Day 08: Doing Pooja at Mansarovar and Drive to Darchen (4,550m), 40 km (1 hour)

Waking up early in the calm and revered atmosphere of Lake Mansarovar is indescribable. The Lake is mentioned in the epic Hindu scripture Ramayana. In Hindu belief, it was created by God Brahma. It is also believed that Lord Shiva and Parvati purified themselves in its sacred water. Buddhists believe it is the Lake where the Gods transported Buddha after his birth to cleanse him.

The Lake lies at the foot of Mount Kailash, surrounded by Swastika Mountain (Gurla Mandhata) and the revered Chiu Monastery of Guru Rimpoche (Padmasambhava). It is delicately separated from the saltwater lake Rakshastal (Demon’s Lake).

Circumnavigation of Mount Kailash is incomplete without the parikrama of Lake Mansarovar. We will bathe in the water (direct bathing is prohibited), perform Pooja on the shores, and

begin the Lake’s circumambulation, which takes 4–5 hours.

If energy permits, we may explore Chiu Gompa, meaning Little Bird. The monastery is said to be Guru Padmasambhava’s meditation spot.

After this, we drive to Darchen, nestled at the majestic foothills of Kailash. Within an hour, we arrive at Darchen—the starting point of the sacred Kora around Mount Kailash. After dinner, our guide will conduct a group briefing before starting Kora.

• Meal: Veg. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Hotel

Day 09: Trek from Darchen to Dirapuk (4,950m), 18 km

We will begin our Parikrama/Kora from today. Today, we have to walk for 13 km and reach the northern face of Kailash by evening. The path lies along the western slope of Kailash. The trail is quite easy, stretching out in a straight line with gentle ups and downs.

After walking for about 5 km, we will reach Tarboche- the entrance gate to Kailash. The gate is known as Yamadwar by Hindu believers. Tibetan followers hang many Tibetan flags here every year to celebrate Sagadawa (white month).

It is elevated at 15,500 ft above sea level. According to Hindu beliefs, the gate is guarded by the Lord Yama (God of Death), who lets only pure souls pass through this gate.

From Tarboche, we now head along the 13 km trail to reach DiraPuk monastery. The monastery provides accommodation in shared lodging. During the busy season, it also provides a camping ground for pilgrims. The monastery gazes directly at the North face of Kailash.

Our first day of Kora ends upon reaching Dirapuk, which signifies the birth of a new phase in spiritual existence.

• Meal: Veg. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Guesthouse

Day 10: Trek from Derapuk to Darchen (4,670m), 20 km
Today is the final day of our Kora, marked by the return journey from Derapuk monastery to Darchen. Today, we will have a long but gradual descent walk of about 20 km through rocky terrain and wide valley landscapes.

Therefore, we will wake up early in the morning and begin our descent along the trail, passing through beautiful landscapes with continuous views of Mount Kailash. The route gradually leads us down towards the Barkha Valley and surrounding sacred areas.

According to popular belief, completing this section of the Kora signifies the completion of purification and the removal of accumulated negative karma. This day represents the successful completion of the holy pilgrimage and spiritual renewal.

We will then continue along the downhill trail and finally arrive at Darchen, the base town of Mount Kailash. Reaching Darchen marks the completion of the sacred Kailash Parikrama.

The evening is free for rest and relaxation after completing the trek.

• Meal: Veg. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  
• Accommodation: Hotel

Day 11: Drive from Darchen to Saga
Today marks the departure from Darchen after completing the Kailash Parikrama. We will drive from Darchen to Saga through the vast Tibetan plateau, enjoying the scenic beauty of mountains, rivers, and open landscapes along the way.

This section of the journey is comfortable and relaxing after the trekking days. As we travel, we will experience the stunning views of the high-altitude desert, wide valleys, and distant snow-capped peaks.

Upon arrival in Saga, we will check into our hotel and enjoy a warm shower, comfortable accommodation, and a well-deserved meal after the spiritual journey.

• Meals: Vegetarian Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  
• Accommodation: Hotel

Day 12: Drive from Saga to Kerung
Completely rejuvenated with the holy Parikrama of Kailash, we will enjoy today’s drive and the beautiful views of Shishapangma and Lake Paiku Tso (4,591m).

We will make our way to Kerung, where our local Tibetan crew members will bid farewell to us by organizing a cultural program.

• Meal: Veg. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Hotel

Day 13: Drive from Kerung to Kathmandu (125 km, 6-7 hours)
After enjoying a satisfying breakfast, we will drive to Kathmandu in a comfortable bus. As we reach the Nepal-Tibet border, we will complete the necessary formalities and enter Nepal. Here, we will heartily thank our Tibetan crew members and meet our Nepali team, who will drive us back to Kathmandu via Syabrubesi.

In Kathmandu, we will drive you to your hotel, where you can relax and reflect on the overwhelming journey you have just accomplished.

In the evening, you can roam around the charming Thamel Bazaar and shop for souvenirs from Nepal.

• Meal: Veg. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Hotel

Day 14: Final Transfer to the International Airport
After breakfast and group farewell, we will drive you to TIA for your flight home. Our next tour begins immediately, so if you would like to join, please inquire with our guide or refer to our company website.

Meal: Breakfast

If you want a horse and porter during the kora (3 Days), the extra cost will be:

• Horse + Porter:4,200 Yuan per person
• Horse only:2,900 Yuan per person
• Porter only:1,300 Yuan per person

Note: For the Kailash Tour for Indian pilgrims, a minimum of 21 pax is required.

To process your Tibet Group Visa, we need:

Visa Processing Requirements:
• Clear, color-scanned copy of your passport (valid for at least six months)
• 25% advance payment

Packing List for Your Kailash Yatra

We will provide for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

1. Duffle Bags
2. Back pack
3. Down jackets
4. Fresh Warm cap
5. First aid kits including Diamox
6. Big oxygen cylinder for emergency use (for group use)

Clients are required to pack their personal uses things themselves:

Essential clothing for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

1. Comfortable undergarments
2. Upper & lower thermals (moisture-wicking fabrics)
3. Fleece jacket
4. Poncho (Raincoat)
5. Insulated sweaters
6. Waterproof & windproof shell
7. Insulated pants
8. Hiking pant
9. Woolen cap
10. Neck gaiter/scarf
11. Gloves (inner + insulated)

Footwear for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

1. High-ankle waterproof trekking boots
2. Light shoes/sandals
3. Liner socks
4. Thermal socks (multiple pairs)

First aid kit and medicine for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

1. Personal prescription medicines
2. Pain relief & anti-inflammatory meds
3. Cold, cough, and flu medicines
4. ORS & energy supplements
5. Personal small oxygen cylinder (2 bottle per person)

Toiletries and personal care items for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

1. High SPF sunscreen
2. Lip balm
3. Moisturizer
4. Toothbrush, toothpaste
5. Wet wipes & tissues
6. Quick-dry towel
7. Paper soap
8. Hand-sanitizer
9. Sanitary pads
10. Shampoo and body wash (carry in travel container)

Travel documents and important papers to carry during the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

1. Emergency contact list
2. Nepali currency (if needed) and Chinese currency
3. Travel insurance (optional)
4. Power bank (high capacity)

Spiritual and religious items (optional)

1. Rudraksha/mala
2. Holy water container (small & leak-proof)

Snacks and other things

1. Dry fruits & nuts
2. Energy bars
3. Chocolates
4. Glucose or electrolyte powders
5. 1 or 2-liter thermos
6. Walking stick/trekking pole
7. Sunglasses (UV protection)

Note: You may bring your items in a suitcase. After arriving in Kathmandu, the suitcase will be stored in Kathmandu. You will then transfer your items into the company provided duffle bags.

Do’s & Don’ts for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

Things You Must Do:

• Pack snacks such as mint, chocolates, glucose, etc., for energy during the journey.
• Engage in physical fitness activities like aerobics, yoga, or light exercise to prepare your body.
• Bring warm, woolen clothing including caps, thermals, jackets, and gloves to stay comfortable in cold temperatures.
• Carry high-quality sunglasses and sunscreen to protect against sunburn.
• Maintain a steady pace during the Kailash Parikrama, don’t rush, and listen to your body.
• Pack rough, durable bags and only the essentials needed for the trek.
• Keep your required identification documents with you at all times throughout the trip.
• Remember to maintain team spirit, walk together, and help fellow members in case of emergency or need.

Things You Shouldn’t Do:

• Avoid traveling if you have medical conditions such as asthma, high blood pressure, or breathing problems.
• Never sleep with your shoes or boots on to avoid discomfort and maintain hygiene.
• Do not carry excessive luggage or extra clothes; pack light.
• Refrain from drinking alcohol or smoking during the journey.
• Don’t neglect proper nutrition and ensure you drink plenty of water throughout the trek.
• Avoid carrying books related to the Dalai Lama or similar religious texts.

Cost Includes:

• Tibet Group Visa & travel permit fee.
• 3 nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu with vegetarian meals.
• 1-night border stay with vegetarian meals.
• Transportation by bus for the entire tour.
• 09 nights’ accommodation in Tibet (Hotels or guesthouses).
• Sherpa staff and trekking equipment support.
• Duffel bags, down jackets, hand carry bags & caps provided.
• Guided Kathmandu temple tours.
• Arrival and departure transfers in Kathmandu.
• Oxygen cylinders for high-altitude support.
• First aid kit with essential medicines.
• Certificate upon completion of the Kailash tour.
• Local Tibetan guides for cultural and trekking assistance.
• Bottled drinking water during trekking days.
• Meals during trekking (vegetarian meals included).
• Support staff for setting up camps and cooking during the trek.

Cost Excludes:

• Personal use of yak, porter, or horse (if required).
• Extra nights at hotels due to early arrival, late departure, or delays.
• Rescue/evacuation costs or medical expenses due to separation from the group, sickness, or altitude sickness.
• International flight to and from Nepal/Tibet.
• Additional accommodation, transportation, or visa cancellation charges.
• Tips for guide, driver, and supporting staff.
• Personal expenses such as laundry, drinks, phone calls, and souvenirs.
• Travel insurance (highly recommended).
• Any optional activities outside the itinerary.
• Costs arising due to weather delays or natural events.
• Personal trekking gear not provided by the tour (e.g., boots, trekking poles, thermal layers).

(*Note: Accommodation will be provided as per the itinerary. In the case of permit or visa-related issues on the Tibet side, any additional expenses incurred for extra hotel nights or flight tickets shall be the sole responsibility of the clients.)