10-Day Mount Kailash Kora Private Tour from Lhasa

Mount Kailash Kora (trekking circuit), a challenging yet deeply rewarding pilgrimage around the sacred mountain

Duration
10 days
Tour Type
Private Tour
Price From
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Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage journey to Mount Kailash, one of Tibet’s most sacred mountains and a spiritual destination revered by millions of pilgrims.

 Starting from Lhasa, this 10-day private tour takes you across the spectacular landscapes of western Tibet, visiting turquoise alpine lakes, ancient monasteries, high mountain passes, and remote Tibetan plateau scenery.

The highlight of this journey is the three-day Mount Kailash Kora (trekking circuit), a challenging yet deeply rewarding pilgrimage around the sacred mountain. 

Trek through dramatic valleys, spend a night near Dirapuk Monastery with views of the magnificent north face of Mount Kailash, cross the high Dolma La Pass (5,630m), and complete the sacred route before returning to Lhasa. 

This tour combines Tibetan Buddhist culture, breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, and an unforgettable high-altitude adventure.

Private Tour



2-15 Participants

Meal Inclusions

Breakfast at hotels in Lhasa, Shigatse, and Saga

Attraction Transfers

Tourist vehicle transfers between attractions

Accommodation

Economy or comfortable hotel

Permits Handled

Tibet Travel Permit for foreign travelers

Activity Level: 4/5

Some extended walking on varied terrains.

Language


English Speaking Local Guide

Itinerary

Lhasa ⇀ Yamdrok Lake / Karola Glacier / Shigatse ⇀ Saga ⇀ Tarchen (Darchen) ⇀ Kailash Kora (Dirapuk / Dolma La Pass / Zutulpuk) ⇀ Saga ⇀ Shigatse ⇀ Lhasa

Altitude & Safety

Oxygen supply provided; altitude support

Jessie, Founder Experience Tibet

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10-Day Mount Kailash Kora Private Tour from Lhasa

Price Includes

  • Tibet Travel Permit application and processing
  • Military area permit and other necessary permits for the Kailash region
  • Airport/train station pickup and drop-off service in Lhasa
  • Professional Tibetan English-speaking guide
  • Private transportation throughout the tour
  • Accommodation as specified in the itinerary:
  • Lhasa, Shigatse, and Saga: Comfortable hotels with breakfast
  • Tarchen: Local hotel
  • During Kailash Kora: Simple local guesthouses with basic facilities
  • Entrance fees listed in the itinerary
  • Complimentary bottled water
  • Portable oxygen supply in the vehicle
  • Travel insurance

Price Excludes

  • International and domestic flights/trains to and from Lhasa
  • Additional meals not specified in the itinerary
  • Single room supplement
  • Tips for guide and driver
    (Recommended: USD 7 per person per day, shared between guide and driver)
  • Porter or horse service during Mount Kailash Kora
  • Expenses caused by force majeure, including weather conditions, road closures, natural disasters, or government regulations
Day 1: : Arrival in Lhasa

What to See in Lhasa: Local Markets, Barkhor Street Shopping, Sweet Tea Houses & Where to Eat (Plus Top Sights)

Welcome to Lhasa, the spiritual heart of Tibet. Upon arrival at Lhasa Gonggar Airport or Lhasa Railway Station, your guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel.

The rest of the day is free for rest and acclimatization. Take time to adjust to the altitude and prepare for your journey into western Tibet.

Overnight: Lhasa

Yamdrok Yumco Lake

After breakfast, begin your journey toward western Tibet.

Drive along the beautiful Yarlung Tsangpo River Valley and cross the Gampa La Pass (4,790m), where you will enjoy breathtaking views of the sacred Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet’s most beautiful alpine lakes.

Continue to Karola Glacier, one of the most accessible glaciers in Tibet, where you can admire the dramatic contrast between snow-covered peaks and the Tibetan plateau landscape.

Arrive in Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city.

Overnight: Shigatse

Visit Mount Kailash 2026: Weather, Seasons and Yatra Planning Guide

Driving distance: Approx. 450 km | 7–8 hours

Continue westward toward the remote Ngari region. The landscape gradually changes as you travel deeper into western Tibet, passing vast grasslands, snow-covered mountains, and traditional Tibetan settlements.

Enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Tibetan Plateau as you approach Saga, an important stop on the route to Mount Kailash.

Overnight: Saga

16-Day Tibet - Nepal - Bhutan Trans-Himalayan Tour

Driving distance: Approx. 450 km | 7–8 hours

Today, continue toward Tarchen (Darchen), the starting point of the Mount Kailash Kora.

As you approach the sacred mountain, enjoy your first views of the majestic Mount Kailash rising above the surrounding plateau. Spend the afternoon resting and preparing for the upcoming three-day trek.

Overnight: Tarchen

12-Day Indian Pilgrimage to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar

Trekking distance: Approx. 14 km trekking + 6 km shuttle bus
Altitude: Start 4,675m | End 5,100m
Trekking time: Approx. 7–8 hours

Begin the sacred Mount Kailash Kora from Tarchen. Take an environmental shuttle bus to the prayer flag square (Darchen), then start trekking toward Dirapuk Monastery.

The trail gradually enters the heart of the Kailash region, surrounded by towering mountains, prayer flags, and ancient pilgrimage paths. Arrive at Dirapuk Monastery, where you will enjoy an impressive view of the north face of Mount Kailash.

Overnight: Dirapuk Guesthouse

Trekking in Tibet: A Guide to Himalayan Routes

 

Trekking distance: Approx. 20 km
Highest point: Dolma La Pass (5,630m)
Trekking time: Approx. 10–11 hours

Today is the most challenging and spiritually significant day of the Kailash Kora.

Ascend to Dolma La Pass (5,630m), the highest point of the pilgrimage route, decorated with colorful prayer flags and offerings from pilgrims around the world. After crossing the pass, descend through the valley and continue toward Zutulpuk Monastery.

This demanding day rewards you with unforgettable views and a profound sense of accomplishment.

Overnight: Zutulpuk Guesthouse

Happy group of travelers and local Tibetan guides celebrating at Everest Base Camp North during a Tibet trekking tour.

Trekking distance: Approx. 6.6 km trekking + 4 km shuttle bus
Trekking time: Approx. 2–3 hours

Complete the final section of the Kailash Kora. The trail gradually descends through the valley before returning to Tarchen, marking the completion of the sacred pilgrimage around Mount Kailash.

After the trek, return to your hotel and enjoy a well-deserved rest.

Overnight: Tarchen

17-Day Mt Kailash & Guge Kingdom Tour from Lhasa

Driving distance: Approx. 450 km | 7–8 hours

Leave the sacred Mount Kailash region and begin your return journey across western Tibet.

Enjoy the changing landscapes as you travel back through the vast Tibetan plateau toward Saga.

Overnight: Saga

6-Day Lhasa to Shigatse Golden Route Tour

Driving distance: Approx. 450 km | 7–8 hours

Continue eastward toward Shigatse. The journey offers another opportunity to admire the breathtaking scenery of western Tibet, including high-altitude valleys, mountains, and open grasslands.

 

Things to Do in Shigatse: Top Sights, Local Experiences, and How to Plan Your Visit

 

Arrive in Shigatse for your final night before returning to Lhasa.

Overnight: Shigatse

What to See in Lhasa: Local Markets, Barkhor Street Shopping, Sweet Tea Houses & Where to Eat (Plus Top Sights)

Driving distance: Approx. 280 km | 5–6 hours

Drive back to Lhasa. Depending on your flight schedule, your guide will transfer you to Lhasa Gonggar Airport or railway station for your onward journey.

Your unforgettable Mount Kailash Kora adventure comes to an end.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does it take to process the Tibet Travel Permit?

Typically, it is recommended to apply at least 15-20 days before your planned travel date to ensure ample processing time.)

The best time to visit Tibet is from April to October when the weather is most favorable, with clearer skies and milder temperatures. However, for those looking to experience specific festivals or less crowded seasons, other times of the year can also offer unique advantages.

Yes, vegetarian options are available, especially in larger cities like Lhasa and Shigatse. Hotels typically offer simple Western meals, and vegetarian dishes can be found in local Chinese restaurants or noodle shops in remote areas or small towns during long journeys.

Breakfast at the hotel usually includes simple Western options. In larger cities, you’ll have a wider range of choices, whereas in more remote areas, the selection may be more limited but still satisfying.

4-star hotels generally offer a higher standard of accommodation, with more spacious rooms, additional amenities, and better service compared to 3-star hotels. Both options provide comfortable lodgings, but 4-star hotels may offer a more luxurious experience.

Our tours are designed for small groups, with a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 13 people. This ensures a more personalized and enjoyable travel experience.

Yes, we provide 1L oxygen bottles for each tourist. For destinations further from Lhasa, we also supply medical-grade oxygen canisters, which are more effective than small bottles. It’s also advisable to prepare some altitude sickness medication as a precaution.

Most of our guests choose to fly into Tibet, with many domestic cities offering flights to Lhasa. It’s the quickest way, usually taking 1-3 hours, compared to over 20 hours by train. Train tickets can only be booked 15 days in advance.

Large luggage can be stored in the vehicle or left at hotels during your stay. You’ll only need to carry personal items and anything you might need for the day’s activities.

Here’s a general overview of hotels in Tibet; actual stays may vary depending on the tour and pricing.

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Tibet Travel Permit Information: International travelers generally need a Tibet Travel Permit to visit Tibet. We recommend enquiring in advance to allow time for permit arrangements. Your preferred travel date is subject to confirmation by our team.

Tour Highlights

Discover the heart of Tibetan culture and spirituality with visits to iconic landmarks.

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