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Mount Kailash Manasarovar Overland Tour
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
Lake Manasarovar in Tibet

Kailash Manasarovar Overland Tour

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Trip at a Glance

Kailash Manasarovar Overland Tour is a devotional pilgrimage with a true adventure. It is an innovative drive-in, drive-out journey that begins and concludes in Kathmandu, Nepal's vibrant capital at 1,400 meters. The tour takes tourists through stunning landscapes, ancient towns, and sacred destinations in Tibet.

The Kailash Manasarovar Overland Tour starts in Kathmandu, where you will explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Swayambhunath Stupa. These spiritual destinations offer blessings and acclimatization before the high-altitude trek to Tibet.

After exploring Kathmandu, the Kailash Manasarovar Overland Tour journeys north to Rasuwagadhi (1,800 meters) along the Nepal-Tibet border. Immigration procedures are completed here before entering Tibet, where the environment quickly shifts into a big plateau.

The initial destination in Tibet is the town of Kerung (Gyirong), at an elevation of 2,700 meters. It is a required acclimatization stop with optional trekking to surrounding hills. Another day at Kerung helps tourists acclimate to the increasing altitude.

The holy journey to Manasarovar continues to Saga at 4,450 meters, crossing high passes and rivers like the Brahmaputra. Tourists along the way experience stunning Himalayan scenery and the vast Tibetan grasslands dotted with nomadic settlements.

From Saga, there is the continuation to Lake Manasarovar (4,590 meters), one of the holy lakes of Asia. Pilgrims pray, take sacred dips, and undertake rituals alongside the peaceful blue waters. Rakshas Tal, the "Lake of the Demon," is near with its somber, stark beauty.

The main spiritual highlight of the Kailash Manasarovar Overland Tour is Mount Kailash Kora, a three-day circuit trek around the sacred mountain (6,638 meters). The trek begins at Darchen (4,575 meters), the base camp town. On the first day, pilgrims pass Dirapuk Monastery (4,950 meters) in front of the north face of Mount Kailash.

The second day of Kailash Kora involves traversing Dolma La Pass (5,630 meters), the highest point on the trek. Here, pilgrims view the holy Gauri Kund Lake before arriving at Zuthulpuk Monastery (4,790 meters).

The last day of the Kailash Trek is a short hike back to Darchen, where vehicles are waiting. After finishing the Kora, the team follows the route back to Kathmandu, overnighting again at Saga and Kerung.

 The key highlights of the Kailash Mansarovar Overland Tour from Kathmandu are sightseeing at Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Kerung Valley, Saga town, Lake Manasarovar, Mount Kailash, Rakshas Tal, Dirapuk Monastery, Dolma La Pass, Gauri Kund, and Zuthulpuk Monastery.

This majestic trekking experience across the rugged Tibetan plateau is full of spiritual rewards and stunning natural scenery. It's ideal for pilgrims, adventurers, and those seeking inner peace amidst Himalayan majesty.

Itinerary

This is our standard and recommended itinerary for the Mount Kailash Manasarovar Overland Tour.

Trip PlanExpand all

Fly into Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport (1,400m). Our crew picks you up and welcomes you to the hotel. You will check into the hotel, rest, and relax after flying for hours and a little drive.

Depending on your arrival, you will be free to move around the Thamel area. In the evening, you will receive a briefing on the Kailash tour from your guide regarding the itinerary, logistics, and preparation required.

Accommodation: Hotel

After breakfast, our representative will escort you to the Chinese Embassy for biometric collection. This is a necessary step in obtaining the Tibet Group Visa, and the process may take a few hours. Return to the hotel and relax the rest of the day.

Check your gear and prepare for the journey. You can walk around Kathmandu or have a quiet evening. Overnight stay at the hotel with full board.

Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Hotel

Today, you will take a tour of UNESCO World Heritage Sites within and around the valley. Begin with Patan Durbar Square, a historic royal palace that is full of art and architecture. Next stop, Pashupatinath Temple, the sacred Hindu temple by the Bagmati River.

Next, go to Boudhanath Stupa, the largest Buddhist stupa in the world. End the day with a tour of Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), with views of the city. Return to your hotel for dinner and relaxation. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Hotel

Start with a drive to Dakshinkali Temple, Goddess Kali Temple, located in a wooded gorge. Go on to Pharping, a serene Buddhist and Hindu pilgrimage site where the great Guru Padmasambhava meditated. Visit Asura Cave and sacred monasteries.

Drive to Kirtipur, an ancient Newar town with old temples and traditional homes. Enjoy local food and cultural facts in Kirtipur. Return to Kathmandu finally. Overnight at hotel with full board meals.

Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Hotel

After breakfast at the hotel, you'll drive northwest from Kathmandu towards Timure, close to the Nepal-China border. The drive is for approximately 7 hours on scenic hill and river valley roads. Drive via Dhunche and Syabrubesi, which is the trailhead of the Langtang Valley trek.

Arrive at Timure (1,850m), a small town near Rasuwagadhi. This drive follows the Trishuli River with beautiful views. Overnight at your guesthouse. Overnight at Timure.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Hotel

Have breakfast early and drive to the Rasuwagadhi border. Cross into China after immigration formalities. Chinese vehicles will collect you and drive you to Kerung (2,800m), the first Tibetan town. This drive is short but scenic via spectacular landscapes in Tibet.

Check into the hotel on arrival. Rest and acclimatize to high altitude. Overnight in Kerung.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Hotel

Acclimatize today in Kerung. Hike to Milarepa Cave in the morning, a sacred site that is revered by the Tibetan saint Milarepa. The hike acclimatizes your body to the high altitude. Wander around the town and enjoy Tibetan hospitality. Rest, replenish, and prepare for higher altitudes. 

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Hotel

Road journey from the Tibetan plateau over to Saga (4,450m), one of the stops on the road to Kailash. Ride through massive plains, river areas, and glimpses at long distances of white peaks in snow. Pass by the Brahmaputra River to arrive before Saga.

Stop to rest in your hotel for a while. Still acclimatizing going upwards. Nightstop in Saga.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Hotel

Leave early for a scenic drive of several hours to Lake Manasarovar (4,600m). Drive past Paryang (4,558m), a wind-blown town on the plateau. Enjoy the views of faraway Mount Kailash on the approach to the lake.

On arrival, see the holy freshwater lake, Mansarovar which is held in reverence in Hindu and Buddhist faiths. Dip into the holy water of Mansarovar if possible. Overnight at a lakeside guesthouse.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse

Enjoy the serene morning scene of Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar. After breakfast, drive to Darchen (4,575m), the beginning point for Mount Kailash Kora. Darchen is a little town with shops and guesthouses.

Prepare yourself for the trek the following day. Briefing on the Kora Trail and packing check. Overnight stay at the guesthouse.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse

Start the first day of Kailash Kora. Trek from Darchen to Dira-Puk (5,000m) on Lha Chu Valley. Walk along with the Tarboche flagpole and Chuku Monastery. Enjoy close views of the north face of Mount Kailash.

The 15 km trek is moderate but steady. Reach Dira-Puk and overnight in a basic guesthouse. Overnight at Dira-Puk.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse

This is the most challenging day of the kora. Climb to Dolma La Pass (5,630m), the summit and the highest peak of the trek. Come down precipitously from prayer flags and a short halt at the pass to Gauri Kund.

Continue on the trek on a rocky path to reach Zuthul-Puk (4,790m). Visit the Milarepa cave here. Basic guesthouse stay overnight.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Guesthouse

Complete the final stretch of the kora by a short hike to the pickup point near Darchen. Get driven and return to Saga. Make a short stop at Lake Manasarovar to offer last prayers or take the last photos. Continue the long drive back via Paryang. Return to Saga in the evening. Overnight stay at hotel.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Hotel

Retrace the journey to Kerung after breakfast. Drive on high Tibetan plateaus and rivers. Descending, oxygen levels rise and the climate gets warmer. Arrive in Kerung by afternoon. Unwind and prepare to depart Tibet. Overnight in Kerung at a hotel.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerAccommodation: Hotel

After breakfast, go to the border and complete Chinese immigration. Cross back into Nepal at Rasuwagadhi. Nepali vehicles will take you to Kathmandu. Enjoy lovely scenery on the 140 km drive.

Arrive in Kathmandu in the evening. Check in to the hotel. Rest and recover. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Meals: Breakfast and lunchAccommodation: Hotel

Our team will take you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure flight. Fly with blessings and memories of the sacred Mount Kailash tour.

Meals: Breakfast
If the above itinerary doesn’t meet your needs, we can design a Tailor-Made Program based on your travel plans and requirements,Reach our travel experts.
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Cost Includes
  • Accommodation: Enjoy stays in hotels or guesthouses as outlined in your program.
  • Private Transportation: Travel comfortably by private van or mini-coach, sized appropriately for your group.
  • Permits: All essential Tibet Travel and Trekking permits are covered.
  • English-Speaking Tibetan Guide: You'll have an experienced, English-speaking Tibetan guide leading the way.
  • Sightseeing & Entrance Fees: All sightseeing activities and entrance fees are included as per your itinerary.
  • Full Board Meals: Your meal plan is on a full-board basis, as specified in the plan above.
  • Kathmandu to Border Transfers: We provide jeep transportation between Kathmandu and the border. Helicopter options to the border are also available for an extra cost.
  • Baggage Transport: During the Kora, yaks or porters will carry your baggage.
Cost Excludes
  • Meals in Nepal: Lunch and dinner while in Nepal are not included.
  • Insurance: Any type of insurance is your responsibility.
  • Personal Porter/Horse for Kailash Kora: The cost of hiring a personal porter or horse for the 3-day Kailash Kora is not included.
  • Emergency Evacuation: The cost of emergency evacuation, should it be needed, is not covered.
  • Unforeseen Circumstances: Any additional costs due to natural calamities or unforeseen circumstances are excluded.
  • Nepal Visa: The cost of your Nepal visa is separate. You can get a visa on arrival, which typically costs USD 30 for a 15-day multiple-entry visa or USD 50 per person for a one-month multiple-entry visa.
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Good To Know

Trip Information of Kailash Manasarovar Overland Tour 16 Days

This 16-day overland journey to Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar is one of the most sacred pilgrimages in Asia. It includes a scenic drive through the Tibetan Plateau, three days of real trekking around Mt. Kailash, and visits to cultural landmarks. The journey starts from Kathmandu and crosses into Tibet via the Gyirong border.

Permits for Kailash Overland Tour

Actually, entering Tibet for the Kailash Yatra requires multiple permits. These include the Tibet Travel Permit, Chinese Group Visa, Alien Travel Permit, and Military Permit. Once you confirm your booking, we handle all paperwork on your behalf. The cost of these permits is already included in the trip package, ensuring a hassle-free experience. We don’t charge you any extra cost for the Kailash Overland Tour Permits.

Mt Kailash Overland Tour—Booking Process

To confirm your tour, you must send a scanned copy of your passport and a certain deposit, as per our company booking policy, to our company bank account. Make sure your passport has at least eight months of validity before your travel date. Once we receive your documents and payment, we begin processing the permits.

Accommodation on the Mt. Kailash Overland Tour

During the Mt. Kailash Overland trip, we arrange the best available accommodations all around the trip. In Kathmandu, you’ll stay in a comfortable 3-star twin-sharing hotel. In Tibet, we provide basic guesthouses, especially during the 3-day trek (Kora) around Mount Kailash. Though these guesthouses in Tibet are simple, these lodges are warm and welcoming. We are pretty sure that you will fully enjoy the accommodation we offer during your Mt. Kailash Overland Tour.

Meals on Mount Kailash Overland Yatra

Actually, food plays a vital role in your comfort during your Mt. Kailash Overland Yatra. While trekking, you’ll find Tibetan and Chinese dishes like noodles, rice, and tea. Also, guesthouses and roadside tents offer meals for around USD 5. You can also carry snacks, energy bars, and instant meals during Kailash Yatra. Staying hydrated and eating energy-rich foods is crucial, especially at high altitudes.

Supply Points in Kailash Trek—Food and Pricing

Throughout the Kailash trek, local tea shops and tent restaurants serve simple yet nourishing meals. Options include hot drinks, fried rice, noodles, and even meat dishes. Actually, these supply points double as rest spots and are essential for acclimatization. In fact, the food prices remain reasonable despite the remote setting of the lodges.

Money Matters and ATMs

The official currency of China (Tibet) is the Chinese Yuan. But US dollars, euros, and pounds are accepted in some places, but exchanging them for yuan in Kathmandu or Lhasa is advisable. ATMs are rare outside major towns. Always carry enough cash for personal expenses during the Kailash trek.

Seasons (Best Time) for Kailash Manasarovar Overland Tour

Actually, the best time to travel is from April to late September. During these periods, the weather remains favorable and exciting. Moreover, the views are spectacular, and the temperatures are mild and pleasant for Kailash Yatra. In fact, Kailash tours are not possible from November to March due to snow-covered roads and extreme temperatures.

Equipment for Mount Kailash Overland Tour

Proper gear is essential for the Mt. Kailash Overland Tour. You can rent or purchase trekking equipment in Kathmandu. The must-pack items for the Kailash Overland tour include a large backpack, a small daypack, warm clothes, rain gear, hiking boots, gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen, toiletries, and a flashlight. A sleeping bag and water bottle are also necessary.

Duffle bag and sleeping bag 

  • 1 large duffel bag or backpack.
  • 1 small backpack or daypack.
  • 1 Sleeping bag

Lower body

  • 2 pairs of warm synthetic or cotton pants
  • 1 pair light hiking pants
  • 2 pairs of long underwear tops and bottoms
  • 1 fleece, wool pants

Upper body

  • 1 down jacket
  • 1 rain gear top and bottom
  • 2 pairs of long-sleeve cotton shirt
  • 1 fleece, wool jackets

Headwear

  • 1 warm hat
  • 1 sun hat
  • 1 pair of sunglasses (100% UV protective)
  • Sunscreen, lip guard (at least SPF 25)
  • 1 silk or polyester scarf (neck protection from the sun)

Footwear

  • 6 pairs warm socks
  • 1 pair comfortable waterproof hiking boots
  • I pair comfortable sports shoes (at the camp)

Handwear

  • 1 pair warm gloves or mittens

Others

  • 1 towel
  • Water bottle, 2 liters
  • 1 flashlight (with extra batteries)
  • Sun lotion and cold cream

Toiletries

  • Soap, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrush, comb/brush, razor, shaving cream, women’s pad, and toilet paper

First Aid and Medical Kit

You are suggested to carry a personalized first aid kit including wound dressings, painkillers, cold medicine, rehydration salts, Diamox (for altitude), and any prescribed medications. We, our team, also carry group medical supplies and oxygen cylinders.

  • First Aid and Medical Kits
  • Band-aids, bandages, medical tape, and other wound dressings
  • Blister dressing and moleskin.
  • Cold-flu tablets, nasal decongestant
  • Antihistamine (for allergies)
  • Aspirin or ibuprofen
  • Imodium or Lomotil (for diarrhea)
  • Rehydration powder (electrolyte powder)
  • Throat lozenges, cough medicine
  • Scissors, tweezers, thermometer
  • Antibiotics (consult a doctor)
  • Medicine for high altitude sickness: Diamox tablet.

Documents and Visa

All travelers need a passport with at least eight months of validity. You must arrive in Kathmandu three working days before the tour to obtain the Tibet Group Visa from the Chinese Embassy. The Chinese Embassy located in Kathmandu remain open during working days (Monday to Friday). This process requires your original passport and photo.

Travel Insurance for Mt Kailash Overland Tour

We strongly recommend purchasing very reliable and comprehensive travel insurance that covers emergency rescue and medical evacuation. This is a must for high-altitude travel like the Mt. Kailash Overland Tour. Prepare this travel insurance for Kailash Yatra on your own.

Altitude Sickness Issue on Kailash Overland Tour

The average altitude during the Kailash Overland Tour ranges between 4,000 m and 4,600 m, with passes over 5,000 m. Headaches, nausea, and sleep issues are common during the Kailash Yatra. Drink lots of water, ascend slowly, and rest well. Have balanced foods and avoid meat and alcohol. Diamox and oxygen help reduce symptoms.

Don’t panic if you have these symptoms; stay cool and calm. Tell your guide if you feel worse.

Physical Fitness

The Kailash Yatra Tour involves long drives and a moderate 3-day Kailash Kora trek. Basic fitness is essential. Practice walking, hiking, or yoga before the tour. Those with chronic conditions should consult a doctor beforehand. Build up your cardio and mental confidence. Carry necessary medicines if the doctor has suggested it.

Extra Expenses on Kailash Tour

Optional costs on the Kailash Tour include hiring a horse with a horseman (USD 650–700) or a porter (USD 190 for 3 days). These are arranged on the spot by your guide if needed.

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