Mount Kailash Kora Trekking

Day 1 Arrival in Lhasa

Welcome to the Holy City of Lhasa (3,650m)!

Upon your arrival in Lhasa — whether by flight or train — our friendly Tibetan guide will greet you with a warm smile and a traditional Hada scarf, a symbol of good luck and blessings.

You’ll then be comfortably transferred to your hotel in downtown Lhasa. Along the way, enjoy beautiful views of the Yarlung Tsangpo River (Brahmaputra River) and the Lhasa River, two of Tibet’s most important waterways.

After checking in, take it easy to rest and acclimatize to the high altitude. Avoid heavy activity on the first day and drink plenty of water.

Later in the day, your guide will meet you with traditional Tibetan welcome gifts, give a short briefing about your upcoming journey, and introduce your travel group.

Overnight stay in Lhasa.

Day 2 Lhasa Tour – Drepung & Sera Monasteries (B, D)

Today is all about exploring the sacred monasteries of Lhasa and learning about Tibetan Buddhist culture and monk life.

Start your day with a visit to Drepung Monastery, the largest monastery in Tibet, once home to over 10,000 monks. As you walk through its vast courtyards and prayer halls, your guide will share fascinating insights into Tibetan Buddhism’s philosophy, history, and important spiritual figures.

You’ll also explore the Loseling College (or a similar monastic college), where monks study Buddhist scriptures and philosophy. Visiting their dormitories offers a unique glimpse into their daily lifestyle and routines.

In the afternoon, head to Sera Monastery, one of the three great Gelug monasteries of Tibet. Here, you’ll witness the famous monks’ debating session (held between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM, Monday to Saturday). This lively tradition is a key part of monastic education, where monks engage in deep discussions to sharpen their knowledge and spiritual understanding.

After an enriching day of learning and exploration, enjoy a warm welcome dinner with your group. It’s the perfect opportunity to connect, share experiences, and get ready for the adventures ahead.

Overnight stay in Lhasa.

Day 3 Lhasa Sightseeing – Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple & Barkhor Street (B)

Today, you’ll visit some of Lhasa’s most iconic spiritual and cultural sites, including two UNESCO World Heritage Sites – the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple. These places offer a deep insight into Tibet’s rich history, religion, and daily life.

Morning – Potala Palace & Longwangtan Park
After breakfast, begin your day with a visit to the Potala Palace, Tibet’s most famous landmark and the former winter residence of the Dalai Lamas. From the top, you can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of Lhasa Old Town. Inside, explore grand chapels, sacred relics, and the golden stupas of past Dalai Lamas, along with the ancient meditation cave of the 33rd King of Tibet.

After exploring, head to Longwangtan Park, located at the foot of the Potala Palace. From here, you can admire the majestic view of the palace from a unique angle and join locals in their traditional folk activities.

Afternoon – Jokhang Temple & Barkhor Street
Continue to the Jokhang Temple, the spiritual heart of Tibet. Inside, you’ll find the revered 12-year-old statue of Buddha Sakyamuni, one of Tibet’s most sacred treasures. Outside, witness devoted pilgrims performing prostrations in front of the temple, creating a truly moving atmosphere.

Then, walk around Barkhor Street, a lively circular path surrounding the temple. You can join pilgrims in doing a kora (ritual circumambulation), shop for Tibetan handicrafts, or simply enjoy the sights and sounds of local life in Lhasa’s old market streets.

Evening – Tibetan Tea House Experience
End your day by visiting a local Tibetan tea house, where you’ll sip sweet milk tea alongside friendly locals. It’s the perfect place to unwind as your guide shares stories about Tibetan traditions, culture, and everyday life.

Overnight stay in Lhasa.

Day 4 Lhasa to Shigatse via Gyantse (360 km) (B, L)

Today, you’ll begin your overland journey from Lhasa to Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet. The drive is filled with breathtaking landscapes, from turquoise lakes and snow-capped peaks to ancient villages and vibrant farmlands.

Morning – Yamdrok Lake and Local Village Visit

Start your day with a scenic drive over the Gampala Pass (4,790 m), where you’ll get your first magical view of Yamdrok-tso Lake (4,400 m). Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, this lake is one of Tibet’s most beautiful natural wonders. In the distance, you’ll see Mount Nyenchen Khangsar (7,191 m), the highest mountain near Lhasa.

Enjoy time exploring the lakeshore from different viewpoints, taking stunning photos of the turquoise waters. At the far end of the lake, you’ll visit a local Tibetan village, where you’ll share lunch with a local family and experience their warm hospitality.

Afternoon – Korola Glacier and Simila Pass
Continue your journey and stop to admire the Korola Glacier, the largest glacier in Tibet. Its massive ice tongue stretches dramatically down the mountain slope — a truly mesmerizing sight.

Next, stop at Simila Mountain Pass, where you can join locals in hanging colorful prayer flags, a beautiful Tibetan tradition to wish for peace and good fortune.

Evening – Gyantse to Shigatse
Arrive in Gyantse, a historic Tibetan town known for its ancient charm and traditional architecture. Take some time for photos of the Gyantse Fortress before continuing your drive to Shigatse. Along the way, enjoy scenic views of Tibetan barley fields that turn green in summer and golden in autumn.

Once you arrive in Shigatse, check into your hotel and relax after a long but unforgettable day.

Overnight stay in Shigatse.

Day 5 Shigatse (3,850m) to Everest Base Camp (5,000m) (B)

Today, prepare for an unforgettable adventure as you travel from Shigatse to Everest Base Camp, witnessing some of the most spectacular views of the Himalayan peaks.

Morning – Gyatsola Pass & First Everest Glimpse
After breakfast, depart for Mount Everest. Along the way, you’ll cross Gyatsola Pass (5,280 m), where you’ll catch your first glimpse of Everest, hidden behind the surrounding mountains like a budding lotus flower — a truly captivating roadside view.

Midday – Gawula Pass & Himalayan Panorama
Entering the Mount Everest National Nature Reserve, stop at Gawula Pass (5,198 m). From here, enjoy a panoramic view of the Himalayas, including a lineup of the five highest peaks, with Everest proudly standing at the forefront — your second view of the mighty mountain.

Afternoon – Zigzag Road to Everest Base Camp
Continue along the winding zigzag road toward Everest Base Camp. With each turn, Everest gradually unfolds, growing more majestic and closer. This marks your third view of the world’s highest peak.

Upon arrival at Everest Base Camp (5,200 m), stand in awe of Everest’s colossal white pyramid peak. As dusk approaches, witness the golden glow of sunset on Everest’s northern face — your fourth view.

Evening – Night at Everest Base Camp
As night falls, enjoy a magical view of the Milky Way above the snow-white peak, your fifth and final encounter with Everest for the day.

Insider Tips:

1. Visibility of Everest depends on weather conditions and cannot be guaranteed.
2. During winter (November–March), EBC tent hotels close, so overnight stays are limited to nearby villages.

Overnight stay at Everest Base Camp or nearby village.

Day 6 Everest Base Camp to Saga via Pelku Tso Lake (B)

Today, your adventure continues westward along the Himalayas as you travel into the remote and mystical Ngari Plateau, enjoying expansive grasslands, sparkling lakes, and towering snow-capped mountains.

Morning – Sunrise and Rongbuk Monastery
Start your day early for a chance to witness the pink sunlight illuminating Mount Everest’s summit — a breathtaking sight. After breakfast, visit the Rongbuk Monastery, the world’s highest-altitude monastery (5,154 m), offering spiritual insight and stunning Himalayan views.

Afternoon – Pelku Tso Lake & Shishapangma
Continue your journey toward Ngari, the most mysterious region of Tibet. Pass by Mount Shishapangma (8,027 m), one of the world’s 14 peaks above 8,000 meters. Enjoy close views of its three main peaks, with Pelku Tso Lake shimmering below, glowing golden under the sun.

Evening – Arrival in Saga
Cross the grasslands surrounding Pelku Tso Lake and arrive in Saga County, the gateway to the Mount Kailash region. Saga is a convenient stop to rest, acclimatize, and purchase any essentials needed for your Kailash trek.

Overnight stay in Saga.

Day 7 Saga to Darchen via Zhongba (B)

Today, you’ll travel through the Saga Valley, nestled between the Himalayan Range and the Gangdise Range, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, vast grasslands, and sparkling lakes.

Morning – Scenic Drive and Gongzhucuo Lake
As you drive, watch herds of yaks and sheep grazing on the grasslands beneath the towering mountains. Pass by the beautiful green Gongzhucuo Lake, a perfect spot for photography and enjoying the serene landscape.

Afternoon – Mayum La Pass and Ngari Region
Cross the Mayum La Mountain (5,211 m), officially entering the Ngari Region. This high mountain pass feels like a gateway to the wilderness, with Lake Manasarovar coming into view. Seeing the lake with Mount Kailash in the distance is a truly awe-inspiring and spiritual experience.

Evening – Arrival in Darchen
Drive along Lake Manasarovar to reach Darchen, the small town at the foot of Mount Kailash. Check into your hotel, rest, and prepare for the upcoming 4-day Mount Kailash Kora trek.

Insider Tip: If you need a porter for the trek, inform your guide today. They can arrange one for you the next day at an additional cost.

Overnight stay in Darchen.

Day 8 Darchen to Dirapuk Monastery – Trek Day 1 (13 km) (B)

Today marks the first day of your Mount Kailash trek, starting from Darchen and heading toward Dirapuk Monastery, with spectacular views of the southern and western slopes of the sacred mountain.

Morning – Start Trek from Sarshung Valley
After breakfast, take an eco-bus from Darchen to Sarshung Valley, the starting point of your trek. The 13-kilometer route is relatively easy, following the valley at the foot of Mount Kailash. Along the way, enjoy panoramic views of the southern and western slopes, taking plenty of photos of this holy landscape.

Afternoon – Arrival at Dirapuk Monastery
Reach the western slope of Mount Kailash and check into the guesthouse at Dirapuk Monastery (Zhire Temple). Spend the afternoon exploring the ancient monastery with your guide, admire the sacred stupas, and soak in the spiritual atmosphere.

Evening – Sunset at Dirapuk Monastery
Weather permitting, enjoy a breathtaking sunset over Mount Kailash. Watch as the sun’s afterglow illuminates the steep cliffs of the western slope, creating an unforgettable spiritual and photographic experience.

Overnight stay in the local guesthouse at Dirapuk Monastery.

Day 9 Dirapuk Monastery to Zutulpuk Monastery – Trek Day 2 (24 km)

Today is the most challenging day of your Mount Kailash trek, crossing the highest point at 5,630 meters and walking alongside devoted pilgrims performing prostrations.

Morning – Trek to Dolma La Pass
Start early with a 4-kilometer trek from Dirapuk Monastery, ascending to 5,430 meters. Enjoy a breathtaking sunrise over the northwest slope of Mount Kailash.

Continue 2 kilometers to Dolma La Pass, the highest point of the trek at 5,630 meters. Prayer flags flutter across the pass, adding to the spiritual atmosphere.

Note: Even in summer, the path can be icy and rocky. Walk carefully to avoid slipping.

Afternoon – Lake of Compassion (Guri Kund) & Descent
After crossing the pass, you’ll reach the emerald-green Lake of Compassion (Guri Kund), believed to purify a lifetime of sins with a dip. Nearby, witness the glaciers on the northwest slope of Mount Kailash, creating a striking backdrop.

Begin a gradual descent into the valley beneath the southeast foot of Mount Kailash, arriving at Zutulpuk Monastery (Dzutripuk Monastery). Along the way, enjoy sightings of adorable wildlife and peaceful grasslands perfect for a rest.

Overnight stay in the local guesthouse at Zutulpuk Monastery.

Day 10 Zutulpuk Monastery to Darchen & Lake Manasarovar Kora – Trek Day 3 (12 km)

Today, you’ll finish the Mount Kailash kora and enjoy a spiritual visit to Lake Manasarovar, one of Tibet’s holiest lakes.

Morning – Return to Darchen
Start your day with a 12-kilometer trek from Zutulpuk Monastery back to Darchen, completing the Kailash kora. This final stretch offers serene views of Mount Kailash and surrounding landscapes.

Afternoon – Lake Manasarovar Kora
After the trek, take a 30-kilometer drive to Lake Manasarovar. Approach the sacred lakeshore and touch its holy waters.

At the lakeside, you can:

• Perform the Lake Manasarovar Kora, walking around the sacred lake.
• Clean your face and hands in the holy water for spiritual purification.
• Take a sightseeing bus for a full 360-degree view of the lake, stopping at Trugo Monastery and the Lake Rakshastal viewpoint.

For relaxation, optional hot springs nearby offer foot baths or soaking experiences, ideal for easing tired muscles after the pilgrimage.

Return to Darchen for the evening.

Overnight stay in Darchen.

Day 11 Visit Selung Monastery – Gateway to the Inner Kora (B)

Today is a special spiritual experience, taking you to Selung Monastery, the gateway to the Inner Kora, where you can witness Mount Kailash from a rare, close perspective.

Morning – Journey to Selung Monastery
After breakfast, follow your guide to Selung Monastery, home to Mount Nandi, the divine bull and mount of Lord Shiva. This is a unique opportunity to see the south face of Mount Kailash up close, a sight few pilgrims experience.

At the monastery, you can light a butter lamp and offer prayers for world peace, health, longevity, wisdom, and love for all beings.

Afternoon – Meditation and Spiritual Reflection
Walk to the edge of the monastery and face the sacred Mount Kailash, taking in its majestic presence and holy aura. Far from the busy kora trails, this is the perfect place to sit, meditate, and connect spiritually with the mountain. This is the closest point to the Inner Kora that any pilgrim can reach, offering a profound sense of peace and lifelong spiritual connection.

Return to Darchen in the evening and rest after this deeply moving experience.

Overnight stay in Darchen.

Day 12 Darchen to Saga (B)

After breakfast, begin your journey back from Darchen to Saga, leaving behind the sacred lands of Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar.

Scenic Drive Through Ngari Plateau
Relive the breathtaking landscapes of the Ngari Plateau, the Himalayas, and the Gangdise Mountains along the way. Stop at grassy pastures and sparkling lakes to enjoy the natural beauty and spot local wildlife.

Evening – Arrival in Saga
Continue the drive until you reach Saga, the gateway town of western Tibet, where you’ll rest and prepare for the onward journey.

Overnight stay in Saga.

Day 13 Saga to Gyirong (D)

Today, travel from Saga to Gyirong Valley, a hidden gem on the Sino-Nepal border, surrounded by snowy mountains and lush forests.

Morning – Scenic Drive to Gyirong
As you descend in altitude, watch the landscape transform from snow-capped peaks and barren plains to dense forests, canyons, and verdant valleys. The changing scenery offers plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

Afternoon – Discover Gyirong Valley
Arrive in Gyirong Town and explore Gyirong Valley, famously described by British explorer Howard-Bury as the “most beautiful valley in the world” in Mount Everest: The Reconnaissance. Visit Sherpa villages, stroll through serene forests, and admire the snow-capped peaks above the lush green woods. The valley’s humid, mild air offers a refreshing contrast to the dry, thin air of the Ngari Plateau.

Evening – Farewell Dinner
Enjoy a farewell dinner with your group, sharing memories and experiences of your incredible journey. This is a special night to celebrate your adventure before departing Gyirong for Kathmandu.

Overnight stay in Gyirong.

Day 14 Gyirong to Tingri (B)

Today, you will leave the forested edges of the Himalayas and return to the high-altitude regions of Tibet.

Morning – Rest or Departure to Kathmandu
Enjoy a relaxing morning in Gyirong.

Note: Travelers planning to head directly to Kathmandu after Mount Kailash may depart this morning.

Afternoon – Journey to Tingri
After lunch, begin your drive to Tingri County in Shigatse, ascending back to the Himalayan plateau. Along the way, take in breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, valleys, and glaciers.

Arrive in Tingri in the afternoon, check into your hotel, and rest after the day’s journey.

Overnight stay in Tingri.

Day 15 Tingri to Lhasa (B)

Today, enjoy a mix of spiritual sightseeing and scenic drive as you make your way back to Lhasa.

Start your day with a visit to Tashilhunpo Monastery, the spiritual home of the Panchen Lama. This grand monastery stretches across the hillside, featuring magnificent halls and the world’s largest statue of Maitreya Buddha. It is an important center for Tibetan culture and religion.

After exploring Shigatse, drive back to Lhasa along the Yarlung Tsangpo River, Tibet’s lifeline and mother river, enjoying views of valleys, mountains, and local villages along the way.

Overnight stay in Lhasa.

Day 16 Departure from Lhasa (B)

After breakfast, drive to Lhasa Airport or Railway Station for your onward flight or train.

We thank you for choosing our Mount Kailash Kora Tour and warmly welcome you to return to Tibet for more adventures in the future.

Tour Ends Here.