Kailash Manasarovar Yatra

Ngari Prefecture, Tibet Autonomous Region of China

Tour snapshot

Duration:
13 Days

Min Group Size:
2 persons

Location:
Tibet

Tour Type:
Kailash Manasarovar Yatra

Overview

The diamond-shaped mountain in the western Himalayan ranges of the Tibetan Autonomous Region, Mount Kailash, standing magnificently at an elevation of 6638 m, is believed to be one of the holiest mountains in the world that meets ancient spirituality with awe-inspiring landscapes.

The 30-million-year-old mountain range formed during the early stages of the formation of the Himalayan mountains is said to be the sacred abode of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The mountain has extreme significance in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon. The region also houses the largest freshwater lake, the Manasarovar Lake, at an altitude of 4590 m, which is immensely pristine and carries massive spiritual relevance.

The lake expands across an area of approximately 412 sq. km. and is not so far from the mighty Mount Kailash. The lake stands out as the purest water body, as pure as sapphire, which extends visitors the look into the deeper points of the lake. The route of the amazing trip starts with a beautiful bus ride from Kathmandu to the Nepal-China border at Kyirung.

Highlights

Witness the awe-inspiring Himalayas, including sacred Mount Kailash, a divine spectacle.
Immerse in the beauty of Holy Manasarovar Lake and cleanse the soul with its pure waters.
Embark on a revered pilgrimage to Lord Shiva's abode, a transformative odyssey.
Explore ancient villages and monasteries, unveiling rich cultural treasures.
Immerse in sacred seremonies at holy sites, embracing tradition.
Embrace challenges for self-discovery and emerge transformed.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m.)

1,400 m.

First of all, you have to come to Nepal. Representatives from our hotel, the Holy Himalaya Hotel, will come to pick you up at the airport and transfer you to the hotel. We’ll give you orientation about the trek after you have settled in the hotel. After that, you can go for a stroll in the vibrant Thamel market, explore the alleys, and enjoy your evening.

Day 2: Explore Kathmandu (1,400 m.)

1,400 m.

Start your day by visiting iconic sites like Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa. Marvel at their cultural and spiritual significance. Don’t miss Jal Narayan (Sleeping Vishnu), a peaceful spot. You can join a guided tour to learn in-depth stories or explore at your own pace. Take time to shop in local markets for unique souvenirs and experience the vibrant atmosphere of Kathmandu.

Day 3: Drive from Kathmandu (1,400 m.) to Kyirong (2,800 m.) via Syabrubesi (2.880 m.)

2,880 m.

7-8 Hours + 30 Mins

Distance: Ktm-Syabru-Timmure-Kyriong: 112km-18km-24km

Early in the morning, we start our drive via lush hills and rivers en route to Syabrubesi. From here, we drive to the Nepal-Tibet Friendship Bridge, where immigration formalities are completed. Cross the border into Tibet and drive through stunning mountain scenery to Kyirong. The drive is filled with natural beauty mixed with cultural experiences. Rest and acclimatize for the adventures further ahead in Kyirong.

Day 4: Drive from Kyirong (2,800 m.) to Saga (4,400 m.)

5,416 m.

4 hours

Distance: 214km

We begin the exciting drive from Kyirong to Saga as the road winds up through lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls. As the elevation increases while ascending and descending Thong La Pass (5,416 m.), the landscape changes into the vast Tibetan Plateau, with surreal views of the Himalayan range. En route, we cross high mountain passes and see traditional Tibetan houses and seasonal crops dotting the fields. The scenery is breathtaking, and the cultural elements are so unique that one can hardly forget this journey.

Day 5: Drive from Saga (4,400 m.) to Paryang (4,584 m.)

4,900 m.

5-6 Hours

Distance: 240km

We continue onto the Tibetan Plateau, where we find immense stretches of grazing lands, teeming with wild horses and sheep along with domestic animals. The drive offers stunning views of the Brahmaputra River Valley, with its serene waters meandering their way through the arid landscape. On the way, we will see ancient ruins and fortresses that tell us about the rich history of the region. The peaceful scenery accompanies us until Paryang, where we will stop for the night.

Day 6: Drive from Paryang (4,584 m.) to Manasarovar (4,600 m.)

5,210 m.

5-6 Hours

Distance: 260km

We set off for a drive through some beautiful scenery across the high Mayum La Pass, at 5,210 meters, with lots of sandy hills and a stunning view of the Himalayan Mountain Range. Further ahead, beautiful lakes make this route an enchanting journey. Finally, we reach the holy Manasarovar Lake, the world's highest brackish lake, situated at 4,558 meters above sea level, with its turquoise water. Believed to be the resting place of Lord Vishnu, the lake is surrounded by sacred sites such as Mt. Kailash, Mt. Gurla-Mandhata, and the mysterious Rakshash Taal. We spend time soaking in the spiritual energy of this holy place before resting for the night.

Day 7: Drive from Manasarovar to Darchen (4,670 m.)

4,670 m.

1.5 Hours

Distance: 40km

We start the day with an early visit to the holy Manasarovar Lake. With serene surroundings, we perform a puja and behold the breathtaking beauty of Mount Kailash mirrored in the turquoise waters of the lake. The next stop at Chiu Monastery adds a spiritual touch amidst the serene atmosphere and panoramic views. Free time provides an opportunity to make an inner pilgrimage via a detour to Nandi. It's a big day of walking that includes visits to the power places of Austapad, Atmalingam, Shapta Rishi Cave, and the Nandi Parikrama. Returning from these most spiritual sites creates a special depth of experience for the return back to Darchen. Rest in Darchen to prepare for your next leg.

Day 8: Drive from Darchen (4,670 m.) to Tarboche (4,750 m.) and trek to Derapuk (Kora Start) (5,000 m.)

5,000 m.

45 Mins Drive, 6-7 Hours Trek

Distance: 8km Drive, 12km Trek

We start our spiritual journey from Tarboche, a place called the "Valley of Gods," by passing a sacred Yamadwar considered a gateway to Mount Kailash. The trekking starts here onward, leading us through the breathtaking river valley with stunning silhouettes of rocky hills. Along the route, we come across the west and north faces of Mount Kailash, spot some marmots and yaks, and see some local activities going on along the Parikrama. The program for people who can’t do the Kora includes relaxing in Darchen and sightseeing in the town. Another option is to take a side trip to Charan Sparsha for an intimate spiritual experience. This 6-kilometer roundtrip takes you past colorful wildflowers and a holy stream directly from Mount Kailash. Up close, one touches the sacred mountain, says prayers, and follows the stream to Charan Sparsha, where worshippers truly connect with the divine energy of this sacred place.

Day 9: Trek from Derapuk 5,000 m. to Jhuthulpuk (4,700 m.) via Dolma La Pass (5,630 m.)

5,630 m.

9-10 hours

Distance: 24km

We start early in the morning for the strenuous trek to Dolma La Pass, which is the highest point of the journey at 5,630 meters. En route, we would cross Shivasthal, a spiritually significant site with prayer flags and offerings. Here, it's believed you leave behind your past and start anew. At Dolma La, we are rewarded with a breathtaking northeast view of Mount Kailash. Down from the pass, the trail leads to the sacred Gaurikunda, a pristine lake revered in Hindu and Buddhist traditions. The trail then cuts through rocky terrain and finally reaches Jhuthulpuk, which has the footprint of Guru Rinpoche, furthering the mystique of the trek. We overnight here, reflecting on the spiritual and physical accomplishments of the day.

Day 10: Trek to Darchen (4,670 m.) and drive to Manasarovar Horque Part (Kora Ends)

4,670 m.

4 Hours Trek and 1 Hour Drive

Distance: 8km Trek and 50km Drive

Today is the last leg of our Kora as we trek from Jhuthulpuk back to Darchen along a stunning river valley. On the trail, wildflowers beset the path and provide an almost serene, although startling, contrast to the raw scenery. Have fine views of Rakchesh Lama, Guru La, and particularly the goliath Mount Gurla Mandhata. Upon arrival at Darchen, it will be considered that the Kora officially ends, which is a big spiritual milestone. From here, we drive to Manasarovar and once again take in the serene beauty of the holy lake. By the end of the trek, the deep spiritual and physical meaning of the journey weighs in our minds.

Day 11: Drive from Horque to Saga (4,400 m.)

5,210 m.

10 Hours

distance: 450km

From Horque, we begin our drive back to Saga via the same route through which we came. The road will take us across huge expanses of mud hills and will feel like we are way into the countryside, as rugged as any terrain will get. It passes through extensive grasslands with yaks and wild animals galore in their home environment. The scenic and serene landscapes of the Tibetan Plateau greet us along our journey to Saga for our night halt.

Day 12: Drive from Saga to Kyirong

5,100 m.

4 hours

distance: 230km

We start driving back towards Kyirong from Saga as we trace back our footsteps on the Tibetan Plateau. This drive gives a range of stunning sights, from open, huge fields to rugged hills and mountain ranges far away. Small Tibetan villages and grazing en route will provide a sneak peek into the way of life here. The drive is calm and serene, with beauty at every turn, which lands us for the overnight stay at Kyirong.

Day 13: Drive from Kyirong to Border and Kathmandu

30 Mins + 7-8 Hours

Distance: Kyirong-Timmure-Syabru-Ktm: 24km-18km-112km

We start our drive from Kyirong back toward the Nepal-Tibet friendship bridge. Cross the border and do the immigration formalities to proceed toward Kathmandu. The scenic drive offers a final view of the Tibetan landscape before entering Nepal. As we approach Kathmandu, the bustling city welcomes us back with its vibrant atmosphere. We rest and reflect on the incredible spiritual journey we've just completed.

Included/Excluded

Airport pick-up and drop-off

Accommodation in a star-rated hotel (Holy Himalaya Hotel or similar) in Kathmandu

Necessary equipment during the trek

Accommodation and full board meal during trek (optional)

Accommodation on a twin-sharing basis

Domestic transportation

Experienced trekking guides and field staff

Necessary permits for the trek

Personal Expenses

Sightseeing entry fees in Kathmandu

Cost incidental to any change in the itinerary

Anything else not mentioned in the inclusion list

Service Fee Only, Explore Nepal Fully!

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FAQs about Kailash Manasarovar Yatra

What accommodation is provided during the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra?

Accommodation varies throughout the journey. In Kathmandu, pilgrims may stay at our own 3-star Holy Himalaya Hotel or choose alternative hotels according to their preference and budget. In major Tibetan towns such as Kerung, Saga, Paryang, and Darchen, we select some of the best available hotels, typically offering comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and hot shower facilities whenever available. At Lake Manasarovar, during the three-day Kailash Parikrama, and in certain remote border areas, accommodation is more basic due to the limited infrastructure in Western Tibet. Despite the simple facilities, warm blankets and bedding are provided, ensuring a comfortable night's rest in the high-altitude Himalayan environment.

What food and drinks are available during the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra?

A variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals are available throughout the journey. Tibetan, Nepali, Indian, and Chinese dishes are commonly served. But for the specially focused Hindu Yatri, we have a self-catering team that follows your needs while you are at high altitude. Since 1992, the team at the Holy Himalaya has provided healthy foods that are needed to conquer the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra. Typical meals: hot drinks, including soup items, are always possible while you are in a hotel or lodge. Breakfast: porridge with honey sweetener, puri and bhaji, upma, bread toast with a spread of jam and honey Typical Lunch: Rajma curry, veg curry, plain rice, pickles, fruits, and juices. And, while walking (Parikrama) or driving, we will serve packed food. Dinner: Roti with Dal or Vegetable Curry, Plain Rice, Rasam, Sambhar Curry, Pickles, Salads, and Papad

What permits are required for the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra?

Travel to Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar requires several permits issued by the Chinese and Tibetan authorities. These generally include the Tibet Travel Permit, Alien's Travel Permit, Military Permit, and Foreign Affairs Permit. Holy Himalaya Eco Trek arranges all necessary permits and documentation as part of the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra package, allowing pilgrims to focus on their spiritual journey.

How do I travel from Kathmandu to Mount Kailash?

There are two main ways to reach Mount Kailash from Nepal: the overland route via the Kerung border or by flight and helicopter combinations. The most popular option is the overland journey through Kerung, Saga, Lake Manasarovar, and Darchen, offering gradual acclimatization, spectacular Himalayan scenery, and a rich cultural experience. Helicopter and flight options are available for those seeking greater comfort, but proper acclimatization is still essential due to the high altitude.

What is the best time to visit Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar?

The best season is from May to September when weather conditions are generally favorable and road access is reliable. The Saga Dawa Festival period is especially popular among pilgrims.

Can senior citizens join the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra?

Yes. Many senior pilgrims successfully complete the yatra each year. Those with health concerns should consult their doctor before travel. Horses and support services are available for the Kailash Parikrama.

What is the altitude of Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar?

Mount Kailash rises to approximately 6,638 meters (21,778 feet), while Lake Manasarovar sits at an elevation of about 4,590 meters (15,060 feet). The highest point reached during the pilgrimage is Dolma La Pass at 5,630 meters (18,471 feet).

Is altitude sickness a concern during the Kailash Yatra?

Yes. The route travels through high-altitude regions of Tibet. Proper acclimatization, hydration, and a gradual ascent help reduce the risk. Our itinerary is designed to allow sufficient time for adjustment to altitude.

Can I hire a horse or porter for the Kailash Parikrama?

Yes. Horses and personal helpers can be hired locally for pilgrims who require additional support during the three-day Kailash Parikrama.

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