Overview
The Mount Kailash Mansarovar Tour from Nepal is a sacred pilgrimage that takes travelers through the mystical landscapes of Tibet to the holy Mount Kailash (6,638m) and Lake Mansarovar (4,590m). Unlike the traditional Indian route via Lipulekh Pass, this journey begins in Kathmandu, Nepal, offering a more gradual ascent and better acclimatization opportunities.
This pilgrimage is considered one of the most spiritually significant journeys in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon traditions. Devotees believe that circumambulating (parikrama) Mount Kailash (52 km in 3 days) and bathing in Mansarovar Lake cleanse sins and bring liberation (moksha). The trek combines devotion, adventure, and breathtaking Himalayan scenery.
The Nepal route is more accessible for international travelers, with smoother logistics, better road conditions, and comfortable stays in guesthouses. The journey includes visits to sacred sites like Yam Dwar, Asthapad, and Tirthapuri, along with stunning views of the Tibetan plateau.
Pilgrims and trekkers experience a unique blend of Tibetan Buddhist culture, serene high-altitude lakes, and the majestic presence of Mount Kailash—the unclimbed peak revered as the axis of the universe.
Geographic Uniqueness: Mount Kailash’s four sheer faces (south—Pearl, north—Gold, etc.) align with cardinal directions, a rare geological phenomenon.
Historical Context: First documented by explorer Sven Hedin in 1907, but untouched by climbers due to its sanctity.
Why Choose the Nepal Route for Kailash Mansarovar in 2025/26?
- Easier Acclimatization: Gradual altitude gain via Lhasa or direct flight to Nepalgunj reduces AMS risks.
- Better Infrastructure: Improved roads, hotels, and medical facilities compared to the Indian route.
- Helicopter Option Available: For those unable to trek, flights from Nepalgunj to Simikot/Hilsa shorten the journey.
- Small Group & Private Tours: More personalized experiences with expert guides.
- Auspicious Year: 2025-26 is considered highly favorable for spiritual journeys.
- Permit Advantage: Nepal route avoids Indian permit quotas (limited to 18 batches/year via Lipulekh)
- Helicopter Details: Helicopter option reduces trekking to just 2 days (vs. 3-day kora) with flights between Simikot-Hilsa.
Tour Route & Accessibility (Nepal to Tibet)
1. Kathmandu to Lhasa (Flight) – Overland to Kailash
- Route:
- Day 1-3: Kathmandu → Fly to Lhasa (3,650m) – Acclimatization & sightseeing (Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple).
- Day 4-6: Drive to Shigatse → Saga → Lake Mansarovar (4,590m).
- Day 7-9: Kailash Parikrama (3-day trek via Drolma La Pass – 5,636m).
- Day 10-11: Return to Kathmandu via flight or road.
- Best For: Those wanting proper acclimatization and cultural exploration.
2. Kathmandu to Nepalgunj – Simikot – Hilsa (Quick Entry to Tibet)
- Route:
- Day 1-2: Kathmandu → Nepalgunj → Simikot (by flight).
- Day 3: Fly/Helicopter to Hilsa (Nepal-Tibet border) → Drive to Purang (3,900m).
- Day 4-6: Mansarovar Lake → Kailash Parikrama.
- Day 7-8: Return via same route.
- Best For:Pilgrims seeking a shorter, more direct journey.
3. Kathmandu to Kyirung (Land Route) – Scenic Overland Journey
- Route:
- Day 1: Drive Kathmandu → Kyirung (150 km, 6-7 hrs)
- Day 2: Rest Day in Kyirun
- Day 3: Drive Kyirung → Saga (4,450m, 232 km, 6-7 hrs)
- Day 4: Drive Saga → Paryang (4,558m) → Lake Mansarovar (4,600m, 507 km, 8-9 hrs)
- Day 5: Drive Mansarovar → Darchen (4,560m, 40 km, 1 hr)
- Day 6: Trek Darchen → Dirapuk (5,000m, 12 km, 5-6 hrs)
- Day 7: Trek Dirapuk → Zuthulphuk (4,820m, 18 km, 7-8 hrs) via Drolma La Pass (5,636m)
- Day 8: Trek Zuthulphuk → Darchen (8 km, 3-4 hrs) → Drive to Saga
- Day 9: Drive Saga → Kyirung
- Day 10: Drive Kyirung → Kathmandu
- Best For:
- Travelers preferring a land-based journey with gradual acclimatization.
- Those wanting to avoid flights and experience the Nepal-Tibet border scenery.
- Budget-conscious pilgrims (no helicopter/flight costs).
Road Conditions: 2025 upgrades: Blacktopped roads from Kyirung to Saga (reduced dust/journey time).
Border Crossings: Rasuwagadhi border now has faster immigration (Nepal/Tibet) with e-gates for groups.
Key Advantages:
✔ Less expensive than Lhasa or helicopter routes.
✔ Cultural immersion in Tibetan border towns.
✔ Flexible for private or group tours.
Comparison with Other Routes
| Feature | Kyirung Route | Lhasa Route | Helicopter Route |
| Starting Point | Kathmandu by road | Kathmandu → Lhasa (flight | Kathmandu → Nepalgunj → Simikot (flight/helicopter) |
| Acclimatization | Gradual (Kyirung rest day) | Best (3 days in Lhasa) | Fast (risk of AMS) |
| Duration | 10 days | 11-12 days | 7-8 days |
| Cost | $$ (moderate) | $$$ (expensive) | $$$$ (most expensive) |
| Physical Demand | High (long drives + trek) | Moderate (better roads) | Low (minimal trekking) |
Why Choose the Kyirung Route in 2025/26?
- New Road Infrastructure: Smoother highways post-2024 upgrades.
- Fewer Crowds: Less commercialized than Lhasa/Nepalgunj routes.
- Border Flexibility: Rasuwagadhi crossing is more efficient than Lipulekh (India).
- Permits Required:
- Chinese Group Visa + Tibet Travel Permit (arranged via agency).
- Kailash Parikrama Permit.
- Best Time: May-September (avoid monsoon landslides in July-August).
Altitude & Acclimatization
- Highest Point: Drolma La Pass (5,636m).
- Key Altitudes:
- Lhasa (3,650m) – Good for initial acclimatization.
- Lake Mansarovar (4,590m) – First major stop.
- Derapuk Monastery (4,900m) – North face of Kailash.
- Altitude Sickness Prevention:
- Spend 2-3 days in Lhasa/Saga for acclimatization.
- Stay hydrated (3-4L water/day).
- Avoid alcohol & smoking.
- Carry Diamox (consult doctor).
- Supplemental Oxygen: Portable oxygen can be provided at Drolma La Pass (5,636m) for emergency use.
- Acclimatization Activities: Guided breathing exercises and light yoga sessions in Saga to combat AMS
Safety & Preparation Tips
Health & Fitness
- Medical Check-up: Mandatory for heart/lung conditions.
- Training: Cardio, hiking, and endurance exercises 2-3 months prior.
Packing List
- Clothing: Thermal layers, windproof jacket, trekking boots, gloves.
- Gear: Sunglasses (UV 400), trekking poles, headlamp.
- Medicines: Diamox, painkillers, ORS, altitude sickness tablets.
Safety Measures
- Follow the guide’s instructions strictly.
- Walk slowly, avoid overexertion.
- Descend immediately if severe AMS symptoms appear.
Insurance Requirements
- Mandatory coverage: Ensure insurance includes helicopter evacuation up to 6,000m (e.g., World Nomads).
Communication
- Satellite phones available for rent in Kathmandu (Tibet bans GPS devices).
Best Time to Travel (2025/26)
- May to September (Ideal window):
- May-June: Pleasant weather, clear skies.
- July-August: Warmer but occasional rain.
- September: Best for photography, fewer crowds.
- Avoid: October-April (extreme cold, closed passes).
Why is Mount Kailash So Sacred?
- Hindus: Abode of Lord Shiva & Goddess Parvati.
- Buddhists: Represents Mount Meru, the center of the universe.
- Jains: Site of Rishabhadeva’s enlightenment.
- Bon: Sacred mountain of spiritual energy.
- Geographical Wonder:
- Source of 4 rivers (Indus, Sutlej, Brahmaputra, Karnali).
- Unclimbed peak (no human summits allowed).
- Scientific Mysteries: Mansarovar’s water remains fresh despite high salinity in nearby Rakshas Tal.
- Bon Tradition: Bon followers believe 9-story Swastika Mountain lies beneath Kailash.
Pilgrimage Tips from Past Travelers
- Pro Tips:
- Carry dry fruits/nuts—limited snacks en route.
- Wear two socks to prevent blisters during the kora.
- Battery banks are a must—guesthouses often have limited charging options.
Conclusion
The Mount Kailash Mansarovar Tour from Nepal is a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual adventure. With improved logistics in 2025/26, this journey offers a perfect blend of devotion, natural beauty, and Himalayan trekking. Proper preparation and respect for local customs ensure a safe and fulfilling pilgrimage.
Trip Itinerary
Day 1 : Drive Kathmandu → Kyirung (150 km, 6-7 hrs)
Morning: Departure from Kathmandu
- 06:00 AM: Wake-up call, freshen up, and pack last-minute essentials.
- 06:30 AM: Breakfast at the hotel (typically Nepali-style with eggs, toast, porridge, tea/coffee).
- 07:00 AM: Meet the tour guide and group, load luggage into the vehicle (4WD Land Cruiser or similar).
- 07:15 AM: Briefing by the guide about the day’s journey, border procedures, and safety guidelines.
- 07:30 AM: Depart from Kathmandu (exact pickup location depends on the hotel).
Scenic Drive Along Trishuli River Valley
- 07:30 AM - 10:00 AM: Drive along the Kathmandu-Trishuli Highway (Prithvi Highway).
- Pass through Kakani, Naubise, and Galchhi, witnessing terraced farms and rural Nepali life.
- Stop for a short tea break (15-20 mins) at a roadside café (around Malekhu or Muglin).
- Enjoy views of the Trishuli River, lush green hills, and distant Himalayan peaks.
Approaching the Nepal-Tibet Border
- 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Continue driving towards Rasuwagadhi (Syabrubesi area).
- Road becomes steeper and winding as we approach the border.
- Last Nepali checkpoint at Timure (immigration formalities may take 30-45 mins).
- Lunch Stop (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Enjoy a simple meal (dal-bhat, noodles, or fried rice) at a local eatery in Syabrubesi or Rasuwagadhi.
Border Crossing: Nepal (Rasuwagadhi) → China (Kyirung)
- 01:00 PM - 02:30 PM: Complete border formalities.
- Nepal Exit: Hand over passports for stamping at Nepali immigration.
- Cross the Friendship Bridge: Walk (~10 mins) or drive across the bridge into Tibet.
- China Entry: Meet the Tibetan guide, submit passports for Chinese visa/group permit check.
- Luggage inspection (X-ray scan may be done).
- Vehicle Change: Switch to Chinese vehicles (4WD Land Cruisers with Tibetan drivers).
Drive to Kyirung (Tibet) – 30 km (1.5 hrs)
- 02:30 PM - 04:00 PM: Ascend from the border (1,850m) to Kyirung town (2,750m).
- Stunning views of Ganesh Himal, Langtang range, and deep valleys.
- Road is steep, with multiple switchbacks—prepare for possible motion sickness.
- First glimpse of Tibetan landscape: Pine forests, waterfalls, and traditional villages.
Arrival in Kyirung (Kyirong)
- 04:00 PM - 04:30 PM: Check into a local guesthouse (basic but clean, shared bathrooms).
- Hot water may be limited (bucket system or solar-heated).
- Rooms typically have twin beds with thick blankets (nights can be chilly).
Evening in Kyirung
- 05:00 PM: Short acclimatization walk around the town (optional).
- 06:30 PM: Dinner at the guesthouse (Tibetan/Nepali/Chinese dishes—noodles, soup, rice, veggies).
- 07:30 PM: Briefing by the Tibetan guide about next day’s schedule and altitude precautions.
- 08:30 PM: Rest early—tomorrow’s drive is long and high-altitude.
Important Notes for Day 1:
✔ Documents: Keep passport, permits, and money (RMB) easily accessible.
✔ Packing:Daypack with water, snacks, wet wipes, and motion sickness tablets.
✔ Altitude: Kyirung is at 2,750m—drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol.
✔ Connectivity: Limited mobile network (Ncell may work near the border; Chinese SIM needed in Tibet).
Day 2 : Rest Day in Kyirun (2750m)
Morning: Slow Start & Acclimatization
- 07:30 AM (Sleep-in!): First chance to rest past sunrise after days of early departures.
- Bed Check: Basic guesthouse but with thick quilts (no heaters, wear thermals).
- Toilet Situation: Shared Asian squat toilets (keep flip-flops handy).
- 08:30 AM: Leisurely breakfast in the dining room:
- Must-Try: Tibetan butter tea (salty!) + tingmo (steamed buns) with apricot jam.
- Altitude Tip: Drink 2 cups of warm water with lemon to kickstart digestion.
Late Morning: Gentle Exploration (Optional)
10:00 AM: Short acclimatization walk (flat terrain only!):
- Option 1: Kyirong "Downtown" stroll (10-min walk):
- Peek into tiny shops selling Chinese snacks, SIM cards, trekking poles.
- Visit the "Himalayan Pharmacy" for last-minute Diamox or painkillers.
- Option 2: Kyirong Valley Viewpoint (20-min walk):
- Follow the dirt path behind guesthouses to a prayer-flag-covered hill.
- Photography Gold: Vistas of jungle-covered cliffs + snow peaks (if clouds permit).
Midday: Strategic Rest & Hygiene
- 12:00 PM: Lunch at the guesthouse:
- Comfort Food: Garlic noodle soup (helps altitude nausea) + banana (potassium boost).
- 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Critical Recovery Tasks:
- Foot Care: Soak feet in bucket of warm water (ask staff) + blister treatment.
- Gear Triage: Air out sleeping bags, charge power banks (electricity unstable).
- Shower Opportunity: If available, pay extra for 5-min hot shower (often coal-heated).
Afternoon: Cultural Immersion (Low-Energy)
- 3:30 PM: Visit Kyirong Monastery (5-min drive or 25-min walk):
- Special Access: Ask your guide to arrange a blessing from the lama for safe Kailash passage.
- Ritual: Spin prayer wheels clockwise, leave a white khata (scarf) as offering.
- 4:30 PM: Tea House Chill:
- Order sweet milk tea (easier on stomach than butter tea) at a local café.
- Journaling Prompt: Write intentions for the Kailash kora.
Practical Preparations
- 5:30 PM: Last-minute shopping with your guide:
- Essentials: 1) Chinese SIM card (if not bought earlier)—China Mobile only works in Tibet. 2) Yak wool gloves/hat (cheaper here than at Kailash).
- Snacks: Packaged tsampa bars, peanut brittle (energy for trek).
Evening: Mental Prep & Early Night
- 7:00 PM: Group dinner + briefing:
- Menu: Steamed dumplings (momos) + ginger-honey tea (altitude-friendly).
- Guide Talk: What to physically and spiritually expect at Kailash.
- 8:30 PM: Packing Protocol:
- Daypack Only: For Mansarovar/Kora (leave 60% luggage in Kyirung).
- Pro Tip: Roll clothes—saves space, prevents wrinkles in duffel bags.
- 9:30 PM: Lights out—tomorrow’s 5 AM departure for Saga.
Kyirung-Specific Survival Notes:
- Altitude: Though "low" at 2,750m, don’t overexert—save energy for higher elevations.
- Money: Exchange extra RMB here (last reliable spot before remote areas).
- Power: Charge all devices—next 3 days will have sporadic electricity.
Day 3 : Drive Kyirung → Saga (4,450m, 232 km, 6-7 hrs)
Morning: Early Start from Kyirung
- 05:30 AM: Wake-up call (hot water may be limited, so freshen up quickly).
- 06:00 AM: Breakfast (Tibetan bread, scrambled eggs, porridge, tea/coffee).
- 06:30 AM: Load luggage into vehicles, ensure all documents (passports, permits) are ready.
- 07:00 AM: Depart Kyirung—start ascending towards higher altitudes.
Scenic Drive Through Tibetan Highlands
- 07:00 AM - 10:00 AM: Drive through lush valleys, waterfalls, and pine forests.
- Stop at Gyirong Port (Kyirong Town checkpoint) for permit verification (~30 mins).
- Road conditions: Mostly paved but winding with steep climbs.
- First major pass: La Lung La (5,050m) – Quick stop for photos (5-10 mins).
- Descend to Pekhu Tso (Lake), a stunning turquoise lake (short break).
Midday: Long Stretch Towards Saga
- 10:00 AM - 01:00 PM: Drive across vast, arid plateaus with snow-capped peaks in the distance.
- Lunch Stop (01:00 PM - 02:00 PM): Packed lunch or simple meal at a roadside teahouse (noodles, eggs, tea).
- Altitude Alert: Now above 4,000m—drink water, move slowly to avoid AMS.
Afternoon: Entering Saga (4,600m)
- 02:00 PM - 04:30 PM: Continue driving through desert-like landscapes.
- Cross the Brahmaputra River (Yarlung Tsangpo) via a long bridge.
- Final Checkpoint: Police registration before entering Saga town.
Arrival in Saga & Evening Acclimatization
- 04:30 PM: Check into a basic hotel (heated rooms, shared toilets).
- 05:00 PM: Short walk near the hotel (avoid overexertion).
- 06:30 PM: Dinner (Tibetan thukpa, rice, veggies).
- 07:30 PM: Briefing on next day’s drive to Lake Manasarovar.
- 08:30 PM: Rest—critical for altitude adjustment.
Day 4 : Drive Saga → Paryang (4,558m) → Lake Mansarovar (4,600m, 507 km, 8-9 hrs)
Pre-Departure (Saga)
- 05:30 AM: Wake up in Saga hotel (shared rooms, no heaters—sleep in thermal layers).
- Toilet Check: Squat toilets, no paper—bring your own + hand sanitizer.
- Water Status: Icy-cold tap water; use bottled water to brush teeth.
- 06:00 AM: Breakfast (steaming butter tea, tsampa (roasted barley flour), hard-boiled eggs).
- 06:30 AM: Vehicle Inspection (check tire pressure, oxygen cylinders, first-aid kit).
SAGA → PARYANG (245 km, 4-5 hrs)
Segment 1: Saga to Zhongba (Smooth Sailing)
- 07:00 AM: Depart Saga, following the Brahmaputra River (Yarlung Tsangpo).
- Landscape: Marshy plains dotted with wild yaks, nomadic tents (drokpa herders).
- Road Condition: Well-paved highway (China’s G219 National Highway).
- 08:30 AM: First Checkpoint (army barricade—guide handles permits).
- 09:30 AM: Stop at Zhongba County (tiny town, last fuel stop before Paryang).
- Tea Break (20 mins): Hot sweet tea + instant noodles at a roadside shack.
Segment 2: Zhongba → Paryang (High-Altitude Desert)
- 10:30 AM: Enter vast, treeless plains—feels like "driving on the moon."
- Altitude Alert: Now above 4,500m—sip water, avoid napping (prevents AMS).
- Wildlife Spotting: Tibetan gazelles, Himalayan blue sheep (if lucky).
- 12:00 PM: Reach Paryang (4,558m)—a dusty truck-stop town.
- Lunch (1 hr): Simple meal at a dhaba (fried rice/noodles, cabbage, yak meat).
- Restroom Warning: Hole-in-ground toilets—hold your breath!
PARYANG → LAKE MANSAROVAR (262 km, 4-5 hrs)
Segment 3: The Sacred Approach
- 01:30 PM: Leave Paryang, climbing toward Mayum La Pass (5,200m).
- Landmark: Giant prayer flags—stop for 3-min prayer (guide assists).
- Road Hazard: Unpaved, jaw-rattling bumps (motion sickness pills advised).
- 03:30 PM: First Distant Glimpse of Lake Mansarovar’s turquoise shimmer.
- Pilgrim Ritual: Chant "Om Namah Shivaya"—many pilgrims tear up here.
Segment 4: Horchu Pass & Final Stretch
- 04:00 PM: Cross Horchu Pass (4,900m)—Kailash’s south face dominates the horizon.
- Photo Stop (10 mins): Guide shares legends of Kailash’s formation.
- 05:00 PM: Drive along the lake’s southern shore—Chiu Monastery comes into view.
- Speed Bumps: Herds of kiang (wild Tibetan donkeys) crossing the road.
ARRIVAL AT LAKE MANSAROVAR (4,600m)
- 05:30 PM: Reach guesthouse near Chiu Gompa.
- Room Check: Basic beds, no electricity (solar lamps), shared outhouse.
- 06:00 PM: Holy Dip Ritual (optional but life-changing):
- Brace for: Numbing cold (water is 2-4°C), quick immersion (3 seconds counts!).
- Post-Dip: Change into dry thermals immediately—avoid hypothermia.
- 07:00 PM: Dinner by the Lake (silent meal—focus on the spiritual high).
- Menu: Thukpa soup, steamed momos, ginger tea (aid digestion at altitude).
Nightfall: A Pilgrim’s Moment
- 08:00 PM: Moonlit Lake Walk (optional, with headlamp).
- Pro Tip: Sit by the shore—listen for the mythical "conch sound" (believed to be Shiva’s blessing).
- 09:00 PM: No showers—baby wipes cleanup before bed.
Key Survival Tips:
✔ Oxygen: Use portable cans if breathless (available in vehicles).
✔ Footwear: Wear slip-ons (easy removal for holy dip).
✔ Mindset: Embrace discomfort—no Wi-Fi, no luxury, pure devotion.
Day 5 : Drive Mansarovar → Darchen (4,560m, 40 km, 1 hr)
Morning: Spiritual Experience at Manasarovar
- 05:00 AM: Wake up early to witness sunrise over Manasarovar (golden hues on the lake).
- 05:30 AM: Perform holy rituals (optional):
- Mantra chanting, offering prayers at the lakeshore.
- Holy Dip: Brave pilgrims take a ritual bath (extremely cold—prepare mentally).
- 07:00 AM: Breakfast (tea, porridge, Tibetan bread) at the guesthouse.
- 08:00 AM: Short parikrama (circumambulation) along the lake (1-2 km walk).
Midday: Drive to Darchen (Base of Kailash Kora)
- 09:30 AM: Depart for Darchen (1 hr drive, 30 km).
- Road is rough but scenic, with views of Kailash’s southern face.
- 10:30 AM: Arrive in Darchen (4,600m), a small pilgrim town.
- Permit Check: Chinese officials verify documents.
- Last-minute shopping: Buy walking sticks, rain ponchos, snacks.
Afternoon: Start Kailash Kora (Trek to Dirapuk, 12 km, 5-6 hrs)
- 11:30 AM: Begin trek from Yam Dwar (Gate of the God of Death).
- First 2 hrs: Gentle walk through Lha Chu Valley, surrounded by prayer flags.
- Lunch Stop (01:30 PM): Packed lunch (boiled eggs, biscuits, juice).
- 03:00 PM: Reach Chöku Monastery viewpoint—first close-up of Kailash’s North Face.
- 05:00 PM: Arrive at Dirapuk Monastery (4,900m).
- Guesthouse Stay: Dormitory beds, no showers, basic toilets.1
- Dinner: Simple noodle soup, rice, tea (eat light to avoid altitude sickness).
Evening Rituals & Rest
- 06:30 PM: Attend evening prayers at Dirapuk Monastery (optional).
- 07:30 PM: Early sleep—tomorrow is the toughest trekking day.
Day 6 : Trek Darchen → Dirapuk (5,000m, 12 km, 5-6 hrs)
Morning: Spiritual Experience at Manasarovar
- 05:00 AM: Wake up early to witness sunrise over Manasarovar (golden hues on the lake).
- 05:30 AM: Perform holy rituals (optional):
- Mantra chanting, offering prayers at the lakeshore.
- Holy Dip: Brave pilgrims take a ritual bath (extremely cold—prepare mentally).
- 07:00 AM: Breakfast (tea, porridge, Tibetan bread) at the guesthouse.
- 08:00 AM: Short parikrama (circumambulation) along the lake (1-2 km walk).
Midday: Drive to Darchen (Base of Kailash Kora)
- 09:30 AM: Depart for Darchen (1 hr drive, 30 km).
- Road is rough but scenic, with views of Kailash’s southern face.
- 10:30 AM: Arrive in Darchen (4,600m), a small pilgrim town.
- Permit Check: Chinese officials verify documents.
- Last-minute shopping: Buy walking sticks, rain ponchos, snacks.
Afternoon: Start Kailash Kora (Trek to Dirapuk, 12 km, 5-6 hrs)
- 11:30 AM: Begin trek from Yam Dwar (Gate of the God of Death).
- First 2 hrs: Gentle walk through Lha Chu Valley, surrounded by prayer flags.
- Lunch Stop (01:30 PM): Packed lunch (boiled eggs, biscuits, juice).
- 03:00 PM: Reach Chöku Monastery viewpoint—first close-up of Kailash’s North Face.
- 05:00 PM: Arrive at Dirapuk Monastery (4,900m).
- Guesthouse Stay: Dormitory beds, no showers, basic toilets.
- Dinner: Simple noodle soup, rice, tea (eat light to avoid altitude sickness).
Evening Rituals & Rest
- 06:30 PM: Attend evening prayers at Dirapuk Monastery (optional).
- 07:30 PM: Early sleep—tomorrow is the toughest trekking day.
Day 7 : Trek Dirapuk → Zuthulphuk (4,820m, 18 km, 7-8 hrs) via Drolma La Pass (5,636m)
Pre-Dawn Start (The Most Challenging Day)
- 04:30 AM: Wake up, light breakfast (tea, biscuits).
- 05:30 AM: Begin trek in darkness (headlamps needed).
Ascending to Dolma La Pass (5,650m)
- 05:30 AM - 09:00 AM: Steep climb through boulder fields.
- Key Landmarks:
- Shiv Taal (Gauri Kund) – Frozen glacial lake (pilgrims collect holy water).
- Dolma La Pass (5,650m) – Highest point of Kora (prayer flag ceremony).
- 09:00 AM: Rest at the pass (10-15 mins), sip hot tea from thermos.
Descent to Zuthulphuk (4,800m)
- 09:30 AM - 02:00 PM: Steep downhill trek (knee strain—walk slowly).
- Lunch Stop (12:00 PM): Energy bars, nuts, chocolate.
- 03:00 PM: Reach Zuthulphuk Monastery—basic guesthouse (congested, shared blankets).
- 04:00 PM: Rest, hydrate, massage sore legs.
Night at Zuthulphuk
- 06:30 PM: Dinner (thukpa, dal-rice).
- 07:30 PM: Sleep early—exhaustion sets in.
Day 8 : Trek Zuthulphuk → Darchen (8 km, 3-4 hrs) → Drive to Saga
Morning: Final Trekking Leg (Zuthulphuk → Darchen)
- 06:30 AM: Wake-up call at Zuthulphuk guesthouse (basic accommodation, shared rooms).
- Toilet Situation: Usually outdoor pit toilets (bring toilet paper, hand sanitizer).
- Water Availability: Limited—use bottled/warm water for brushing teeth.
- 07:00 AM: Simple breakfast (Tibetan bread, butter tea, porridge, boiled eggs).
- 07:30 AM: Begin trek—gentle downhill trail with last views of Kailash’s foothills.
- Terrain: Rocky but well-marked path, fewer ascents than previous days.
- Landmark: 1) Passing prayer-flag-covered cairns (add a stone for blessings). 2)Small streams (careful on slippery rocks).
- 09:30 AM: Reach Darchen (4,600m)—complete the Kora (circumambulation).
- Ritual: Some pilgrims perform thanksgiving prayers at Darchen’s monastery
Post-Trek Logistics in Darchen
- 10:00 AM: Return to hotel/guesthouse (if pre-booked for freshening up).
- Shower? Usually no (wet wipes recommended).
- Luggage Collection: Retrieve stored bags from the hotel.
- 10:30 AM: Permit Check (Tibetan guide verifies documents before departure).
- 11:00 AM: Early lunch in Darchen (options: veg/non-veg noodles, rice, soup).
Afternoon: Long Drive to Saga (360 km, 7-8 hrs)
- 12:00 PM: Depart Darchen in 4WD Land Cruisers.
- Route: Retrace path via Lake Manasarovar’s southern shore.
- Key Stops:
- Horchu Pass (4,900m) – Final glimpse of Kailash (weather permitting).
- Paryang (3:30 PM) – Quick tea/toilet break (basic roadside stalls).
- Road Conditions:
- First 2 hours: Bumpy, unpaved stretches.
- After Paryang: Smoother but monotonous desert highways.
- 05:30 PM: Cross Brahmaputra (Yarlung Tsangpo) River bridge.
- 06:30 PM: Arrive in Saga (4,600m)—check into the same hotel as before.
Evening in Saga
- 07:00 PM: Dinner at hotel (warm soup, rice, dal, simple Chinese dishes).
- 08:00 PM: Briefing for next day’s drive to Kyirung.
- 08:30 PM: Rest early—body needs recovery after trek + long drive.
Critical Notes for Day 8:
- Altitude Drop: Darchen (4,600m) → Saga (4,600m) – No major change, but fatigue may set in.
- Hydration: Drink 3-4L water to flush out toxins from trekking.
- Foot Care: Treat blisters, apply moisturizer (cold + wind chaps skin).
- Bathroom Breaks: Limited clean toilets—carry tissue + sanitizer.
Day 9 : Drive Saga → Kyirung
07:00 AM: Long return journey with stopovers for meals
Evening:Arrive in Kyirung for final night in Tibet
Overnight: Guesthouse
Day 10 : Drive Kyirung → Kathmandu
Morning: Border formalities at Rasuwagadhi
Afternoon:Arrive Kathmandu by evening
Tour Concludes: Transfer to hotel with farewell dinner