The Kailash Mansarovar Tour via Lhasa is an extraordinary spiritual journey that takes you through the sacred landscapes of Tibet, offering an unparalleled opportunity to visit the Holy Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar—two of the most revered pilgrimage sites in the world.
The itinerary
- 1Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel. In the evening, a briefing session will be conducted to provide essential information about the trip. You can explore the vibrant city or relax at your hotel. (Meal Plan: B/L/D)
- 2Day 2
Tibet Visa Processing & Kathmandu Sightseeing
In the morning, you will complete the Tibet visa application process, including biometric verification at the China Visa Center if required. Afterward, a sightseeing tour will be organized to visit some of the most sacred sites in Kathmandu, including Pashupatinath Temple, Jal Narayan (Sleeping Vishnu), and Guheshwari Temple. In the evening, witness the Pashupatinath Aarti, a mesmerizing Hindu ritual. (Meal Plan: B/L/D)
- 3Day 3
Leisure Day & Final Trip Preparation
This day is reserved for any pending visa procedures. If time permits, you can embark on a private excursion to Chandragiri Hill or Doleshwor Mahadev Temple at your own expense. In the afternoon, final preparations will be made for the Kailash Mansarovar journey. (Meal Plan: B/L/D)
- 4Day 4
Fly to Lhasa (3,700m) & Acclimatization
You will take a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa, the capital of Tibet. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is for rest and acclimatization to the high altitude. (Meal Plan: B/L/D)
- 5Day 5
Lhasa City Tour
A full day of sightseeing in Lhasa begins with a visit to the iconic Potala Palace, the former winter residence of the Dalai Lama. You will then visit Jokhang Temple, one of the most sacred Buddhist temples in Tibet, and explore Barkhor Street, a lively market where you can observe Tibetan culture. Overnight stay at the hotel. (Meal Plan: B/L/D)
- 6Day 6
Drive to Shigatse (3,900m) – 360km
An early morning drive will take you to Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city. Along the way, you will visit Tashilhunpo Monastery, home to the world’s highest 33-meter gilded statue of Maitreya Buddha. Overnight stay at a hotel in Shigatse. (Meal Plan: B/L/D)
- 7Day 7
Drive to Saga (4,500m) – 340km
Today, you will continue your journey toward Saga, officially joining the regular Kailash Mansarovar route. Upon arrival, you will meet our support crew, including the cook who will prepare and serve food during the journey. Overnight stay at New Sanga Hotel. (Meal Plan: B/L/D)
- 8Day 8
Drive to Lake Mansarovar (4,500m) – 385km
This is a spiritually significant day as you get the first breathtaking view of Lake Mansarovar and Mount Kailash from Horchu Pass. Upon arrival at the lake, you will check in at Chhu Gompa Lodge, located on the shore of the sacred lake. The evening can be spent in quiet reflection or meditation. (Meal Plan: B/L/D)
- 9Day 9
Rituals at Lake Mansarovar & Drive to Darchen (4,560m) – 30km
In the morning, you will participate in holy rituals, including puja, havan, meditation, and a sacred bath in the waters of Lake Mansarovar. After completing the religious activities, you will drive 30km to Darchen, the base camp of Mount Kailash. Overnight stay at a hotel in Darchen. (Meal Plan: B/L/D)
- 10Day 10
Start of Kailash Parikrama – Trek to Dirapuk (4,890m) – 18km
The sacred Kailash Parikrama (circumambulation) begins today. You will first drive 10km to Tarboche, where the trek starts. The journey takes around 4-5 hours, following a scenic trail to Dirapuk Monastery, offering incredible views of the north face of Mount Kailash. Overnight stay at a guesthouse. (Meal Plan: B/L/D)
- 11Day 11
Trek to Zuthulpuk (4,790m) via Dolma La Pass (5,600m) – 22km
This is the most challenging day of the Kailash trek, covering approximately 8-10 hours. You will ascend to Dolma La Pass (5,600m), the highest point of the trek, where you will pause briefly for prayers. Descending from the pass, you will pass by Gaurikunda, a sacred lake. The journey continues to Zuthulpuk Monastery, where you will stay overnight at a guesthouse. (Meal Plan: B/L/D)
- 12Day 12
End of Kailash Parikrama & Drive to Saga
After breakfast, you will trek 8km to the point where vehicles will be waiting. This marks the completion of the Kailash Parikrama (circuit). From here, you will drive back to Darchen for lunch before continuing to Saga for an overnight stay at the hotel. (Meal Plan: B/L/D)
- 13Day 13
Drive Back to Shigatse
Today, you will retrace your journey back to Shigatse, enjoying the breathtaking Tibetan landscapes along the way. Overnight stay at a hotel. (Meal Plan: B/L/D)
- 14Day 14
Drive to Lhasa & Free Time
After breakfast, you will drive back to Lhasa. Upon arrival, you will have some free time to explore the local markets, shop for souvenirs, or simply relax. (Meal Plan: B/L/D)
- 15Day 15
Fly Back to Kathmandu
You will take a flight from Lhasa to Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day is free for leisure or personal exploration. (Meal Plan: B/L/D)
- 16Day 16
Departure from Kathmandu
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure, concluding the spiritual journey of Kailash Mansarovar via Lhasa. (Meal Plan: B)
