Mountain
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra – 14 Days

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra – 14 Days

Duration :   13 Nights/14 Days
Places Covered :  
  • Kathmandu
  • Syabrubesi
  • Kerung
  • Saga
  • Lake Mansarovar
  • Darchen
  • Mount Kailash
  • Dirapuk
  • Dolma-La Pass
  • Zuthulpuk

Experience the sacred journey to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar through Nepal and Tibet, with carefully planned acclimatization, spiritual visits, overland travel, and the three-day Kailash Parikrama.


Daywise Itinerary

Your Kailash Mansarovar Yatra begins with your arrival in Kathmandu, Nepal, situated at an altitude of approximately 1,320 meters (4,330 feet).

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, a representative from Nyindha Adventures will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. The journey to the hotel takes approximately 20–30 minutes.

After check-in, you will have time to relax and recover from your travels. In the evening, a short orientation session will be conducted, covering:

  • The complete itinerary and travel arrangements
  • Important health and safety guidelines
  • Altitude acclimatization
  • Border-crossing procedures
  • What to expect during the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

If time and energy permit, you may explore the nearby streets of Thamel, known for its shops, cafés, and lively atmosphere. The day concludes with a traditional Nepali welcome dinner, providing an opportunity to meet fellow pilgrims.

  • Activity: Drive to Thamel Hotel – 20–30 minutes
  • Maximum Altitude: 1,320 m / 4,331 ft – Kathmandu
  • Meals: None
  • Accommodation: Three-star hotel in Kathmandu

After breakfast, you will begin a guided sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Valley’s important religious and cultural sites. This day is designed to provide spiritual preparation before entering the Himalayan region and Tibet.

Pashupatinath Temple

Visit the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most important Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located beside the Bagmati River, the temple offers an opportunity to observe religious rituals and experience Nepal’s spiritual traditions.

Budhanilkantha Temple

Continue to Budhanilkantha to see the famous reclining statue of Lord Vishnu, resting on a stone bed within a pond. The peaceful setting provides a moment for reflection and contemplation.

Boudhanath Stupa

Visit Boudhanath Stupa, one of the most significant Buddhist sites in Nepal. You can walk around the stupa, observe pilgrims and monks, turn prayer wheels, and experience the calm atmosphere of Buddhist worship.

After sightseeing, return to the hotel to rest, organize your belongings, and prepare for the overland journey.

  • Activity: Cultural tour – approximately 4–5 hours
  • Maximum Altitude: 1,320 m / 4,331 ft – Kathmandu
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Accommodation: Three-star hotel in Kathmandu

After an early breakfast, depart Kathmandu and drive north toward Syabrubesi, a mountain settlement near the Nepal–China border.

The journey covers approximately 150 kilometers and takes 7–8 hours, depending on road and traffic conditions. As you leave Kathmandu, the scenery gradually changes from urban surroundings to green hills, terraced farmland, rivers, and traditional villages.

The route follows the Trishuli River and continues through the Rasuwa region. As you approach Langtang National Park, the landscape becomes more natural and mountainous. On clear days, distant Himalayan peaks, including Ganesh Himal, may be visible.

The road is winding in places, but the scenery makes the journey memorable. Lunch will be taken along the way before continuing to Syabrubesi.

Upon arrival, check into a local lodge. You may spend the evening resting or taking a short walk near the river.

  • Activity: 150 km / 7–8 hours
  • Maximum Altitude: 1,450 m / 4,757 ft – Syabrubesi
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge

After breakfast, drive toward Rasuwagadhi, the Nepal–China border point. Complete the necessary Nepal immigration formalities before crossing the Friendship Bridge into Tibet.

On the Tibetan side, you will meet your Tibetan guide, who will assist with immigration procedures and permit verification. Once the formalities are complete, continue by Tibetan vehicle toward Kerung, also known as Kyirong.

The drive from the border to Kerung takes approximately two hours and covers around 40 kilometers. Kerung sits at an elevation of approximately 2,800 meters (9,186 feet), making it an important acclimatization stop.

As you travel, the green valleys of Nepal gradually give way to the wider, higher-altitude landscapes of Tibet. After reaching Kerung, check into your local accommodation.

The remainder of the day is reserved for rest and acclimatization. Drink plenty of water, avoid strenuous activity, and allow your body to adjust to the increasing altitude.

  • Activity: Nepal border to Kerung – 40 km / approximately 2 hours
  • Maximum Altitude: 2,800 m / 9,186 ft – Kerung
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge

This day is dedicated to rest and acclimatization in Kerung, at an altitude of approximately 2,900 meters (9,514 feet).

Taking time to acclimatize before traveling to higher elevations is an important part of the journey. The day allows your body to adjust gradually while you enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the region.

After breakfast, you may take a gentle walk around Kerung, also known as Gyirong. The town is known for its green surroundings, hills, clean air, and relatively peaceful environment.

You will also have the opportunity to visit Pakpa Monastery, a historic Buddhist site associated with Nepalese-influenced architecture. A visit to the local market may provide an introduction to Tibetan daily life and local cuisine, including butter tea and noodle soup.

The afternoon is reserved for rest. Your guide will check on the group’s health and general condition in the evening.

  • Activity: Short walks for acclimatization
  • Maximum Altitude: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft – Kerung
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge

After breakfast, begin the scenic drive from Kerung to Saga, located at approximately 4,450 meters (14,600 feet).

The journey takes around 6–7 hours and introduces you to the vast landscapes of the Tibetan Plateau. As you travel farther from Kerung, the green valleys gradually transition into open plains, expansive mountain scenery, and high-altitude landscapes.

The route passes through mountain areas, including the Tong La region, which reaches approximately 5,100 meters (16,732 feet). Prayer flags can be seen fluttering along the route, while clear weather may offer views of Mount Shishapangma, one of Tibet’s major peaks.

You may also observe nomadic lifestyles, including yaks and sheep grazing across the plains. The journey continues toward Saga, located near the Brahmaputra River.

Upon arrival, check into your lodge and take time to rest. Due to the elevation, it is important to walk slowly, remain hydrated, and allow your body to adjust.

  • Activity: 230 km / 6–7 hours
  • Maximum Altitude: 4,450 m / 14,600 ft – Saga
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge

Today, you will travel from Saga toward the sacred waters of Lake Mansarovar, situated at approximately 4,558 meters (14,954 feet).

The drive takes approximately 7–8 hours, passing through vast, quiet landscapes across the Tibetan Plateau. The open surroundings, distant mountains, and minimal traffic create a peaceful atmosphere throughout the journey.

Along the way, you will cross the high Mayum-La Pass, which reaches approximately 5,216 meters (17,113 feet). Depending on weather and visibility, you may catch your first distant glimpse of Mount Kailash, standing at approximately 6,714 meters (22,027 feet).

As you continue, the blue waters of Lake Mansarovar gradually come into view, with Mount Gurla Mandhata visible in the background. Lake Mansarovar is regarded as one of the most sacred lakes in the region and holds deep religious significance.

In the afternoon, arrive at the lakeside and check into a simple guesthouse. You may spend the evening enjoying the peaceful surroundings and watching the sunset over the lake.

  • Activity: 450 km / 7–8 hours
  • Maximum Altitude: 4,558 m / 14,954 ft – Lake Mansarovar
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Guesthouse

Begin the day early with a peaceful sunrise experience at Lake Mansarovar. The morning light reflecting across the lake creates a memorable spiritual setting.

Pilgrims may participate in sacred practices, such as sprinkling or bathing with the lake’s holy water, according to their personal beliefs and traditions. The water can be extremely cold, so participants should follow the guidance of their group leaders and take appropriate precautions.

A Puja or prayer ceremony will be conducted along the lakeshore. Surrounded by mountains, prayer flags, and the quiet waters of the lake, this can be a deeply meaningful part of the pilgrimage.

After the spiritual activities, begin the drive toward Darchen, the base town for the Mount Kailash Parikrama. En route, you may visit Chiu Gompa, a monastery offering scenic views of Lake Mansarovar and the surrounding mountains.

Continue to Darchen, located at approximately 4,660 meters (15,289 feet). Upon arrival, rest and prepare your equipment for the upcoming three-day Kailash Kora.

  • Activity: 35 km / approximately 1 hour
  • Maximum Altitude: 4,660 m / 15,289 ft – Darchen
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Guesthouse

Today marks the beginning of the sacred Mount Kailash Parikrama, also known as the Kailash Kora.

After an early breakfast, drive from Darchen to Tarboche, the starting point of the trek. From there, proceed toward Yam Dwar, also known as the Gate of Salvation. Pilgrims traditionally offer prayers at this location before beginning the circumambulation.

The trek to Dirapuk covers approximately 12 kilometers and takes 5–6 hours, depending on individual pace, weather, and trail conditions. The route follows the Lha Chu River and gradually gains elevation.

Along the trail, you may encounter fellow pilgrims, nomadic communities, yaks, prayer flags, and devotees performing prostrations as part of their spiritual practice.

By afternoon, reach Dirapuk at approximately 4,900 meters (16,076 feet). The location offers views of the north face of Mount Kailash. Accommodation is basic, and the evening is reserved for rest and reflection.

  • Activity: Drive to Yam Dwar – approximately 5 km; trek 12 km / 5–6 hours
  • Maximum Altitude: 4,900 m / 16,076 ft – Dirapuk
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Guesthouse

This is the most physically demanding day of the Kailash Parikrama. You will begin early in the morning to cross the challenging Dolma-La Pass.

The trail involves steep climbs at high altitude, where the air is thin and walking can be physically strenuous. Maintaining a slow pace, taking regular breaks, and following the guidance of your support team are essential.

After the ascent, you will reach Dolma-La Pass, situated at approximately 5,630 meters (18,471 feet), the highest point of the journey. The pass is marked by prayer flags, offerings, and religious symbolism. Pilgrims may use this sacred moment for prayer and personal reflection.

The trail then descends toward Gauri Kund, a sacred lake associated with Goddess Parvati, located at approximately 5,600 meters (18,373 feet). Continue through the valley toward Zuthulpuk.

By late afternoon, reach Zuthulpuk at approximately 4,750 meters (15,584 feet). The region is associated with the meditation caves of Milarepa, which may be visited depending on the itinerary and conditions.

  • Activity: 22 km / 8–9 hours
  • Maximum Altitude: Dolma-La Pass – approximately 5,630 m / 18,471 ft
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Guesthouse

After breakfast, begin the final section of the Kailash Parikrama. Compared with the previous day, the trail is generally less demanding, following a river through valleys and colorful rock formations.

After approximately 2–3 hours of walking, you will reach Chongdo, where the trek officially concludes. Completing the circumambulation of Mount Kailash is a significant moment for many pilgrims, representing a journey of devotion, endurance, and personal reflection.

At Chongdo, board the vehicle and begin the drive back toward Saga. The route includes a visit or stop near Lake Mansarovar, allowing you to enjoy a final view of the sacred lake and Mount Kailash, subject to the route and conditions.

Continue to Saga, situated at approximately 4,640 meters (15,223 feet). Upon arrival, enjoy a warm meal and rest at the lodge.

  • Activity: Trek 10 km / 2–3 hours; drive 450 km / 7–8 hours
  • Maximum Altitude: 4,640 m / 15,223 ft – Saga
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge

After breakfast, begin the return journey from Saga to Kerung across the Tibetan Plateau.

The drive passes through open landscapes, rivers, grazing yaks, and wide stretches of high-altitude terrain. As you descend gradually, the increasing oxygen levels may make the journey feel more comfortable than the earlier stages of the trip.

There may be opportunities to stop at viewpoints for photographs and short breaks, depending on road conditions and the group’s schedule.

Arrive in Kerung at approximately 2,800 meters (9,186 feet) during the afternoon. After checking into your lodge, you can rest, enjoy a warm shower, or take a gentle walk around town.

This will be your final night in Tibet. The evening provides an opportunity to share a meal with fellow travelers and reflect on the pilgrimage.

  • Activity: 230 km / approximately 6 hours
  • Maximum Altitude: 2,800 m / 9,186 ft – Kerung
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Lodge

After breakfast, drive from Kerung toward the Nepal–China border. Complete the required Chinese exit procedures before crossing back into Nepal through Rasuwagadhi. After crossing the border, continue along the mountain roads beside the Bhote Koshi River. The scenery gradually changes from the dry highland environment of Tibet to the greener hills, villages, and river valleys of Nepal. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant and enjoy Nepali cuisine before continuing toward Kathmandu. The roads become smoother as you approach the capital. Arrive in Kathmandu in the late afternoon or evening, at an elevation of approximately 1,400 meters (4,593 feet). After checking into your hotel, enjoy a farewell dinner celebrating the completion of your Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.

  • Activity: Approximately 170 km, including border crossing / 7–8 hours
  • Maximum Altitude: 1,400 m / 4,593 ft – Kathmandu
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Accommodation: Three-star hotel in Kathmandu

Your Kailash Mansarovar Yatra concludes today. After breakfast, you will have some free time to relax, organize your luggage, or purchase souvenirs, depending on your flight schedule. At the scheduled time, a representative will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey. As you depart, take with you the memories of Mount Kailash, Lake Mansarovar, the Himalayan landscapes, and the spiritual experiences shared throughout the pilgrimage. End of the tour. Safe travels!

  • Activity: Transfer to the international airport – approximately 30 minutes
  • Maximum Altitude: 1,400 m / 4,593 ft – Kathmandu
  • Meals: Breakfast
  • Accommodation: Home / onward journey

Package Inclusions & Exclusions

Inclusions

  • Airport pickup and drop-off in Kathmandu.
  • Three-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu as per the itinerary.
  • Guided sightseeing in Kathmandu.
  • Overland transportation Kathmandu – Syabrubesi – Kerung – Saga – Lake Mansarovar – Darchen and return.
  • Lodge and guesthouse accommodation in Nepal and Tibet.
  • Meals as specified in the day-by-day itinerary.
  • Tibet Travel Permit, Kailash permits and Chinese group visa processing.
  • English-speaking Tibetan guide.
  • Puja at Lake Mansarovar.
  • All government taxes and official expenses.
  • No Hidden Fees/Costs.

Exclusions

  • International airfare and Nepal visa fees.
  • Travel insurance, including high-altitude emergency evacuation.
  • Horse / yak and porter hire during the Kailash Kora (available on request).
  • Drinks and personal expenses.
  • Tips for guides, drivers and support staff.

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