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  • Itinerary
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Duration- 13 Nights / 14 Days

Mode of Transportation- Shared vehicle with experienced English speaking Guide

Meals- All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Tour Manager- Available at your service right from your arrival till departure

Tour Guide- Will travel along the group

Inclusions- All inclusive except expense of personal nature like laundry, entry fee of camera etcetera

Hotel Category- Category of your choice. At few places only basic hotels or camps available

About Mount Kailash

Mount Kailash (standing tall at approximately 22000 feet) is not just a mere massive mountain situated in the Great Himalayas, it is much greater than that. For believers living in various parts of the world, it is an embodiment of spirituality, faith, religion, hope and of love. Mount Kailash, the holiest of the holy mountains is situated within the Tibetan Plateau. Tibetan Plateau is the highest in the world, and is rightly said to be the “Roof of the World”. According to Hindu beliefs, Holy Mount Kailash is considered to be an Abode of Lord Shiva, where he lives with his consort Goddess Parvati. It is said that Lord Shiva still resides atop the mountain and perform various activities like practicing yoga, meditation, etc. It is believed to be an incredible personification of a place of peace and power. Some even believe and consider it to be “Heaven on Earth”. It is the most worshipped mountains in the world, and is considered to be of massive spiritual significance for four different religions, namely Hinduism, Budhhism, Jainism and Tibetan Bon Tons. The Tibetan Buddhists regard the mountain as Kang Rimpoche, or ‘The Precious one among Glacial Snow’ and believe it to be the residence of Demchog or Chakrasamvara. The Jains call the mountain as Astapada and their belief is that this is the place where the first of the twenty-four Tirthankaras, Rishaba attained liberation. Mount Kailash of holy Kailash Mansarovar Yatra has been embedded deeply in the myths of Ancient Asia as a sacred place since eternity. Many theories believe it to be the center and birthplace of entire world. Pilgrims believe that by making it through the pilgrimage and having a divine view of the Abode, they will attain Nirvana and all their sins will be cleansed off. Anyone who visits the place and indulges in the pilgrim trek will feel the immense power and peace this place holds within. It is believed that anyone who comes here will be attaining enlightenment.

About Lake Mansarovar

The entire journey of holy Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is full of great folklores, mysteries and superior beliefs. The best part about the sacred yatra is that it does not just consist of the Mountain; it also takes you in front of the Holy Lake Mansarovar.

Along this holiest of the holy yatra, pilgrims indulge in pilgrimage of a wonderous and sacred Lake Mansarovar, which stands at the foot of Mount Kailash. Lake Mansarovar stretches up till approximately 88 kilometers area wise and is famous worldwide as a divine freshwater lake with crystal-clear and pristine waters. It is also said to be changing colors, from crystal blue towards the edges to emerald green in the center. A full moon night is supposed to be the best an ideal opportunity to see the Lake at its best as it shines like a jewel. Believers and pilgrims who come for the yatra, believe that completing a full kora or circumambulation of Lake Mansarovar is considered to be an act of wish fulfillment and it cleanses our soul from all sins of previous hundred years. As per Hinduism, the Lake was formed inside the mind of Lord Brahma, hence the name Mansarovar was given to it. ‘Manas’ means ‘Mind’, and ‘Sarovar’ means ‘a large water body’. Another very positive and interesting belief about the sacred lake is that when you take a holy dip inside the pristine waters of Mansarovar, you feel something otherworldly. It is said that the dip can cleanse away all your pains and sorrows and all your negative energies within seconds. Drinking its water or bathing in the lake will again, get your soul as well as your mind clear of any negative thoughts and will set you on track to attain Nirvana. Pilgrims also have stated to see several events in their lives or moments from their past after they took a small dip in the freezing waters. This interesting phenomenon has been experienced by many people with reverence and wonder.

Kailash Mansarovar Yatra: When and How?

The journey through the Kailash Mansarovar yatra is divine in itself and on the way you may experience many different destinations holding some unique and sacred significance in the minds of the pilgrims coming here from different parts of the planet. This trek is stated to be the most challenging and adventurous of all the pilgrim treks in the world. You will experience lush green valleys, infinitely stretched barren lands, a range of snow-capped mountains and beautiful lakes. It is indeed an experience of a lifetime and a “bucket-list worthy” trip to take.

The visit happens from May till the finish of September in the Tibetan area of China. The most important part of the pilgrimage is known as the kora. A kora means to steer while circling around any particular place or spot. It is accepted that any individual who finishes the kora will gather up the entirety of their wrongdoings that he or she might have committed in life. Various religions have various convictions about the parikrama of Mt. Kailash. The Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims complete the kora, clockwise, while the Jains as well as the Bon pilgrims walk around the mountain anti-clockwise. The total length of a full kora around the Holy Mountain is 56 kilometers. The landscape scene is quiet risky and the journey turns out to be steep and unpleasant now and again. Hence, the pilgrims need to be at the best of their health to complete the journey.

Mount Kailash Parikrama

The Mount Kailash trek or parikrama is rightly said to be one of the most daunting and dangerous one for the pilgrims in the world. It takes 3 days to complete the one full round or kora around the Shiva’s Abode. The trek is divided into three days since our bodies are not programmed to be trekking in such high altitude and in such light breathing conditions. The base camp is setup in Darchen which is at an altitude of around 15,000 feet above sea level. There are camps or local guesthouses for accommodation and to relax the mind and soul after the tiring climb and descent around the mountain. The first day trek starts from Darchen and heads towards Dirapuk Monastery. This day is a very easy day since the trek route is mild and moderate with just some little ups and downs. You just need to stick together with the group at all points. The second day of the trek starts from Dirapuk and takes you all the way to Zuthulphuk Monastery. This day is the most daunting as well as the most tiring or challenging day of the three. It takes you through the Drolma La Pass, which is the highest point of the trek at an elevation of 5630m. The trek is extremely dangerous with drastic ascents and descents and one needs to be very careful with the same as it features a rough and rugged terrain. It is advised to not stay at the Drolma La pass for much long since the thin air and strong cold winds could be harmful. The third and last leg of the kora is the easiest, covers the least distance and completes the holy parikrama of the Mount Kailash at Darchen. While this is certainly not a picturesque stretch of the kora, the consistent ground underneath permits you to float off and ponder the previous three days.

Darchen

Darchen is the base camp for starting the parikrama to the holy Mount Kailash. It is situated right in front of the mountain and is basically a small village. Darchen is surrounded by several varieties of tea shops, so people could stay warm. Due to its location, people travelling on a Kailash Mansarovar yatra need to rest in here every year. People start their trek from here, and those who do not want to go further can stay here for a few days before heading back home with the group.

Yam Dwar

‘The Gateway to the God of Death’ and ‘The Gate of Salvation’ is a few names or meanings given to the mysterious Yam Dwar located in Tarboche at an elevation of about 15,000 feet. People or pilgrims going forward on the pilgrimage trek around the holy Kailash parvat, need to go through this door so all their sins are gone and they can achieve Nirvana. People tend to pray to the God of Death – ‘Yam’ while passing through the gate so they could start their holy pilgrimage and for the deceased to pass through the bridge in their spiritual form.

Rakshas Tal

The lake of devil or the Rakshas Tal carries many mysterious tales and folklores regarding the Demon King – Ravana. It is situated near the Lake Mansarovar and the most interesting thing about the lake is that it was once a part of the holiest lake Mansarovar. It is recognized throughout the world as the sole saltwater lake in Tibet and is said to comprise of poisonous gases. Earlier, it used to be a part of Lake Mansarovar, but then due to the geographical shifts and movements the two lakes got separated. A thin isthmus of mountains separates them now, as if differentiating the good and the bad.  The Rakshas Tal is said to be the dwelling place of Ravana and thus, is of great historical and spiritual relevance.

Nandi Parvat

Nandi is Lord Shiva’s sacred vehicle and a symbol of honor existing in today’s time as the holy Nandi Parvat. It is said to be one the most vital peaks in the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra holding utmost divinity. Nandi is said to be born as human, but is depicted as a half-man half-bull or a bull sitting with its limbs folded. It is said that he was said to die at the age of 8, and so he started worshipping to Lord Shiva with great attention and passion. This made Lord Shiva happy and he gave a piece of a necklace with a bell attached to Nandi thus transforming him into half-human half-bull and making him immortal. It is said that Nandi is the hub of powers, provider of boons, a true symbol of honor, justice, faith, wisdom and boldness and also the protector of Dharma.

Gauri Kund

Also called as Parvati Sarovar, the Gauri Kund consists of a plethora of tales and folklores about Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is one of the most winsome lakes across the globe. It is recognized as “The Lake of Compassion” and is tucked at an elevation of around 5608 metres above sea level. The ancient tale relating to the Gauri Kund has been very illustrated in the holy Shiva Purana. According to the tale, it is said that Gauri Kund is the place where Goddess Parvati was able to get back her son – Lord Ganesha. Gauri Kund is said to be an essential spot to be seen by all the pilgrims of the Kailash yatra. The splashing of the water of the Kund is believed to purify your senses and your soul.

Ashtapad

Ashtapad is considered to be one of the most splendid pilgrimage spots and is spotted by all tourists or pilgrims on their way to the holy Abode of Lord Shiva. It is known as the place where the first Tirthankar of Jains, Bhagwan Rishabdev achieved Nirvana and thus, the spot is very significant to the Jain religion. Ashtapad simply translates to eight steps which states that there is a prevalence of eight mountain peaks on this religious or divine spot. Amongst all the destinations or places falling in between the Kailash Mansarovar yatra, Ashtapad is said to be the most beautiful due to the natural scenic views and the positive holy vibe present at this place. Experience and visit all these unique and divine places on your way to the holy abode of Shiva on your pilgrimage.

 

Day 1- Arrival Lhasa (Altitude-3650 meters)

Upon arrival at Lhasa Airport our representative will be there to receive and transfer you to the hotel. From Lhasa Airport to downtown Lhasa, it usually takes about one hour.

In order to adapt to the high altitude in Tibet, you'd better have rest and don’t do strenuous exercise. Remember to drink lots of water and eat light and high carbohydrate foods for adapting to the high altitude better.

Depending on the time of your arrival, and energy levels you may explore the city, visit nearby temples, do some shopping, try delicious Tibetan food. Walking around Barkhor Street can be an excellent choice for your first day in Lhasa. You will join crowds of pilgrims, local Tibetans, and monks circumambulating the Jokhang Temple.

 

Night stay- Lhasa

 

Day 2– Lhasa

Post relaxing breakfast at hotel we will spend the whole day exploring the beautiful city of Lhasa and its monasteries.

Today’s Excursion-

    • Drepung Monastery- This monastery was once the largest monastery in the world with over 10,000 monks living there. It was the residence of Dalai Lamas before the Potala Palace was built.
    • Sera Monastery- Built in 15 th century, it is reputed as the most beautiful Tibetan Monastery. The biggest feature is the Monks' debate from 3 pm to 5 pm. As a part of the study, lamas should participate in debates to further their comprehension and proceed to more advanced levels of Buddhism.  

 

Night stay- Lhasa

 

Day 3– Lhasa

Post relaxing breakfast at hotel we will spend this day also in Lhasa exploring beautiful city of Lhasa and its monasteries.

Today’s Excursion-

    • Potala Palace- It is considered as the cardinal landmark of Tibet and the masterpiece of Tibetan architecture. Potala Palace was the winter palace of successive Dalai lamas. It was built in the 7th Century. The most valuable collections of Potala Palace are the gilded burial stupas of former Dalai Lamas and the meditation Cave of the 33rd great king of Tibet. 
    • Jokhang Temple- Located in the center of the Lhasa old town, Jokhang Temple is the most sacred temple in Tibet. It was built in the 7th century and it has a statue of the 12 year old Buddha before his enlightenment. The statue was created at the time when the historical Buddha lived. It is elaborately decorated with gold, jewels, and precious stones.
    • Barkhor Street– Barkhor Street is a very ancient round street surrounding the Jokhang Temple.

 

Night stay- Lhasa

 

Day 4– Lhasa to Shigatse (225 miles / 7 hours) (Altitude-4790 meters)

Post breakfast at hotel, we will commence our journey to Kailash Mansarovar. It will be a beautiful long drive offering breathtaking views passing though Kamba La Pass.

Our first stop will be at Yamdrok Lake, one of the three holy lakes in Tibet. Standing at the lakeside, you can see its blue water shimmering with charming light, as well as the snow-capped holy Mount Nyenchen Khangsar at distance.

Later we will pass through the Karola Glacier on the roadside. It is about 300m from the main highway.

Before taking final stop at Shigatse, we will visit the main monastery in Gyantse - Pelkor Chode Monastery & Kumbum. Pelkor Chode Monastery is famous for its exquisite architecture and intact murals and statues. Kumbum is the biggest stupa in Tibet.

 

Night stay- Shigatse

 

Day 5– Lhasa to Rongbuk (Everest base camp) (220 miles / 7 hours) (Altitude-5100 meters)

Post breakfast at hotel, we will start for our road trip to Rongbuk, which is a Everest Base Camp. It will be a beautiful long drive offering breathtaking views passing though small villages and snow capped mountain ranges.

Our first stop will be the home of Panchen Lama - Tashilunpo Monastery. Later we will stop at Lhatse, a small town located. Here will enjoy the Lunch at local restaurant.

After a short rest, we will move ahead to Tingri. On the way we will pass Tsola Pass(4,600M), and Gyatsola Pass(5,248M).

In the late afternoon, we will enter Mt. Everest National Nature Reserve. We can enjoy the panorama of the Himalayas while we drive through Gawula Pass (5,198m). Then we drive along the Zigzag Road to Rongbuk Monastery or the Everest Base Camp to stay overnight. If the weather is good, we can enjoy the sunset view of Golden Everest Peak.

 

Night stay- Rongbuk

 

Day 6– Rongbuk to Saga (280 miles / 9 hours) (Altitude-4600 meters)

Post early breakfast at Everest Base Camp we will embark on the long road trip to Saga. The drive is long but not tiring when you get the breathtaking view of grassland, lakes, mountain ranges and if lucky wildlife.

On the way to Saga, we can view of the worlds’14th highest peak Mt.Shishapangma (8012m).

Later we will stop for rest at Lake Peikutso (4590m). Later while on road to Saga if we are lucky enough, we are very likely to see wild animals like the wild donkey, wild antelope, etc.

 

Night stay- Saga

 

Day 7– Saga to Darchan (310 miles / 9 hours) (Altitude-4560 meters)

Post early breakfast at Saga we are going to spend a lot of time on the way. It is worthy a drive when we get glimpse of beautiful landscape along the way.

As we drive past plains, we will have stunning views of the great Himalayans to the south and Trans-Himalayan to the north. This region is home to nomads, you’ll see the beautiful grassland and local's villages. We will pass through the Mayomla Pass (5112M), offering a spectacular view of Mt. Naimonanyi (7694M).

During this thrilling journey, we will pass by sand dunes, mountains, and sandstone valleys before we reach Darchen.

 

Night stay- Darchen

 

Day 8- First Day Parikrama of Mount Kailash (Trekking- 7.5 miles- 4 / 6 hours) (Altitude – 5210 meters)

Early in the morning after breakfast, we will drive to Yamdwar and then trek to Dirapuk (7.5 miles first day Parikrama). You get blessed with the darshan of North Face of Mount Kailash during the first day of Parikrama which is considered to be most auspicious.

On this trekking, we get blessed with the darshan of North Face of Mount Kailash, which considered being most auspicious, they know it as Gate to Moksha. The trek is little difficult because of lack of oxygen level. All pilgrims have opportunity to pass through Yama Dwar before the trek commences. After visiting Yam Dwar continue trekking on foot or hire a horse/pony to ride. Those who wish to hire horse/pony and porter may do it directly with the help of the Tibetan guide on direct payment basis. They will be given name coupon to choose the horse & porter and the same horse or porter will accompany you throughout the trek.

After completing the 7.5 miles gradual trek, passing through beautiful rivers and grassland we will find a huge majestic black colour mountain standing high, on the right side of our trek. That’s the North Face of Mount Kailash.

On reaching Dirapuk check into the guesthouse. The remaining day is for rest as the night is going to be very cold and oxygen level will be low.

Parikrama is optional. There are few who would be doing Parikrama by walk, few by horse & few people may not be doing Parikrama. Those who are not doing Parikrama will return from Yam Dwar to Guest House at Darchen.There will be arrangement for meals & accommodation there. Holy Mount Kailash is easily visible from there & one can do puja from there too. People staying at Darchen will join other group members in 1st half once they complete 3rd day of Parikrama.

 

Night stay- Dirapuk

 

Day 9- Second Day Parikrama of Mount Kailash (Trekking- 13.75 miles- 6 / 8 hours) (Altitude – 5630 meters)

We will wake up very early morning before dawn and if we are lucky and weather is clear we can witness the glory of ‘Golden Kailash’ as the first sunlight kisses the top of the mount.

After this unforgettable experience we will start the second day of our trek to Zuthulpuk. This is the longest and toughest day of the entire Yatra as we will pass through the highest point (5630m) at Dolma La pass. Before Dolma La we will see site showing footprints of Milarepa and Shiva Tsal. Pilgrims leave behind their belongings, donate a drop of blood or a lock of hair to represent the act of leaving this life behind and wishing for the end of a miserable life. In Tibetan Buddhist religion it is said that you will get it (whatever you offered here at Shia Tsal) in heaven after your death.

After crossing Dolma-La, we will see Gauri Kund (also referred sometimes as Parvati Kund) at downhill in the right side of our path. Then further walking down for a while, we will take break for pack lunch. The downhill trail from the top of Dolma La is not easy due to rocky & loose stones all around so we should walk very carefully and remain with the group for any help we may need. Then after, you will catch soon flat trail that reach to Zuthulphuk Gompa (4790m).

Important Note: About 3-4 kms trek (ascend and descend) near Dolma La pass is steep and rocky and it is the toughest part of this trip. Also, it is not advisable to go down to touch Gauri Kund as it may be risky.

 

Night stay- Zuthulphuk

 

Day 10- Third Day Parikrama of Mount Kailash (Trekking- 5 miles / 3 hours) (Altitude – 4575 meters) to Zhongba (215 miles / 6 hours)

This morning we can enjoy exploring the caves, visiting the temples and shrine built around. The cave also contains meditation platforms. Climbing up to these caves before ending the final trek of the holy Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is worth. We will trek for about 5 miles to Chongdo where our vehicles are waiting for pick-up.

A short drive will take us to Darchen hotel to pick up other group members (who did not attempt the trek or came back from Dirapuk) are waiting. Later we will drive from Darchen to Mansarovar Lake, the top holy lake in Tibet. It’s 25 miles to the southwest of Darchen. If the weather is good, you can see the splendid scenery of the lake Manasarovar. If you feel good, you can do a trek along the shore of the lake for a while before we head to Zhongba.

 

Night stay- Zhongba

 

Day 11- Zhongba to Lhatse (295 miles / 8 hours) (Altitude – 4000 meters)

Post breakfast we will drive from Zhongba to Lhatse. Although there is no famous scenic spot on the way, the scenery is endless. On the way, you will see a lot of unnamed lakes and rivers, cross 7 high mountain passes, and experience different weather. You will see natural scenery, rural cattle and sheep, wild animals, and unknown purple flowers all over the mountains all the way.

 

Night stay- Lhatse

 

Day 12- Lhatse to Shigatse (100 miles / 3 hours) (Altitude – 4750 meters)

Post relaxing breakfast at hotel, we will drive to Shigatse via Sakya County.

At Sakya Country we will take a stop at a famous Tibetan Buddhism monastery- Sakya Monastery. Built in 13 th Century, the walls around this monastery were mainly in grey, but the top part of the walls was painted in red and white stripes. That’s why Sakyapa is also called Variegated Buddhism.There are many cultural relics such as seals, Buddha statues, a large collection of books, exquisite murals, etc. The murals of the Yuan Dynasty are the most distinctive, which makes Sakya Monastery known as the "second Dunhuang".

 

Night stay- Shigatse

 

Day 13- Shigatse to Lhasa (175 miles / 5 hours) (Altitude – 3850 meters)

Post relaxing breakfast at hotel, we will drive back to Lhasa along the friendship highway, the northern route to Lhasa.

On the way, we will pass through Yarlung Tsangpo valley. Later we will stop at Nyemo, to visit the Tibetan Incense Workshop. Nyemo County has a history of more than 1,000 years. Except for sacrificial ceremonies, this fragrant incense also can be used to prevent infectious diseases like flu and influenza, for its ingredients contain herbal medicines such as saffron, Sandalwood, Chinese Usnea, and borneol.

 

Night stay- Lhasa

 

Day 14- Lhasa (Altitude – 3850 meters)

Post relaxing breakfast at hotel, day is at leisure. If you want to have some activities, it has to be advised in advance to arrange for the tour guide. As per the regulations, foreigners are not allowed to travel to Tibet alone but must be escorted by a tour guide.

 

Night stay- Lhasa (depending upon your onward journey)

 

Important Note-

Tibet Tourism Bureau Permit (TTB) & Military Permit usually takes about 30-working-day. If you fail to provide the required docs & info on time, an extra handling fee will be charged.

During the 3-day Mt Kailash Kora—

  1. Lodgings: In peak season, we provide the tent in case the guesthouses are fully booked.
  2. Luggage: leave most of your luggage in our vehicle, bring only the necessary.

Due to the special nature of Tibet travel, any unforeseeable and unavoidable objective circumstances, including but not limited to natural disasters, war, terrorism, riot, civil commotion, strikes, public health emergencies, government action, major traffic jams, delay or cancellation of flight/train, attractions temporarily closed. etc., resulting in a change of itinerary, the increased cost will be paid by travellers; if any attraction visits have to be cancelled due to the reasons above, EIT won't be held responsible for a refund except for certain attraction entrance fees which will be solely decided by EIT.

If you want to start your tour from Lhasa and continue to Kathmandu via Gyirong border, it's also possible. If any group members would like to end their tour at Gyirong border, we will see them off at Sino-Nepal border. Therefore, on Day 12th, we will have a valuable detour to Gyirong, which gives you a chance to explore the most beautiful  Gyirong Valley  at the foot of the Himalaya Mountain Range.

All members of the same group must be with the same tour guide during the whole trip. So all members must follow the same itinerary and visit the same attractions. If anyone requests to change the scheduled arrangement for own reasons, you need to get permission from other members and accept the possible payment change if any

Note: This is just a time bound sample itinerary indicative of how and what all could be explored. We can customise the tour as per your requirements. Set your expectations and we will offer memorable experience. Please reach out to us for personalised holiday experience.

All meals- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation- 13 Nights / 14 Days

All mode of domestic transportation

All the entry tickets

English speaking tour guide at all the locations

All necessary permits for Tibet

Sleeping bags

Travel agency liability insurance

Oxygen tank for emergency

International flight

Travel insurance

Any service / activity not mentioned in Itinerary

Expense of personal nature like laundry, entry tickets for camera etcetera

Optional tours / activities

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