Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lhasa

Your Arrival Time (?) Our office representative will meet and greet you at Kathmandu Airport and transfer you to your hotel.

Note: Make sure that the arrival day is Sunday, so the next day we can apply for your visa immediately.

At. 06:00 PM: We will meet for a trip briefing about your tour programme. If you are arriving late (after 04:00 PM), then we will have a briefing next morning. You can ask all your trip related questions during the briefing meeting.

At. 09:30 AM: After your breakfast, you may need to visit the Chinese Embassy to apply for your visa to Tibet. Most of the time, the visit isn't required, but if needed, we will arrange a visit. Later, you will go for a full day of sightseeing in Kathmandu.

Firstly, you will start with Pashupatinath Temple, a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva. You will wander through the maze of the temple, surrounded by small shrines, each with its own religious significance. Then, you will drive towards Jal Narayan Temple. Take your time to appreciate the intricate details of the reclining statue of Lord Vishnu, its size, and the open air settings. You can have your lunch in between the sightseeing, according to your timing and nearby places of interest. Your final destination today will be Patan Durbar Square, one of the three Durbar squares, where you will travel through the historical lane.

At. 04:00 PM: Once your sightseeing is complete, we will drop you off at your hotel. In the evening, you can go shopping around Thamel, a tourist market in Kathmandu.

Optional Activity: You can also take part in the thrilling Everest Mountain Flight. It is a sightseeing adventure flight that departs at 06:30 AM from Kathmandu airport to Kathmandu airport, a 1 hour flight that takes you to the stunning aerial view of Mt. Everest (8848 m) and several other mountains such as Lhotse (8516 m), Kanchenjunga (8586 m), Shishapangma (8027 m), Nuptse (7881 m), Ganesh (7422 m), and Chamlang (7319 m).

Pashupatinath Temple is the largest and holiest shrine for Hindus, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple, situated on the bank of the Bagmati River, was built in the 5th century. It is represented by a four faced Shiva-lingam housed in the main temple. There are around 492 temples, 15 Shivalayas (shrines of Lord Shiva), and 12 Jyotirlingas (phallic shrines) to explore. Although only Hindus are allowed to enter the temple, visitors can clearly see the temple and the activities performed on the temple premises from the eastern bank of the Bagmati river. A centre for Hindu pilgrimage, this temple hosts different major festivals such as Maha Shivaratri and pujas such as Rudra Abhishek and evening Aarti. Additionally, no entrance fee is charged for Indian nationals to enter the temple.

The Jal Narayan Temple, also known as Budhanilkantha Temple, is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is around 8 KM north of Kathmandu at the base of Shivapuri Hill. The temple is famous for its large, reclining statue of Lord Vishnu resting on a bed of stone serpents in a pool of water. The temple is religiously significant for both Hindus and Buddhists. Unlike other Hindu temples, Budhanilkantha is an open-air shrine offering a unique and serene atmosphere.

Patan Durbar Square, one of the three durbar squares in Kathmandu Valley, is 6 KM southeast of Kathmandu. The square is an important example of Newari architecture, surrounded by prominent temples, palaces, courtyards, and statues. The Keshav Narayan Temple, which was built in the 17th century and dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu, is a masterpiece of pagoda architecture. The temple is known for its nine roofed pagodas and its richly decorated interior. Other notable key attractions on the square are the Krishna Temple, the Taleju Temple, the Bhimsen Temple, and the Patan Museum.

At. 09:00 AM: Have your breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast, you will visit the Bhaktapur Durbar Square for sightseeing, which is at a distance of 16 KM from Kathmandu and takes around 45 minutes to reach.

Explore around the square and appreciate the unique historical and cultural heritage of the square. You will have various restaurants suitable for you to have your lunch at. You can have your lunch around the square, which provides a variety of restaurants and eateries with authentic Newari cuisines and other national/continental cuisines catering to your needs.

Optional Activity: You can also participate in pottery activities in the pottery square of Bhaktapur. Here, local shops let you create your own pottery items and take them home at a cheap price. Involving yourself in this activity will be a unique experience for you.

Next, you will visit the Kailashnath Shiva Statue (the second tallest Mahadev Statue), which is about 8 KM from Bhaktapur and offers a breathtaking view of Kathmandu Valley with a leisurely stroll through the well maintained garden surrounding the statue. Then, you will visit Doleshwor Mahadev, which is at a distance of 7.5 KM from Kailashnath. There, you can witness the spiritual aura of the temple and, if you wish, participate in the Hindu worship rituals. Once your sightseeing is complete, drive to Kathmandu at your hotel for the night stay.

Bhaktapur, also known as Khwopa, is approximately 13 KM east of Kathmandu. The major highlights of Bhaktapur Durbar Square include Nyatapola Temple, 55-Window Palace, Golden Temple, and Dattatreya Temple, demonstrating the artistic and architectural talent of the Malla era. The Pokharis, such as Siddha Pokhari, Napukhu, and Kamalpokhari, add charm to this site. Moreover, it is famous for its pottery and handicrafts, and the surrounding area of the durbar soiree is dotted with local shops selling traditional pottery, wood carvings, and handicrafts.

Kailashnath Mahadev Statue is the tallest statue of Lord Shiva and is located in Sanga, 20 KM from Kathmandu. The statue is 144 feet (44 m) in height and was made using copper, zinc, concrete, and steel. The statue depicts Lord Shiva in a standing posture, holding a trishul and damaru in his hands.

Doleshwor Mahadev is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located in the south eastern part of Bhaktapur district, which is also believed to be the head part of Kedarnath, located in Uttarakhand, India.

At. 09:00 AM: After breakfast, you will have a full day to rest in Kathmandu. You will collect your visa today, and you can use your whole day to prepare for tomorrow's journey. You can visit nearby markets, such as Thamel, to buy any needed stuff for your trip.

Note: This day can serve as a buffer in case of a holiday at the embassy. You can use the previous day to apply for your visa and collect the passport today. If everything goes smoothly, we may fly to Lhasa today. If so, you can rest for a night in Kathmandu after completing the trip.

At. 09:00 AM: Have your breakfast at the hotel and drive towards TIA for your flight to Lhasa. The flight time is about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Once you arrive at the Lhasa Gonggar Airport, you will be transferred to the designated hotel. After you check in the hotel, you are welcome to explore the city, visit nearby temples, do some shopping, try delicious Tibetan food in one of the local restaurants, or just take a rest.

Depending on the time of your arrival, you might have some free time to spend in Lhasa. Our guides will be happy to advise you on what you can do in Lhasa. Walking around Bakhor Street can be an excellent choice for your first day in Lhasa. Most importantly, on your first day in Tibet, relax, enjoy your day, and allow some time for acclimatisation.

At. 09:00 AM: Have your breakfast at the hotel and get ready to explore Lhasa and its popular attractions. Start your sightseeing in the morning by first visiting the Potala Palace, the iconic symbol of Tibet and the winter residence of Dalai Lamas. Marvel at the stunning architecture and intricate artwork. The majestic landmark will blow your mind at first sight. The day tour will be fully guided, and your licensed guide will provide you with all the necessary information about the palace, history, and do’s and don'ts, making sure you won’t get in trouble.

Note: You are not allowed to take pictures and videos inside the temple, palaces, and other attraction sites.

After the Potala Palace, head to Jokhang Temple, considered the spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism. Jokhang Temple is just 2 KM away from the Potala Palace. Last but not least, Barkhor Street is a lively marketplace surrounding the Jokhang Temple. Around the street, you can find authentic Tibetan street food and lots of eye-catching things. Have lunch at the market and also shop for souvenirs, sample local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the local culture. There are a lot of things to see and experience here, as it is filled with locals, tourists, and pilgrims. Roam around the market area and enjoy Lhasa's nightlife before returning to the lodge. 

The Potala Palace is one of the most recognisable landmarks in Tibet and was once the winter residence of the Dalai Lama. It is perched on Marpo Ri Hill and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The palace is an architectural marvel, combining Tibetan and Buddhist styles. It was originally built in the 7th century but was extensively expanded and renovated in the 17th century under the Fifth Dalai Lama.

Jokhang Temple, built in the 7th century, is located in the heart of Lhasa. The Jokhang Temple houses the Jowo Shakyamuni, a revered statue of the young Buddha, which attracts thousands of pilgrims every year. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and plays a crucial role in the preservation of Tibetan culture and religion.

At. 09:00 AM: Start your day with breakfast at the lodge and light breathing exercises. Today you will visit two great Buddhist universities and two of the three great Gelug monasteries in Tibet, Drepung Monastery. The monastery is located northwest of Lhasa, within 11 KM, which you can cover in just 30-35 minutes by drive. Once at the monastery, you will smell the strong scent of traditional incense and tranquility. Explore the beautiful architecture of the monastery, along with the arts and a peaceful monastic ambience. Some things to witness are the sand Mandala, authentic artwork of the monastery, a view of the spectacular landscape, and the doctrinal debate of the monks in the courtyard at 02:30 PM.

Important Note: Drink plenty of water to avoid getting high altitude sickness. You can have lunch at the restaurant in Lhasa after the sightseeing; your guide will help you choose restaurants according to your preferences.

Next you will visit Sera Monastery, which is at a distance of about 14 KM from Drepung and is just 45 minutes drive. Once at the monastery, you will have several monks in pairs, one sitting and the other standing. What they're doing is asking questions and answering them based on their learning (Tibetan Buddhist doctrine). The debate is held at 3-4 PM every day except for Sundays.

End your day with a visit to Norbulingka, the summer palace of the Dalai Lamas. Stroll through its beautiful gardens and admire the exquisite murals and decorations. Spend the evening leisurely, exploring more of Lhasa or relaxing at your hotel. End your day with lots of new experiences, a warm dinner with traditional Tibetan food, and a cultural show.

Derpung Monastery, founded in 1416 by Jamyang Choeje, a disciple of the great Tibetan saint Tsongkhapa, is part of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. It is renowned for its impressive architecture, featuring whitewashed walls and red rooftops. The monastery complex is built on the slopes of Mount Gephel and includes numerous temples, assembly halls, and monastic residences. The main temple, the Tsokchen Hall, houses important religious artefacts and statues.

Sera Monastery, located just a few kilometres north of Lhasa, Tibet. Founded in 1419 by Jamchen Chojey, a disciple of Tsongkhapa, Sera is part of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism and is renowned for its rich history, vibrant monastic community, and unique debating tradition. The monastery complex is divided into several main parts, including the main assembly hall (Sera Me), several colleges (Sera Je and Sera Me), and various chapels and residential quarters for monks.

Norbulingka, meaning "Jewelled Park," is a significant cultural and historical site located in Lhasa, Tibet. Established in the 18th century, it served as the summer residence of the Dalai Lama and is renowned for its beautiful gardens, palaces, and rich Tibetan heritage.

At. 07:00 AM: Today we will take some of the most beautiful roads in Tibet to drive to Shigatse. The distance from Lhasa to Shigatse is around 266 KM and takes about 4 to 5 hours of driving. Today you will make stops in various places. Prepare your cameras to capture the breathtaking views when we will be going up to the highest point of the day, Kamba La Pass (almost 4800 meters). Our next stop will be at Yamdrok Lake. It is one of the holy lakes in Tibet, and it is famous for its turquoise coloured water. After that, we will head towards Gyantse. On the way, we will make a stop to see the spectacular glaciers. In Gyantse, we will visit the monastery and the biggest stupa. Finally, we will reach Shigatse late in the evening and stay there overnight.

At 07:00 AM: Today you will make your way to Tingri, but before that, have breakfast at the lodge first. After breakfast, get ready for a drive to Tingri. The drive from Shigatse to Tingri is around 237 KM and typically takes around 3 to 4 hours. Today's journey will be more enjoyable as you head towards the scenic Tibetan landscape, which will entertain you all along the way. The drive takes you through remote villages and past rolling hills, providing a glimpse of rural Tibetan life.

Once you arrive in Tingri, check in at the lodge and take some time to relax and acclimatise, preparing to drive towards Everest base camp. You will visit the base camp on a comfortable drive. After your visit to the base camp, come back to Tingri for an overnight stay. 

Tingri, located on the north side of Mount Everest, serves as a gateway to the North Base Camp in Tibet. This route offers access to the Everest Base Camp from the Tibetan side, providing breathtaking views of the world's highest peak and a distinct perspective in comparison to the more widely known South Base Camp in Nepal. This is the only place from which you can get to the Everest Base Camp without trekking.

At. 07:30 AM: On this day, you will make your journey to Saga, covering a distance of approximately 295 KM, which will take around 4 to 5 hours. En route, you will have the opportunity to go to Lake Peiku Tso. Once you reach Saga, check in and have your lunch. Later, explore the area on your own. You will stay the night at the hotel in Saga.

At. 08:00 AM: Enjoy a delicious morning breakfast, and today you will drive to the holy and beautiful Lake Mansarovar (4650 m). The distance from Saga to Mansarovar is about 450 KM and will take you around 6 to 7 hours. Once you arrive at Mansarovar, you will take a rest at the guest house. After a while, you will be taken for a Kora of Mansarovar Lake in a vehicle. It is an auspicious day, as you will see the first glimpse of holy Kailash from sacred Lake Mansarovar and also a glimpse of Rakshas Taal on you way. You can also take a holy bath on the bank of Lake Mansarovar. You will stay the night at the guesthouse in Mansarovar.

Lake Mansarovar, also known as Mapam Yumtso in Tibetan, is one of the world’s highest altitude freshwater lakes and is located at an elevation of 4650 m. It is revered as a holy site of purity, attracting Hindu pilgrims across the world. It is revered as a sacred lake in Hinduism, Buddhism, Bon and Jainism. According to Hindu mythology, bathing in the lake can cleanse one's sins and bring good luck.

Rakshas Tal, which translates to demon lake, is another lake on the way to Kailash, side by side with Mansarovar Lake. The name Rakshastal translates to "Lake of the Rakshasas" in Sanskrit, referring to the demon-like creatures in Hindu mythology. The lake is associated with the demon king Ravana from the Hindu epic Ramayana. According to legend, Ravana performed penance here to appease Lord Shiva.

Today you can perform Puja/Havan at the shore of Lake Manasarovar. After lunch, you will drive to Darchen, which is 35 KM from Mansarovar and takes around 1 hour to drive. After reaching Darchen, you can rest your bags and relax. You can stroll around the small market in Darchen town in the late afternoon. You will stay the night at the hotel in Darchen.

Note: Taking a dip in Mansarovar is restricted. However, you can take water from Mansarovar in a bucket and bathe with it.

Darchen is a small village/town located at an altitude of 4700 m, which is a significant gateway to Kailash Yatra. It is the starting and ending point for the pilgrimage circumambulation (Kora) around Mount Kailash. The village itself is a small but important hub for pilgrims and travellers visiting the region. The vibrant market in this town hosts various restaurants serving basic Tibetan fare, hotels and guesthouses for accommodation, and shops selling supplies for the trek.

At. 07:00 AM: After having your breakfast, drive towards Yama Dwar (Tarboche), which is the starting point of Kailash Parikrama. Passing through the gate of Yamadwar is believed to remove your evil deed from the book of judgement, and you will get a place in heaven.

Your next stop today will be at Deruphuk, which will be about 10-12 KM from Yamadwar. It is one of the most exciting days of this yatra. You will walk along the beautiful rocky cliffs and waterfalls with some clouds in the clear blue sky, which makes you feel the omnipotence of Lord Shiva with tonnes of blessings. As you walk on, time and again, the north face of Kailash Parbat will keep appearing. You will stay the night at the guesthouse in Deraphuk.

Note: If you are not doing Parikrama, then you will be waiting at Darchen till the group returns from Parikrama, with arrangements for accommodation and meals. 

Yama Dwar, also known as Tarboche in Tibetan, is a gateway located near Mount Kailash. It literally translates to "Gateway of Death" as "Yam" refers to Yama, the Hindu God of Death, and "Dwar" means gate. It is considered an auspicious place and the main starting point for the spiritual circumambulation (parikrama) around Mount Kailash. Passing through the Yam Dwar signifies leaving behind worldly attachments and joining on a journey of spiritual purification.

At. 07:00 AM: After breakfast, you will trek to the highest point of the yatra, Dolma La Pass (5600 m) and then descend gradually to Zuthulpuk (4800 m), witnessing the Gauri Kunda on the way. By late afternoon, you will arrive in Zuthulpuk, the cave of miracles. The great ascetic Milerappa is supposed to have performed miracles here.

Trek further 8 KM and go to the ending point near Darchen, where you will meet our vehicle and drive towards today’s destination. You will stay the night at the hotel in Darchen.

Gauri Kunda is a sacred lake located at the foot of Mount Kailash in Tibet at an altitude of approximately 5600 m. It is a revered place in Hinduism and Buddhism where Goddess Parvati used to bathe. It is believed that the waters of the kund are purified by her touch and thus possess immense spiritual power. It can be seen on the way down towards Zuthulpuk.

At. 07:00 AM: Enjoy your breakfast early in the morning. Today, you will return to Kyirong following the same route back, which will be a long ride back as you will cover around 635 KM of distance, which is about 12-13 hours of driving. The long day of travel, and finally you will reach Kyirong. Once you reach there, you can check in and rest. You will stay the night at the hotel in Kyirong.

At. 07:00 AM: Enjoy your breakfast early in the morning. Today, you will return back to Kathmandu. To reach the border, you will need approximately 1 hour of driving, covering 40 KM. Then, after completing the immigration formalities at both sides, start driving towards Kathmandu. The distance is the same, 127 KM, and takes 5-6 hours. Once you reach Kathmandu, you can check in and rest. As today is the last day here, in the evening, you can shop around the local market, Thamel.

Note: We can keep helicopters as an option, but the weather condition could be a factor, so we better keep driving as a sure shot option here.

As you enjoy your last breakfast at the hotel, the time to go back is already here. You can have some time of your own or add some additional activities until your flight time. Our company representative will escort you to the Kathmandu airport 3 hours before your flight. We hope you have enjoyed the holy tour and will be back for another tour in Nepal. Have a safe journey back! It will be our pleasure to be part of your journey if you want to extend your stay in Nepal.