Mount Kailash Kora Trek & Lhasa Tour – 15-Day Itinerary, Cost & Travel Guide

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Mount Kailash Kora Trek & Lhasa Tour Highlights
  • Explore the spiritual heart of Tibet with a guided tour through Lhasa, the ancient capital.
  • Visit iconic Tibetan landmarks including Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street.
  • Drive through the stunning Tibetan Plateau, crossing high mountain passes with spectacular views.
  • Witness sacred Lake Manasarovar, one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world at 4,590 meters.
  • Complete the 3-day Mount Kailash Kora, a 52-km spiritual trek around the holiest mountain in Asia.
  • Experience Tibetan culture and Buddhist rituals in remote monasteries like Dira Phuk and Zutul Phuk.
  • Cross the high-altitude Dolma La Pass (5,630m) – the toughest and most rewarding part of the kora.
  • Participate in a transformative spiritual journey alongside Buddhist and Hindu pilgrims.
  • Fully supported overland journey from Lhasa to Kailash and back in comfortable 4WD vehicles.
  • Witness breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, vast plateaus, turquoise lakes, and yak caravans.
Mount Kailash Kora Tour Overview

The Mount Kailash Kora Trek & Lhasa Tour – 15 Days is a spiritually powerful journey through the sacred landscapes of Tibet, blending ancient culture, high-altitude adventure, and profound pilgrimage.

The experience begins in Kathmandu, where you’re welcomed and prepared for your flight across the Himalayas into the mystical land of Lhasa, the heart of Tibetan culture. In Lhasa, you’ll explore UNESCO-listed landmarks like the Potala Palace, once the winter home of the Dalai Lama, and the revered Jokhang Temple, surrounded by pilgrims circling the Barkhor Street with spinning prayer wheels and muttered mantras.

From Lhasa, the tour follows a scenic overland route across the Tibetan Plateau, passing glittering turquoise lakes like Yamdrok Tso, vast alpine valleys, and majestic snow-capped peaks. You’ll visit historic monasteries such as Tashi Lhunpo in Shigatse, Pelkor Chode in Gyantse, and the remote Rongbuk Monastery, near Everest Base Camp.

The spiritual highlight of the trip is the Mount Kailash Kora, a 3-day pilgrimage trek around the sacred 6,638-meter Mount Kailash, considered the spiritual center of the universe in four major religions—Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon.

The kora begins near the holy Lake Manasarovar, believed to purify sins and fulfill wishes. You’ll trek alongside devoted pilgrims from India, Nepal, and Tibet, passing ancient meditation caves and prayer-flag-draped passes. The most challenging and sacred point is Drolma La Pass (5,630m)—a breathtaking high pass where spiritual renewal is believed to occur.

This high-altitude journey demands physical and mental resilience, but each step is filled with meaning. Many pilgrims believe one full circuit of the mountain can erase a lifetime of karma, making this trek an act of deep devotion.

Evenings are spent in modest guesthouses or tented camps, sharing meals, stories, and silent awe beneath an expansive Himalayan sky. The blend of Tibetan hospitality, powerful energy, and untouched mountain landscapes makes every day unforgettable.

More than a trek, this is a soul-stirring experience through some of the world’s most sacred terrain—where spirituality, culture, and the power of nature meet.

Short itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu

Day 2: Flight to Lhasa – Transfer & Rest

Day 3: Lhasa Sightseeing – Drepung Monastery, Tibet Museum & Norbulingka

Day 4: Lhasa Sightseeing – Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple & Barkhor Street

Day 5: Drive Lhasa to Shigatse via Yamdrok Lake, Karola Glacier & Gyantse

Day 6: Visit Tashi Lhunpo Monastery – Drive to Pasum via Gyatso La Pass

Day 7: Visit Everest Basecamp & Rongbuk Monastery – Drive to Saga

Day 8: Drive Saga to Darchen via Mayum La Pass & Lake Peikutso

Day 9: Mt. Kailash Kora – Trek from Darchen to Dirapuk (15km)

Day 10: Trek from Dirapuk to Zutulpuk via Drolma La Pass (22km)

Day 11: Complete Kora – Drive to Lake Manasarovar & continue to Zhongba

Day 12: Drive Zhongba to Gyirong Town

Day 13: Exit Tibet at Rasuwagadhi – Drive to Kathmandu

Day 14: Full-day Kathmandu Sightseeing – Pashupatinath, Boudhanath, Bhaktapur

Day 15: Departure from Kathmandu

 ▶️Need help booking your trip? Watch our step-by-step video guide.

 

Inclusions in the Mount Kailash Kora Trek

🏨 Accommodation & Meals

  • 3 nights in Kathmandu (4-star hotel, breakfast included).
  • 11 nights in mountain teahouses (twin-sharing basis).
  • All meals during trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
  • Welcome dinners in Kathmandu.
  • Tea/coffee during all meals on trek.

🚐 Transportation

  • Private Vehicles(arrival and departure), sightseeing as per itinerary.

👨‍🏫 Professional Guide & Porter Service

  • Experienced English-speaking Trekking guide.
  • English-speaking local guide for Kathmandu sightseeing
  • Porter service (1 porter for 2 trekkers, max 25kg).
  • Guide and porter insurance, meals, and accommodation.
  • Comprehensive first aid kit with guide.

📋 Permits & Documentation

  • TIbet entry permits.
  • TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card.
  • All government taxes and fees.
  • Tibet & Nepal Monuments Entrance fees.

Price Excludes

Personal Expenses

  • International airfare to/from Nepal
  • Visa fee to tibet
  • Nepal entry visa fees ($30-50)
  • Travel and medical insurance (mandatory)
  • Personal trekking equipment and gear
  • Extra night accommodation due to early arrival/late departure

Additional Costs During Trek

  • Hot showers in teahouses ($3-5 per use)
  • WiFi and battery charging ($3-5 per use)
  • Laundry services ($5-10 per kg)
  • Hot drinks and snacks outside planned meals
  • Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks

Optional Services

  • Helicopter rescue in emergency (insurance should cover)
  • Additional porters for personal items
  • Single room supplements ($20-30 per night)
  • Tips for guide and porters (customary $100-150 total)
  • Photography/video fees at monasteries
Itinerary

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

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, where you’ll be greeted by our team and transferred to your hotel in Thamel, Kathmandu’s vibrant tourist hub. Spend the evening relaxing or exploring the bustling markets and local eateries.
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

Day 2: Kathmandu Sightseeing & Visa Preparation

Enjoy a guided city tour of UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple). Afternoon free to rest or shop for gear while we finalize your Tibet travel permits and Chinese group visa.
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu

Day 3: Fly Kathmandu to Lhasa (3,650 m)

Take a scenic trans-Himalayan flight into Lhasa, Tibet’s spiritual capital. You’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Rest and hydrate to adjust to the altitude.
Overnight: Hotel in Lhasa

Day 4: Explore Lhasa – Potala Palace & Jokhang Temple

Visit the iconic Potala Palace, once the residence of the Dalai Lama. Then walk through the spiritual core of Lhasa—Jokhang Temple—and observe pilgrims on the sacred Barkhor circuit.
Overnight: Hotel in Lhasa

Day 5: Lhasa – Drepung & Sera Monasteries

Discover two of Tibet’s most important monasteries—Drepung, a former monastic university, and Sera, known for its lively monk debates. This is a cultural immersion into Tibetan Buddhism.
Overnight: Hotel in Lhasa

Day 6: Lhasa to Shigatse via Gyantse (3,900 m)

A full-day scenic drive across high passes and turquoise lakes, including Yamdrok Tso Lake. Visit Gyantse’s Pelkor Chode Monastery and the Kumbum Stupa before continuing to Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city.
Overnight: Hotel in Shigatse

Day 7: Shigatse to Saga (4,640 m)

Drive across the vast Tibetan plateau toward the small town of Saga, passing high-altitude plains, nomadic settlements, and stunning Himalayan vistas.
Overnight: Guesthouse or local lodge in Saga

Day 8: Saga to Lake Manasarovar (4,590 m)

Journey to the holy Lake Manasarovar, one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world, revered by Hindus and Buddhists. Enjoy a tranquil walk along its shores with views of Mount Kailash in the distance.
Overnight: Guesthouse near Lake Manasarovar

Day 9: Lake Manasarovar to Darchen (4,575 m)

After a sacred dip or walk at Manasarovar, drive to Darchen, the gateway to Mount Kailash. Final gear check and briefing for your kora trek.
Overnight: Guesthouse in Darchen

Day 10: Trek to Dirapuk Monastery (4,920 m)

Begin the 3-day Mount Kailash Kora (circuit). Trek along the Lha Chu Valley with views of the north face of Kailash. Reach Dirapuk Monastery, nestled at the foot of the mountain.
Overnight: Simple lodge in Dirapuk

Day 11: Cross Drolma La Pass (5,630 m) – Trek to Zuthulphuk (4,790 m)

This is the toughest but most sacred day. Cross the Drolma La Pass, marked by fluttering prayer flags. Descend past spiritual sites like Gauri Kund and arrive at Zuthulphuk Monastery.
Overnight: Lodge or camp in Zuthulphuk

Day 12: Finish Kora & Drive to Saga

Complete the last leg of the Kailash Kora and return to Darchen, where your vehicle awaits. Drive back to Saga for a hot meal and well-earned rest.
Overnight: Guesthouse or lodge in Saga

Day 13: Drive to Shigatse

Retrace your route across the Tibetan plateau with beautiful scenery and photo stops.
Overnight: Hotel in Shigatse

Day 14: Shigatse to Lhasa

Drive back to Lhasa, stopping along the way to visit local monasteries or villages. Free time in Lhasa to shop or relax.
Overnight: Hotel in Lhasa

Day 15: Fly Lhasa to Kathmandu – Departure

Transfer to Gonggar Airport for your flight back to Kathmandu, where your trip ends—or extend your stay in Nepal.
Optional: Add-on tours in Bhaktapur, Patan, or Pokhara.

Photos
Kailash Kora Tour Map

Mount Kailash Tour from Nepal – Spiritual Adventure Awaits

Best Season to Travel

  • Spring (April to June): Mild weather, blooming flowers, and ideal trekking conditions around Mount Kailash.

  • Autumn (September to October): Stable weather, clear skies, and vibrant Tibetan festivals.

  • Winter (November to March): Cold temperatures, snow-covered trails, suitable only for experienced trekkers and travelers prepared for harsh conditions.

  • Monsoon (July to August): Rain and slippery trails; generally not recommended.

Highlights of the Tour

  • Mount Kailash (6,638 m): Sacred mountain revered by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers; the centerpiece of the trek.

  • Kailash Kora (Circumambulation): A challenging 52 km pilgrimage trek around Mount Kailash, passing high mountain passes like Dolma La (5,630 m).

  • Lake Manasarovar: One of the highest freshwater lakes in the world, considered holy and offering stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains.

  • Lhasa City: Explore the spiritual and cultural heart of Tibet, including the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street.

  • Tibetan Monasteries and Culture: Experience ancient monasteries, prayer wheels, and vibrant Tibetan Buddhist traditions.

  • High Mountain Passes and Remote Landscapes: Dramatic scenery with panoramic views of the Himalayas and Tibetan Plateau.

Packing List Essentials

  • Warm layered clothing and insulated jackets (temperatures drop significantly at high altitudes)

  • Waterproof jacket and pants for unpredictable weather

  • Sturdy, well-broken-in trekking boots

  • Thermal base layers and gloves for cold conditions

  • Trekking poles for steep and rough terrain

  • Sleeping bag rated for sub-zero temperatures

  • Sunglasses with UV protection and high SPF sunscreen

  • Headlamp and extra batteries

  • Water bottles and purification tablets or filters

  • Personal first aid kit including altitude sickness medication

  • Snacks and energy bars for long trekking days

  • Camera or smartphone for capturing spiritual and natural beauty

  • Power bank or portable solar charger

FAQ's for Kailash Kora Tour

What is the best time to do the Kailash Kora Trek?

The best seasons are May to September, when the weather is dry, clear, and less windy. The Saga Dawa Festival in May/June is a spiritual highlight.

How difficult is the Kailash Kora Trek?

It is considered a moderately to strenuous trek, primarily due to the high elevation and the Drolma La Pass (5,630m). However, it’s manageable with proper preparation.

Do I need a permit to visit Mount Kailash?

Yes, you need a Tibet Travel Permit, Alien Travel Permit, and a Military Permit. These will be arranged by your registered tour operator.

Is independent travel allowed in Tibet?

No, independent travel is not allowed. You must book through an authorized tour operator and travel with a guide and itinerary.

What is the altitude of Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar?

Mount Kailash stands at 6,638 meters, and Lake Manasarovar is located at around 4,590 meters.

How do we travel from Kathmandu to Tibet?

You’ll fly from Kathmandu to Lhasa, and the tour includes all overland transport in a private vehicle across Tibet.

What kind of accommodation is available during the trek?

Expect a mix of hotels, guesthouses, and basic lodges. Facilities are simple, especially near Kailash and Manasarovar.

Are vegetarian meals available throughout the trip?

Yes, vegetarian options are available. Tibetan and Nepali cuisine often features dal bhat, noodles, rice, and vegetable curries.

Is there a risk of altitude sickness?

Yes, due to elevations above 4,500 meters, there’s a moderate risk. Proper acclimatization, hydration, and slow pacing help prevent it.

What is the maximum elevation on the trek?

The highest point is Drolma La Pass at 5,630 meters, crossed on Day 11 of the trek.

Are Indian pilgrims allowed on the same route?

Yes, Indian citizens can do the Kailash Kora through Nepal using this route, but different permit processes may apply.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes, comprehensive travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking, evacuation, and medical emergencies is mandatory.

Is the Mount Kailash trek religious or cultural?

It’s both. The Kora is a spiritual pilgrimage for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon practitioners, as well as a cultural journey through Tibetan villages and monasteries.

How many days is the actual Kailash Kora trek?

The Kora is a 3-day trek, starting and ending in Darchen.

Can I see Everest on this tour?

No, this route does not include Mount Everest, but you’ll enjoy stunning Himalayan views throughout the journey.

Are there toilets and hot showers?

In cities like Lhasa and Shigatse, yes. In remote areas, expect basic or shared toilets, and hot water may not be available consistently.

What currency should I carry?

Carry Chinese Yuan (RMB). ATMs are available in Lhasa and Shigatse, but cash is best for remote areas.

What documents do I need?

You’ll need a valid passport, Chinese Group Visa, and all Tibet permits—all of which will be handled by your tour company.

Is photography allowed at sacred sites?

Photography is allowed in most outdoor areas, but inside monasteries or during rituals, it may be restricted. Always ask your guide.

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