Kailash Mansarovar Tour 10 Night 11 Days

On the second day, we will begin with a half-day sightseeing tour in Kathmandu, visiting two prominent sites: Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa.

Pashupatinath: This ancient Hindu temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is situated on the banks of the Bagmati River. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it stands as Nepal's oldest temple, where devotees believe that a visit absolves them of sins. Following our visit to Pashupatinath, we will enjoy breakfast before proceeding to our next destination, Boudhanath.

Boudhanath: Also known as Boudha, this stupa is located in the northeastern outskirts of Kathmandu, approximately 11 kilometres from the city center. Its imposing mandala structure ranks it among Nepal's largest spherical stupas. Symbolically, it represents the three-dimensional path towards Buddha's enlightenment, with the base signifying Earth, the Kumbha (white dome) representing water, the spire symbolizing air, and the topmost umbrella shape signifying void.

After exploring Pashupatinath and Boudhanath, we will head to the airport for a one-hour flight to Nepalgunj. Covering a distance of 364 kilometers, we will check in at a hotel upon arrival and take some time to rest.

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The flight from Nepalgunj to Simikot can be a challenging part of our journey due to its dependency on unpredictable weather conditions, often causing delays. Simikot is located 216 kilometers away from Nepalgunj, and the flight typically takes around 60 minutes. Upon arrival in Simikot, we will check in at the hotel and use the remaining time to acclimatize to the local weather conditions.

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On the fourth day, we will start with an early breakfast or packed snacks and head to Simikot airport to catch a helicopter ride to Hilsa, which typically takes about 20 minutes. Upon arriving in Hilsa, we will cross a suspension bridge to reach the other side, where we will complete immigration formalities at the Nepal checkpoint. Following this, we will cross the border on foot and board a Chinese bus, which is just a 5-minute drive away, to reach the Chinese immigration office. A short 27-kilometer drive will then take us around 45 minutes to reach Taklakot, situated at an altitude of 4,025 meters.

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The fifth day is dedicated to acclimatization in Taklakot. It is essential to take it easy and allow your body to adjust to the high altitude. Avoid strenuous activities and give yourself time to acclimate to the thinner air. Staying well-hydrated is crucial, so be sure to drink plenty of water. A gentle stroll around the town or your accommodation can assist your body in adapting to the altitude, but be cautious not to overexert yourself.

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On the 6th day of your journey, you'll travel from Taklakot to Lake Mansarovar. Lake Mansarovar is a pristine and sacred lake located in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China, near the border with Nepal. It holds immense significance as a pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists.

Start your day early in the morning to make the most of your journey to Lake Mansarovar. Most likely, you'll embark on a road trip from Taklakot to Lake Mansarovar. This drive offers mesmerizing views of the rugged landscapes and lofty mountains of the Tibetan Plateau. The journey will take approximately 1 to 2 hours. Along the way, you'll have numerous opportunities to stop and capture photographs of the breathtaking scenery.

After several hours of driving, you'll reach the shores of Lake Mansarovar. The sight of this expansive, crystal-clear lake surrounded by majestic mountains is truly awe-inspiring. Take some time to soak in the natural beauty and serenity of the area.

Lake Manasarovar: Lake Mansarovar is one of the world's highest freshwater lakes, situated at an elevation of 4,583 meters. Covering an area of 412 square kilometres, it is known for its unparalleled purity, allowing visibility to depths of dozens of meters. In the 11th century, Buddhism gained prominence in the region, leading to the renaming of the lake from "Machui Co" to "Manasarovar," signifying the "Invincible Lake." This name change aimed to attract more believers to Buddhism in Tibet.

Explore the vicinity of Lake Mansarovar. You can take a leisurely walk along the lakeshore, providing various vantage points for admiring the lake and the nearby Mount Kailash. If the night sky is clear, take advantage of the opportunity for stargazing. Lake Mansarovar's high-altitude location makes it an excellent spot for observing the night sky free from light pollution.

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On the 7th day, you'll commence the sacred Parikrama or Kora (circumambulation) of Mount Kailash, a profoundly spiritual pilgrimage for Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains. This day involves a 12-kilometer trek from the starting point to Dirapuk, a significant stop on the route.

Start your day with an early breakfast. Ensure that you have all the necessary gear and provisions for the trek. The trek commences from a designated point near Lake Mansarovar, marking the beginning of your sacred journey around Mount Kailash. As you embark on this trek, you'll be surrounded by the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Tibetan Plateau. Keep your camera ready to capture the breathtaking views.

The initial part of the trek involves a gradual ascent, and the trail may vary from rocky paths to dirt tracks. Take your time to acclimate to the altitude and pace yourself. Along the way, you may encounter various religious sites and shrines where pilgrims often stop to offer prayers and seek blessings.

After completing approximately 12 kilometers of the trek, you'll reach Dirapuk. Dirapuk is a small settlement nestled against the base of Mount Kailash and serves as a place where many pilgrims spend their first night during the Kailash Kora. Accommodations in this area are basic but provide a place to rest and recharge. Spend your evening in quiet reflection or meditation. The proximity to Mount Kailash and the spiritual atmosphere make this a suitable time for inner contemplation and prayer.

After a long day of trekking, rest well to prepare for the challenges and spiritual experiences that lie ahead on Mount Kailash Kora.

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On the 8th day of your Mount Kailash Parikrama, you'll continue your circumambulation of this sacred mountain, trekking from Dirapuk to Zulthulphuk via Gauri Kund. This day involves a longer trek of approximately 22 kilometres and is considered one of the most challenging segments of the pilgrimage.

Start your day with an early breakfast and prepare for a long day of trekking. Continue your clockwise circumambulation of Mount Kailash, which holds profound spiritual significance for pilgrims. The trek will involve a steep ascent as you leave Dirapuk and make your way toward Gauri Kund.

The terrain can be rugged and challenging, so take your time and proceed at a pace that is comfortable for you. Gauri Kund is a sacred site located on the way to Mount Kailash, believed to be the place where Goddess Parvati (Gauri) bathed while praying for the well-being of her husband, Lord Shiva. Pilgrims often take a moment to offer prayers and seek blessings at Gauri Kund.

After visiting Gauri Kund, you will continue your trek, which may involve both uphill and downhill sections. Be prepared for varying terrain and changes in altitude. Throughout the trek, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of Mount Kailash and the surrounding landscape. The spiritual and natural beauty of this region is awe-inspiring.

After a challenging but spiritually rewarding day of trekking, you'll arrive at Zulthulphuk, where you'll spend your second night during the Kailash Parikrama. Similar to Dirapuk, accommodations in Zulthulphuk are basic. Spend your evening in contemplation, meditation, or prayer. The spiritual energy of this place is palpable, making it an ideal time for introspection. Rest well to recover from the day's physical exertion.

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Breakfast will be served near the guesthouse or camp, and you can enjoy the morning exploring the caves, temples, and shrines in the area. Climbing up to these caves before completing the final trek of the holy Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a worthwhile experience.

We will trek about 6 kilometers from Zuthulpuk and reach Chongdo, where our vehicles await pickup.

Continue to drive to Taklakot for an overnight stay.

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Start your day with an early breakfast, and then embark on a 45-kilometer drive towards the China-Nepal border. You'll cross the border on foot and complete the necessary immigration formalities, entering Hilsa on the Nepal side. From Hilsa, you'll take a 25-minute helicopter flight to Simikot. Upon reaching Simikot, you'll connect with a flight to Nepalgunj. Subsequently, connect to a flight that will take you to Kathmandu.

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On your last day, you'll have the morning free to relax and prepare for your departure. When the time comes for your flight, you will be transferred to the airport to catch your onward flight.

Safe travels!

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Ø  The best time to visit the Mount Kailash region is from April to the first half of October. During this period, the average temperature in the area hovers around 8 to 9 degrees Celsius. However, it's important to note that the monsoon season begins in July and continues through August, so it's advisable to double-check the weather for these months before embarking on your journey to Mount Kailash.

Ø  Another factor to consider is that snowfall is expected when you reach Dolma-la Pass, which is part of the pilgrimage route. Therefore, it's highly recommended to bring cold-weather clothing to stay comfortable during this portion of the trip.

Ø  For those looking to experience a unique cultural event during their visit, the best time to visit Mount Kailash is during the Saga Dawa Festival, which typically falls on the 15th day of June. This festival is a significant and auspicious occasion for pilgrims and travellers alike, offering a memorable cultural experience in the shadow of this sacred mountain.

Ø  Travelling to Mount Kailash from Tibet involves several permits and documents, depending on your route. Here's an overview of the permits and documents you'll need:

If travelling from Tibet:

        I.            Tibet Travel Permit: This is a primary requirement for travelling in Tibet and is typically arranged by a travel agency as part of your tour package.

     II.            Alien's Travel Permit: This permit is required to visit certain areas of Tibet that are restricted to foreigners. It is also usually arranged by your travel agency.

   III.            Military Permit: If your journey includes areas near sensitive border regions, a military permit may be necessary. Your travel agency will arrange this if needed.

   IV.            Foreign Affairs Permit: In some cases, a foreign affairs permit may be required for specific regions. This will also be arranged by your travel agency.

     V.            Frontier Pass: To visit the Mount Kailash region, a frontier pass is essential, and it is typically obtained by your travel agency.

If opting for a tour via Kathmandu:

Ø  In addition to the permits mentioned above, if you choose to embark on a Mount Kailash tour from Kathmandu, you will also need a China Group Visa. This visa is typically processed through the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu and is a collective visa for your tour group.

Ø  It's crucial to work with a reputable travel agency or tour operator to ensure all the necessary permits and documents are obtained for your specific itinerary. The agency will guide you through the permit application process and help make your journey to Mount Kailash a smooth and memorable experience.

        I.            Recognizing Normal Symptoms: When embarking on a journey to high-altitude regions like Mount Kailash, it's important to understand that mild symptoms like dizziness, headache, drowsiness, and chest tightness are common reactions to high altitudes. These are normal and not a cause for immediate concern. As long as you slow down and avoid vigorous activities, you can manage these symptoms.

     II.            Acclimatization Time: Most itineraries to Mount Kailash allow for gradual acclimatization. The journey typically takes around 4 days from Lhasa to Darchen, which provides ample time to adapt to the higher elevation. If you are sensitive to altitude sickness, consider taking an extra day or two to rest in Darchen before proceeding to Kailash.

   III.            Avoid Showering: It's recommended not to take a shower during your stay at higher altitudes. This can help your body adapt to the local climate and reduce the risk of catching a cold or worsening altitude sickness. Instead, you can use wet tissues and hot water for cleaning.

   IV.            Hydration: Drink plenty of liquids along the way to stay hydrated. Proper hydration can help alleviate some altitude-related symptoms.

     V.            Diet: Maintain a wholesome diet with foods that are easy on your stomach. Avoid heavy or spicy meals that might exacerbate gastrointestinal discomfort.

   VI.            Medications: Carry common medications such as aspirin (for headaches), cold medicine, and gastrointestinal medicine in case you need them.

VII.            Use Local Assistance: If you have a lot of luggage, consider hiring a yak and porter to help with the load. If you are physically weak or experience severe symptoms, you can also ride on a horse provided by local Tibetans.

VIII.            Immediate Descent: If altitude sickness symptoms persist or worsen, do not hesitate to descend to a lower altitude. Safety should always be a priority, and descending can provide quick relief from severe symptoms.

It's essential to be mindful of your body and prioritize acclimatization and safety during your journey to Mount Kailash. Altitude sickness is manageable with proper precautions, allowing you to fully enjoy the spiritual and natural beauty of the region.

Ø  According to regulations, Tibet travel agencies are unable to arrange visits to Mt. Kailash for Indian Passport Holders. However, we can provide you with Tibet tours in other areas, with Ngari being a suitable option. There is a specific organization called the "Pilgrim Center" that can arrange Kailash Mansarovar Yatra for Indian nationals with fixed tour itineraries. Please feel free to reach out to us for free consultation and assistance in planning your travel. We're here to help you explore other beautiful regions and experiences in Tibet.

        Ø  The total distance is around 52 kilometres. Usually, three days are enough to finish it. But some people could even finish it within two days. But we arrange for three days for our clients as per the ordinary situation.

           Ø  The journey to Mt. Kailash typically begins in Lhasa and spans a distance of 1,210 kilometres. As you travel along this route, the altitude gradually increases, allowing you to better acclimatize to the high-altitude plateau environment.

Ø  Normally, there should be no issue if you don't have any cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, or pulmonary diseases. We've had a client who was over 70 years old and completed the Mt. Kailash tour in July 2019. However, we can't guarantee that the trek in the Kailash area will be suitable for you, as individual experiences may vary.

Ø  For small group tours, yak service for luggage is typically not included, so you would need to manage your luggage and trek at an elevation of 4,500 meters (13,124 feet) by yourself. Alternatively, you can hire a yak or a porter to carry your luggage or even ride a horse to assist with the trekking.

Ø  It's advisable to seek professional advice from your doctor to ensure you are physically prepared for the journey. Bringing a sleeping bag is also recommended in case it is needed during the trek. Safety and preparation are key to a successful and enjoyable experience at Mt. Kailash.