Loading content
A carefully paced Kathmandu-to-Kerung pilgrimage via the Tibetan plateau, Lake Mansarovar and the three-day outer kora around Mount Kailash. The route includes staged altitude adaptation and a practical return through Saga and Kerung.
Duration
15N/16D
Group Size
8–24 pilgrims
Best Time
May to September, subject to permits and route conditions
Difficulty
Challenging
Start planning
Contact for current pricing
Or send trip details
Document safety note
Permit and visa requirements can change by route, nationality and season. Confirm documents before booking flights or starting travel.
All day details are shown by default for easier reading.
Route overview
Day 1 of 16
Upon arrival at Lhasa Gonggar Airport, you'll be warmly greeted by our team and transferred to your luxurious hotel in the heart of Lhasa. Rest and acclimatize to the high altitude (3,650 meters) and take a moment to soak in the breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayas. This evening, we'll embark on a scenic stroll along the sacred Barkhor Circuit, a historic path that surrounds the revered Potala Palace. As we walk, you'll be treated to the enchanting sounds of Tibetan chanting and the aroma of incense wafting through the air. Enjoy a sumptuous welcome dinner at a local restaurant, savoring traditional Tibetan dishes such as momos and thukpa.
Day 2 of 16
Begin the day with a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, followed by a guided visit to the majestic Potala Palace, the former residence of the Dalai Lama. Marvel at the intricate murals, vibrant tapestries, and the stunning architecture that reflects the rich cultural heritage of Tibet. Next, we'll visit the revered Jokhang Temple, a sacred pilgrimage site that attracts devotees from all corners of the world. As we wander through the tranquil courtyards and chapels, you'll be immersed in the spiritual ambiance of this sacred site. In the evening, indulge in a delightful dinner at a local family's home, where we'll be treated to a traditional Tibetan feast and a glimpse into the warm hospitality of the Tibetan people.
Day 3 of 16
Today, we'll delve into the hidden corners of Lhasa, exploring the vibrant markets, ancient monasteries, and serene gardens that make this city so enchanting. Visit the Norbulingka Palace, the summer residence of the Dalai Lama, and stroll through the charming streets of the old town, taking in the colorful sights and sounds. Stop by the famous Lhasa Market, where you can browse the stalls offering everything from intricately crafted thangkas to vibrant Tibetan handicrafts. As the sun sets, enjoy a relaxing evening at your hotel, with plenty of time to reflect on the incredible experiences of the past two days.
Day 4 of 16
This morning, we'll embark on a scenic drive to Shigatse (3,900 meters), the second-largest city in Tibet. En route, we'll stop at the picturesque Yamdrok Lake, where you can take in the breathtaking views of the turquoise waters and the surrounding snow-capped peaks. Upon arrival in Shigatse, we'll visit the magnificent Tashihunpo Monastery, a revered site of Gelugpa Buddhism and the seat of the Panchen Lama. Explore the impressive complex, admiring the stunning architecture, beautiful frescoes, and intricate sculptures that adorn the walls and chapels. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Tibetan dinner at a local restaurant, where you can sample the region's unique flavors and hospitality.
Day 5 of 16
Spend the day exploring the lesser-known attractions of Shigatse, immersing yourself in the city's rich cultural heritage. Visit the Shigatse Museum, which showcases the history and art of Tibet, and stop by the historic Shigatse Fortress, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. In the afternoon, visit the ancient Shalu Monastery, a sacred site that dates back to the 11th century. As the day comes to a close, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the tranquil streets of Shigatse, taking in the sights and sounds of this charming city.
Day 6 of 16
This morning, we'll embark on a scenic drive to Saga (4,500 meters), a small town situated on the Tibetan Plateau. En route, we'll pass through the picturesque valleys and rolling hills of the Tibetan countryside, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the sparkling rivers that flow through the landscape. Upon arrival in Saga, we'll visit the local market, where you can browse the stalls offering everything from fresh produce to traditional handicrafts. In the evening, enjoy a hearty dinner at a local restaurant, where you can sample the region's unique flavors and hospitality.
Day 7 of 16
Today, we'll drive to Dongba (4,500 meters), a small village situated in the heart of the Tibetan countryside. En route, we'll pass through the picturesque valleys and rolling hills of the Tibetan Plateau, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the sparkling rivers that flow through the landscape. Upon arrival in Dongba, we'll visit the local monastery, where you can learn about the region's unique spiritual traditions and admire the stunning architecture. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Tibetan dinner at a local family's home, where we'll be treated to warm hospitality and a glimpse into the daily life of the Tibetan people.
Day 8 of 16
This morning, we'll embark on a scenic drive to Hilsa (4,500 meters), a small town situated on the border of the restricted zone. En route, we'll pass through the picturesque valleys and rolling hills of the Tibetan Plateau, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the sparkling rivers that flow through the landscape. Upon arrival in Hilsa, we'll visit the local market, where you can browse the stalls offering everything from fresh produce to traditional handicrafts. In the evening, enjoy a hearty dinner at a local restaurant, where you can sample the region's unique flavors and hospitality.
Day 9 of 16
Today, we'll drive to Darchen (4,500 meters), a small town situated on the shores of the sacred Lake Manasarovar. En route, we'll pass through the picturesque valleys and rolling hills of the Tibetan Plateau, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the sparkling rivers that flow through the landscape. Upon arrival in Darchen, we'll visit the local monastery, where you can learn about the region's unique spiritual traditions and admire the stunning architecture. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Tibetan dinner at a local family's home, where we'll be treated to warm hospitality and a glimpse into the daily life of the Tibetan people.
Day 10 of 16
Today, we'll embark on the sacred Parikrama (pilgrimage) of Lake Manasarovar, a revered site of spiritual significance for Buddhists and Hindus alike. As we circumambulate the lake, you'll be immersed in the spiritual ambiance of this sacred site, surrounded by stunning mountain vistas and the soothing sounds of chanting and prayer. In the afternoon, we'll begin our pilgrimage to Mt. Kailash, one of the most revered sites in Tibetan Buddhism. As we ascend to the mountain's base, you'll be struck by the majesty and grandeur of this sacred peak.
Day 11 of 16
Today, we'll continue our pilgrimage to Mt. Kailash, ascending to the mountain's higher reaches and visiting the Holy Cave of Guge, a sacred site revered by Tibetan Buddhists. As we climb higher, you'll be struck by the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the sacred peak of Mt. Kailash. In the afternoon, we'll visit the sacred Drolma La Pass, where you can take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape and reflect on the spiritual significance of this sacred site.
Day 12 of 16
Today, we'll descend from Mt. Kailash and return to Darchen, taking in the final breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the sacred peak. Upon arrival in Darchen, we'll visit the local monastery, where you can learn about the region's unique spiritual traditions and admire the stunning architecture. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Tibetan dinner at a local family's home, where we'll be treated to warm hospitality and a glimpse into the daily life of the Tibetan people.
Day 13 of 16
This morning, we'll embark on a scenic drive to Shigatse (3,900 meters), the second-largest city in Tibet. En route, we'll pass through the picturesque valleys and rolling hills of the Tibetan Plateau, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the sparkling rivers that flow through the landscape. Upon arrival in Shigatse, we'll visit the magnificent Tashihunpo Monastery, a revered site of Gelugpa Buddhism and the seat of the Panchen Lama. Explore the impressive complex, admiring the stunning architecture, beautiful frescoes, and intricate sculptures that adorn the walls and chapels.
Day 14 of 16
Today, we'll embark on a scenic drive to Lhasa (3,650 meters), the capital city of Tibet. En route, we'll pass through the picturesque valleys and rolling hills of the Tibetan Plateau, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the sparkling rivers that flow through the landscape. Upon arrival in Lhasa, we'll visit the majestic Potala Palace, the former residence of the Dalai Lama. Marvel at the intricate murals, vibrant tapestries, and the stunning architecture that reflects the rich cultural heritage of Tibet.
Day 15 of 16
Spend the day exploring the lesser-known attractions of Lhasa, immersing yourself in the city's rich cultural heritage. Visit the Shigatse Museum, which showcases the history and art of Tibet, and stop by the historic Shigatse Fortress, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. In the afternoon, visit the ancient Shalu Monastery, a sacred site that dates back to the 11th century. As the day comes to a close, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the tranquil streets of Lhasa, taking in the sights and sounds of this enchanting city.
Day 16 of 16
Today, we'll bid farewell to the enchanting city of Lhasa and depart from Lhasa Gonggar Airport. As we reflect on the incredible experiences of the past 16 days, we'll carry with us the memories of the stunning landscapes, the warm hospitality of the Tibetan people, and the profound spiritual significance of this sacred land.
Current price is available on request. Ask for a written quote before confirming your date.
The important decision details are grouped here so the page stays clear instead of becoming a long checklist.
Confirm required documents before paying for flights or starting travel.
Ask for a written quote before confirming your date.
Check the next practical travel window before planning flights.
Change the parts that matter without reading another long list.
Difficulty
Challenging
Highest altitude
Ask for route-specific altitude guidance
Walking expectation
This is a demanding high-altitude journey. Medical clearance and travel insurance with evacuation cover are strongly recommended., The Dolma La crossing reaches about 5,630 metres; the itinerary must retain acclimatisation time and may change for safety., China/Tibet visas, permits, border access and the availability of routes or sacred sites must be reconfirmed before any payment or flight booking.
Acclimatization
Extra acclimatization can be discussed
Questions
The most useful answers are opened first. Tap any question to expand or collapse.
The most ideal time for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is between May and September. During these months, the weather is relatively stable with clearer skies and milder temperatures. However, you should always be prepared for sudden weather changes, as the high-altitude environment in Tibet is notoriously unpredictable. The monsoon season in July and August brings some rain to the lower regions, but the Tibetan plateau remains relatively dry, making it a viable time for the pilgrimage.
The highest point on the outer kora (circumambulation) of Mount Kailash is the Dolma La Pass, which sits at an impressive altitude of approximately 5,630 meters (18,471 feet). Acclimatization is absolutely critical for this journey, and our itineraries are carefully designed with gradual ascents and rest days to help your body adjust to the extreme altitude and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.