Mount Kailash Kora Tour

Embark on a 12-day overland pilgrimage from Kathmandu to the revered Mount Kailash in Tibet—a journey deeply respected by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers. This high-altitude adventure will guide you through sacred landscapes, including Lake Manasarovar, Dolma La Pass, and the 52-kilometre trekking route around Mount Kailash (the Kora). The itinerary includes acclimatisation days at Lake Manasarovar and Dirapuk Monastery, ensuring both spiritual enrichment and safety. Experience the breathtaking beauty of western Tibet as you travel along this ancient path of devotion.

Trip Highlights

Complete the full 52 km sacred Kora around Mount Kailash
Witness the serene beauty of Lake Manasarovar, one of Asia’s holiest lakes
Cross the formidable Dolma La Pass at 5,630m
Rest days at high-altitude locations for safer acclimatization
Travel overland from Nepal to Tibet — no domestic flights needed

Mount Kailash Kora Tour Itinerary (12 Days)

Day 1: Drive from Kathmandu to Kyirong (2,700m)

Scenic drive through the Langtang region to the Rasuwagadhi border
Enter Tibet and continue to Kyirong, a quiet Himalayan town
Overnight: Guesthouse | Drive: 7–8 hours

Day 2: Drive from Kyirong to Saga (4,500m)

Ascend through the Tibetan plateau with panoramic mountain views
Travel alongside high-altitude rivers and grazing herds
Overnight: Hotel | Drive: 6–7 hours

Day 3: Drive to Lake Manasarovar (4,558m)

Reach the sacred shores of Lake Manasarovar with the first views of Mount Kailash
Spend the evening in quiet spiritual reflection
Overnight: Guesthouse | Drive: 6–7 hours

Day 4: Acclimatization at Lake Manasarovar

Rest day to adjust to high altitude
Optional walk around the lake and visit to Chiu Monastery
Overnight: Guesthouse

Day 5: Drive to Darchen (4,600m) – Base of Kailash

Short drive to the starting point of the Kailash Kora
Prepare physically and mentally for the trek
Overnight: Lodge | Drive: 2 hours

Day 6: Trek to Dirapuk Monastery (4,900m) – Kora Day 1

Begin the sacred circumambulation of Mount Kailash
Trek through the Valley of the Gods to the base of the north face
Overnight: Guesthouse | Trek: 18 km, 6–7 hours

Day 7: Acclimatization Day at Dirapuk

Critical rest day before the toughest leg of the Kora
Optional light hike with views of the snow-covered peaks
Overnight: Guesthouse

Day 8: Trek to Zuthulphuk via Dolma La Pass (5,630m) – Kora Day 2

Cross Dolma La, the highest point of the pilgrimage
Descend past sacred Gauri Kund and dramatic high-altitude terrain
Overnight: Guesthouse | Trek: 22 km, 8–9 hours

Day 9: Complete the Kora and Drive to Darchen – Kora Day 3

Finish the final stretch of the Kailash Kora
Drive back to Darchen for rest and reflection
Overnight: Lodge | Trek: 10 km, 3–4 hours

Day 10: Drive to Saga

Retrace your path across the sweeping Tibetan plateau
Long scenic drive through open landscapes
Overnight: Hotel | Drive: 7–8 hours

Day 11: Drive to Kyirong

Descend toward the greener valleys near the border
Final night in Tibet
Overnight: Guesthouse | Drive: 5–6 hours

Day 12: Return Drive to Kathmandu

Cross the border back into Nepal
Drive to Kathmandu and conclude your pilgrimage
Drive: 7–8 hours

What's Included in Our Package

All ground transport between Kathmandu and Mount Kailash
Chinese Group Visa and Tibet Travel Permits
Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar entry permits
11 nights accommodation in basic guesthouses and hotels
All vegetarian meals in Tibet (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Professional English-speaking Tibetan guide throughout
Yak or porter support during the Kailash Kora (1 bag per person)
Oxygen cylinder and basic first aid kit
Completion certificate for Mount Kailash Kora
All government taxes and service charges

What's Not Included in Our Package

Nepal visa fee (for non-Nepali citizens)
Travel insurance (must cover high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation)
Sleeping bag, trekking clothing, and other personal gear
Bottled drinks, snacks, Wi-Fi, and hot showers
Meals during the drive days and while in Kathmandu
Tips for guide, driver, and yak/porter staff
Emergency evacuation costs

Gear List

Clothing

Thermal base layers and insulated mid-layers
Waterproof and windproof outer jacket
Warm down jacket for Dolma La day
Trekking pants and fleece
Extra socks and underwear

Footwear

Broken-in trekking boots
Comfortable sandals or slip-ons for guesthouses
Gaiters (optional, for snow on the pass)

Accessories

Sunglasses with UV protection
Sun hat and woolen cap
Lightweight gloves and insulated gloves
Scarf or neck gaiter

Toiletries & Health

Sunscreen (SPF 30+) and lip balm
Toothbrush, toothpaste, and biodegradable soap
Wet wipes and toilet paper
Basic personal medicines and altitude sickness tablets
Hand sanitizer

Electronics & Documents

Passport with Nepal visa and extra passport photos
Printed Chinese Group Visa and Tibet permit copies
Camera, extra batteries, and charger
Mobile phone and power bank
Travel insurance documentation

Tips & Considerations

Altitude acclimatization is crucial—stay hydrated and don’t rush
Carry your own high-energy snacks for trekking days
Weather is unpredictable near Dolma La—pack well and layer
Respect Tibetan customs and dress modestly
Pack light but don’t skip essentials—yaks/porters carry only 1 bag per person

Reach Out to Us!

Book Your Mount Kailash Kora Tour – 12 Days from Kathmandu Now!

Embark on a transformative journey that transcends a typical trip—this is a spiritual adventure that few undertake, but one that leaves a lasting impression. With decades of specialised experience in Tibetan overland logistics, our expert team ensures your journey is not only safe but also rich in meaning and unforgettable experiences. Looking to enhance your visit to Lake Manasarovar? Interested in a jeep-assisted Kora? Need an expedited return route? You have the freedom to choose—we’ll tailor your journey to fit your desires. Our customizable itineraries are designed to align with your pace, priorities, and personal goals, ensuring a unique travel experience that meets your individual needs.