Mount Kailash is more than just a mountain—it’s a symbol of spiritual awakening, an epicentre of devotion, and one of the most revered pilgrimage sites on Earth.
8 Days
16-70
Moderate
Pilgrimage Tour
5645
Kathmandu
Kathmandu
Mount Kailash is more than just a mountain—it’s a symbol of spiritual awakening, an epicentre of devotion, and one of the most revered pilgrimage sites on Earth. Sacred to Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bonpo, this 11-day pilgrimage is not only about walking in the shadow of a holy peak but also about reconnecting with your spirit in one of the most remote and breathtaking places in the world.
This journey leads you from the vibrant valleys of Nepal through the stark and stunning landscapes of Tibet. You’ll visit sacred Lake Manasarovar, complete the challenging yet soul-stirring Kora around Mount Kailash, and return transformed—body, mind, and soul.
Top Highlights
- Complete the sacred 3-day Mount Kailash Kora (52 km)
- Meditate beside Lake Manasarovar—believed to cleanse karmic sins
- Cross the dramatic Dolma La Pass (5,645m)
- Visit Yam Dwar, Dirapuk Monastery, and Zutulpuk Monastery
- Experience Tibetan culture, nature, and spiritual energy firsthand
Important Information Before You Book
Best Travel Time:
May to September—Clear skies, milder temperatures, and open mountain passes.
Required Permits (Handled by your operator):
- Tibet Travel Permit
- Chinese Group Visa
- Alien Travel Permit
- Mount Kailash Special Permit
Physical Fitness:
This trek is moderate to tough due to altitude. Prior trekking experience is helpful but not mandatory. Walks are slow-paced but require stamina.
Accommodation:
- Hotels/guesthouses in towns
- Basic lodges or tents during the Kora (shared facilities)
Meals:
Vegetarian food is common. Carry snacks or energy bars for trekking days. Hot meals are available in larger towns.
Itinerary
Your journey begins with a scenic drive through the lush hills and winding rivers of northern Nepal. Syabrubesi is a small mountain town that offers your first breath of the Himalayas and a peaceful night before the border crossing.
Highlights:
- Himalayan countryside views
- Traditional Nepali villages
After breakfast, drive to the Rasuwagadhi border and cross into Tibet. The atmosphere changes instantly—broader landscapes, colder air, and a deeper sense of sacred isolation. After immigration formalities, continue to the town of Kerung.
Highlights:
- Enter the Tibetan Plateau
- Begin your altitude adjustment
To reduce the risk of altitude sickness, today is a rest and acclimatization day. Explore the quiet streets, take short hikes, or simply enjoy the crisp mountain air as your body adapts.
Highlights:
- Gentle walks
- Meet Tibetan locals
- Mental and physical preparation
The landscape opens up dramatically today—wide, arid plains; distant snow peaks; and occasional sightings of nomads and yaks. Saga is a major stop for pilgrims, offering rest, hot meals, and time to prepare for the journey ahead.
Highlights:
- Views of Mount Shishapangma (8,013m)
- Cross high mountain passes and remote valleys
Saga to Lake Manasarovar (4,590 m)—6 hrs drive
Today, you reach Lake Manasarovar, one of the holiest bodies of water on Earth. Many take a dip or splash themselves with the cold, sacred water as a form of spiritual cleansing. The tranquil lake sits beneath the southern face of Mount Kailash.
Highlights:
- Sunset over Mount Kailash
- Visit Chiu Monastery
- Perform spiritual rituals or meditation
Lake Manasarovar to Darchen (4,575 m)—1 hr drive
After a morning of spiritual connection by the lake, drive to Darchen, the base camp of Mount Kailash and the starting point of the Kora. The rest of the day is for preparing physically and mentally for the trek.
Highlights:
- Final gear check
- View of Kailash’s southern face
- Optional visit to Asthapad (if accessible)
Kora Day 1—Darchen to Dirapuk Monastery (4,920 m)—18 km, 6–7 hrs
The sacred walk begins. After visiting Yam Dwar (Gate of the God of Death), walk through dry valleys and riverbeds. The trail is steady but long. By evening, arrive at Dirapuk, with the dramatic north face of Mount Kailash standing before you.
Highlights:
- Yam Dwar blessings
- Majestic views of Kailash
- Sleep beneath the sacred peak
Kora Day 2—Dirapuk to Zutulpuk via Dolma La Pass (5,645 m)—22 km, 8–9 hrs
The most physically demanding day. You’ll climb to the top of Dolma La Pass, the spiritual high point of the Kora. Pause among hundreds of fluttering prayer flags. Descend steeply past Gauri Kund, said to be where Goddess Parvati bathed.
Highlights:
- Dolma La Pass (emotional and physical peak)
- Gauri Kund—mythical bathing lake
- Overnight in simple lodge or tent
Today’s walk is easy and scenic. After finishing the Kora, you’ll reunite with your team in Darchen and drive back to Saga for a warm meal and well-deserved rest.
Highlights:
- Completion of the sacred pilgrimage
- A sense of peace and transformation
Retrace your route through the Tibetan landscape. After days of intense spiritual and physical challenge, today is for rest, reflection, and recovery.
Highlights:
- Quiet drive
- Final night in Tibet
After crossing the border, drive back to Kathmandu. The journey ends, but the inner transformation will stay with you forever.
Highlights:
- Scenic ride through Himalayan foothills
- Arrival back to city life with a renewed soul
Cost Includes
- Osho World Adventure printed t-shirt.
- English speaking Nepal tour leader, Tibetan guide, Porters and Sherpa Staff for cooking.
- DINNER
- One day Yoga and meditation course with Lunch and dinner.
- All kind of land transportation in Tibet and Nepal (In Tibet Toyota Land Cruiser).
- All documents such as entrance fees, travel permit, government taxes, etc in Nepal & Tibet.
- Three nights accommodation in Kathmandu at 3 star hotel with breakfast.
- Kathmandu sightseeing with cultural tour guide as per Itinerary.
- Welcome and Farewell Dinner in Kathmandu with Nepali cultural dance show.
- All accommodation in Tibet.
- Sleeping bag, Down Jacket and Duffle Bags.
- Airport pickups and drops.
- Breakfast
- All vegetarian meals while on Yatra, Oxygen in each land cruiser, Yak and Yakman for luggage
Cost Excludes
- All meals, like lunch, dinner, etc, in Nepal
- Any kind of tips for the Staff (10% of the Yatra cost is customary).
- Horse rental while on Parikrama (around $US200/person) or personal porter (around $US150).
- Nepal VISA cost, which will be charged at Tribhuvan International Airport.
- Emergency evacuation costs (Cost for rental of a land cruiser).
- Extra cost due to natural calamities and hiring additional transportation and porters.
- Medical and Rescue insurance is recommended.
- Travel Insurance
- International Airfare from Home – Kathmandu – Home.
- Any additional meals in Kathmandu
- A Tibet VISA costs which is $US90/person, due upon arrival.
- Extra night accommodation in Tibetan lodges (except mentioned in the itinerary).
Notes
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Near public transportation
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
- Traveler pickup is offered
Our airport representative will pick you up from Kathmandu International airport and transfer you to the hotel. Your guide will meet you to brief about the trip.Airports- Tribhuvan Airport, Kathmandu Nepal
- You can present either a paper or an electronic voucher for this activity.
What do I need to bring?
Essential Packing List for Mount Kailash Pilgrimage Clothing
- 1 warm down jacket (windproof & insulated)
- 1 lightweight fleece or thermal jacket
- 2–3 quick-dry trekking shirts (long & short sleeve)
- 2 pairs of trekking pants (convertible pants ideal)
- Thermal base layers (top & bottom)
- Waterproof shell jacket and pants (Gore-Tex or similar)
- Warm hat/beanie & sun hat with neck cover
- Buff or scarf (for dust & wind protection)
- 4–5 pairs of trekking socks (wool or synthetic)
- Innerwear (quick-dry preferred)
- Gloves (1 warm insulated + 1 light inner pair)
Footwear
- Sturdy trekking boots (well broken-in)
- Lightweight camp shoes or sandals
- Extra laces and blister pads
Sleeping & Personal Gear
- Warm sleeping bag (rated to -10°C to -15°C)
- Sleeping bag liner (optional but adds warmth)
- Travel pillow or inflatable pillow
- Towel (quick-dry)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
Personal Hygiene & Toiletries
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo (biodegradable)
- Wet wipes and toilet paper (must-have)
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+) and lip balm (UV-protective)
- Moisturizer & hand sanitizer
- Basic feminine hygiene products (if applicable)
Health & Safety
- Personal first aid kit (with Diamox, pain relievers, band-aids)
- Water purification tablets or portable filter
- Electrolyte powder/ORS
- High-altitude medication (consult your doctor)
- Face masks (dust & hygiene)
- Emergency contact card with blood type
Day Pack Essentials
- 25–30L daypack with rain cover
- Water bottles (2L total) or hydration bladder
- Sunglasses (UV-protection)
- Trekking poles (adjustable, collapsible)
- Camera or smartphone with extra power bank
- Snacks (nuts, protein bars, dried fruits)
Documents & Money
- Original passport with valid Chinese visa
- Printed Tibet Travel Permit (provided by your operator)
- Copies of all permits and ID
- Extra passport photos
- Cash in CNY (Yuan)—ATMs are scarce in remote areas
Spiritual Items (Optional but Meaningful)
- Mala (prayer beads)
- Prayer flags or khata (ceremonial scarf)
- Small offering items or symbolic tokens
Pro Tips
- Dress in layers: weather shifts quickly at altitude.
- Avoid cotton—opt for moisture-wicking synthetics or wool.
- Pack light but smart—mules/porters may carry your duffel bag, but you’ll still need your essentials in a daypack.
- Practice with your boots and gear beforehand.
Know more before you go
Minimum age of participants is: 10