Journey to Mount Kailash

Journey to Mount Kailash

10 Views
18 Days From

$5429

Journey to Mount Kailash

18 Days Starting in Chengdu, China and ending in Kathmandu, Nepal

Visiting: Lhasa, Gyantse, Shigatse, Saga, Lake Manasarovar, Darchen, Mount Kailash, Kyirong

Tour operator:

World Expeditions

Tour code:

JTK

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

6 - 12

Physical rating:

Moderate

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Sightseeing

From: $5429

NB: Prices correct on 05-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable "Journey to Mount Kailash," a sacred adventure through the heart of Tibet. Join devout pilgrims on a supported trek around Mount Kailash, revered as the mythical Mount Meru, and experience the vibrant Saga Dawa festival. Traverse the sweeping landscapes of the Tibetan Plateau, marvel at the majestic Himalayas, and explore the cultural treasures of Lhasa, including the Potala Palace, the former home of the Dalai Lama. This epic journey culminates with an overland traverse from the Tibetan Plateau to Kathmandu, offering a blend of spiritual enrichment and breathtaking natural beauty.

Highlights

  • Join devout pilgrims in a supported trek around Mount Kailash, considered to be the mythical Mount Meru

  • Experience the wonder of the Saga Dawa festival

  • Journey across the Tibetan Plateau with sweeping Himalaya views

  • Explore Lhasa, including the Potala, former home of the Dalai Lama

  • Traverse the Himalaya overland from the Tibetan Plateau to Kathmandu

  • Visit the famous Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse

  • Enjoy the spectacular views of Lake Manasarovar

  • Witness the arrival of Tibetan pilgrims for the Saga Dawa Festival in Darchen

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Arrive Chengdu, China

Accommodation Name: Buddha Zen Hotel or similar

You will be met by a representative of World Expeditions and transferred to the hotel. Remainder of the afternoon/evening at leisure.
Overnight: Buddha Zen Hotel or similar

Day 2 : Fly Chengdu To Lhasa (3,670M)

Location: Lhasa

Accommodation Name: Kyichu Hotel, Dekang Hotel Lhasa or Tarui Pozhang Hotel or similar

This morning we are transferred to the airport for the flight to Lhasa. You will be advised which flight to book as the group are required to arrive into Tibet together due to the group permit. On arrival at Lhasa Airport you will be transferred to the city – a drive that takes around two hours. Due to the high altitude, you need to take it easy when you arrive in Lhasa. (Chengdu to Lhasa flights not included in trip cost.) A briefing will be given around 5pm by your guide, where arrangements will be made for the distribution of your kit bag, sleeping bag and down/fibrefill jacket.
Drive: 65km, ~2hrs
Altitude: 3,670m
Overnight: Kyichu Hotel, Dekang Hotel Lhasa or Tarui Pozhang Hotel or similar

Day 3 : In Lhasa (3,670M)

Location: Lhasa

Accommodation Name: Kyichu Hotel, Dekang Hotel Lhasa or Tarui Pozhang Hotel or similar

The following two days are scheduled to appreciate the long and rich cultural history of Lhasa. We include visits to the Jokhang, the Norbulingka (the Summer Palace of the Dalai Lama), and the famous Potala Palace. We also include visits to the nearby monasteries of Drepung and Sera. The Jokhang The Old City of Lhasa was built around the Jokhang, the most sacred temple in Tibet.
Drive: N/A
Altitude: 3,670m
Overnight: Kyichu Hotel, Dekang Hotel Lhasa or Tarui Pozhang Hotel or similar

Day 5 : Commence Drive Towards Kailash To Gyantse (3,900M)

Location: Gyantse

Accommodation Name: Gyantse Hotel or similar

Today we commence our drive across the Tibetan plateau, which is perhaps much more mountainous than you might expect, towards Kailash. It is approximately 1300kms from Lhasa to Darchen, at the base of the Kailash. There is a newly imposed lower speed limit of 60km/hr on the highways outside of Lhasa, which means plenty of time to take in the extraordinary Himalayan views!
From Lhasa we drive down the Kyichu Valley to the Yarlung Tsangpo (Brahmaputra) before ascending to the Khamba La (Khamba Pass) at 4900m. The views are outstanding – in the foreground is the vast freshwater Yamdrok Tso or Turquoise Lake, while to the south the snow-capped ranges merge with the main Himalayan range. We drive around the lake before crossing the Karo La (5200m) to reach Gyantse. We visit the remarkable octagonal chorten, the Kumbum (or Pango Chorten) – built in 1444 on a series of four levels, each of which contains separate chapels.
Note: while we endevour to stick to the projected itinerary, travel in Tibet is by nature unpredictable and a flexible approach is always needed.
Drive: 290km, ~8-9hrs
Altitude: 3,900m
Overnight: Gyantse Hotel or similar

Day 6 : Drive To Shigatse (3,800M)

Location: Shigatse

Accommodation Name: Wanrun Gardan Hotel, Gesar Hotel Shigatse, Shiga Yangcha Hotel or similar

In Shigatse we visit the famous Tashilhunpo Monastery, founded in 1447 by the very first Dalai Lama. Since the time of the fifth Dalai Lama in 1642, the abbot of Tashilhunpo has been known as the Panchen Lama (literally the 'Great Scholar'). Over the generations, the Panchen Lama became established as the chief spiritual and temporal adviser of the huge western portion of Tibet known as Tsang, and at times was even considered a rival to the Dalai Lama.
Drive: 90km, ~3hrs
Altitude: 3,800m
Overnight: Wanrun Gardan Hotel, Gesar Hotel Shigatse, Shiga Yangcha Hotel or similar

Day 7 : Drive Across The Tibetan Plateau To Saga (4,640M)

Location: Saga

Accommodation Name: Luofuling Hotel or similar

The drive to Kailash is a spectacular but demanding adventure across the roof of the world. From Shigatse, we head west across the Tibetan plataeu to the trading town of Saga. Roads in Tibet are under continuous development and are very different from what you might be used to at home. At times they can be very slow moving but this is all part of the adventure in this remote part of the Himalayas.
Drive: 450km, ~9-10hrs
Altitude: 4,500m
Overnight: Luofuling Hotel or similar

Day 8 : Drive Across The Tibetan Plateau To Lake Manasarovar (4,600M)

Location: Lake Manasarovar

Accommodation Name: Tibetan Guest House or similar

Today will be a demanding drive. We will pass through the settlement of Pharang then traverse a number of sandy sections en route to the to Chui Gompa on the shores of Lake Mansarovar, our overnight stop.
Drive: 240km, ~5hrs
Altitude: 4,600m
Overnight: Tibetan Guest House or similar

Day 9 : Drive Across The Tibetan Plateau To Darchen (4,575M)

Location: Darchen

Accommodation Name: Himalaya Kailash Hotel or similar

Today's drive is a short one so this morning we can take our time to enjoy the truly spectacular views of Lake Manasarovar, also called Mapam Yumtso. This high altitude freshwater lake is fed by melt water from the Kailash Glaciers near Mount Kailash. The lake is revered a sacred place in four religions, Bön, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism. After soaking up the magnificent views of the Himalaya, we continue on the final section of this epic and memorable drive across the expansive Tibetan plateau to Darchen, a small village in Purang County. Darchen is situated right in front of the sacred mountain, Mount Kailash, and is the starting point for pilgrimages in the region
Drive: 40km, ~1hr
Altitude: 4,575m
Overnight: Himalaya Kailash Hotel or similar

Day 10 : In Darchen, Prelude Of Saga Dawa Festival (4,575M)

Location: Darchen

Accommodation Name: Himalaya Kailash Hotel or similar

We witness the arrival of many Tibetan pilgrims for the Saga Dawa Festival who may have spent up to a month travelling across Tibet to attend the festival. An ideal day to explore the trails in the vicinity of Mt Kailash that afford fine views of the South Face of this sacred mountain.
Drive: N/A
Altitude: 4,575m
Overnight: Himalaya Kailash Hotel or similar

Day 11 : Saga Dawa Festival, Commence Mount Kailash Trek To Dera Phuk (5,000M)

Location: Mount Kailash

Accommodation Name: Derapuk Xixiabangma Guest House or similar

After the full moon the monks offer their prayers and blessings to the huge gathering before the ceremonial pole is slowly lifted by means of support poles. The event takes several hours creating a feeling of awe and expectation before the pole is finally put into place. It is then time for the more devout pilgrims to commence the 'kora' or pilgrimage around Mt Kailash, a 49km trek that we will undertake together with many of the pilgrims. In the afternoon we commence our trek – the 'kora', around the base of Mt Kailash. We follow in the footsteps of the pilgrims, guiding us past a dome outcrop known as “Padasambhavas Tomb" before the valley widens out below the Dri Puk Monastery. Please note that the accommodation during the trek is very basic but following the ban on camping by the authorities, there are no alternatives.
Drive: ~30mins
Trek: ~6hrs
Altitude: 5,000m
Overnight: Derapuk Xixiabangma Guest House or similar

Day 12 : Trek Around Mount Kailash To Zutrul Phuk Via Dolma La (5,600M)

Location: Mount Kailash

Accommodation Name: Zuthul Puk Monastery Guesthouse or similar

Today, we trek the the second stage and climb to the Dolma La (5,600m). En route the trail passes an area referred to as Shive Tso which is marked by a large collection of discarded clothing – where pilgrims are said to undertake a symbolic death, leaving an item of clothing behind before proceeding to the pass. The final 200m climb to the pass is not unduly strenuous while on the pass the pilgrims pay homage to the gods of the pass. It is a very special occasion particularly at this time of the year. From the top of the pass we head down the valley to the small monastery of Zutrul Puk. The site known as the miracle cave marks the place where the celebrated Buddhist teacher Milarepa performed miracles in a contest with the high priest of the Bon Po's, the original animistic religion of Tibet before Buddhism. Milarepa won the contest but consented for the followers of Bon Po to continue their own pilgrimage around Mt Kailash in an anti clockwise fashion, a tradition that still holds today.
Drive: N/A
Trek: ~10hrs walking
Altitude: 4,900m
Overnight: Zuthul Puk Monastery Guesthouse or similar

Day 13 : Complete Mount Kailash Trek (4,575M)

Location: Darchen

Accommodation Name: Himalaya Kailash Hotel or similar

From Zutrul Puk it is a further 4 hours trek across the open plains and past lines of mani walls and prayer flags which brings up back to the small town of Darchen. We have the afternoon to savour our final views towards Kailash we are reminded of the sacredness of this region for the many pilgrims that venture here each year.
Drive: N/A
Trek: 4hrs
Altitude: 4,575m
Overnight: Himalaya Kailash Hotel or similar

Day 14 : Drive To Kathmandu Across The Tibetan Plateau (4,640M)

Location: Saga

Accommodation Name: Luofuling Hotel or similar

In total, it is a four day drive to Kathmandu from Hor Chu. Following the 2015 earthquake the former friendship highway was badly damaged resulting in its continued closure. This new route was opened initially to ensure that trade between Nepal and China could continue. In 2017 the border post was opened to tourists allowing for travel along this legendary overland route to recommence. This road is sure to add to the sense of adventure as it traverses parts of both Tibet and Nepal new to tourism. Road conditions along this route are changeable as improvements to the road continue to ensure that it can accommodate the traffic using it. Tonight's overnight stop will be in Saga.
Drive: ~9hrs
Altitude: 4,640m
Overnight: Luofuling Hotel or similar

Day 15 : Drive To Kathmandu Across The Tibetan Plateau (4,130M)

Location: Kyirong

Accommodation Name: Kouan Hotel or similar

Continue our drive to Kathmandu. Today we are heading for the border town of Kyirong. Following the 2015 earthquake the former friendship highway was badly damaged resulting in its continued closure. This new route was opened initially to ensure that trade between Nepal and China could continue. In 2017 the border post was opened to tourists allowing for travel along this legendary overland route to recommence. This road is sure to add to the sense of adventure as it traverses parts of both Tibet and Nepal new to tourism. Road conditions along this route are changeable as improvements to the road continue to ensure that it can accommodate the traffic using it.
Drive: ~9-10hrs
Altitude: 4,130m
Overnight: Kouan Hotel or similar

Day 16 : Drive From Kyirong To Kathmandu (1,400M)

Location: Kyirong

Accommodation Name: Radisson Hotel

Today we cross the border into Nepal and complete the final stage of our journey from Lhasa via the Langtang region. It is a fitting conclusion to an epic overland journey and the comfort of the Radisson Hotel in Kathmandu will no doubt be welcomed with open arms.
Drive: 160km, ~6hrs
Altitude: 1,400m
Overnight: Radisson Hotel

Day 17 : In Kathmandu

Accommodation Name: Radisson Hotel

Today you have a full day to explore Kathmandu’s bustling streets and significant landmarks. You may wish to start by exploring the city’s two most important World Heritage Listed spiritual sites: Pashupatinath, Nepal’s most sacred Hindu temple and an important cremation site; and Boudhanath, the largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal and the most sacred Tibetan Buddhist shrine outside of Tibet. Alternatively you could wander through the markets and shops of the busy Thamel precinct or explore some more of the city’s significant sites such as Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) or the World Heritage Listed plazas of Patan, Bhaktapur or Durbar Square.
Drive: N/A
Altitude: 1,400m
Overnight: Radisson Hotel

Day 18 : In Kathmandu, Trip Concludes

After breakfast, your trip concludes.

What's Included

  • Meals

    17 breakfasts, 11 lunches, and 11 dinners are included.

  • Airport Transfers

    Airport transfers are provided if arriving on day 1, 2, and 18.

  • Accommodation

    Good quality accommodation in Chengdu, Lhasa, Shigatse, and Gyantse.

  • Expert Guide

    An expert bilingual guide will accompany the group.

  • Trek Pack

    The use of a World Expeditions trek pack which includes a quality sleeping bag, down or fibre fill jacket, and insulated mat (valued at over US$500).

  • Souvenir Kit Bag

    A souvenir World Expeditions kit bag is provided.

  • Yaks

    Yaks are provided to carry all group equipment.

  • Private Transportation

    Private transportation is included.

  • Group Medical Kit

    A group medical kit is available.

  • Portable Altitude Chamber

    A portable altitude chamber is available for group use.

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What's Not Included

  • Meals Not Included

    Meals not included in the daily itinerary are excluded.

  • Alcoholic and Bottled Drinks

    Alcoholic and bottled drinks are not included.

  • Personal Items

    Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, etc.

    , are not included.

  • Tips

    Tips are not included.

  • Airport and Departure Taxes

    Airport and departure taxes are not included.

  • Visas

    Visas are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included.

Mode of Transport

Private transportation is provided throughout the tour. The journey includes a flight from Chengdu to Lhasa, and extensive overland travel across the Tibetan Plateau to Kathmandu. The roads can be slow-moving and are under continuous development, adding to the adventure.

Accommodation

1 night hotel in Chengdu. As a general rule the further west you travel through Tibet the more basic the accommodation becomes. While we source the best available accommodation for you, there may be times where it will be necessary to stay in very basic lodges utilising multi-share rooms with shared bathroom facilities. Accommodation during the trek is very basic but following the ban on camping by the authorities, there are no alternatives. Single supplements are available for this trip. However, it does not apply to the accommodation at Lake Mansarover (day 8) or to the two nights during the trek during which there is no availability for single accommodation.

What You Carry

In your daypack you will need to carry extra warm clothing (depending on the altitude, location and weather), a rainjacket, water bottle, camera gear, valuables and personal items such as sunscreen, lip-eze etc. Porters and/or yaks carry all group gear.

Grading

To determine the grade of a particular adventure we consider a number of factors. These include the condition of the walking terrain, the altitude, the number of passes crossings and the length of the trek.The three day trek around Kailash is optional. Alternative arrangements can be made if you elect not to undertake the trek. For those that do the trek it is graded moderate due to the high altitude as we ascend to the Dolma La (5630 metres), but short duration of only 3 days. The trail is well defined and given the time spent acclimatising en route to Kailash should not prove to be too challenging.
In order to complete this trek we advise that you undertake regular exercise – 1 hour of swimming, cycling, jogging, three or four times a week and extended periods of exercise during the weekend will accustom you to regular exercise, for at least three months prior to your departure. Hill walking with a daypack is also recommended.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of accommodation can I expect during the trek around Mount Kailash?

    Accommodation during the trek around Mount Kailash is very basic. Following the ban on camping by the authorities, there are no alternatives, and you will stay in basic lodges with multi-share rooms and shared bathroom facilities.

  • What should I carry in my daypack during the trek?

    In your daypack, you should carry extra warm clothing depending on the altitude, location, and weather, a rain jacket, water bottle, camera gear, valuables, and personal items such as sunscreen and lip balm. Porters and/or yaks will carry all group gear.

  • What is the grading of the trek around Mount Kailash?

    The three-day trek around Mount Kailash is graded as moderate due to the high altitude, as you will ascend to the Dolma La at 5,630 meters. However, the trek is of short duration and the trail is well-defined. The time spent acclimatizing en route to Kailash should help in managing the altitude.

  • What kind of physical preparation is recommended for this trek?

    To prepare for this trek, it is advised to undertake regular exercise such as swimming, cycling, or jogging for at least one hour, three or four times a week, along with extended periods of exercise during the weekend. Hill walking with a daypack is also recommended for at least three months prior to your departure.

  • What happens if I choose not to undertake the trek around Mount Kailash?

    The three-day trek around Mount Kailash is optional. If you choose not to undertake the trek, alternative arrangements can be made for you.

  • What is included in the World Expeditions trek pack?

    The World Expeditions trek pack includes a quality sleeping bag, a down or fiber fill jacket, and an insulated mat, valued at over US$500.

  • What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?

    Private transportation is provided throughout the tour, including airport transfers if arriving on day 1, 2, and 18.

  • What kind of meals are included in the tour?

    The tour includes 17 breakfasts, 11 lunches, and 11 dinners.

  • What kind of support is available in case of altitude sickness?

    A portable altitude chamber and bottled oxygen for emergency use are available for the group.

  • What kind of cultural experiences can I expect in Lhasa?

    In Lhasa, you will visit significant cultural sites including the Jokhang Temple, Norbulingka (the Summer Palace of the Dalai Lama), the Potala Palace, and the nearby monasteries of Drepung and Sera.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    We have offices on three continents which means your travelling companions will be just that – international and wonderfully eclectic. Part of small group travel means that although travellers come from various locations and backgrounds, you will be travelling with like-minded companions who, like you, are keen to share the experience and forge lifelong friendships.

  • What about environmental impact?

    We believe that adventure travel revolves around establishing a strong relationship with the people and environments in which we operate. Our responsible travel policies have been carefully developed to ensure that we minimise the impact of our presence and help to protect the regions we visit while contributing positively to the local community.

  • What should I pack?

    Your pre-departure documents include a detailed packing list with items that you need to bring. While most of the equipment for daily activities is included in your tour cost, some items like helmets and hiking boots are best brought from home. The pre-departure documents also include information on layering and recommended brands for various items to ensure you are fully prepared for your trip.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Yes. World Expeditions does not require single travellers to pay a surcharge for travelling alone on the vast majority of our trips. Our holidays are primarily on a twin share basis, so if you are joining the group as a solo traveller, we will match you with someone of your own gender. The choice is yours however; if you prefer not to share, we do offer single supplements for private occupancy.

  • Are tips included in my trip price?

    Tips are not included in the tour cost. Tipping is a personal thing, do not worry about how much, or when, to tip. Tipping guidelines are provided for certain destinations in our pre departure information upon booking, however the best advice will be provided by your tour leader.

  • Am I suited to small-group travel?

    We recognise that many of our travellers have not been on a ‘group trip’ before. Yet what our departures provide is both structure and flexibility, allowing you plenty of freedom within the framework of the itinerary. You’ll find that with our maximum group size at 16, you’ll travel in a minimal impact style with a great group of like-minded travellers.

  • Can you advise which vaccinations are recommended?

    While our pre-departure kit provides information on vaccinations, we suggest that you consult your doctor, local government inoculation centre or a travel medical specialist in order to get the most current advice regarding vaccination requirements.

Reviews of this operator

Sue Gunningham (Google Reviewer)  

Remote Northern Flinders Ranges (AUS)...

09-May-2021

Remote Northern Flinders Ranges (AUS) Camel Trek showed me the red, rugged heart of our country while removing all the chatter of life, leaving me free to walk, think and just 'be.' Ryan, the cameleer has an amazing affinity with his camels. It was a trek worth doing again.

kaja vovk (Google Reviewer)  

Due to an amazing experience...

30-Sep-2024

Due to an amazing experience with trekking in Bhutan organized by World Expeditions, I decided to join them this time for trekking in Tajikistan and visiting the Silk Road cities in Uzbekistan. Tajikistan is a true gem and an unexpected discovery. I was fascinated by the combination of trekking and the cultural experience of the cities of the Silk Road. The trek takes place in a beautiful part of the Pamir Mountains, full of mountain lakes and stunning views. Although it lasts only 5 days, it should not be underestimated. The guides, equipment, and organization were flawless. A special charm is added to this trip by homestays and overnight stays in yurts. Samarkand and Bukhara impressed me with their history and magnificent architecture.

Deb Martinez (Google Reviewer)  

Just completed a huge bucket...

08-Nov-2023

Just completed a huge bucket list item - trekking to Mt Everest base camp! The World Expeditions guides and support people were absolutely FANTASTIC. Without Balram, Dakmon and Amber’s support, knowledge and continuous encouragement I’m not sure I would have made it (not mention our 4 porters who hauled our bags to every campsite). Huge shoutout to these wonderful people and the many behind the scenes who made it possible for me to complete a 50+ year dream. Thanks team!!

Paul Screen (Google Reviewer)  

After three failed attempts to...

28-Jun-2022

After three failed attempts to visit Nepal and Everest Base Camp due to the pandemic, the UK team couldn't help enough with the forth rescheduling and assistance leading up and throughout the epic trip to Nepal. It was a truly wonderful experience from the moment we were picked up by the hotel staff and meeting Samde our guide, a lovely man who couldn’t do enough for us. These guys make the trip happen and without them would make it near on impossible. I did the trek for a charity close to me, Asthma UK and something I've suffered with for over 40 years. Raising a large amount of money to help with future research. Until the next world adventure, thank you once again to you and your colleagues in Nepal. I will be back at some point!

lin smith (Google Reviewer)  

I went on a trek...

13-Nov-2019

I went on a trek to the Himalayan region of Nepal. World Expeditions organised everything, from the flights, to the food and accommodation. We had guides and sherpas, all provided and the itinerary was second to none. I went with a grup of nine other friends and we all agreed that World Expeditions made it the holiday of a lifetime for every one of us.

Thomas Gravina (Google Reviewer)  

I have recently booked a...

08-Sep-2019

I have recently booked a hike to the top of Kilimanjaro through World Expeditions. The booking experience was very straightforward and the communication could not have been better. I booked quite last minute and everything on their side was very clear and timely - which made it for a stress-free experience. Thanks for your professionalism! The trip was not World Expeditions exclusive, which means it was done by a local company. I think it is great that World Expeditions works with local companies to fulfil their trip. I really enjoyed being able to connect with local communities and hear about the story of Tanzania. African Walking Company was great - the atmosphere was safe and friendly, yet serious about the risks. Guide, assistant guides and porters/helpers were all extremely helpful and enhanced the experience from start to finish!

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Sunday - Wednesday

Jun 01, 2025 - Jun 18, 2025
$5429

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    World Expeditions allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform world expeditions, 70 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    World Expeditions requires a minimum deposit of 400 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of world expeditions charges.

    Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.