Overview
Tibet Kailash Tours typically begin with a scenic drive or flight from Lhasa, the capital city of Tibet, to the town of Darchen, the starting point of the Kailash kora (circumambulation). From Darchen, pilgrims and travelers embark on a challenging trek around Mount Kailash, following a sacred path that spans approximately 52 kilometers over three days. Along the way, they encounter sacred sites, monasteries, and breathtaking vistas, making offerings, chanting mantras, and immersing themselves in prayer and meditation.
Best Season
The best time to undertake Tibet Kailash Tours is during the summer months, from May to September, when the weather is relatively mild and the pilgrimage route is accessible. During this time, travelers can enjoy clear skies, favorable temperatures, and stunning views of the Himalayas and the Tibetan Plateau. However, it's essential to be prepared for varying weather conditions, including occasional rainfall and sudden changes in temperature, especially during the monsoon season.
Highlights
Mount Kailash Parikrama: The highlight of Tibet Kailash Tours is undoubtedly the sacred circumambulation of Mount Kailash, known as the Kailash kora. Pilgrims and travelers experience a profound sense of reverence and connection to the sacred mountain as they walk in the footsteps of ancient sages and seekers, seeking blessings and spiritual purification.
Sacred Sites: Along the pilgrimage route, participants encounter numerous sacred sites, including the Tarboche Flagpole, Yam Dwar (the gateway to the afterlife), and Gauri Kund (the lake associated with the goddess Parvati). These sites are steeped in myth and legend, inspiring pilgrims to offer prayers, make offerings, and seek blessings for themselves and their loved ones.
Cultural Immersion: Tibet Kailash Tours offer participants the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich culture and traditions of Tibet, interacting with local Tibetan communities, monks, and pilgrims along the way. Travelers gain insight into Tibetan Buddhism, art, and daily life, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Tibetan culture.
Natural Beauty: The pilgrimage route around Mount Kailash offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, pristine lakes, and vast grasslands, providing travelers with moments of awe and inspiration amidst the serene beauty of the Himalayas and the Tibetan Plateau.
Inner Transformation: As pilgrims and travelers embark on the spiritual journey of Tibet Kailash Tours, they undergo a process of inner transformation, purifying their minds, hearts, and souls through devotion, prayer, and self-reflection. The pilgrimage offers a sacred space for personal growth, healing, and enlightenment, leaving participants profoundly changed and spiritually rejuvenated.
Accommodation
Accommodation during Tibet Kailash Tours varies depending on the itinerary and route chosen by the pilgrimage organizer. In Darchen and other towns along the pilgrimage route, travelers can find basic guesthouses or tented camps, providing simple amenities such as bedding, meals, and hot showers. In remote areas, accommodations may be more basic, with options such as tented camps or homestays, offering an authentic experience of Tibetan hospitality and culture amidst the rugged beauty of the Himalayas.
Trip Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel.
Traditional dinner in the evening.
Day 2 : Sightseeing in Kathmandu,
Sightseeing in Kathmandu, visiting Boudnath, Pashapatinath, and Patan. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Day 3 : Breakfast and drive to the border.
Meet your Tibetan guide and proceed to Nyalam. Overnight at Nyalam guest house.
Day 4 : Acclimatization day in Nyalam with half-day trekking.
Overnight at Nyalam guest house.
Day 5 : Breakfast and drive to Saga.
Visit Melarepa caves en route. Overnight in Saga guest house.
Day 6 : Drive to Manasarovar. Overnight in a guest house.
Day 7 : Drive to Darchen. Overnight in a guest house.
Day 8 : Begin the first day of the Kora.
Hike to Dirapuk monastery and explore the north face of Kailash. Overnight in a guest house.
Day 9 : Continue the second day of the Kora, trekking to ZutulPuk Monastery.
Overnight at a guest house.
Day 10 : Complete the third day of the Kora, return to Darchen, and proceed to Lake Manasarovar.
Visit Chiu monastery and optionally the hot springs. Overnight in a guest house.
Day 11 : Breakfast and drive back to Saga. Overnight in a guest house.
Day 12 : Drive to Shigatse and check-in at a 3-star hotel. Free time.
Day 13 : Visit Tashilunpo Monastery and drive to Gyangdze.
Visit Gyangdze Dzong and Pelkor Chode Monastery. Continue driving to Lhasa and overnight in a 3-star hotel.
Day 14 : Full day sightseeing in Lhasa, visiting Potala Palace and Dgokhang Monastery.
Day 15 : Another full day sightseeing in Lhasa. Visit Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery.
Day 16 : Drive to Tingri. Overnight at a 2-star hotel.
Day 17 : Visit Ronbuk Monastery in the early morning to witness the sunrise.
Breakfast and drive to the border. Cross the border and drive to Last Resort base. Overnight at Last Resort base.
Day 18 : Breakfast and drive back to Kathmandu. Free day in Kathmandu.
Day 19 : Departure from Kathmandu.
Check-out from the hotel and transfer to the airport.