Article by Holy Kailash Tours the author bio line. 15 years experience guiding Himalayan pilgrimage trips. Verified by Ashok Ghale, Senior Kailash Tour Leader 16 years of guiding experience, Feel the divine splendor of Kailash Yatra via Lhasa. Indulge in the spiritual magnificence, culture, and marvels of the Himalayas.
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by Lhasa Yatra from Tibetan the route to Mount Kailash by the air will take you the whole scenic and high altitude cityscapes, holy cities, and holy Mt.kailash of Tibetan from the picturesque city of Lhasa. The route to mount Kailash from Kathmandu valley via Lhasa tibet is by air to Lhasa first and then goes by the road to Tibetan through Shigatse, Tingri, Saga, and the west of Tibetan plateau.
It's ideal for trekkers wanting to get a good feel of Tibetian culture, explore the main Buddhist monasteries, see the Himalayan range, and take time to get used to Tibetian altitude slowly. The tour will also include an optional visit to Kailash with Everest Base Camp on Tibet border according to the approved program and restrictions imposed by the local authorities.
Preparation for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra the preparations for this pilgrimage go beyond flight bookings and hotel bookings. Knowledge of Tibet Travel Permit, Chinese group visa (if needed), altitude sickness, transportation logistics, and the journey to Mount Kailash Parikrama and the trekking needs are the key preparatory things. To make it very easy for you to understand, we've shared the 'how to get to Yatra Lhasa from Kathmandu? ' Itinerary preparing and travel information of pilgrims to make the journey easily.
Why Choose the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lhasa?
Pilgrims beginning their journey from the historic Potala Palace in Lhasa toward Western Tibet
The Kailash Yatra through Lhasa involves an arduous pilgrimages coupled with a prolonged explora tion of the Tibetan Plateau. Travelers bypass the Nepal border at Kerung as they travel from Kathmandu to Lhasa and commence their journey from the Tibetan capital. The Kailash yatra through Lhasa is an ideal option for travelers eager to enjoy the wonders of Tibetan architecture monasteries the Tibetan way of life and the Tibetan Buddhist history before departing for the Kailash yatra.
You'll also be able to travel by road slowly toward Western Tibet. Along the way you can have a stop over at Shigatse, discover the region around Tingri and the landscape on the north side of Mount Everest and then go to Saga and Lake Mansarovar. A longer route doesn't mean you'll automatically adapt to it. You should stick to the chronology of altitude, avoid physical effort and note altitude sickness symptom to your guide.
What Makes the Lhasa Route Different from Other Kailash Yatra Routes?
What's the difference between the Lhasa to Mt. Kailash route and the normal overland route from Nepal? The main difference between both overland routes is the starting point. The Lhasa itinerary starts with an international flight from Kathmandu to Tibet while the Kerung route enters Tibet via the road between Nepal and China border. The Mount Kailashhelicopter routeand the Nepalgunj /Simikot/ Hilsa route use different itinerary and have different travel time costs transportation and acclimatization schedules.
The Lhasa way is typically 15, 16 days (the classical itinerary allows the road situation, group size, etc. ) and give you the best opportunities to explore Tibet before reaching the holy land. If you've days before you go to Kailash Mansarovar Tour via Lhasa, don't forget to pay a visit to the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple and Tashilhunpo Monastery. There are so much more to explore in Tibet other than the Kailash Mansarovar Tour with Lhasa City .
Best Time to Visit Mount Kailash via Lhasa.
Clear sunny weather over the Tibetan Plateau during the peak pilgrimage months of June to August.
Generally, the primary pilgrimage time for Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar is from May to September when the condition of the road is preferable and travellers find the weather conducive to make various tours. June, July, and August are perhaps the better months of the pilgrimage as the weather is ideal for overland journeys through the Tibetan plateau. September also works well, but the weather is already beginning to turn cooler at night.
Most pilgrims of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra pilgrims choose the full moon to have a puja(prayer), for its religious importance. There are high number of travelers in this period for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, which makes transportation, lodging, and parikrama arrangements difficult. A full moon trip though doesn't mean better weather and trekking conditions during Yatra. Pilgrimages should select their dates based on the level of physical readiness, the permits needed and the advice of their tour operator and not just the lunar cycles.
Detailed Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lhasa Itinerary
15 Days Kailash Mansarovar itinerary via Lhasa This is a short 15 days kailash mansarovar itinerary via Lhasa for who want to start and conclude their spiritual tour of Kailash from Kathmandu. Itinerary is designed with the preparations in Kathmandu, Kathmandu to Lhasa Flight, sightseeing around Lhasa, Land Drive to Shigatse & Saga, Lake manasarovar and 3 days of mount kailash parikrama Actual schedule depends on flight, road condition, government permission and group acclimatization..
Lhasa is part of the itinerary before you move higher into the western areas of Tibet. It's important because you move from the altitude of 1, 400 m at Kathmandu to 3, 650 m at Lhasa. While in Lhasa, the journey to higher altitudes continues. A responsible Kailash Yatra tour operator from Nepal will disclose the change in altitude, take care of the travelers during the trip and make adjustments based on the health and weather conditions.
Detailed Day by Day Itinerary
Day
Route and Activities
Overnight
Altitude
Day 1
Arrival in Kathmandu. Meet our representative at Tribhuvan International Airport and transfer to your hotel. Rest after your international flight.
Kathmandu
1,400 m
Day 2
Kathmandu Sightseeing and Yatra Preparation. Visit Pashupatinath Temple and other important cultural sites. Attend a trip briefing, check travel documents, and prepare for the journey to Tibet.
Kathmandu
1,400 m
Day 3
Fly from Kathmandu to Lhasa. Meet the Tibetan guide and transfer to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day resting and adjusting to the altitude.
Lhasa
3,656 m
Day 4
Lhasa Sightseeing and Acclimatization. Visit Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple and Barkhor Street, subject to ticket availability and local arrangements. Keep sightseeing relaxed.
Lhasa
3,656 m
Day 5
Drive from Lhasa to Shigatse via Gyantse. Travel through the Tibetan countryside and visit Gyantse, including Kumbum Stupa, if time and access permit.
Shigatse
3,900 m
Day 6
Drive from Shigatse to Saga. Continue west across the Tibetan Plateau, enjoying mountain landscapes, open valleys and traditional settlements.
Saga
4,640 m
Day 7
Drive from Saga to Lake Mansarovar. Travel through western Tibet toward the sacred lake. Enjoy views of the Himalayan landscape and Mount Kailash when weather permits.
Mansarovar area
4,590 m
Day 8
Lake Mansarovar to Darchen. Spend time near the sacred lake for prayers and religious activities according to local rules. Continue to Darchen, the starting point of the Mount Kailash Parikrama.
Darchen
4,670 m
Day 9
Kailash Parikrama Day 1: Darchen to Dirapuk. Transfer toward Yam Dwar and begin the first day of the Outer Kora. Walk through the valley with views of the north face of Mount Kailash.
Dirapuk
4,900 m
Day 10
Kailash Parikrama Day 2: Dirapuk to Zuthulpuk via Dolma La Pass. This is the most demanding day. Cross Dolma La Pass at approximately 5,630 metres before descending toward Zuthulpuk.
Zuthulpuk
4,790 m
Day 11
Kailash Parikrama Day 3: Zuthulpuk to Darchen. Complete the final section of the Outer Kora and return to Darchen by vehicle after reaching the designated endpoint.
Darchen
4,670 m
Day 12
Drive from Darchen to Saga. Leave the Kailash region and travel east across the Tibetan Plateau toward Saga.
Saga
4,640 m
Day 13
Drive from Saga to Shigatse. Continue the return journey through the highland landscape, with stops along the way as required.
Shigatse
3,900 m
Day 14
Drive from Shigatse to Lhasa. Return to Lhasa by road and enjoy your final evening in the Tibetan capital.
Lhasa
3,656 m
Day 15
Fly from Lhasa to Kathmandu. Transfer to Lhasa airport and board your flight to Kathmandu. On arrival, transfer to your hotel.
Kathmandu
1,400 m
Day 16
Final Departure from Kathmandu. Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward flight. Your Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage concludes.
Departure
1,400 m
ITINERARY NOTE
The itinerary, road conditions, sightseeing access, flight schedules and accommodation may change according to weather, Tibet travel permits and local government regulations. Altitudes are approximate.
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lhasa Route Quick Look
Scenic overland route passing through traditional settlements and high-altitude valleys between Shigatse and Saga.
Travel Section
Transportation
Kathmandu to Lhasa
Flight
Lhasa to Shigatse
Private tourist vehicle via Gyantse
Shigatse to Saga
Private tourist vehicle
Saga to Lake Mansarovar
Private tourist vehicle
Lake Mansarovar to Darchen
Private tourist vehicle
Darchen to Dirapuk
Trekking
Dirapuk to Zuthulpuk
Trekking via Dolma La Pass
Zuthulpuk to Darchen
Trekking and vehicle transfer
Darchen to Saga
Private tourist vehicle
Saga to Shigatse
Private tourist vehicle
Shigatse to Lhasa
Private tourist vehicle
Lhasa to Kathmandu
Flight
Mount Kailash Outer Parikrama Details
The Mount Kailash Outer Parikrama covers approximately 52 kilometres and usually takes three days. The second day is the most physically demanding because pilgrims cross Dolma La Pass at approximately 5,630 metres.
Parikrama Day
Trekking Route
Approximate Distance
Day 1
Darchen to Dirapuk
13 km
Day 2
Dirapuk to Zuthulpuk via Dolma La Pass
19 km
Day 3
Zuthulpuk to Darchen
10 km
The trekking distance can vary with the designated starting and ending points. Horse and porter services, where permitted and available, must be arranged according to local rules.
Tibet Travel Permit and Visa Requirements for Kailash Yatra.
Pilgrims trekking the Mount Kailash Parikrama outer kora circuit near the north face.
If you're a foreigner traveling to Kailash Mansarovar Yatra from Lhasa through Nepal then you'll need to obtain your Chinese visa and Tibet regional travel permissions in your country of residence before you travel to Tibet Autonomous Region. The procedure for obtaining the visa varies based on nationality, type of passport and the prevailing rules of the time. Tour operator usually manages the group's itinerary and permissions through the legal counterparty in the destination region.
Why the Tibet Travel Permit for Mount Kailash is so Urgent? Only one reason for that's foreign travelers aren't allowed to move freely in the Tibet Autonomous Region. Extra travel documents are needed to visit Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar. Indian citizens and travelers of other countries may need to fill a different visa form and that's why we haven't a general suggestion for every traveler. Check with the holiday counselor for the document forms, time it takes to process the paperwork, and prepare your original passports and any other additional restrictions.
Altitude and Acclimatization During the Lhasa Kailash Yatra.
One of the most daunting aspects of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra on Lhasa route is at high altitude. One is starting in Kathmandu at 1400m, arriving at Lhasa at 3650m, then on to Saga and Darchen where the altitudes are more than 4500m. When undertaking the Parikrama, the parikramites are taken to Dirapuk and crossing Dolma La Pass at an altitude of 5630 m. All of these altitudes affect the body physically despite the slow pace of the trip.
High altitude sickness for Kailash Yatrahigh altitude sickness may affect not only travel lovers but also young or health and well and health Kailash Yatra Recognize the symptoms including headaches nausea light and lived, like Head, overwhelming tiredness and lack of sleep. Serious sickness can be dangerous and you may want to fly down or escape quickly. Make arrangements for a medical check-up before you leave, discuss any existing health problems with your doctor, and have adequate travel insurance in case of a high altitude trek emergency evacuation.
Physical Fitness and Preparation for Mount Kailash Parikrama.
Essential high-altitude gear and layered trekking clothing required for crossing the Dolma La Pass.
You'll need to be in better physical shape than you would need for a tourist sightseeing trip. Besides the distance climbing uneven terrain and a high altitude mountain pass, the three, day trek is more demanding. The first day is generally the easiest, but most people find the second day walking from Dirapuk through Dolma La to Zuthulpuk is the hardest. Prepare your legs, increase your exercise level, and practice hiking with a daypack for a number of hours on different terrains.
What's next Kailash mansarovar trekking preparation plan that's walking light uphill walking, stair climber, cardiovascular exercise is recommended if your doctor allows. Too much workout in Kailash mansarovar kora in extreme summer is unnatural, so start your training much before, months, and weeks before going on trek, instead of doing strenuous training a few days before going on Kailash and mmarovar. We advise you to wear comfortable Kailash and mansarovar trekking shoes and practice with them. Carry cloth, which can shield you from the blistering cold morning, the erupteous sun, wind etc. The most important part is to listen to your body! Your health is anything!
Accommodation and Food During the Lhasa to Kailash Journey.
Accommodation on the Kailash Yatra through Lhasa will be different as you travel from heavily developed Tibet towns of Lhasa, Shigatse and further into remote western Tibet. You can expect more comfortable hotels in Lhasa and Shigatse with private rooms and standard hotel amenities. Staying in Saga, Darchen and at Mansarovar will be basic. Accommodation throughout Parikrama will be in simple guesthouses / lodge accommodation at the best available establishments.
Food along the way can be different too. In hotels in Lhasa and Shigatse, you can expect some Chinese, Tibetan and limited international cuisine. On long distances, the choice of food is more restricted and you'll be provided with a vegetarian or mixed, vegetarian dish according to the package you booked. If you've special diet requirements, you must notify the operator in advance. If you're a strict vegetarian for religious reasons, make sure that the kitchen can cater for this for the entire duration of your holiday and bring your own snacks, prescription medication and food supplements if recommended by your physician.
What to Pack for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lhasa
Pilgrims trekking the Mount Kailash Parikrama outer kora circuit near the north face.
Cost of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lhasa from Nepal.
What's the cost of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through Lhasa? The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through Lhasa tour price is a function of the duration of the journey, group size, hotel category, availability of flights, visa, and permits, transportation, meals, and inclusion of various services within the tour package. A regular group tour will also cost less per person than a private departure as the vehicles, guides, and so on will be shared out between more people.
When choosing Kailash Mansarovar tour package from Nepal, don't just look at the price mentioned in the end. Ask these to check if the package includes accommodation in Kathmandu; Flight Ticket from Kathmandu to Lhasa; all ground transportation and permits in Tibet; Experienced licensed and trained guides; all meals, hotels, and other amenities for Parikrama; other costs and extras for horse rides porters emergency evacuations, personal expenses, and unforeseen delays. Get a written quote after ascertaining your country of origin, your preferred date of travel, and number of persons traveling with you. At Holy Kailash Tours, clients get an extensive tour outline and explanations about the services included before putting in the booking.
Important Travel Tips for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
From Nepal Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage preparation and Guidelines to Know for a safe and peaceful journey a successful Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage from Nepal will depend on appropriate Kailash Yatra planning. The Tibetan region is remote and some parts of the plateau can be dotted with little to no mobile signals, medical facilities, shopping centers, and other comforts. Make sure to bring plenty of your personal medication for the trip, and spares that your doctor may suggest.
Obey religious and monastery codes, and conservation laws, during the entire trip and take all rubbish with you when you leave the lake or along the Kailash Parikrama trail. Obey the Tibetan representative at any check points and all restricted areas. Don't attempt to stray from the group or choose unofficial alternate routes. Conditions at any given time may cause minor schedule alterations, so try to be flexible in your international travel plans, a Kailash Yatra through Lhasa is a result of solid preparations, responsible choices, and the cooperation between the pilgrims, guides, and local assistants.
Is the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lhasa Suitable for Senior Citizens?
Pilgrims beginning their journey from the historic Potala Palace in Lhasa toward Western Tibet.
Senior citizens should look at the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through Lhasa but remember your age alone shouldn't determine if you're suitable for the trip. This is a place of non, stop high altitude (4, 000m) movement and a punishing three day Parikrama. Even those who can maintain a comfortable gait at sea level may find Dolma La Pass strenuous and anyone with any major health issue or cardiovascular or respiratory problems should consult directly with a doctor before booking.
Trekking the full Kora is the most popular decision; if you prefer to avoid walking this quite well treaded trail, be sure to organize horse and porter support in consultation with your tour operator beforehand. Carrying is based on local availability and doesn't eliminate the dangers of high altitude. Not only a horse won't be able to save you from all parts of the Kora, but you'll also have to walk some part of it by yourself. Elderly pilgrims need good medical advice, a practical programme of travel, suitable insurance and, if necessary, the option to walk away from the Parikrama if their health deteriorates.
Why Plan Your Kailash Mansarovar Yatra with Holy Kailash Tours?
When organizing a flight from Kathmandu to Kailash Mansarovar, the groups must also organize other components of a Kailash Mansarovar tour via Lhasa like the flights hotels Tibet Visa, Tibet Travel Permits and Tibet travel vehicles transport tour guides and the all, important three, day Parikrama. These components of travel are critical when groups are traveling through Tibetan Himalayan regions where other form of travel and accommodations are often limited. You should work with an operator who lets you know in depth about all routes documents included services, potential extra costs and back, up plans before you book.
The Holy Kailash Tours offers a Himalayan trip from Nepal like Kailash Mansarovar Yatra tour packages, Nepal trek tour holidays, and cultural tour packages. Talk with the team about the nationality dates number of people in the group, hotel, and trek plans, and physical strength before departure for Lhasa. The company can share the suggested schedule and protocols. Get the current write, up about the itinerary, package coverage, cancellation policy, and permit details before submitting the deposit and communicate with your group for the clarity of the departure day so the pilgrims would understand what would happen to them during their pilgrims.
The Tibet route of the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra builds in the Tibetan culture, holiest Hindu & Buddhist site, elevation, and most importantly the true rigidity of Mount kailash parikrama. Travelers get to explore everything from the Kathmandu temples, and Lhasa Monasteries to Lake Mansarovar, from the serene temple of Dolma La Pass and be on a different travel every single time.
Kailash package should be filled with itinerary permits altitude accommodation physical fitness, and emergency help (though 'Kailash Mansarovar tour package prices are affordable). Don't choose the kailash tour package just on Kailash tours duration or the package price. Recognize the real services, travelling conditions, and the risks involved and then opt for kailash tour packages. Your peace and happiness depend largely on the support of local tour operators.
Common Questions on Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by way of Lhasa.
How many days are required for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Lhasa?
Time of Kailash Mansarovar Kora Via Lhasa Journey The trek time of Kailash Mansarovar (KP) journey via Lhasa can be around 15, 16 days from Kathmandu and return. Time of journey via Lhasa consists of time of prep in Kathmandu, flights sightseeing in Lhasa, journey by street to Shigatse and Saga, Lake Mansarovar and three day Kailash Parikrama.
Can I fly directly from Kathmandu to Lhasa?
Yes. Take scheduled flights between Kathmandu and Lhasa (up, to, date). Flight departure schedules and operating conditions are subject to change. Confirm before traveling for international flight.
What's the highest altitude on the Lhasa Kailash route?
The Dolma La Pass, around 5, 630 meters, marks the highest of the three days on the Mount Kailash Parikrama that form the usual route. Expect less oxygen and strenuous walking.
What's the difficulty of reaching Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by Lhasa?
Road journey involves high altitude travel; three-day Parikrama requires physical effort, with the second day being the most challenging.
Can senior citizens join the Kailash Yatra via Lhasa?
Yes, taking personal health and fitness into consideration. Senior travelers should check with their doctors before travel and take precautions about the risks of travelling at high altitude. Horse/porter services should be available for some parts of the Parikrama.
Do I need a Tibet Travel Permit for the Kailash Yatra?
Yes. Foreign travelers must hold a Chinese visa and Tibet Travel Permit. Additional permits might be necessary for some restricted areas. The entry requirements for foreigners may vary according to nationality and other factors.
Which is the best month to go to Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through Lhasa?
May, September is usually the main travel season. June, July, and August are the most popular, but in some years, September may be another good starting month based on the road and weather conditions.
