The Kailash Mansarovar Tours and Trek offers a sacred journey to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and spiritual significance. Explore remote Tibetan terrain, experience cultural richness, and walk the revered kora around the holy mountain for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Destination
Tibet
Duration
16 Days
Trip Difficulty
Strenuous
Activities
Trek/Tours
Accommodation
Hotel/Guesthouse
Meals
B.L.D
Max. Elevation
20m.
Group Size
Min. 4 Pax
BEST TIME
April - June & Sept - Nov
Kailash Mansarovar Tours takes you to the holy Mount Kailash and the sacred Mansarovar Lake in remote western Tibet. A sacred pilgrimage destination of Hindus, Jains, Buddhists, and Bons, Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar are revered and worshipped by followers of these faiths.
Mount Kailash is the abode of Lord Shiva, one of the three major gods in the Hindu religion. According to the Hindu religious texts, he stays at Kailash with his consort (goddess Parvati), sons, and followers.
For Jains, the mountain is sacred because the first Jain Tirthankara, Rishabadeva, attained enlightenment here. Buddhists consider Mount Kailash as Mount Meru - the center of the universe. It is also the place where Milarepa (a Buddhist saint) meditated. Practitioners of Bon religion regard the mountain as the 'axis mundi' or the point connecting the earth to the heavens.
The beautiful Lake Mansarovar stands under the shadow of Mount Kailash. It is fed by the glacier of Mount Kailash, Surrounded by brown hills and frozen peaks; this heavenly lake is said to have originated in Brahma's (the Hindu god of creation) mind. Before getting to Mount Kailash, you stop by this lake to worship or soak in the views.
Your Kailash Mansarovar Tours begins from Kathmandu with a sightseeing tour to the city's world heritage sites. Drive to the Nepal-Tibet border on a private vehicle and after completing the immigration formalities, enter Tibet. You meet your Tibetan driver and guide in Kerung, the border town on the Tibetan side.
Tibet, also known as the Roof of the World, the average elevation in Tibet is 4,380 meters. As you will be traveling to places above 5000 meters, it's important to allow your body to adapt to the rarefied air. From Kerung, you head to Saga and onward to Lake Mansarovar.
Like a blue jewel surrounded by snowcapped peaks, the crystal clear water of Mansarovar appears spellbinding. After meditating and taking pictures of the holy lake, you move towards Darchen.
Your Kailash trek or kora begins from Tarboche, which lies a short drive away from Darchen. It takes three days to circle the sacred mountain. You can complete the kora or circumambulation on foot or hire a pony or a horse to take you around. Enjoy views of all four faces of Mount Kailash's summit while walking around the mountain.
The final leg of the trek involves crossing a high mountain pass, the Dolma La. Situated at an elevation of 5630 meters, this is the highest point of your trip. Close to Dolma La is Shiva Sthal, a place where pilgrims leave behind a personal item to signify leaving behind their old life and starting anew.
After the kora is complete, you descend to Darchen and drive to Saga via Mansarovar. Then you will be driven to Kerung and return to Kathmandu via the same route.
The best months for Kailash Mansarovar Tours are May, June, July, August, and September. During these months, the days are warm and the nights cold. Most sections of the trail remain free of snow and ice, making it easier to navigate.
The duration of the trip is thirteen days. The overland journey from Kathmandu to the base of Mount Kailash and back will be on a private vehicle. If you plan to complete a kora around Mount Kailash, then it will take three days. The trek starts from Tarboche. There are not many steep ascents, but the trail is gravely and filled with loose stones. The most difficult part of the trek is the crossing of Dolma La.
You will be staying overnight at local lodges or guesthouses. During the trek, you may have to stay in dormitories due to the lack of accommodation around Mount Kailash. Vegetarian meals are available at all stops. As this tour takes you to one of the remotest corners of Tibet, the facilities en route will be basic.
Kailash Mansarovar Tours is for those who are physically fit and healthy. You will be traveling through places where oxygen levels are low and nighttime temperatures dip below freezing point. Those with respiratory and heart ailments should consult their physicians before booking this tour.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive at Kathmandu Airport (1,350M)
Upon arrival, our team will greet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day settling in and enjoying free time to explore the vibrant streets of Thamel or relax at the hotel. Our team will collect all necessary documents for the Chinese visa application and handle the submission on Monday. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 02: Kathmandu – Sundarijal Drive and Trek to Chisapani (2,150M) – 5 Hours, 10 KM
After breakfast, take a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Sundarijal to begin your trek. The trail passes through the lush Shivapuri National Park, offering beautiful views of the Bagmati River, diverse flora and fauna, and a serene environment perfect for acclimatization. Arrive at Chisapani in the evening and rest at a local guesthouse. Overnight at the guesthouse. (Lunch and dinner included)
Day 03: Chisapani to Nagarkot (2,195M) – 15 KM Hike, 6 Hours – Drive Back to Kathmandu
Start your day with a hike through dense forests and charming villages. Along the trail, enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest, and observe local wildlife in their natural habitat. Upon reaching Nagarkot, take in its breathtaking scenery before driving back to Kathmandu. Overnight at the hotel. (Breakfast and lunch included)
Day 04: Sightseeing Tour of Kathmandu
Spend the day exploring the cultural and historical highlights of Kathmandu Valley. Visit iconic landmarks such as Kathmandu Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Swayambhunath Temple. In the evening, attend a comprehensive briefing for the Mount Kailash tour to finalize all preparations. Overnight at the hotel. (Breakfast included)
Day 05: Drive from Kathmandu to Kerung (2,700M) – 155 KM, 8 Hours
After breakfast, begin your journey towards the Nepal-Tibet border. Enjoy scenic views of lush green hills, terraced farmlands, and the snow-capped peaks of the Langtang range during the drive. Upon reaching the border at Rasuwagadhi, complete immigration formalities and meet your Tibetan guide. Cross the Friendship Bridge and continue to Kerung Village. Overnight at a guesthouse. (Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included)
Day 06: Acclimatization Day in Kerung (2,700M)
Spend the day acclimatizing to the altitude. Take a short hike in the surrounding hills to enjoy breathtaking views of the Tibetan plateau and prepare for the journey ahead. This rest day helps ensure a smooth transition to higher altitudes. Overnight at a guesthouse. (Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included)
Day 07: Drive from Kerung to Saga Town (4,450M) – 230 KM, 6 Hours
Drive through the stunning Tibetan plateau, crossing high mountain passes and witnessing panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges. Along the way, stop at several viewpoints to capture the beauty of the landscape. Arrive in Saga Town in the evening. Overnight at a guesthouse. (Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included)
Day 08: Drive from Saga to Lake Manasarovar (4,590M) – 450-500 KM, 6-7 Hours
Continue your journey across the Tibetan plateau, passing through small Tibetan villages. Upon reaching the sacred Lake Manasarovar, take a holy dip or meditate by its tranquil shores, revered for their spiritual significance. Enjoy the serene beauty of the lake surrounded by majestic peaks. Overnight at a guesthouse. (Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included)
Day 09: Lake Manasarovar to Darchen (4,800M) – 40 KM, 2 Hours
In the morning, explore the holy Lake Manasarovar and its surroundings, including Chui Gompa (if time permits). Afterward, drive to Darchen, the base camp for the Mount Kailash trek. During pilgrimage season, this area is filled with vibrant activity as it serves as the starting point for the Kailash kora. Overnight at a guesthouse. (Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included)
Day 10: Start Kailash Trek (Day 1) – Trek to Dirapuk (4,920M), 16 KM, 6-7 Hours
After breakfast, take a short drive to Tarbuche, the trek's starting point. Begin the first day of your holy kora (circumambulation) around Mount Kailash. Pass through Yama Dwar (Gate of the God of Death) and witness the west face of Mount Kailash. Trek alongside cascading streams, waterfalls, and prayer flags until you reach Dirapuk Monastery.
Overnight at a guesthouse. (Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included)
Day 11: Kailash Trek (Day 2) – Trek to Zutulpuk (4,850M), 22 KM, 8-9 Hours
This is the most challenging day of the trek as you ascend to Dolma-La Pass (5,700M), the highest point of the journey. Pause at the pass to enjoy the views and visit Gaurikunda, a sacred lake. Descend through steep trails and continue along a river valley to Zutulpuk Monastery, famous for its cave where Milarepa meditated.
Overnight at a guesthouse. (Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included)
Day 12: Kailash Trek (Day 3) – Trek to the Valley’s End and Drive to Saga, 15 KM Trek, 4-5 Hours
Complete the final stretch of your kora with a gentle descent through the valley. Meet your vehicle at the endpoint and begin the drive back towards Saga. Stop briefly at Lake Manasarovar to collect holy water and reflect on the spiritual journey.
Overnight at a guesthouse. (Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included)
Day 13: Drive from Saga to Kerung – 230 KM, 6-7 Hours
Retrace your steps back to Kerung, enjoying views of Pigutso Lake and the Himalayan range.
Overnight at a guesthouse. (Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included)
Day 14: Drive from Kerung to Kathmandu – 155 KM, 7-8 Hours
Cross the Friendship Bridge and complete Nepal immigration formalities. Drive through the scenic countryside back to Kathmandu. Relax at your hotel upon arrival.
Overnight at the hotel. (Breakfast included)
Day 15: Free Day in Kathmandu
Spend the day exploring Kathmandu at your leisure. You can shop for souvenirs, visit additional landmarks, or relax at the hotel. This buffer day also accounts for any potential delays in the trip.
Overnight at the hotel. (Breakfast included)
Day 16: Final Departure
After breakfast, our team will transfer you to the airport for your final departure. We hope you leave with cherished memories of your Mount Kailash journey. (Breakfast included)
If the above Kailash Mansarovar Tours and Trek itinerary does not meet your needs, we can design individualized travel plans based on your preferences and specifications.
All ground transfers by private vehicle in Nepal and during the Tibet tour.
Four nights’ accommodation with breakfast at a 3-star category hotel in Kathmandu.
Kathmandu Valley sightseeing tours, including a professional tour guide and entry fees to all sites.
One night’s accommodation at teahouses with full-board meals in Chisapani.
Hotel/guesthouse accommodation during the Tibet tour as per the itinerary, including basic guesthouses during the Kailash Parikrama/Kora.
Full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the Tibet tour, prepared by our dedicated kitchen team.
Tibet travel visa and visa fee.
All entry fees to monasteries and sites in Tibet.
All necessary Tibet entry permits and road permits.
One local Tibetan English-speaking guide for the entire tour.
Yaks to carry trekking luggage during the Kailash Kora.
All applicable taxes and service charges.
Cost Excludes
Lunches and dinners in Kathmandu.
Travel insurance.
International airfare.
Nepal entry visa.
All cold drinks, including alcoholic beverages, mineral water, soft drinks (Coke, Fanta, juice, etc.).
Shopping, laundry, internet, and phone bills.
Personal trekking equipment.
Use of supplemental oxygen at teahouses in case of emergency.
Extra costs for transportation, porters, or other services caused by landslides, snowfall, or other unforeseen circumstances.
Services other than those specified in the itinerary.
Additional stays in Kathmandu or any other place not listed in the itinerary.
Tips for trekking crew members, guides, and drivers.
Know Before You Go
Tibet Visa Process
You need to arrive in Kathmandu in advance to allow sufficient time for the Tibet travel visa process. The visa application will be submitted to the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu, which operates only on weekdays (Monday to Friday). The processing requires three working days, after which the visa will be ready for collection.
During the processing period, you will follow the planned activities, including sightseeing in Kathmandu and a short trek to nearby areas, as outlined in your itinerary. Our team will handle the entire visa application process on your behalf, so you will not need to visit the embassy.
Documents for Visa Application
Original passport: Must be valid for at least six months. Passport-sized photographs: Must meet the Chinese Embassy's requirements. Visa form: This will be provided for you to complete at our office or hotel upon arrival. Passport copy: Required at the time of booking your trip.
This process ensures the visa is ready on time, allowing your journey to Tibet to proceed as planned. Please feel free to contact us with any questions or for additional assistance.
Travellers‘ Reviews
Read our genuine feedback from past travelers with Nepal Hiking Team sourced from TripAdvisor, Google, Facebook, and Trustpilot.
Kailash/Mansarovar Yatra with Nepal Hiking Team
Best Care Team for Spiritual Kailash Pilgrimage
We did the Kailash/Mansarovar Yatra, and the Nepal Hiking Team was very kind and supportive. The guides and sherpas were just like family, and the whole team played a really meaningful role in our trip. We truly felt so motivated by their care that this yatra felt a little bit easier. Could not recommend them enough for your next spiritual pilgrimage! Jai mata di.
R
- Excellent
Ms. Ruchi T
26th Jul 2025
14-day pilgrimage trek to Kailash Manasarovar.
Our team of 11 women decided on a 14-day pilgrimage trek to Kailash Manasarovar. We selected Nepal Hiking Team because a couple of our teammates had prior experience with them during the Everest Base Camp trek.
I am very glad we chose them.
This team went above and beyond to make our stay and yatra comfortable. From pursuing visas to handling immigration glitches, everything was managed professionally.
The hotel staff where we stayed took really good care of our hospitality.
During the 10-day actual trek, when one of the teammates fell sick and we had to lose a guide because of it, the remaining crew stretched themselves to ensure our concerns were at rest.
We were offered good hot food every day, and they ensured we stayed hydrated with warm water.
I am sure to use their services in the future.
M
- Excellent
Ms. Milauni D
23rd Jul 2025
Journey to Mansarovar and Kailash
A Journey of Soul and Friendship
Dear Nepal Hiking Team,
Thank you for being such a wonderful part of our journey to Mansarovar and Kailash. From the moment we met, your warmth and gentle spirit made us feel at ease—as if we were travelling with our own.
Your team welcomed us with an open heart. Applewood became our home away from home in the last 15 days. It brought a sense of care, calm, and familiarity that made each moment more meaningful. You and the team touched our hearts in ways that words can hardly express.
We are deeply grateful for the way you connected with each of us—with respect, lightness, and sincerity. Your guidance wasn’t just about logistics; it was about heart, and that made all the difference.
Thank you, truly, for making this journey so comfy on this sacred path. You’ll always hold a special place in our memories of Kailash.
With warmth and gratitude,
Hike queen buddies 🤗
P
- Excellent
Ms. Pratibha Jamdag
23rd Jul 2025
Mt. Kailash/Manasarovar Yatra - 2025
Mt. Kailash/Manosarovar Yatra done well
I recently completed the Mt. Kailash/Manasarovar Yatra with Nepal Hiking Team, and I want to share my heartfelt appreciation for their exceptional Nepali staff.
While the Tibetan guides left something to be desired, the Nepali team more than made up for it. From start to finish, they were professional, caring, and went out of their way to ensure our comfort and safety during this challenging and spiritually significant journey.
A special shout-out to our amazing Nepali team members — Dawa, Purba, Barghi, and Dipendra Dhakal — who were not only hardworking but also warm, attentive, and encouraging every step of the way. Their dedication made all the difference.
I’d also like to give special thanks to Gangaji, whose flexibility, responsiveness, and kindness made the entire experience smooth and stress-free, despite our multiple requests to change the itinerary and accommodations.
If you’re planning this once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage, I highly recommend going with Nepal Hiking Team — their Nepali staff are true professionals who genuinely care about their guests.
M
- Excellent
Ms. Manjula N
4th Jul 2025
Outstanding Service from Nepal Hiking Team-A True Gem!
I recently used Nepal Hiking Team to organize my trip to Tibet, and I couldn’t be happier with the experience. From start to finish, their communication was clear, prompt, and professional, which made the entire planning process smooth and stress-free.
The trip itself was very well-organized, and everything went exactly as planned. The pricing was reasonable, especially given the high level of service provided. What really stood out was their exceptional customer service—friendly, attentive, and always ready to help.
Nepal Hiking Team is truly a gem in the travel industry. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a reliable and trustworthy company to plan their adventure in the region.
