Mount Kailash Manasarovar Lake Overland Tour – 15 Days

Mount Kailash Manasarovar Lake Tour can be a spiritual and cultural journey to Lord Shiva’s abode for the pilgrims while it can also be an adventurous trip to one of the most beautiful regions in the world for others. In other words, it is one of the best journeys to experience a sense of peace, serenity, and adventure.

Mt Kailash Manasarovar Lake Tour combines the visits to two of the unique and highly praised destinations in Tibet i.e., the holiest in Asia, Mount Kailash, and one of three sacred lakes in Tibet, Manasarovar Lake. For the devout pilgrim, a visit to Mt. Kailash and Lake Manasarovar forms the ultimate realization of their spiritual pursuit, and for the adventure lovers, it offers rugged beauty, remoteness, and solitude.

The overland route to Mount Kailash from the Nepal-Tibet border is filled with the magnificent monasteries situated on the cliff, the hospitality of Tibetan people, Yak traveling over the white snowy passes, and most importantly the spectacular Himalayan range and crystal-clear lake.  Also, you can enjoy colorful Tibetan arts, crafts, traditions, culture, lifestyle, customs, and meals along with Nepali culture.

NOTE: Please note that it takes at least three working days to obtain the Chinese Group Visa once applied. The Chinese Embassy is closed during Saturday, and Sunday, on Chinese public holidays and some Nepali Festivals. Hence, we recommend planning your arrival in Kathmandu on Sunday or Monday (working week) so that we can apply for the visa the next day and obtain it within 3/4 days.

ITINERARY

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Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1350 m)

  • Upon arrival at the airport in Kathmandu, you will be greeted by one of our representatives who will then transfer you to the designated hotel and help with the check-in process.
  • You will then be transferred to your hotel, and you will be helped with the check-in process.
  • Later, we will have a brief discussion session regarding this trip.
  • Night at the hotel.

 

Note: Upon your arrival (if it is early/day arrival), we will collect your passports, signatures, and other required documents for the Chinese Group Visa applications.

 

Day 2: Visa Preparation & afternoon walking tour  

  • Breakfast at the hotel.
  • If we cannot collect the required documents from you on the previous day due to your late arrival, we will collect them today and proceed with the visa application today.
  • After this, you will have some spare time to rest.
  • Later in the afternoon, we can go for a walking tour around the streets of Thamel, Thahity and Kathey Swoyambhu.

*Thamel, located in the heart of Kathmandu, Nepal, is a vibrant and bustling neighborhood renowned for its lively atmosphere. This popular tourist district is a hub for hotels, restaurants, shops, and entertainment. Known for its diverse range of offerings, Thamel caters to travelers with its eclectic mix of traditional and modern establishments. Visitors can explore its narrow streets filled with colorful shops, dine in diverse restaurants, and experience the vibrant nightlife that makes Thamel a dynamic and energetic destination.

  • You can also prepare for the trip by shopping if required.
  • Night at the hotel.

 

Day 3: Full Day Kathmandu Sightseeing

  • After breakfast, we will proceed for the full day Kathmandu sightseeing.
  • First, we will visit Kathmandu Durbar Square one of the seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Kathmandu.

*Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a historical and cultural hub located in the heart of Kathmandu, Nepal. Known for its stunning Newari architecture, the square features ancient palaces, temples, courtyards, and statues dating back to the 12th to 18th centuries. It was once the royal palace of the Malla kings and later the Shah dynasty. Key attractions include the Kumari Ghar, Hanuman Dhoka Palace, and the iconic Taleju Temple.

*Kumari Ghar is the residence of the Living Goddess, Kumari, a young prepubescent girl believed to be the human incarnation of the Hindu goddess Taleju. Built in 1757 A.D. by King Jaya Prakash Malla, the three-story building showcases exquisite Newari architecture with intricately carved wooden balconies, windows, and courtyards. The Kumari is worshipped by both Hindus and Buddhists and occasionally appears at her window to bless devotees and visitors.

  • Then we will drive to UNESCO World Heritage Site, Boudhanath Stupa.

*Bouddhanath Stupa is the biggest stupa in Nepal following Tibetan Buddhism and the whole area gives you a feeling of peacefulness. Bouddhanath Stupa stands as a symbol of peace, harmony, and enlightenment, attracting devotees and tourists who come to experience its spiritual ambiance and immerse themselves in the rich heritage of Buddhism. As you enter the gate of the stupa, thousands of pilgrims and travelers are seen making the Kora (circumambulation) to the giant white dome with giant Buddha eyes. The scent of Himalayan incense, the vendors selling Tibetan goods, Thangka Shops, and butter lamps, are just a few to see there.

  • Then from Bouddhanath, we will drive to Pashupatinath Temple.

*A visit to the Pashupatinath Temple can be a deeply spiritual and enriching experience for any visitor seeking a connection with Hinduism and spirituality. Pashupatinath is one of the most significant and sacred Hindu temples located in Kathmandu, Nepal. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists from around the world. Pashupatinath is not only a religious site but also an architectural marvel with its unique pagoda-style structure. The temple complex is extensive and includes many smaller temples, shrines, and ghats (cremation sites) along the Bagmati River.

  • After exploring the temple, performing simple pujas and observing the Aarti, we will drive back to the hotel.
  • Night at the hotel.

 

Day 4: Free In Kathmandu (Trip Preparation)

  • Rest, shop, and finalize travel essentials
  • Explore local markets or relax at the hotel.

Note: If the travelers prefer to engage in some activities such as sightseeing and hiking at an additional cost.

 

Day 5: Drive Kathmandu – Syabrubesi (1680m), 7-8 hrs

  • Breakfast in Kathmandu
  • After we receive your Tibet Visa in the first office hour, we start the journey
  • The drive goes on the highway along the Trishuli River, with lush hills, small villages, and terraced farms.
  • After 7-8 hours of driving, we reach Syabrubesi.
  • If time permits, stroll around the town.
  • Night at a hotel.

 

Day 6: Drive Syabrubesi – Kerung (2700m) 2 hrs & Explore

  • Breakfast
  • Begin the brief trip from Syabrubesi to Kerung through the Nepal-Tibet Friendship Bridge.
  • On the Tibetan side of the bridge, you will bid your Nepali guide and driver farewell and meet our Tibetan guide and driver.
  • We will spend the night in Kerung County, a little town tucked into the Himalayan slope, after completing the border formalities at the border port.
  • Later, we will visit Kerung’s top attractions after checking in and taking a short break to relax and gradually acclimate to the higher altitude.
  • Night at a hotel.

 

Day 7: Drive to Saga (4,640m/6 hrs)

  • Today we drive from Kerung to Saga through Tibet’s mountainous topography and subsequently, its plains offer us a breathtaking perspective.
  • Enjoy a packed lunch en route.
  • Traverse the stunning Lalungla Pass (5,050 m/16,000 ft).
  • Witness Paigu-Tso Lake and cross the Yarlung Zangpo (Brahmaputra River), before arriving in the lovely town of Saga (4,640m).
  • Once in Saga, check-in and rest
  • Overnight in Saga.

 

Day 8: Drive to Manasarovar Lake (4,550m/6-7 hrs)

  • Early breakfast & begin early in the morning on the paved road
  • We will pass through many small Tibetan settlements and meadows with Tibetan cattle.
  • On the way, we halt in Horchu to get our first look at Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar.
  • Our drive also goes past the Mayumula Pass at 5,211 m/17,000 ft. elevation.
  • Arrive at the sacred Manasarovar Lake
  • Then we drive to Chui Gumba near the lake and explore the surroundings.
  • Overnight at the Monastery Guesthouse.

 

Day 9: Morning Puja, Explore the Manasarovar Lake & afternoon drive to Darchen (4,640m/2 hrs)

  • Puja and Havan for interested travelers in Manasarovar Lake.
  • We explore the Lake and the surroundings before leaving for Darchen
  • Then, it is 2 hours drive to Darchen
  • Once in Darchen, hotel check in, and rest
  • In the evening, you can take a stroll around the town
  • Overnight at a hotel in Darchen.

 

Day 10: 1st Day of Kora: Drive to Tarboche (1 hr) & Trek to Diraphuk (4,920m/5-6 hrs)

  • Breakfast
  • 1-hour drive from Darchen to Tarboche
  • A short stop in Tarboche to explore the Yam Dwar
  • Then the trekking starts from Tarboche
  • After 5-6 hours of trekking, we will reach Diraphuk
  • Overnight in monastery guesthouse.

Note: If you want to start the trek from Darchen (the start point of Kora) we can go accordingly.

 

Day 11: 2nd Day of Kora: Trek to Zuthulphuk via Drolma La Pass (5600m) 6-7hrs

  • Breakfast
  • We start the 2nd day of Kora very early in the morning to witness the sunrise over the holy Mount Kailash
  • We will be crossing the Drolma La Pass at 5680 meters, which is also the highest point of the Mount Kailas Manasarovar Journey.
  • We can view Milarepa and Shiva Tsal’s footsteps on our journey to the Dolma La.
  • After a good deal of time at the prayer flag-draped Drolma La Pass, we resume our trek
  • We will pause for a while to explore the Gauri Kunda before continuing to descend to Zuthulphuk.
  • Overnight at a monastery guesthouse in Zuthulphuk.

 

Day 12: Last day of Kora: Hike to Darchen & Drive to Saga (3hrs walk & 4 hrs drive)

  • Breakfast
  • Proceed for the final day of the Kora
  • From Zuthulphuk, we make a steady 10-kilometer descent to the settlement of Hor Qu.
  • From Hor Qu, we take the vehicle to travel to Saga.
  • Overnight at a guesthouse in Saga.

 

Day 13: Drive Saga – Kerung (6-7hrs)

  • Leaving Saga, we drive to Kerung while enjoying the amazing vista.
  • Night at the hotel.

 

Day 14: Drive to Border & further drive to Kathmandu

  • After breakfast, we drive to the border, complete the check-out formalities, and drive to Kathmandu.
  • Upon arrival in Kathmandu, check-in, and rest
  • In the evening, you can stroll around the Thamel market.
  • Night at the hotel.

 

Day 15: Final Departure from Kathmandu

  • Breakfast at the hotel
  • You will be transferred to the airport, around 3 hours prior to the scheduled flight
  • Farewell

 

COST INCLUDES:

  • Arrival/departure transfer by private vehicle
  • 3* standard category accommodations on a twin/double sharing basis in Kathmandu, Kerung & Darchen
  • Best Available lodge/guest house accommodations during the Kailash Trip on twin & dormitory sharing basis
  • All vegetarian meals (Breakfast, lunch & dinner) throughout the trip
  • Chinese Group VISA fees, Kailash Permit, and Tibet travel permits
  • Transportation for all required ground transfers as per the itinerary
  • English Speaking experienced guide & required number of supporting crew
  • All wages, accommodation, Meals, and insurance for the Guide and the supporting crew
  • Activities in Kathmandu as per the itinerary
  • All heritage/monuments entrance fees as per the itinerary
  • All applicable taxes

 

COST EXCLUDES:

  • International airfare
  • Nepal Visa fee
  • Airport Departure taxes/Excess baggage charges
  • Porters/Horse for carrying the baggage during the Mount Kailash Kora
  • Riding Yak/Horse for Kailash Parikrama (direct payable to Yak/horse herder)
  • Medical evacuation in case of emergency
  • Personal expenses such as phone calls, laundry, battery charging, hard and soft drinks, etc
  • Personal gear & clothing
  • Travel Insurance
  • Tipping/Gratitude
  • Expenses incurred due to mishaps, landslides, strikes, political unrest, etc. In such case, extra will be charged as per the actual
  • Any other expenses not mentioned in the “includes” section

TestimonialsDon’t Take our word for it

We hope and pray this appreciation message finds you well.We would like to take a moment to express our Heartfelt Gratitude for your exceptional assistance and quick responses while planning our recent India Spiritual Tour. Your attention to detail, in-depth knowledge, and dedication made our Trip unforgettable.The Itinerary you crafted exceeded our expectations, and we felt truly take care of throughout the entire process.Thanks so much for providing such knowledgeable and friendly Drivers and Guides. We had amazing time on our India Spiritual Tour, and it’s all thanks to the fantastic Drivers & Guides you arranged for us.Spiritual Tour had many Internal Flights, and God Bless we had all Flights on Schedule. Thanks to your efforts FIROZBHAI. THANK YOU once again for your Outstanding Commitment and Professionalism. We had a wonderful experience during our Tour.WE all look forward working with you for our future Travel needs and will gladly recommend your services to Friends & Family.

Jayshree Mehta JAY & NUTAN & TRUPTI DAVE

“ITC has made my India trip feel luxurious and intimate. We got the chance to meet all the local artisans, had dinner at the palaces and even felt completely taken care of.”

James R the United States

“This was not just a vacation, it was more of a cultural and spiritual homecoming. From the temple tours and yoga sessions, ITC has crafted magic.”

Catherine W the United Kingdom

"I had the most incredible vacation experience thanks to the amazing team at Indian travel consultants Travel Agency! From the moment I contacted them, their friendly and knowledgeable staff helped me plan the perfect itinerary. They took care of every detail, from booking flights and accommodations to arranging local tours and activities.”

T.Edward

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