Thamel Gahiti, Kathmandu, Nepal
Earth Matter Treks & Expedition Nepal
  • Destination

    Tibet

  • Regions

    Tibet

  • Activity

    Trekking

  • Accomodation

    Hotel/Lodge

  • Transportation

    Flight/Drive

  • Duration

    15 Days

  • Trip Grade

    Challenging

  • Altitude

    Dolma-La Pass 5,630 meters (18,471 feet) and Lhasa 3,650 meters (11,975 feet)

  • Best Season

    Late Spring (May to June) and Early Autumn (September to October)

  • Start/End Point

    Lhasa-Mount Kailash

Destination Region Activity Accomodation Transportation
Tibet Tibet Trekking Hotel/Lodge Flight/Drive
Duration Trip Grade Altitude Best Season Start/End Point
15 Days Challenging Dolma-La Pass 5,630 meters (18,471 feet) and Lhasa 3,650 meters (11,975 feet) Late Spring (May to June) and Early Autumn (September to October) Lhasa-Mount Kailash

Trip Overview

The Lhasa to Mount Kailash trek is a spiritually and physically rewarding journey that combines cultural immersion with challenging trekking. The Lhasa to Mount Kailash trek, often referred to as the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, is a revered pilgrimage route known for its spiritual significance and stunning natural beauty. The Lhasa to Mount Kailash trek is more than a physical journey; it’s a spiritual odyssey through some of Tibet’s most revered landscapes and cultural landmarks. Whether you’re drawn to the challenge of high-altitude trekking or seeking spiritual enlightenment, this pilgrimage offers a transformative experience amidst breathtaking natural beauty. We offer guided tours from Lhasa, providing logistical support, permits, accommodation, meals, and experienced guides.

Trip Highlights

  • Visit the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and various monasteries.
  • A stunning turquoise lake.
  • Cultural towns with historic monasteries.
  • The highest monastery in the world near Everest Base Camp.
  • Sacred peak revered in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon.
  • A 52 km circumambulation trek around Mount Kailash.

Itinerary

  • Activities: Acclimatization and rest.
  • Overnight: Hotel in Lhasa.

  • Morning: Visit Potala Palace.
  • Afternoon: Explore Jokhang Temple and Barkhor Street.
  • Overnight: Hotel in Lhasa.

  • Morning: Visit Drepung Monastery.
  • Afternoon: Visit Sera Monastery and attend the debating session of monks.
  • Overnight: Hotel in Lhasa.

  • Distance: 260 km (approx. 5-6 hours drive)
  • Activities: Scenic drive, visit Yamdrok Lake and Gyantse’s Pelkor Monastery.
  • Overnight: Hotel in Gyantse.

  • Distance: 90 km (approx. 2 hours drive)
  • Activities: Visit Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse.
  • Overnight: Hotel in Shigatse.

  • Distance: 450 km (approx. 8-9 hours drive)
  • Activities: Long scenic drive through the Tibetan plateau.
  • Overnight: Guesthouse in Saga.

  • Distance: 500 km (approx. 9-10 hours drive)
  • Activities: Continue the drive to the base of Mount Kailash.
  • Overnight: Guesthouse in Darchen.

  • Activities: Rest and prepare for the Kailash Kora trek, acclimatization.
  • Overnight: Guesthouse in Darchen.

  • Distance: 20 km (approx. 6-7 hours trek)
  • Activities: Start the Kailash Kora trek.
  • Overnight: Guesthouse or camp in Dirapuk.

  • Distance: 22 km (approx. 8-9 hours trek)
  • Activities: Trek over the highest pass, Dolma-La, and descend to Zutulpuk.
  • Overnight: Guesthouse or camp in Zutulpuk.

  • Distance: 10 km (approx. 3-4 hours trek)
  • Activities: Complete the Kailash Kora and return to Darchen.
  • Overnight: Guesthouse in Darchen.

  • Distance: 500 km (approx. 9-10 hours drive)
  • Activities: Drive back to Saga.
  • Overnight: Guesthouse in Saga.

  • Distance: 450 km (approx. 8-9 hours drive)
  • Activities: Return journey to Shigatse.
  • Overnight: Hotel in Shigatse.

  • Distance: 270 km (approx. 5-6 hours drive)
  • Activities: Drive back to Lhasa.
  • Overnight: Hotel in Lhasa.

  • Activities: Transfer to Lhasa Gonggar Airport for your departure flight.

Cost Inclusion/Exclusion

Cost Inclusion

  • Lhasa: Hotel accommodations for the duration of the stay.
  • Gyantse, Shigatse, Saga, Darchen: Hotel or guesthouse accommodations.
  • During Trek (Dirapuk and Zutulpuk): Guesthouse or camping accommodations.
  • Full Board during the Kailash Kora trek: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
  • Breakfasts: Included at hotels and guesthouses.
  • Airport Transfers: Pick-up and drop-off at Lhasa Gonggar Airport.
  • Private Vehicle: For all transfers and transportation as per the itinerary.
  • Support Vehicle: For baggage and supplies during the trek.
  • Tibet Travel Permit: Required for entry into Tibet.
  • Aliens’ Travel Permit: For restricted areas.
  • Military Permit: For certain remote regions.
  • Kailash Kora Permit: Specific to the circumambulation trek.
  • Entry Fees: For all monasteries and cultural sites as per the itinerary.
  • Support Staff: Including cooks, porters, and yak handlers during the trek.
  • Guided Tours: In Lhasa, Gyantse, Shigatse, and other cultural sites.
  • Camping Gear: Tents, sleeping bags, and mats if camping is involved.

Cost Exclusion

  • Flights: To and from Lhasa are not included.
  • China Visa: Fee for the visa to enter China.
  • Other Visa-related Costs: Any additional costs related to visa procurement.
  • Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation.
  • Lunches and Dinners: In Lhasa, Gyantse, Shigatse, and other stops, unless specified.
  • Snacks and Drinks: Personal snacks, alcoholic, and non-alcoholic beverages.
  • Shopping: Souvenirs, personal shopping, and other personal expenses.
  • Additional Accommodation: If needed beyond the standard itinerary.
  • Medications: Personal medication and medical treatment costs.
  • Additional Tours: Any activities not mentioned in the itinerary.