13-Day Small Group Tour: Kyirong –Kathmandu – Kailash Pilgrimage
Tour Route： Lhasa——Yamdrotso Lake——Gyantse——Shigatse——Mt.Everest——Mt. Kailash——Kyirong
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Route Highlights:
Come and experience the grand event of Gangren Boqi’s mountain trekking! There are also endless culture and beauty before and after the trekking.
Journey Features
The 13-day trip includes all the Tibetan destinations that tourists dream of, including the majestic holy mountain Kailash and the holy lake Manasarovar, Potala Palace, monasteries, lakes, glaciers, and Everest Base Camp. Mount Kailash attracts thousands of pilgrims every year, and we will conduct a 52- kilometer trek around the sacred mountain; Manasarovar Lake is a sacred lake in Buddhism and Hinduism and the source of the Ganges River in India; After the trip, instead of going back to Lhasa, we will escort you out of the Tibet Border to Kathmandu, Nepal.
Itinerary Details
Itinerary Overview
D01 Arrive in Lhasa
D02 Lhasa City Sightseeing
D03 Lhasa City Sightseeing
D04 Lhasa-Yamdrotso Lake-Gyantse-Shigatse
D05 Shigatse-Tingri-Everest Base Camp
D06 Everest-Pekutso-Saga
D07 Saga-Tarchen
D08 Kailash Kora, 1st day Tarchen-Driapuk
D09 Kailash Kora, 2nd day Driapuk-Dzultripuk
D10 Kailash Kora, 3rd day Dzultripuk-Lake Manasarovar
D11 Tarchen-Saga
D12 Saga-Kyirong
D13 Kyirong-Kathmandu
Welcome to Lhasa
Greetings from Tibet! Upon your arrival at the airport, our friendly driver and guide will warmly welcome you and present you with a traditional Tibetan white scarf called a “Khata.” You’ll then be taken on a scenic one-hour drive, covering 70 kilometers on the expressway, to a comfortable hotel located in the center of Lhasa. After checking in, we recommend you take some time to relax and adjust to the altitude of 3,650 meters, ensuring a smooth and healthy start to your stay on the plateau.
Night stay in Lhasa
Tibet Road Trip Co., Ltd
Visit Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery Debating
Today, you will explore two distinct monasteries in Lhasa: Drepung and Sera, each offering a unique insight into Tibetan Buddhism. Your visit will include Buddhist halls, educational colleges, and the monks’ kitchen, where you can witness engaging debates on Buddhist teachings. Sera Monastery is particularly famous for its dynamic debates, which capture the essence of Tibetan Buddhism. Here, monks employ expressive body language, engaging in lively, dance-like discussions about Buddhist philosophy and demonstrating their comprehension in an energetic way. To kick off your tour in Tibet, your guide will take the group to a traditional Tibetan restaurant for a welcome dinner.
Breakfast/Welcome Dinner. Night stay in Lhasa
Visit Potala Palace and Johkang Temple
Today, we’ll explore the marvels of Lhasa, featuring the Potala Palace, which was the former residence of the Dalai Lama and stands as the highest palace in the world. The Jokhang Temple and Barkhor Street, central to Tibetan spirituality, are both recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Dominating the landscape of Lhasa, the Potala Palace once served as Tibet’s religious and political center, rising dramatically over the red hills. As you climb the 365 steps to the main structure, you will encounter the former political hall of the Dalai Lama, prayer halls, and the stupa that houses his tomb. This site is adorned with breathtaking murals and exquisite Buddha statues that showcase the wealth and heritage of ancient Tibet.
The Jokhang Temple is considered Tibet’s holiest site and is a pilgrimage destination for Tibetans, housing a revered 12-year-old statue of Shakyamuni. You can walk alongside pilgrims along Barkhor Street to immerse yourself in the heart of the city. Your guide will also take you to a local Tibetan teahouse to enrich your understanding of the social culture.
Breakfast. Night stay in Lhasa
Yamdrotso Lake, Karola Glacier
Embark on a journey of 340 kilometers, which takes approximately 7 to 8 hours, to reach Shigatse. Along the way, you will encounter the stunning Yamdrok Lake and the majestic Karola Glacier. Prepare for a scenic 20-kilometer trek around the lake’s tranquil shores. We’ll make a stop in a lakeside village to explore the homes of local farmers, enjoy a delicious farmhouse meal, and experience their way of life firsthand. After lunch, we’ll set out for the Karola Glacier, one of Tibet’s most impressive glaciers, located just an hour’s drive away. This colossal glacier appears as a frozen waterfall cascading over the road, towering above you. Following our visit to the Karola Glacier, we’ll continue our drive, passing by Lake Manla and the historic town of Gyantse, as we make our way to Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city.
Breakfast/Farm house Lunch. Night stay in Lhasa
Tashilunpo Monastery, Gyawula Viewing Point, Everest Base Camp
After savoring a hearty breakfast, we’ll set off to visit Tashilunbu Monastery, the esteemed residence of the Panchan Lama and the largest monastery in western Tibet. Following our spiritual journey, we will begin a 6.5-hour drive covering 330 kilometers to reach the highlight of our adventure: Mount Everest, often referred to as the “top of the world.” Along the way, we’ll make stops at various viewpoints that provide stunning glimpses of the magnificent Everest. Our expedition culminates with an overnight stay at Everest Base Camp (EBC).
As we depart from Shigatse, the scenery shifts from rural farmland to charming villages. About four hours into our trip, we’ll arrive at Dingri County, where the Dingri Viewpoint offers our first sweeping view of Everest. Upon entering the Everest scenic area, the Gawula Pass presents breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan range. Towering peaks, ranging from 7,000 to 8,000 meters, rise dramatically from the clouds, captivating us with their majesty.
Continuing along the road that leads to Everest, the mountain gradually appears larger and closer until we reach the base camp on its northern face. Here, Everest rises before us like a grand pyramid, an awe-inspiring sight. We aim to arrive at Everest Base Camp before sunset so we can experience the stunning natural phenomenon of the sun illuminating the mountain in golden tones. (Please note: During the winter months, when the tented lodges at Everest Base Camp are closed, we will arrange accommodations in Basong Village, the nearest settlement to Everest.)
Breakfast
Pekutso Lake, Mt. Shishapangma
In the morning, weather permitting, you’ll have the chance to witness the stunning sunrise over Mount Everest, which is truly a remarkable experience. Alternatively, you can enjoy a peaceful walk near the base camp, soaking in the tranquil beauty of the morning on Mount Everest. After breakfast, your knowledgeable guide will take you to Rongbuk Monastery, the highest temple in the world. This historic site is significant not only for its spiritual importance but also for its appearance in the film “2012,” where it was shown as the last place on Earth to be overwhelmed by waves. Rongbuk Monastery also provides an excellent viewpoint for capturing breathtaking photographs of the natural and cultural scenery surrounding Mount Everest. After our visit to Mount Everest, we will continue our journey to Saga, which serves as the gateway to Tibet’s Ali Plateau. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to admire Mount Shishapangma, the only peak in China that rises above 8,000 meters, along with the beautiful Lake Pekucuo located at its base. This part of the journey promises to be filled with spectacular views and unforgettable experiences as we delve deeper into the Tibetan plateau.
Overnight in Saga
Himalayas, Gangdise Mountains, Manasarovar Lake
You will set off on an extraordinary adventure through the gorge carved by the Himalayas and Gangdise Mountains, where majestic, snow-capped peaks rise dramatically on either side. As you make your way forward, you’ll pass through lush pastures, wetlands, and serene lakes, each offering stunning views and smooth paths stretching ahead. After crossing the magnificent Mayum La Pass, standing at 5,211 meters, you will catch your first sight of the breathtaking Lake Manasarovar and Mount Kailash, creating an unforgettable scene of natural beauty. Continuing along the lakeshore for about 50 kilometers, you will reach Tarchen, a town located at the base of Mount Kailash. Tarchen is both the starting and finishing point for the Mount Kailash pilgrimage and features a variety of shops, restaurants, and hotels to accommodate travelers. If you need a porter to help carry your luggage and accompany you on the pilgrimage, just let your guide know, and they will coordinate with the local community to meet your requirements.
Overnight in Tarchen
Southwest and West Slope of Mount Kailash, Driapuk Monastery
The adventure starts with a scenic bus ride from Tarchen to SeShong, covering a distance of 7 kilometers, marking the beginning of the Mount Kailash kora trek. This day coincides with the grand blessing ceremony of the Sagadawa Festival. In the central square, a vibrant crowd gathers to raise new prayer flag poles while renewing the old ones. Devout Buddhists express their happiness with joyful cheers, offering prayers for global peace, prosperity, and the well-being of all living beings. The harmonious chanting of mantras by monks reverberates throughout the valley, blending seamlessly with the mystical aura of Mount Kailash. In this moment, the mountain radiates an exceptional sense of holiness. After enjoying the festivities, the trek proceeds along the valley at the foot of Mount Kailash, following a clockwise path for 13 kilometers. The day’s journey concludes at Driapuk Monastery, nestled at the base of Kailash’s western slope, where trekkers will spend their first night.
Circumambulation of Mount Kailash
Dromala Pass, Sunrise of Mt.Kailash, Dzultripuk Monastery
Today’s segment of the Mount Kailash circuit is the most challenging and extensive. You will begin a demanding trek to cross the impressive Dolma La Pass, which rises to an elevation of 5,630 meters and spans a distance of 24 kilometers. Departing from Driapuk Monastery before dawn, you will climb the mountainside toward Dolma La, where you can experience the stunning sunrise illuminating the northwest slope of Mount Kailash. As the morning progresses, you will navigate the Dolma La Pass, adorned with fluttering prayer flags that provide sweeping views of the glacier on the northwest slope of Mount Kailash and the tranquil Mercy Lake situated below the pass. According to legend, bathing in this lake can cleanse one of all sins from their lifetime and facilitate rebirth. After this spiritual moment, you will begin a long descent through rocky terrain, traveling through the valley beneath Mount Kailash to arrive at Dzultripuk Monastery. During the summer, this valley transforms into lush grasslands, bustling with livestock and sightings of local wildlife.
Circumambulation of Mount Kailash
Dzultripuk Monastery – Manasarovar Lake
In the morning, we will say goodbye to Dzultripuk Monastery as we continue our journey to Tarchen, symbolizing both the conclusion and the commencement of the Mount Kailash circuit. Once we arrive in Tarchen, you have the option to take a short rest at the hotel before we set off on our afternoon trip to Lake Manasarovar. The distance between the monastery and Tarchen is manageable, allowing you to either walk or take a convenient 5-kilometer bus ride. As you navigate through the valley at the base of Mount Kailash, your eyes will be captivated by the vast plain ahead, enhanced by the tranquil waters of Lake Manasarovar, with the impressive Naimonanyi Peak rising beside it at 7,694 meters. Upon reaching the shores of Lake Manasarovar, you’ll have the chance to embrace moments of peace and calm. Following the practices of Buddhist pilgrims, you can approach the lake to gather holy water for cleansing your hands or face, washing away the exhaustion from the previous days of the Kailash kora and revitalizing your spirit. Moreover, hot spring cabins located by the lake provide an ideal way to soothe your feet or enjoy a relaxing bath, further enriching your experience with the sacred waters.
Circumambulation of Mount Kailash
Grassland Pastoral Area, Wild Animals, Gongzhu Lake
Today, we’ll embark on a journey back to Saga County, retracing the same path we took upon our arrival. As we make our way across the expansive terrain that stretches for hundreds of kilometers, you’ll have the chance to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Ali Plateau. You will once again be welcomed by the vast grasslands and peaceful lakes that define this beautiful area. Throughout our journey, you’ll be treated to stunning panoramas of the snow-capped peaks of the Gangdise Mountains and the magnificent Himalayas—truly a sight to behold.
Upon reaching Gongzhu Lake, you’ll have an opportunity to take a break and fully immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. You can enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake or explore the nearby pastures, allowing the serene environment to refresh your spirit and reconnect you with the natural world.
Overnight in Saga
Kyirong Valley
After witnessing the grandeur of the tallest mountain on Earth, we will take you to the lowest point in western Tibet—the Kyirong Valley. Nestled at just 2,800 meters above sea level, this valley presents a striking contrast to the soaring snow-capped peaks. Instead, you’ll find yourself enveloped by lush forests, meandering canyons, and a plentiful supply of oxygen. Here, among the serene beauty of nature, you can indulge in a much-needed respite and soak in the peacefulness of the countryside. Set off on leisurely hikes along the forest trails, where the crisp mountain air will refresh your senses and rejuvenate both body and mind. Breathe deeply of the fresh, oxygen-rich air to ease the weariness of your travels and replenish your energy for the adventures that lie ahead.
Overnight in Kyirong
The itinerary is coming to a close. We look forward to meeting you again.
In the morning, your Tibetan guide will take you to Gyirong Port, signaling the end of your Tibetan adventure. As you stand in front of the grand Chinese border gate, take a moment to snap a memorable photo before saying goodbye. You will then cross the Sino-Nepal Friendship Bridge that spans the canyon, where our Nepali staff will be ready to welcome you on the other side of the border. We offer seamless transfers from the border to Kathmandu, ensuring a hassle-free experience for you.
Our team will assist with your luggage (tips are appreciated), help you into the waiting Jeep, and make sure you are comfortably seated until the private car drops you off at your pre-arranged hotel in Kathmandu. Throughout this picturesque journey, you’ll be enchanted by the snowy peaks and stunning canyon views on the southern slopes of the Himalayas, culminating in your arrival in the Kathmandu Valley, marking the conclusion of your exploration through these awe-inspiring landscapes.
Breakfast
Prices
Service Included:
- Tibet Travel Permit application service and mailing service within China.
- Entrance tickets to the listed attractions and activities.
- Accommodations are in three-star hotels with breakfast throughout the journey.
- Comfortable and safe tourist vehicle.
- Excellent Tibetan English-speaking guide.
- Farm house lunch and welcome dinner.
- Travel accident insurance and high-altitude sickness insurance.
- Shuutle service between the airport/train station and Lhasa city.
- Exquisite Tibetan gifts and travel maps.
- On-board medical oxygen supply for travel in high-altitude areas.
Service Excluded:
- International and domestic transportation to and from Tibet.
- Single room supply for solo travelers who require a single room.
- Some meal expenses are not included in the tour (the guide will assist in arranging and recommending meals; you are responsible for the cost).
