Kailash trek

The kora around Mount Kailash is a ritual of karmic purification, liberation from anger, passions, and ignorance—the obstacles on the path to nirvana. If you are drawn to the magic and mystery of Tibet and are not afraid of challenges, this journey is for you. It begins in Lhasa—the heart of Tibet—with visits to monasteries and the Potala Palace, and the first ritual circumambulation around the Jokhang Temple. The route then includes acquaintance with the monasteries of Central and Western Tibet and the sacred lakes Manasarovar and Rakshastal. The main goal of the journey is the 53-kilometer kora around Kailash—the mythical center of the Universe and the source of the world’s greatest rivers. The path leads over the Drolma La Pass at an altitude of more than 5,600 meters. Mount Kailash is revered as a sacred peak by followers of four religions: Buddhists consider it the abode of Demchok, Hindus the throne of Shiva, Jains associate it with the liberation of Jina Mahavira, and followers of the Bon religion with its founder Tonpa Shenrab. It is believed that completing the kora around Kailash purifies karma and brings one closer to spiritual liberation.

An expedition to Tibet is not only an opportunity to touch the sacred, but also a chance to understand yourself more deeply. The motto of such a journey is a saying by the Dalai Lama: “I have this precious human life, and I will not waste it.”

Your journey will take place at altitudes from 3,750 m to 5,669 m; such conditions require special adaptation from the body. High-altitude acclimatization is one of the key factors for successfully completing the route. To ensure this, the program includes gradual ascents, rest days, and acclimatization hikes. To minimize discomfort, we recommend:

Drinking plenty of water to prevent dehydration

Avoiding heavy food and alcohol

Preparing a personal medical kit including remedies for altitude sickness (for example, acetazolamide), as well as medications for headaches, digestive issues, and other chronic conditions (more details in our article on medicines for mountain sickness)

Undergoing a medical check-up before the trip to be confident in your health condition

The best time to travel is from April to October. During this period the weather is relatively stable, but can still be unpredictable. Snow may fall on the Drolma La Pass even in summer, and nights at altitude are often accompanied by frost down to −10°C. In Lhasa and Kathmandu the weather is warm and comfortable, but as you move toward Kailash the temperature drops. Participants must be prepared for temperature fluctuations and take into account that solar radiation at altitude is significantly stronger. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a head covering are mandatory pieces of equipment.

Along the route, participants will eat in Tibetan eateries, small cafés, and shelters. Traditional Tibetan cuisine includes dishes such as noodle soups (thukpa), tsampa bread, and simple rice and vegetable dishes. To make your journey as comfortable as possible, we recommend bringing any snacks you prefer. Special attention should be paid to water: at high altitudes, drinking water may be unavailable, so it is recommended to carry filters or purification tablets.

A little about the spiritual side of the journey: an expedition to Kailash is not only a physical journey, but also a spiritual one. For many participants, it is an opportunity to come closer to understanding themselves, their goals, and their inner world. Performing the kora is not just a physical circumambulation of the mountain—it is a profound ritual connected with the purification of karma and the overcoming of inner limitations. Tibetan Buddhists say: “Every step on the path to Kailash is a step toward nirvana.” Prepare yourself for this experience by leaving everyday concerns behind and opening yourself to the new.

This journey to Kailash is not merely a physical challenge, but a deep spiritual experience that can change your perception of life. It will require preparation from you, but in return it will offer unforgettable impressions and the opportunity to approach eternal truths.

Day 1. You arrive in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal—a city that seems to connect the past and the present. You are greeted by bright colors, the aromas of spices, and the sounds of prayers drifting from ancient temples. The majestic Himalayas look down from above, reminding you that a great adventure is only just beginning. After the flight, you will head to a cozy hotel in the center of Thamel—the historical and cultural heart of the city. Every corner here is full of life: bustling markets, smiles of local residents, quiet lanes with centuries-old houses. This day we will stroll through the old streets of Kathmandu, absorbing its atmosphere, as if preparing for immersion into the world of Asia. After the flight, you will have plenty of time to rest and regain strength before the journey ahead. In the evening, we will gather as a group, get to know each other and the guide, followed by dinner. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 2. Kathmandu reveals its secrets—this day begins with a trip to the Swayambhu Stupa, which rises above the city like a spiritual beacon. We will climb 365 steps to meet the sunrise over the city, where red rooftops merge with the horizon. Our next stop is the Pashupatinath Temple—one of the most sacred places of Hinduism. Here, the Bagmati River carries its waters to the foot of sacred cremation fires where ancient rituals are performed. This mystical scene makes one reflect on the cycle of life and death, the eternal and the transient. We will conclude the sightseeing day in the Boudhanath area, where the stupa adorned with the eyes of Buddha seems to watch over the world, giving every pilgrim a sense of peace and spiritual balance. In the evening, we will enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant, sharing expectations and dreams of the upcoming journey like an old group of friends. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 3. This morning Kathmandu greets us with the noise of bazaars. We head to the Thamel district—a place where Asia comes alive in sounds, colors, and aromas. Here you can find everything from bright woolen carpets to unique Tibetan relics. For those who are already fully equipped, we offer an excursion to Patan—an open-air museum city. Among ancient temples and carved wooden buildings, you can feel like a traveler through time. Patan Durbar Square looks like a living page from a book of legends, and a meeting with the Living Goddess Kumari, if you are lucky, will be a moment to remember forever. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 4. After breakfast, transfer to the airport and a flight to Lhasa—this is like a gateway to another world. From the airplane window, you will see the Himalayas, like ancient guardians protecting this sacred land. When the plane lands, the air is filled with a subtle aroma of incense and mountain freshness. Lhasa is not just a city—it is the heart of Tibet, its soul. On the first day, we will head to the old Barkhor district. Narrow streets, colorful shops, and the ancient Jokhang Temple create the feeling that you have stepped into an ancient legend. Performing the kora—a ritual circumambulation around the temple—you will feel part of the flow of pilgrims who come here seeking purification of the soul.

Day 5. Lhasa opens its greatest treasures to us. We will visit the Potala Palace—a residence that seems to float above the Red Hill. This former seat of the Dalai Lamas, towering over the city, reminds us of Tibet’s spiritual power and grandeur. Among precious relics, sacred treasures, and golden statues, time seems to lose its meaning. After that, we will visit the Drepung and Sera monasteries. In one of them, you will see monks debating sacred texts—an enthralling ritual full of energy and depth. The day will end with a visit to Jokhang Temple and its main shrine—the statue of Buddha Shakyamuni adorned with precious stones. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 6. We begin the morning with a visit to Ramoche Temple, which houses the statue of Buddha Maitreya—the symbol of hope and the future. We will take part in a morning service, where the sounds of mantras seem to penetrate the heart, filling it with peace. After breakfast, you may spend the day as your heart desires. Walks through Tibetan neighborhoods, souvenir shopping, or resting in a teahouse with a cup of aromatic masala tea—this day is designed for you to truly feel the rhythm of Lhasa. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 7. We leave Lhasa and head toward Shigatse, following winding roads along the Brahmaputra River. Outside the windows, mesmerizing landscapes pass by: snowy peaks, endless plains, and ancient Tibetan villages. In Shigatse, we will visit Tashilhunpo Monastery—the seat of the Panchen Lamas. The central highlight is the Jampa Temple with its gigantic gilded statue of the Buddha of the Future. Every step here feels like entering another reality where magic intertwines with faith. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 8. This day is full of transitions. We travel to Saga, crossing high mountain passes and barren valleys. Sakya Monastery will be our main stop: its gray-red walls blend with the mountains, while inside are hidden some of the greatest relics of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery is the center of the Sakya school, which emphasizes philosophy, rituals, and practices distinct from other Tibetan schools. Sakya is also known for its unique tradition of writing and transmission of knowledge. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 9. The morning begins with a journey deeper into Tibet—to the sacred Lake Manasarovar. The road is a kaleidoscope of landscapes: snowy peaks, sand dunes, yak pastures, and high-altitude plains. At the Mayum La Pass (5,211 m), we will feel how close the sky is, while the frost-filled air awakens inner strength. Ahead awaits our first encounter with Mount Kailash—majestic and sacred. Its snow-white summit on the horizon inspires awe and the feeling that you have approached something truly great. Our next stop is Lake Manasarovar, whose waters shine like a mirror reflecting the surrounding peaks. Since ancient times, this place has been considered the abode of gods and a symbol of purity. We will spend the night in a hotel in Darchen—a settlement at the foot of the sacred mountain. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 10. This day is devoted to the sacred lakes of Tibet. First, we will visit the mysterious Lake Rakshastal. Its lifeless waters prompt reflections on opposites, as it lies next to Manasarovar—the lake of life. After that, we return to Manasarovar. Its emerald waters, surrounded by the Himalayas, seem like a gateway to another world. We will visit Chiu Monastery, perched above the cave of Padmasambhava—the great yogi whose feats are shrouded in mysticism. Here, among ancient walls and beneath the cave’s vaults, we will feel the special energy that permeates this place. Later, we return to Darchen to rest and prepare for the main challenge—the kora around Mount Kailash. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 11. The moment of truth arrives—the beginning of the kora around sacred Mount Kailash. We leave Darchen and set out along a trail opening views of the Shershong Valley. Along the way, we are surrounded by giant mountain deities—Amitayus, Chenrezig, and Vajrapani. It feels as though they are guarding us on the path to Kailash. Our first goal is Dirapuk Monastery, from where the famous view of the North Face of Kailash—called the “Mirror”—opens up. This section of the route brings a deep sense of humility before the power of nature. Overnight in a very simple but atmospheric lodge, where the simplicity of life only emphasizes the grandeur of the surrounding landscapes. Overnight at the lodge.

Day 12. The main day of the kora. We head to the Drolma La Pass—the highest point of the route (5,669 m). This is a place where every step becomes a true test, yet also a spiritual purification. At the pass, we are greeted by prayer flags fluttering in the wind, symbolizing blessings and the fulfillment of wishes. According to tradition, pilgrims leave behind something unnecessary here to free themselves from the past and step into a new beginning. From the pass, we descend into a valley surrounded by breathtaking views of the North Face of Kailash. The night will be spent at Zutulpuk Monastery, built above the cave of Milarepa—the legendary yogi whose life became an example of the path to enlightenment. Overnight at the monastery.

Day 13. The final stage of the kora—returning to Darchen. This section is less difficult but still captivating. We will walk along a roaring river, through small gorges and plains opening views of Gurla Mandhata—the peak guarding Kailash. Returning to Darchen symbolizes the completion of a great journey—both external and internal. After lunch, we travel to Saga, where we will spend the night, reflecting on the path traveled and enjoying well-earned rest. Overnight at the lodge.

Day 14. Transfer from Saga to Kyirong—a village located on the border with Nepal. This section of the route is a true celebration of nature: high-altitude plateaus give way to green valleys, and the mountains grow lower. Kyirong greets us with the scent of pines and fresh, moisture-filled air. After a long stay at elevations above 4,000 meters, breathing here feels easy, and the body seems to come back to life. This evening will be filled with silence and tranquility. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 15. We cross the border and return to Kathmandu. The road runs through picturesque Himalayan gorges, across bridges over raging rivers, past rice fields and terraces where local farmers work. Kathmandu greets us again with its noise, colors, and aromas. But now the city feels familiar, its rhythm warm and welcoming. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 16. The final day of the journey. Kathmandu bids you farewell, offering one last chance to stroll its streets, visit souvenir shops, and complete any shopping you postponed. In the evening, you head to the airport, carrying with you not only souvenirs, but priceless memories. Mount Kailash, high mountain passes, ancient monasteries, and sacred lakes will remain in your heart as a story you lived with us. Departure home.

• International flights
• Domestic flight Kathmandu – Lhasa
• Visas
• Insurance covering mountaineering activities and helicopter evacuation
• Single accommodation
• Early check-in / late check-out before or after the program (we always try to negotiate additional bonuses for our guests with our partners; early check-in or late check-out is often provided free of charge)
• Meals during the trek (USD 25–35 per day)
• Personal porter – USD 25 per day for up to 20 kg (usually one porter is shared between two participants); porter insurance is included (yes, we insure all staff)
• Tips
• Any deviations from the program
• Any expenses related to changes in the program

Documents:

• International passport
• Airline tickets
• Medical insurance covering helicopter evacuation

Personal equipment:

• Backpack 30–50 liters
• Duffel bag for personal belongings (provided by our team on site)
• Sleeping bag with comfort temperature down to −20°C
• Sleeping pad
• Trekking poles with baskets at least 70 mm
• Steel crampons
• Ice axe with leash
• Climbing harness
• Helmet
• Carabiners – 4 pcs
• Safety lanyards
• Jumar (ascender)
• Belay / descender device
• Mug–spoon–bowl set

Clothing and footwear:

• Triple or double mountaineering boots. Double boots – plastic or leather
• Trekking boots, WELL treated in advance with waterproofing agent
• Sneakers (for city use)
• Waterproof membrane layer – jacket + pants
• Fleece suit
• Thermal underwear top + bottom
• Mid-weight down jacket with hood
• Warm mittens
• Thick gloves
• Thin gloves
• Bandana or buff (in addition to sun protection in the valley, can be used to protect the neck or face from frost)
• Hat
• Warm trekking socks for summit day
• Windproof face mask for the lower part of the face

Miscellaneous:

• Headlamp with battery life of at least 12 hours
• Power bank
• Sunglasses
• Ski goggles
• Rain cover / rain jacket
• Thermos – 1 liter (preferably without a push-button lid)
• Gaiters
• Sunscreen SPF 50
• Lip balm SPF 10–15
• Chemical hand warmers (optional, but can be very useful)
• Personal first-aid kit
• Elastic bandage and/or support brace
• Toothpaste, toothbrush, soap, shampoo, flip-flops
• Towel
• Toilet paper (available for purchase in lodges along the route)