Trekking to Kailash and Manasarova: The ultimate dream vacation for pilgrims and the best land journey in Tibet for 15 days
Tour Route：
$ From
2259
Route Highlights:
The route features a comprehensive exploration of Tibet’s cultural and natural wonders, including iconic landmarks like Lhasa, Gyantse, Shigatse, Everest Base Camp, and Lake Manasarovar, providing an immersive experience of the region’s diverse landscapes and rich heritage.
Journey Features
Embark on a remarkable 15-day journey through the heart of Tibet, delving into its cultural treasures and breathtaking landscapes. Beginning with a warm welcome in Lhasa, the tour unfolds with two days of exploration in the capital city, encompassing iconic sites such as the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple. The adventure then ventures beyond Lhasa, traversing to Gyantse and Shigatse, where ancient monasteries and historic landmarks await. The journey reaches its spiritual climax at Lake Manasarovar and Darchen, sacred destinations revered by pilgrims for centuries. Trekking from Darchen to Dirapuk and Zutulpuk, participants experience the awe-inspiring grandeur of the region’s natural wonders. As the adventure concludes, travelers make their way back to Lhasa, retracing their steps through Gyirong and Tingri.
Itinerary Details
Itinerary Overview
Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa
Day 2: Lhasa Day Tour
Day 3: Lhasa Day Tour
Day 4: Lhasa – Gyantse – Shigatse
Day 5: Shigatse – Everest Base Camp (EBC)
Day 6: EBC – Pelku Tso Lake – Saga
Day 7: Saga – Lake Manasarovar – Darchen
Day 8: Darchen to Dirapuk Trek
Day 9: Dirapuk to Zutulpuk Trek
Day 10: Zutulpuk to Darchen Trek
Day 11: Darchen – Saga
Day 12: Saga – Gyirong
Day 13: Gyirong – Tingri
Day 14: Tingri – Lhasa
Day 15: Departure from Lhasa
Greetings from Lhasa
When you arrive in Lhasa, whether by air or train, our friendly Tibetan guide will greet you warmly and present you with a Hada, the traditional Tibetan ceremonial scarf. Following this, your driver and guide will take you to your hotel in the center of Lhasa. You’ll have the chance to view the Lhasa River, while the Yarlung Tsangpo River, also known as the Brahmaputra River, is the longest and most significant river in Tibet.
After settling into your accommodation, take some time to relax and adjust to the high altitude. In the afternoon or evening, your guide will meet you with traditional Tibetan gifts, provide travel information, and introduce you to the other members of your group.
Overnight in Lhasa
Tibet Road Trip Co., Ltd
You will have a whole day to visit the biggest monastery in Tibet, learn about Tibetan Buddhism, and become involved in the daily lives of Tibetan monks.
In the morning, you will embark on a tour of Drepung Monastery, the largest monastery in Tibet and once home to over 10,000 monks. Your guide will introduce significant figures in Tibetan Buddhist history and provide detailed insights into the religion’s worldview as you explore Coqen Hall.
Following this, you will visit the renowned Loseling College (or a similar institution), where you can gain a deeper understanding of the studies and lifestyle of Tibetan monks. You will also have the opportunity to examine their dormitories, offering a glimpse into their daily lives and living conditions.
In the afternoon, you’ll head to Sera Monastery, one of the “great three” Gelug monasteries in Tibet, to witness the famous Tibetan Monks Debate, held every Saturday from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Your guide will offer an in-depth explanation of how these debates function, highlighting how Tibetan monks engage in discussions to enhance their knowledge and academic standing.
Overnight in Lhasa
Breakfast | Welcome Dinner
Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street
The day’s highlight is a visit to the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites that provide a glimpse into the everyday beliefs and lifestyles of the people in Lhasa. After breakfast, your first stop will be the Potala Palace, where you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of Old Town Lhasa. Delve into the palace’s rich history and remarkable artifacts to discover the stories and legends of the Dalai Lamas. Among the palace’s most treasured items are the meditation cave of the 33rd great monarch of Tibet and the gold-plated burial stupas of previous Dalai Lamas.
In the afternoon, you’ll head to the Jokhang Temple, the heart of Tibetan Buddhism, where you can admire the twelve-year-old statue of Buddha Sakyamuni. Outside, you’ll witness pilgrims kneeling before the temple. The area surrounding the temple, known as Barkhor Street, is home to an ancient market where you can walk alongside pilgrims and locals as they perform kora, a religious practice of circling around a building or mountain.
Next, follow your guide to one of Lhasa’s bustling indoor Tibetan tea houses. Here, you can savor a cup of traditional Tibetan sweet tea while your guide shares insights about daily life and social dynamics in Tibet.
Overnight in Lhasa
Set off early in the morning to travel overland from Lhasa to Shigatse, stopping along the way to see the glacier, the most beautiful lake in Tibet, and a quaint Tibetan village.
To visit Yamdrok-tso (4400m), you’ll first ascend the Gampala Pass (4790m). From this vantage point, you can marvel at the stunning view of Holy Mount Nyenchen Khangsar (7191m), the tallest mountain near Lhasa, along with several other snow-capped peaks surrounding Yamdrok Lake. After exploring the lake’s shoreline from various viewpoints, you can stop at a local family’s home in the nearby village to enjoy a meal with them.
Next, you’ll drive past the impressive Korola Glacier, which lines the road and is the largest glacier in Tibet. As you witness the glacier’s ice tongue rising dramatically up the mountainside, you’ll feel the awe-inspiring power of nature. Following this, you will continue your journey to Gyantse, making a stop at Simila Mountain Pass along the way. Here, you can hang prayer flags as a gesture of goodwill for your family’s health and for world peace.
Once you arrive in Gyantse, take some time to capture photos of this historic city. The drive from Gyantse to Shigatse will offer views of countless farms and vibrant Tibetan barley fields, lush in summer and golden in autumn.
Overnight in Shigatse
Breakfast | Lunch with a Tibetan Village Family
Make the most of your time today by gazing at the breathtaking mountain ranges of the Himalayas! It’s straight to Mount Everest after breakfast.
Your journey begins with a trek across Gyatsola Pass (5280m), where you’ll catch your first glimpse of Mount Everest from the viewpoint. From the roadside, Everest presents a breathtaking view, appearing like a blossoming lotus flower nestled behind the mountain range. Soon, you’ll approach the Mount Everest National Nature Reserve, allowing you to soak in the expansive Himalayan landscape at Gawula Pass (5198m). You’ll be captivated by the stunning formation of the five highest peaks of the Himalayas, with Everest standing proudly in front. This marks your second opportunity to admire Mount Everest.
Next, we will head towards Everest Base Camp (5200m) via a newly constructed winding road. With each twist and turn, the majestic Mount Everest reveals itself more and more, drawing you closer to the base camp. This is your third encounter with the mountain. Upon reaching Everest Base Camp, you’ll be greeted by the towering white pyramid of Everest’s summit looming majestically before you. As day transitions to night, witness the sun casting its golden hues over Everest’s northern face—this is your fourth perspective.
As dusk settles in, your fifth and final sighting of Mount Everest unfolds, with the sparkling Milky Way illuminating the sky above the mountain’s pristine summit.
Overnight in EBC Tent Hotel
Proceed westward over the Himalayas into the Ngari Plateau, taking in the pastures, lakes, and snow-capped peaks along the way.
In the morning, set off on an adventure along a rough path until you arrive at Damxung (4130 m) on the Qinghai-Tibet Highway, where our trek begins. Today, we will experience a brief hike through a beautiful meadow, as well as stop by a monastery during our journey.
Overnight in Saga
Following breakfast, you’ll go out on an adventure through the Saga Valley, which lies between the Gangdise and Himalayan ranges. Along the trip, you’ll get to see breathtaking lakes, a large expanse
As you journey along, you’ll spot flocks of sheep and yaks peacefully grazing on the expansive plains beneath the towering, snow-capped mountains. You’ll also pass by Gongzhucuo Lake, a breathtaking green body of water that adds to the scenery. Your entry into the Ngari Region officially begins after you traverse the Mayum La Mountain, which stands at an impressive 5,211 meters. As you cross this mountain pass, the sight of the sacred Lake Manasarovar unfolds before you, making the experience feel like stepping into a wild sanctuary filled with untamed wildlife. Many travelers find themselves awestruck and inspired by the view of Lake Manasarovar alongside the distant Mount Kailash. Continuing your journey around the lake will lead you to the ultimate destination—sacred Mount Kailash. Upon reaching Darchen, the quaint town situated at the foot of Mount Kailash, you can check into your lodging, take some time to rest, and prepare for the three-day trek up the mountain.
Overnight in Darchen
Set out on your first day of hiking across the valley beneath Mount Kailash! Enjoy the gorgeous views of the western, southwest, and southern slopes.
Today marks the beginning of your 13-kilometer trek around Mount Kailash, starting in Sarshung Valley. After enjoying breakfast, you will board an eco-bus in Darchen. The initial 13 kilometers are fairly easy, leading you into the valley close to the base of Mount Kailash. You’ll have a clear view of the western and southern slopes of this sacred mountain. Upon reaching the base of the western slope, you will check into the guesthouse at Dirapuk Monastery. For the remainder of the day, follow our itinerary to explore the historic Dirapuk Monastery, also known as Zhire Temple. Take the time to appreciate the sacred stupas and the breathtaking presence of Mount Kailash’s western slope. If the weather is favorable, don’t miss the opportunity to witness the stunning sunset views of Mount Kailash from Dirapuk Monastery. As night approaches, marvel at the sun’s afterglow softly lighting up the sheer cliffs of the western slope.
Overnight at Dirapuk Monastery guesthouse
Are you prepared for the hardest day of your hike up Mount Kailash? You will hike over the highest peak on this day, which is 5,630 meters, and pass pious Buddhist pilgrims who are kneeling.
To reach an elevation of 5,430 meters, start your day early with a 4-kilometer trek from Dirapuk Monastery. This section offers a quick climb along with breathtaking views of the sunrise over the northwest face of Mount Kailash. Afterward, continue your hike for another 2 kilometers to reach Dolma La Pass, the highest point at 5,630 meters. You’ll find prayer flags fluttering all around on this trail. (Note: Due to the high altitude, the path can be slippery and littered with rocks even in summer, so please exercise caution to avoid slipping.) Upon successfully crossing Dolma La Pass, you’ll be greeted by the stunning emerald-green Lake of Compassion, or Guri Kund. It is believed that a dip in this lake can cleanse you of a lifetime’s sins. You’ll also have views of the massive glaciers on Mount Kailash’s northwest slope. Following the Lake of Compassion, you’ll descend gently into the valley at the southeast base of Mount Kailash, where Zutulpuk Monastery (also known as Dzutripuk Monastery) is located. Here, you may encounter beautiful wildlife and find a tranquil spot to relax on the meadows.
Overnight in Zutulpuk Monastery Guesthouse
After completing the Kailash Kora, visit the sacred Lake Manasarovar for a refreshing dip.
You will embark on your journey from Zutulpuk Monastery back to Darchen, the starting point of the Kailash trek, early in the morning. After completing the Kailash walk, you will drive 30 kilometers to Lake Manasarovar. There, you will approach the shores to immerse yourself in the sacred waters of the lake. You can meditate by the lakeside, listen to the calming sounds of the holy waves, or cleanse yourself with the revered water, which holds significant spiritual importance for both Buddhists and Hindus. Additionally, there are optional hot springs available for visitors who wish to relax or enjoy foot baths. After today’s adventures, you will return to Darchen.
Overnight in Darchen
You will bid farewell to the Ngari Plateau and make your way back to the Himalayas today.
After breakfast, you will head back to Sage, where you will be treated to stunning vistas of the Gangdise Mountains, the Himalayas, and the Ngari Plateau. Along your journey, you can take breaks at lakes and lush meadows to appreciate the rich natural beauty and wildlife of Ngari up close. Eventually, you will arrive in Saga later today.
Overnight in Saga
The highlight of today is exploring the Himalayan border’s snow-capped mountains and forests.
Start your journey to Gyirong Valley, an undiscovered gem near the Sino-Nepal border, early in the morning. As you descend in altitude along the roadside, the scenery transforms from barren landscapes and snow-covered mountains to lush forests and breathtaking canyon views. Upon your arrival in Gyirong Town in the afternoon, you will embark on a tour of Gyirong Valley. British explorer Howard-Bury described Gyirong Valley as the most beautiful valley on Earth in his book “Mount Everest: The Reconnaissance.” Here, you can visit the Sherpa communities and enjoy the tranquility of quaint villages, dense woods, and magnificent snow-capped peaks towering above the trees. You’ll also notice the slightly damp air, a refreshing contrast to the thin and arid atmosphere of the Ngari Plateau.
Overnight in Gyirong
You will leave the Himalayan region’s forested edge behind today and head back into the highlands.
This morning, you’ll have ample time to relax. (Please note: If you’re planning to fly to Kathmandu after visiting Mount Kailash, you are free to leave this morning.) After lunch, you’ll begin your journey back to Tingri County in Shigatse. As you make your way up the Himalayan plateau, be sure to enjoy the stunning views of the Himalayas once again. You will arrive in Tingri in the late afternoon, and after checking into your hotel, you can unwind and recharge.
Overnight in Tingri
A visit to the Tashilhunpo Monastery, the biggest monastery in Shigatse today. You’ll later travel the Yarlung Tsangpo River back to Lhasa
In the morning, we will visit Tashilhunpo Monastery, the residence of the Panchen Lama. The grand halls of this largest monastery in the region cover the entire hillside. It is home to the world’s largest Maitreya Buddha statue, situated in this spiritual center of the Tibetan community in Shigatse, Tibet. Afterwards, we will follow the Yarlung Tsangpo River, the lifeblood of the Tibetan people, as we make our way back to Lhasa.
Overnight in Lhasa
Your visit of Tibet comes to an end today.
Please check the details of your departure flight or train with our guide ahead of time. Your guide will also help you get to the train station or airport. Thank you for choosing our agency, and we hope to see you back in Tibet soon.
Dates and Prices
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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).
