not allowed.
Are there any medical facilities near Mount Kailash?
There are no medical facilities near Mount Kailash, and trekkers should be prepared to deal with any medical issues that may arise.
What is the cost of a tour to Mount Kailash?
The cost of a tour to Mount Kailash can vary depending on factors such as the length of the tour and the services included but generally ranges from $3000 – $7000 USD.