Mount Kailash Manasarovar Lake Trek – 15 Days
14 days
Age 12+
Sep, Oct, Nov
Availability 50
Trip Code:
HSTKAILASH
Country:
Tibet
Duration:
15 Days
Trip Level:
Moderate This type of trek is generally obtainable for anyone. Sometimes the trail can be rough, steep and they are not level. Occasionally there is snow in areas of high altitude. A moderate level of fitness and health is required in order to complete this type of trek. The altitude reached is typically between 900m and 3500m.
Max Altitude:
5,600 m / 18,368 ft
Activity:
Sightseeing and Trekking
Starts at:
Kathmandu
Ends at:
Kathmandu
Trip Route:
Kathmandu - Nyalam - Manasarovar Lake - Kailash Kora - Dongba - Nyalam - Kathmandu
Best Season:
September, October & November
Trip Highlights
- Guided tour of Kathmandu City – the capital of Nepal.
- Panoramic drive Kathmandu – China/Nepal Friendship Bridge – Nyalam – Kathmandu.
- Reach and admire a holy mountain – Mt. Kailash Kora.
- Enjoy and wander around the sacred lake of Manasarovar.
- Cross the Dolma La Pass placed at 5,600 metres in altitude.
- Experience the life in the shoes of the “mountain people” of Tibet.
Trip Information
Mount Kailash Manasarovar Lake Trek is a very unique trek as it overlaps partly on a pilgrimage circuit. This tour is an immersion inside the remote, wild western Tibet reaching till the altitude of 5,600 metres.
Mount Kailash 6,714 m, also called Kang Rinpoche – Jewel of the Snows or Tise is a famous holy place of Tibet. The pyramid-shaped summit of Mount Kailash, considered as the heart of the metaphysical and physical universe is sacred for several religions devouts like Buddhists, Hindus, Bonpos and Janis. For Hindu people this is the abode of Lord Shiva. For Buddhist people is the telluric version of the cosmic mandala of Bodhisattvas and Dyani Buddhas.
For adventure trekkers Mount Kailash Manasarovar Lake Trek is an itinerary which takes you through a severely secluded region, where one can admire the greatness of nature in absolute peace and solitude. For the pilgrims arriving here it is the ultimate stage of spiritual accomplishment.
If you plan your trip in May, you can take part to the Saga Dawa Buddhist festival or otherwise organise yourself to be here during the full moon, for an exquisite experience.
The other major highlight of this trek is the surreal legendary Manasarovar Lake situated at an altitude of 4,588 metres, the highest placed fresh water lake in Tibet and a holy lake. Manasarovar Lake is the source of Sutlej River. The lake is considered sacred as the legend says Parvati, Lord Shiva’s wife, bathed here and infused magical powers to the water. Taking into consideration that the pyramid summit of Mt. Kailash reflects on the water, the holiness of this lake is emphasised.
For a magnificent sunset over the Manasarovar Lake, visit the Jiwu Temple.
Mount Kailash is circled by five monasteries Drirapuk Monastery, Nyari Monastery, Dzultripuk Monastery, Gyangzha Monastery and Selung Monastery. Even if the monasteries are destroyed in various degrees, one still can admire statues, sculptures, thangkas, mural decorations and diverse Tibetan cultural objects.
Mount Kailash Manasarovar Lake Trek is a moderate graded trek, as you will cover a large part of it by vehicle, but still requires some trekking at high altitude.
Itinerary
- Day 1 – Arrival at the Tribuwan International Airport in Kathmandu (1,345m). Overnight at a hotel.
- Day 2 – Pre-trip meeting and sightseeing around the Kathmandu valley. Overnight at a hotel.
- Day 3 – Kathmandu to Kodari (114 km, 5 hrs) and cross Border then drive to Nyalam-3750m (32 km, 1 hr). Overnight at a guesthouse.
- Day 4 – Acclimatization day at Nyalam. Overnight at a guesthouse.
- Day 5 – Drive from Nyalam to New Dongba(4500m), 357 km, 6 hrs. Overnight at a guesthouse.
- Day 6 – Drive from New Dongba to Lake Mansarovar (Hor Chu) 4500 m, 369 km, 6 hrs. Overnight at a guesthouse.
- Day 7 – Lake Mansarovar parikrama by Jeep (88 km, 1.5 hrs) and then drive to Darchen, 88 km. Overnight at a guesthouse.
- Day 8 – Start parikrama to Deraphuk (4920 m), 5 hrs trek. Overnight at a guesthouse.
- Day 9 – Trek Shivasthal-Gaurikunda-Zutulphuk (4820 m)- 9 hrs. Overnight at a guesthouse.
- Day 10 – End of Trek and then Drive to Manasarovar, 3 hrs trek and 1 hr drive. Overnight at a guesthouse.
- Day 11 – Return back to New Dongba, 6 hrs drive. Overnight at a guesthouse.
- Day 12 – Return back to Nyalam, 6 hrs drive. Overnight at a guesthouse.
- Day 13 – Return back to Kathmandu, 4 to 5 hrs drive. Overnight at Hotel.
- Day 14 – Leisure day in Kathmandu. Overnight at a hotel.
- Day 15 – Transfer to the airport for your final flight departure.
Day 1 - Landing in Kathmandu, altitude 1,345 m
You will be welcomed at the airport by a Himalayan Steps representative and driven to your hotel.
Accommodation in hotel without meals.
Day 2 - Pre-trip meeting and Kathmandu Valley tour
In the morning, you will attend a pre-trip meeting in your hotel, where you will be introduced to your trek tour guide/leader. Please ensure you bring your passport, your travel insurance policy and three passport size photos. Also, you will be invited to sign a non-liability disclaimer, the legally binding trip form and ask all the questions you judge necessary.
After breakfast, your tour starts with a guided visit of Kathmandu and its surroundings. The most prominent monuments of the area, listed UNESCO World Heritage Sites are on the list: Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Bhaktapur Durbar Square. Plus the Royal Quarter of Bhupatindra Malla, the Palace of 55 windows, art galleries, the Lion Gate, the Golden Gate. And also, you can visit the Thamel area, if you want to have a shopping session.
Accommodation in hotel with breakfast.
Day 3 - 6 hours drive from Kathmandu to Kodari and after crossing the Chinese border, arrival in Nyalam, at an altitude of 3,750 m
Today you will get up early and prepare to cross the border with China, you will first arrive in Kodari, a settlement in the area of the frontier between Nepal and China. Himalayan Steps border representative will be there to help with formalities. After that you will walk on the Friendship Bridge and take the car and head towards Nyalam.
Accommodation in guesthouse with breakfast.
Day 4 - Spare time for acclimatization in Nyalam
Today you will spend the day in Nyalam to acclimatize to high altitude. You can hike around to get used with the atmosphere.
Accommodation in guesthouse with breakfast
Day 5 - 6 h drive from Nyalam to reach New Dongba, positioned at an altitude of 4,500 m
Today our route will drive you to Dzongba, Lablung-La Pass situated at 5,100 m, lake Peiku and Milarepa cave and along the River Brahmaputra before arriving in Saga and New Dongba.
Accommodation in guesthouse with breakfast.
Day 6 - 6 hours drive to reach Lake Mansarovar at an elevation of 4,500 m
The highlights of this trip will be revealed today as you arrive in the area of the holy Lake Manasarovar and the sacred Mt. Kailash. In your way you will cross the Mayum-La pass at 5,200 m, the highest pass of this trip that can be crossed by car.
Accommodation in guesthouse with breakfast.
Day 7 - 6 hours drive from Lake Mansarovar to Darchen
Today you will cercle the Lake Mansarovar, clockwise direction and continue your way to Darchen. Optionally you can visit Ashtapad.
Accommodation in guesthouse with breakfast.
Day 8 - 5 hours trek to Deraphuk, at an elevation of 4,920 m
Short drive in the morning to Yam Dwar or Sherson, and after that your trek starts, having as target Dera Phuk, the north side of the Mt. Kailash.
Accommodation in guesthouse with breakfast.
Day 9 - Trekking route Shivasthal-Gaurikund-Zuthulphuk, at 4,820 m altitude
Today is a demanding day, first you climb till the Dolma-La pass at 5,600 m and after that you descend via the River Bank till you arrive in Zuthulphuk. Today on your route will pop up some interesting highlights Dolma-La, Shivasthal and Gaurikund.
Accommodation in guesthouse with breakfast.
Day 10 - 3 hours trek and drive back to Manasarovar
An easy 3 hours trek in the first part of the day, till the end of the trekking route, at Darchen. From here you will be transferred towards the eastern side of Lake Manasarovar.
Accommodation in guesthouse with breakfast.
Day 11 - Return to New Dongba
It’s time to see one last time Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar, and then return after a 6 h drive to New Dongba.
Accommodation in guesthouse with breakfast.
Day 12 - Drive back to Nyalam
You will keep the same route while returning and will come back to Nyalam, after a 6 h drive and a distance of 357 km.
Accommodation in guesthouse with breakfast.
Day 13 - Return to Kathmandu
Today you will be driven from ZhangMu, via Friendship Bridge and Kodari to reach Kathmandu.
Accommodation in guesthouse with breakfast.
Day 14 - Relaxing day in Kathmandu
This is a rest day in Kathmandu or you can choose an activity among an array of options, from rafting adventure to shopping tour. In the evening you are invited to attend a farewell dinner in Nepalese traditional style accompanied by cultural show.
Accommodation in guesthouse with breakfast and farewell dinner.
Day 15 - Departure day
Your tour has ended and you will be transferred to the airport for your international flight to reach your next destination.
Accommodation in guesthouse with breakfast.
Price Includes:
- Pick up from and drop off at the hotel and the airport on a private tourist vehicle.
- Twin sharing accommodation in a threestar hotel in Kathmandu; Breakfast included. (4 nights)
- Basic guesthouse accommodation for the tour in Tibet (dormitory style room with common toilet) including breakfast
- All transportation by private tourist vehicle for the tour in Kathmandu and in Tibet (4 passengers in one Land Cruiser)
- Truck to transfer the equipment and food during the driving tour if you have choosen for Tented Camp Stay in Tibet.
- Guided city tour in Kathmandu on a private vehicle on day 02
- Sightseeing/monument entrance fees in Kathmandu (on Day 02).
- Government-licensed English-speaking Tibetan tour guide while in Tibet.
- The required number of ground staff for the tour like helpers and drivers.
- Food, accommodation, salary, insurance, equipment and medicine for our ground staff.
- A down jacket and a sleeping bag provided (which needs to be returned after the trip).
- Free duffel/kit bag and sunhat (yours to keep).
- Farewell dinner in typical Nepali Restaurant with cultural dance show on second last day (On Day 14th).
- Tibet entry permission, Chinese visa and monastery entry fees.
- Yak and yak men during the Kailash Kora (one yak for every two clients)
- Portable Altitude Chamber (PAC) and oxygen (in case of emergency).
- All government taxes, vat and Tourist service charges
- All official expenses.
Price Does not Include:
- Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu. Depending on your budget, it may cost about USD 15 to USD 20 per person.
- International airfare and airport departure tax.
- Travel insurance which covers emergency Rescue and Evacuation.
- Nepal entry visa – you can obtain a visa easily upon your arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (Tourist Visa with Multiple Entries for 15 days can be obtained by paying US $ 25 or equivalent foreign currency. Similarly, Tourist Visa with Multiple Entries for 30 days and 90 days can be obtained by paying US $40 and $ 100 respectively. Please bring 2 copies of passport size photos).
- Internet and telephone calls.
- Lunch and dinner for entire trip – about USD 15 to 20 per person per day.
- Item of Personal nature like alcohol, hot & cold drinks and laundry.
- Personal clothing and equipment.(See the equipment tab for detail information)
- Tips for trekking staff and driver. (Tipping is expected)
- Others expenses not mentioned in the Price Includes section.
The information below has been created so that you can use this as a guide in understanding the necessary equipment, clothing, gear, medicines and miscellaneous items required for this trekking tour. This list is of a general nature and you may decide to add or remove some of these items, please make sure that you have enough clothing to maximize your comfortability whilst on the trek.
We will provide you with a porter and a duffel bag to support and carry your heavier belongings however we do recommend that you also bring your own daypack to carry your money, personal items and any important documents.
General
- 4 seasons Sleeping bag
- Duffel or Rucksack bag or suitcase.
- Daypack
- Down Jacket
Upper Body – Head / Ears / Eyes
- Shade hat or baseball cap.
- Warm wool or synthetic hat that cover your ears.
- Balaclava – lightweight, thinner variety.
- Glacier glasses-100% UV protection with side shields and a hard-sided storage case (i.e. Julbo or Cebe).
- Headlamp – Black Diamond and Petzl both make several good ones.
- Some people like ear-muffs (optional).
- A neck warmer (optional).
Hand
- 1 pair liner gloves, thin wool or synthetic.
- 1 pair warm gloves (heavier fleece or wool).
- 1 pair shell gloves or mitts; Gore-Tex.
- Instant hand warmers (optional).
Core Body
- T-shirts (2).
- Light and expedition weight thermal tops.
- Fleece jacket or pullover.
- Fleece Wind-Stopper jacket (optional).
- Waterproof (preferably breathable fabric) shell jacket.
- 2 women sports bras
Lower Body – Legs
- 2 pairs nylon hiking shorts
- Underwear.
- 2 pairs lightweight long underwear – capilene or other synthetic.
- 1 pair soft shell pants – synthetic, full zip from top and bottom preferable.
- 2 pairs trekking pants.
- 1 pair hard shell pants. Waterproof / breathable, Gore-Tex.
- 1 pair cotton pants (loose jeans/khakis).
- All clothing should be kept dry using waterproof stuff sacks or large puncture resistant plastic bags.
Feet
- 4 pairs of liner socks, synthetic or capilene.
- 3 pairs heavy weight socks to be worn over liner socks.
- 1 pair light weight socks, a good option for the lower / warmer parts of the trail.
- 1 pair light to medium weight water proof hiking/trekking boots.
- 1 pair light trekking shoes or sneakers.
- 1 pair hiking gaiters (Optional).
- 1 pair sandals (Optional).
Medicines and First Aid Kits
(Important: Our guide will already have a first aid kit which they bring with them however we also recommend that you bring some of these medicines with you in your daypack too.)
- Extra Strength Excedrin for altitude related headaches.
- Ibuprofen for general aches and pains.
- Immodium or Pepto bismol capsules for upset stomach or diarrhea.
- Diamox (commonly prescribed as Acetazolamide) 125 or 250mg tablets for altitude sickness.
- 1 small personal sized first-aid kit with blister treatments such as mole skin, band-aids, some waterproof tape, anti-infection ointments, etc.
Miscellaneous, but Important !
- Passport and extra passport photos (4 copies).
- Airline ticket
- Durable wallet / pouch for travel documents, money & passport.
- Lip balm. At least SPF 20, 2 sticks.
- Sunscreen. SPF 40.
- Pocket knife or small Swiss Army type.
- Water purification Iodine tablets or Polar-pure crystals.
- Toiletry kit. Be sure to include toilet paper stored in a plastic bag, hand wipes, and liquid hand sanitizer, towel, soap, etc.
- 2 bandanas.
Optional
- 1 pair adjustable trekking poles. (Optional).
- Favorite snack foods, no more than 2 pounds (Optional).
- Paperback books, cards, mp3 player (Optional).
- Binoculars (Optional).
- 1 light weight point & shoot camera or 1 large SLR. (Optional).
- A pee bottle for men and pee funnel for woman (Optional).
- 1 small stainless steel thermos (Optional).
Helpful Tip: For the majority of these items, clothing and equipment there are numerous different brands to choose from, we recommend that you buy most of these when you fly in to Tibet if possible because this way it can be a lot cheaper for you. If you would like any specific suggestions, please ask and we can certainly recommend those for you.
Here's a few answers to most common Questions asked by the customers.
What type of fitness or shape do I need to be in? +
The Mount Kailash Manasarovar Lake trek is physically possible for anyone that is of an average fitness level, there is no previous experience required. We generally recommend however that you train for 2-3 months in advance of your departure date and some of the activities you can do is walking or hiking, running or even better running on a treadmill at incline.
Alternatively swimming is a great choice too. Typically you should be doing at least one or a combination of these activities for an hour each time and roughly 3-4 times a week in the lead up to your trek in Tibet.
Will somebody come to pick me up at the airport upon my arrival? +
Yes, one of our staff members will be waiting at the airport with a signboard ready to collect you once you arrive and from there we will transfer you by private vehicle to the hotel.
What is your cancellation policy? +
If you want to cancel your reserved tour, we may refund your fee payable to us minus a $150 cancellation fee (5000 INR for Indian Nationals). Himalayan Steps will not accept refunds for flights if we already booked your flight. In some cases we may reschedule your trip at no cost or with some cost if you provide us with 7 days advance notice.
We will not give any refunds if you finish the trekking earlier or later, or cancel your tour for medical or personal reason while trekking.
