Overview
Embark on one of the world’s most profound spiritual journeys with the Kailash Trek, an unforgettable pilgrimage across the remote wilderness of western Tibet. Anchored by the sacred Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar, this journey draws devout Buddhists, Hindus, Jains, and Bon practitioners—each venerating the mountain as the mythical axis mundi, the center of the universe.
Rich in spiritual resonance and breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, this trek also provides intimate encounters with Tibetan monastic life, centuries-old cultural relics, and high-altitude adventure.
“I’ve experienced Tibet in August before. The clouds hiding the mountains were too frustrating—so I highly recommend visiting in May, September, or October.”
– Ms. Enrica Senini
Trip Details
- Trip Start: Lhasa
- Trip End: Tsetang
- Activity: High-altitude trekking, cultural exploration
- Group Size: Minimum 5 people, maximum 12 people
- Single Supplement: $459 (optional for private room accommodation)
- Minimum booking confirmation required: 30 days prior to departure in order to process the Tibet Travel Permit.
- This is a high-altitude trek. Prior acclimatization and fitness are essential.
- Weather in Tibet is unpredictable. Layered clothing and waterproof gear are advised.
- Respect local customs, especially around religious sites and during the kora.
- Itinerary may adjust slightly based on local conditions or regulations.
What’s Included
- ✅ Licensed English-speaking Tibetan guide
- ✅ Tibet Travel Permit
- ✅ Double occupancy accommodation
- ✅ Private vehicle for all ground transportation
- ✅ All airport/train station transfers
- ✅ Entrance fees to all listed attractions
- ✅ Meals as indicated in the itinerary
- ✅ Local support team during trek
- ✅ Pack animals for gear transport (during trek)
What’s Not Included
- ❌ Medical/travel insurance
- ❌ China visa fee
- ❌ Meals not indicated in the itinerary
- ❌ Personal expenses
- ❌ Single supplement (if applicable)
- ❌ Personal trekking gear (sleeping bag, mattress, etc.)
Itinerary
Click each day to view detailed program
Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa
Arrive at Lhasa Gonggar Airport. En route to your hotel, visit the cliffside Nie-Tang Buddha. Afternoon leisure at Norbulingka, the Dalai Lama’s former summer palace.
Overnight: Thangka Hotel
Meals: —
Day 2: Explore Lhasa
Visit the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street.
Overnight: Thangka Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3: Monasteries of Lhasa
Tour Sera Monastery, Drepung Monastery, and Nechung Monastery.
Overnight: Thangka Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4: Lhasa – Gyantse – Shigatse
Visit Yamdrok Lake, Karola Glacier, Palcho Monastery, and Gyantse Kumbum.
Overnight: Gesar Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5: Shigatse to Saga
Travel deeper into western Tibet to reach the frontier town of Saga.
Overnight: Saga West Inn Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6: Saga – Lake Manasarovar – Darchen
Visit Lake Manasarovar and continue to Darchen, the trek starting point.
Overnight: Himalaya Hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7: Trek Day 1 – Darchen to Drirapuk
Trek through Lha-Chu Valley along Kailash’s north face to Drirapuk Monastery.
Overnight: Local Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: Trek Day 2 – Drirapuk to Zutrulpuk
Cross Drolma La Pass (5,700m), then descend to Zutrulpuk Monastery.
Overnight: Local Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9: Trek Day 3 – Zutrulpuk to Darchen – Hor Village
Complete your trek and drive to Hor Village on Lake Manasarovar’s eastern shore.
Overnight: Local Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast
Day 10–13: Return to Lhasa
Reverse drive through Saga, Shigatse, and back to Lhasa.
Overnight: Thangka Hotel
Meals: Daily Breakfast
Optional Extension: Indus River Source Trek
This advanced high-altitude trek branches off from the Kailash route toward the remote headwaters of the Indus River. Pre-booking required.
- Day 8: Divert northwest from Drirapuk
- Day 9: Trek to Senge Buk glacial valley
- Day 10: Reach the Indus source
- Day 11–12: Trek via glacial lakes to Camp 2 below 6,200m pass
- Day 13: Rejoin main route at Zutrulpuk
- Day 14: Resume original route from Darchen
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is this trek suitable for beginners?
No. This trek involves sustained hiking at altitudes over 4,500m. Previous trekking experience and good fitness are strongly recommended.
What permits are required?
You’ll need the Tibet Travel Permit (arranged by us), and Alien Travel Permit for Western Tibet.
When is the best time to go?
May, September, and October offer the clearest skies and best conditions. Avoid the monsoon season (July–August).
What kind of accommodation is provided during the trek?
Basic guesthouses with shared facilities. Hot water and electricity may be limited in remote areas.
Can I store luggage not needed on the trek?
Yes, you can safely leave excess luggage at the hotel in Lhasa before starting the trek.
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