13-Day Lhasa-Mount Kailash Kora – Kathmandu tour: Himalayan Adventure

Overview

Embark on a 13-day journey from Lhasa to Kathmandu, exploring the heart of Tibet and its spiritual and cultural treasures. This expedition includes visits to iconic landmarks such as the Potala Palace, Everest Base Camp and Mount Kailash. You’ll also experience the sacred kora around Mount Kailash and cross into Nepal, ending your adventure in Kathmandu. This journey offers a profound connection with Tibetan culture, spirituality, and breathtaking landscapes.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa

• Arrive at Lhasa Gonggar Airport or train station. Meet your guide and transfer to the hotel.
• Rest and acclimatize to the high altitude (3,650 meters). Avoid strenuous activity to prevent altitude sickness.
• Stay Overnight: Lhasa

Day 2: Lhasa Sightseeing

• Visit Potala Palace, the landmark of Lhasa. This architectural wonder offers panoramic views of the city and houses numerous chapels and treasures.
• Explore Jokhang Temple, the spiritual heart of Tibet, followed by a stroll through Barkhor Street, a bustling market and pilgrimage circuit.
• Stay Overnight: Lhasa

Day 3: Lhasa Sightseeing

• Visit Drepung Monastery, once the largest monastery in the world, known for its stunning architecture and historical significance.
• Explore Sera Monastery, famous for its monk debates. Witness monks engage in lively philosophical discussions in the courtyard.
• Stay Overnight: Lhasa

Day 4: Lhasa to Shigatse (375 km, 7-8 hours)

• Drive to Gyantse, passing by Yamdrok Lake, one of the three holy lakes in Tibet. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the turquoise waters surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
• Visit the Karola Glacier and then continue to Gyantse. Explore Pelkor Monastery and the Gyantse Kumbum, a magnificent multi-tiered stupa.
• Stay Overnight: Shigatse

Day 5: Shigatse to Everest Base Camp (350 km, 7-8 hours)

• Visit Tashilhunpo Monastery, the seat of the Panchen Lama, with its impressive chapels and golden statues.
• Drive to EBC via Gyatso La Pass (5,220 meters), offering stunning views of the Himalayas. Arrive at Rongbuk Monastery, the highest monastery in the world.
• Stay Overnight: Rongbuk Monastery Guesthouse or Tent Camp

Day 6: Everest Base Camp to Saga (300 km, 6-7 hours)

• Enjoy sunrise at EBC and take in the majestic view of Mount Everest.
• Drive to Saga, passing through picturesque Tibetan villages and landscapes.
• Stay Overnight: Saga

Day 7: Saga to Darchen (450 km, 8-9 hours)

• Drive from Saga to Lake Manasarovar, one of the holiest lakes in Tibet, revered by Buddhists and Hindus alike.
• Continue to Darchen, the starting point for the Kailash Kora trek.
• Stay Overnight: Darchen

Day 8: Darchen to Dirapuk (Kailash Kora, 20 km)

• Start the Kailash Kora trek from Darchen to Dirapuk. Trek along the Lha Chu Valley, with views of the north face of Mount Kailash.
• Continue trekking to Dirapuk, where you will camp for the night.
• Stay Overnight: Dirapuk Guesthouse

Day 9: Dirapuk to Zutulpuk (Kailash Kora, 22 km)

• Trek from Dirapuk, crossing the Dolma La Pass (5,630 meters), the highest point of the kora. Offer prayers and enjoy the breathtaking views.
• Descend to Zutulpuk Monastery, where you will camp for the night.
• Stay Overnight: Zutulpuk Guesthouse

Day 10: Zutulpuk to Darchen (Kailash Kora, 14 km)

• Finish the Kailash Kora trek and return to Darchen.
• Drive to visit Lake Manasarovar, enjoy the stunning view of the sacred lake.
• Stay Overnight: Darchen

Day 11: Darchen to Saga (450 km, 8-9 hours)

• Drive back to Saga from Darchen, retracing your steps through the beautiful Tibetan landscape.
• Stay Overnight: Saga

Day 12: Saga to Gyirong (300 km, 6-7 hours)

• Drive from Saga to Gyirong, the border town between Tibet and Nepal.
• Enjoy the scenic drive through the Himalayas, passing by beautiful landscapes and Tibetan villages.
• Stay Overnight: Gyirong

Day 13: Gyirong to Kathmandu (170 km, 8-9 hours)

• Cross the border into Nepal and drive to Kathmandu. Enjoy the scenic journey through the Himalayas.
• Arrive in Kathmandu and transfer to your hotel
• Tour ends: Your wonderful Tibet tour ends after you arrive at your hotel in Kathmandu. From there, you can start your own exploration of the old vibrant city or take a tour there with our local service.