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The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lhasa is a remarkable pilgrimage and adventure that combines Tibetan cultural exploration with one of the world’s most sacred mountain journeys. Mount Kailash (6,638 m), located in the remote western region of Tibet, is revered by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and followers of the Bon tradition. Pilgrims believe that completing the kora—a circumambulation around the mountain—brings spiritual purification and deep inner transformation.
This carefully designed journey begins in Kathmandu before flying across the Himalayas to Lhasa, Tibet’s historic capital. In Lhasa, travelers explore ancient monasteries, temples, and traditional Tibetan culture while allowing time for altitude acclimatization. From there, the route continues by road across the immense Tibetan Plateau, passing dramatic landscapes, turquoise lakes, high passes, and remote settlements.
The pilgrimage gradually leads westward through Shigatse and Saga toward the sacred region of Mount Kailash. Pilgrims visit the pristine waters of Lake Mansarovar, one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world and a place deeply associated with spiritual cleansing and meditation.
The highlight of the journey is the three‑day trek around Mount Kailash. The route passes through valleys carved by glacial rivers, ancient monasteries, and dramatic cliffs beneath the sacred peak. The crossing of Dolma La Pass (5,670 m) is the most challenging yet spiritually meaningful moment of the pilgrimage, offering sweeping views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges.
Beyond its religious importance, the journey also reveals the unique culture of Tibet. Travelers encounter nomadic communities, historic monasteries, and the vast open landscapes that define the Tibetan Plateau.
This Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lhasa offers a balanced combination of spiritual discovery, cultural exploration, and high‑altitude adventure—ideal for pilgrims and travelers seeking a meaningful Himalayan journey.
Arrive in Kathmandu (1,400m/4,593 ft)
Spare day in Kathmandu – Sightseeing and Preparation (1,300m/4,265 ft)
Fly from Kathmandu to Lhasa [3,656m / 11,995ft]
Sightseeing day at Lhasa (3,656m/11,995 ft)
Drive from Lhasa to Shigatse [3,900m / 12,795ft]
Drive from Shigatse to Saga [4,450m / 14,600ft]
Drive from Saga to Paryang [4,558m / 14,954ft] and further up to Mansarovar [4,600m / 15,092ft]
Exploration day of Lake Mansarovar and drive to Darchen [4,564m / 14,975ft]
Kailash Parikrama. Drive to the valley of the god and trek to Dira-Puk [5,000m / 16,404ft]
Kailash Kora. Trek from Dira-Puk to Zuthul Puk [4,900m / 16,076ft]
Trek from Zuthul Puk to Saga [4,450m / 14,600ft]
Drive from Saga to Shigatse [3,900m / 12,795ft]
Drive from Shigatse to Lhasa [3,656m / 11,995ft]
Fly from Lhasa to Kathmandu [1,300m / 4,264 ft]
Final Departure from Kathmandu (1,300m/4,265 ft)
This itinerary is customizable. If you want to modify any aspect of this trip, let us know and we'll create a personalized itinerary just for you.
CUSTOMIZE MY TRIPThe ideal seasons for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra are from May to September when the weather across the Tibetan Plateau is relatively stable and roads remain accessible. Spring and early summer offer clear mountain views, while late summer provides milder temperatures. Conditions can still change quickly at high altitude, so proper preparation is essential.
Travel in Tibet requires special permits issued by Chinese authorities. These include the Tibet Travel Permit and additional permits for Mount Kailash and the surrounding region. All permits are arranged through authorized tour operators before entering Tibet.
This journey involves long drives across high‑altitude terrain and a three‑day trek around Mount Kailash. Participants should be in good health and capable of walking 5–7 hours per day at altitude. Previous trekking experience is helpful but not mandatory.
Travelers require a Chinese visa issued through an organized Tibet tour. Your operator will assist with documentation and group visa processing before entering Tibet. A valid passport with at least six months validity is required.
The Tibetan Plateau has a dry and windy climate with strong sun during the day and cold temperatures at night. Daytime temperatures may range from 10°C to 20°C during the travel season, while nights can drop below freezing, especially near Mount Kailash.
Here's a recommended packing list for your trek. Some items can be rented or purchased in Kathmandu or at the trailhead.