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16-Day Mount Kailash Pilgrimage Tour from Lhasa to Nepal

Embark on a Journey to Discover Tibet’s Natural Beauty & Cultural Heritage

  • Lhasa ⇀ Ganden Monastery / Drak Yerpa / Samye / Tsedang ⇀ Shigatse / Tashilhunpo ⇀ Saga ⇀ Mount Kailash Kora / Darchen ⇀ Tirthapuri / Lake Manasarovar ⇀ Saga ⇀ Gyirong Border (Nepal)
Duration
16 days
Tour Type
Group Tour / Private Tour
Price From
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Itinerary

Dates & Prices

FAQ

Overview

Starting in Lhasa, explore the spiritual heart of Tibet with visits to the Jokhang Temple, Potala Palace, Ganden Monastery, and the ancient meditation caves of Drak Yerpa. Continue eastward to discover Tibet’s ancient Buddhist heritage at Samye Monastery and Tsedang before traveling west across the vast Tibetan Plateau toward Mount Kailash.

The highlight of this journey is the three-day Mount Kailash Kora, a sacred pilgrimage around one of Asia’s most revered mountains. Trek through dramatic valleys, cross high mountain landscapes, and complete the spiritual circuit before visiting the sacred Lake Manasarovar and Tirthapuri. The journey concludes at the Gyirong Border, offering a scenic overland connection between Tibet and Nepal.

Private Tour

2-13 Participants

Meal Inclusions

Meals as specified in the itinerary

Attraction Transfers

Tourist vehicle transfers between attractions

Accommodation

Comfortable hotel accommodation

Permits Handled

Tibet Travel Permit for foreign travelers

Activity Level: 3.5/5

Some extended walking on varied terrains.

Local Guide

Tibetan English-speaking guide

Itinerary

Lhasa ⇀ Ganden Monastery / Drak Yerpa / Samye / Tsedang ⇀ Shigatse / Tashilhunpo ⇀ Saga ⇀ Mount Kailash Kora / Darchen ⇀ Tirthapuri / Lake Manasarovar ⇀ Saga ⇀ Gyirong Border (Nepal)

Altitude & Safety

Oxygen supply provided; altitude support

Jessie, Founder Experience Tibet

How can we help?

For advice on where to go, what to do and how to choose your perfect tour, talk to our Travel Experts.

How to Book

Book online
WhatsApp +86 15828535300
Plan your Tibet trip with us: Contact us
Wechat ID: experiencetibettour

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Detailed Itinerary

Pilgrims trekking the sacred Kora circuit of Mount Kailash at high altitude with prayer flags and Tibetan mountains in the background

Price Includes

  • √ Tibet Travel Permit application
  • √ Airport pickup and transfer service in Lhasa
  • √ Professional English-speaking Tibetan guide
  • √ Private transportation throughout the tour
  • √ Accommodation:
  • Economy hotels with breakfast (double occupancy)
  • Guesthouses/tent accommodation during Mount Kailash Kora
  • √ Breakfast as specified in the itinerary
  • √ Entrance fees listed in the itinerary
  • √ Travel insurance
  • √ Complimentary bottled drinking water
  • √ Oxygen supply

Price Excludes

  • × Flights or trains to and from Tibet
  • × Meals not specified in the itinerary
  • × Single room supplement
  • × Tips for guide and driver
  • × Porter service during Mount Kailash Kora (optional)
Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa

Welcome to Lhasa, the spiritual capital of Tibet.

Upon arrival at Lhasa Gonggar Airport or railway station, your Tibetan English-speaking guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel.

The rest of the day is free for rest and acclimatization to the high altitude.

Overnight: Lhasa

Jokhang Temple

After breakfast, visit the sacred Jokhang Temple, the spiritual center of Tibetan Buddhism and the most important pilgrimage site in Tibet.

Explore the temple’s ancient chapels and observe pilgrims performing traditional prayers and rituals. Afterwards, walk around Barkhor Street, the historic old quarter surrounding Jokhang Temple, where Tibetan culture, traditional markets, and daily life come together.

Overnight: Lhasa

 

Diverse group of solo female and male travelers celebrating together at iconic Potala Palace Lhasa

Today visit the magnificent Potala Palace, one of Tibet’s most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Explore the former winter residence of the Dalai Lama, including its grand halls, chapels, and collections of Buddhist treasures. Enjoy panoramic views over Lhasa from the palace.

Overnight: Lhasa

Tibet Monasteries: Discover Sacred Temples & Sites

Driving distance: Approx. 70 km | 2 hours

Travel outside Lhasa to visit Ganden Monastery, one of the six great monasteries of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism.

Located on a mountain ridge overlooking the Kyi Chu Valley, Ganden offers spectacular views and an impressive introduction to Tibetan Buddhist culture.

Return to Lhasa in the afternoon.

Overnight: Lhasa

5-Day Lhasa & Ganden Monastery Small Group Tour

Today visit Drak Yerpa Caves, one of Tibet’s most important meditation retreat sites.

Hidden among dramatic cliffs and mountain valleys, these ancient caves have been used by Tibetan Buddhist masters for centuries. Explore the peaceful surroundings and learn about the spiritual traditions connected with this sacred place.

Return to Lhasa.

Overnight: Lhasa

Tibet Monasteries: Discover Sacred Temples & Sites

Driving distance: Approx. 150 km | 3–4 hours

Leave Lhasa and travel to the Yarlung Valley, the birthplace of Tibetan civilization.

Visit Samye Monastery, Tibet’s first Buddhist monastery, famous for its unique mandala-style architecture and important role in Tibetan Buddhism.

Continue to Chimpuk Caves, an ancient meditation retreat site associated with early Buddhist masters.

Continue to Tsedang for overnight.

Overnight: Tsedang

 

Tashilhunpo Monastery
Tashilhunpo Monastery

Driving distance: Approx. 350 km | 6–7 hours

Travel west toward Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city.

Visit Tashilhunpo Monastery, the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama and one of Tibet’s most important monasteries. Explore its impressive chapels, giant Maitreya Buddha statue, and peaceful monastery courtyards.

Overnight: Shigatse

17-Day Mt Kailash & Guge Kingdom Tour from Lhasa
Saga to Kyirong

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

Continue westward across the Tibetan Plateau toward Saga.

Enjoy spectacular views of high mountains, wide grasslands, remote villages, and the untouched landscapes of western Tibet.

Overnight: Saga

 

12-Day Indian Pilgrimage to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar

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

Continue toward Darchen, the starting point of the Mount Kailash Kora.

As you approach the sacred mountain, enjoy your first views of Mount Kailash rising above the surrounding plateau. Spend the evening preparing for the upcoming pilgrimage trek.

Overnight: Darchen

Auto Draft
tibet a hike to mt kailash

Trekking distance: Approx. 13–15 km
Trekking time: 6–7 hours

Begin the sacred Mount Kailash Kora.

Walk through the valley beneath the magnificent mountain, following the traditional pilgrimage route used by Tibetan Buddhists, Hindus, Jains, and Bon followers.

Arrive at Dirapuk Monastery, where you can enjoy spectacular views of the north face of Mount Kailash.

Overnight: Dirapuk Guesthouse

12-Day Indian Pilgrimage to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar

Trekking distance: Approx. 18–20 km
Trekking time: 8–10 hours

Today is the most challenging day of the pilgrimage.

Cross the sacred high mountain pass and continue through dramatic valleys toward Zutulpuk Monastery.

The route offers unforgettable views of the surrounding mountains and a powerful spiritual atmosphere.

Overnight: Zutulpuk Guesthouse

17-Day Mt Kailash & Guge Kingdom Tour from Lhasa
kailash

Trekking distance: Approx. 10–12 km

Complete the final section of the Kailash Kora and return to Darchen.

After completing the sacred circuit around Mount Kailash, enjoy a comfortable rest.

Overnight: Darchen

How to Travel from Russia to Tibet: 15-Day Mt Kailash Trekking Tour for Russian Citizens

Continue to Tirthapuri, an important pilgrimage site associated with Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar.

Visit the sacred hot springs and surrounding religious sites before continuing to Lake Manasarovar, one of Tibet’s most revered lakes.

Overnight: Lake Manasarovar Guesthouse

17-Day Mt Kailash & Guge Kingdom Tour from Lhasa

Spend the day exploring the magnificent surroundings of Lake Manasarovar.

Enjoy views of the crystal-clear waters, surrounding mountains, and the peaceful atmosphere of this sacred lake. Due to local regulations, the visit is arranged by sightseeing vehicle rather than a full lake circuit.

Overnight: Lake Manasarovar Guesthouse

17-Day Mt Kailash & Guge Kingdom Tour from Lhasa

Leave Lake Manasarovar and begin the return journey eastward.

Travel across the vast Tibetan Plateau toward Saga, enjoying the changing landscapes and remote beauty of western Tibet.

Overnight: Saga

Nepal to Tibet Border Crossing at Gyirong (Kyirong): Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

Continue south toward the Gyirong Border, the gateway between Tibet and Nepal.

Visit Phakpa Monastery along the way before arriving at the border area, where your Tibet journey concludes.

End of Tour

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.

Dates, availability and Prices

Book your tibet trip

ExperienceTibet” specializes in small group tours to Tibet, focusing on some of the most sought-after itineraries, ranging from the “4-day Holy City Tour” and “6-day Lhasa to Shigatse” journey, to the extensive 15-day Mt. Kailash tour

16-Day Mount Kailash Pilgrimage Tour from Lhasa to Nepal

How to Book

Book online
WhatsApp +86 15828535300
Plan your Tibet trip with us: Contact us
Wechat ID: experiencetibettour

Availability calendar for all our Tours

YMDAYTOUR
2026Aug166 Days Lhasa to Shigatse Tour
2026Aug168 Days Nepal to Tibet Lhasa Tour
2026Aug178 Days Everest Base Camp Tour
2026Aug184 Days Holy City Tour
2026Aug206 Days Lhasa to Shigatse Tour
2026Aug218 Days Everest Base Camp Tour
2026Aug2110 Day Lhasa, Everest, Namtso Tour
2026Aug215 Day Lhasa & Yamdrok Lake Tour
2026Aug217 Days Tibet to Nepal Overland Tour from Lhasa
2026Aug2115 Day Mt. Kailash Trekking Tour
2026Aug225 Days Lhasa and Ganden Monastery Tour
2026Aug236 Days Lhasa to Shigatse Tour
2026Aug248 Days Nepal to Tibet Lhasa Tour
2026Aug2515 Day Mt. Kailash Trekking Tour
2026Aug268 Days Everest Base Camp Tour
2026Aug264 Days Holy City Tour
2026Aug267 Days Tibet to Nepal Overland Tour from Lhasa
2026Aug2810 Day Lhasa, Everest, Namtso Tour
2026Aug287 Days Tibet to Nepal Overland Tour from Lhasa
2026Aug2915 Day Mt. Kailash Trekking Tour
2026Aug308 Days Everest Base Camp Tour
2026Aug306 Days Lhasa to Shigatse Tour
2026Aug308 Days Nepal to Tibet Lhasa Tour
2026Sep110 Days Mount Kailash Tour from Kathmandu
2026Sep25 Days Lhasa and Ganden Monastery Tour
2026Sep28 Days Everest Base Camp Tour
2026Sep28 Days Nepal to Tibet Lhasa Tour
2026Sep44 Days Holy City Tour
2026Sep410 Day Lhasa, Everest, Namtso Tour
2026Sep47 Days Tibet to Nepal Overland Tour from Lhasa
2026Sep64 Days Holy City Tour
2026Sep68 Days Everest Base Camp Tour
2026Sep66 Days Lhasa to Shigatse Tour
2026Sep815 Day Mt. Kailash Trekking Tour
2026Sep96 Days Lhasa to Shigatse Tour
2026Sep97 Days Tibet to Nepal Overland Tour from Lhasa
2026Sep94 Days Holy City Tour
2026Sep95 Days Lhasa and Ganden Monastery Tour
2026Sep95 Day Lhasa & Yamdrok Lake Tour
2026Sep118 Days Everest Base Camp Tour
2026Sep1110 Day Lhasa, Everest, Namtso Tour
2026Sep117 Days Tibet to Nepal Overland Tour from Lhasa
2026Sep1215 Day Mt. Kailash Trekking Tour
2026Sep136 Days Lhasa to Shigatse Tour
2026Sep134 Days Holy City Tour
2026Sep135 Days Lhasa and Ganden Monastery Tour
2026Sep1510 Days Mount Kailash Tour from Kathmandu
2026Sep158 Days Nepal to Tibet Lhasa Tour
2026Sep167 Days Tibet to Nepal Overland Tour from Lhasa
2026Sep164 Days Holy City Tour
2026Sep165 Day Lhasa & Yamdrok Lake Tour
2026Sep168 Days Everest Base Camp Tour
2026Sep176 Days Lhasa to Shigatse Tour
2026Sep1715 Day Mt. Kailash Trekking Tour
2026Sep1810 Day Lhasa, Everest, Namtso Tour
2026Sep188 Days Everest Base Camp Tour
2026Sep1915 Day Mt. Kailash Trekking Tour
2026Sep204 Days Holy City Tour
2026Sep205 Days Lhasa and Ganden Monastery Tour
2026Sep206 Days Lhasa to Shigatse Tour
2026Sep227 Days Tibet to Nepal Overland Tour from Lhasa
2026Sep255 Day Lhasa & Yamdrok Lake Tour
2026Sep2510 Day Lhasa, Everest, Namtso Tour
2026Sep257 Days Tibet to Nepal Overland Tour from Lhasa
2026Sep2615 Day Mt. Kailash Trekking Tour
2026Sep278 Days Everest Base Camp Tour
2026Sep298 Days Nepal to Tibet Lhasa Tour
2026Sep2910 Days Mount Kailash Tour from Kathmandu
2026Sep2911 Days Beijing Xian Tibet Train Tour
2026Sep308 Days Everest Base Camp Tour
2026Sep307 Days Tibet to Nepal Overland Tour from Lhasa
2026Oct16 Days Lhasa to Shigatse Tour
2026Oct17 Days Tibet to Nepal Overland Tour from Lhasa
2026Oct110 Day Lhasa, Everest, Namtso Tour
2026Oct15 Days Lhasa and Ganden Monastery Tour
2026Oct18 Days Everest Base Camp Tour
2026Oct28 Days Everest Base Camp Tour
2026Oct46 Days Lhasa to Shigatse Tour
2026Oct44 Days Holy City Tour
2026Oct415 Day Mt. Kailash Trekking Tour
2026Oct58 Days Everest Base Camp Tour
2026Oct68 Days Nepal to Tibet Lhasa Tour
2026Oct610 Day Lhasa, Everest, Namtso Tour
2026Oct710 Days Mount Kailash Tour from Kathmandu
2026Oct85 Day Lhasa & Yamdrok Lake Tour
2026Oct810 Day Lhasa, Everest, Namtso Tour
2026Oct87 Days Tibet to Nepal Overland Tour from Lhasa
2026Oct86 Days Lhasa to Shigatse Tour
2026Oct98 Days Nepal to Tibet Lhasa Tour
2026Oct108 Days Everest Base Camp Tour
2026Oct114 Days Holy City Tour
2026Oct115 Days Lhasa and Ganden Monastery Tour
2026Oct1115 Day Mt. Kailash Trekking Tour
2026Oct148 Days Nepal to Tibet Lhasa Tour
2026Oct145 Day Lhasa & Yamdrok Lake Tour
2026Oct146 Days Lhasa to Shigatse Tour
2026Oct1410 Days Mount Kailash Tour from Kathmandu
2026Oct167 Days Tibet to Nepal Overland Tour from Lhasa
2026Oct1610 Day Lhasa, Everest, Namtso Tour
2026Oct164 Days Holy City Tour
2026Oct165 Days Lhasa and Ganden Monastery Tour
2026Oct178 Days Everest Base Camp Tour
2026Oct1815 Day Mt. Kailash Trekking Tour
2026Oct197 Days Tibet to Nepal Overland Tour from Lhasa
2026Oct2110 Days Mount Kailash Tour from Kathmandu
2026Oct228 Days Nepal to Tibet Lhasa Tour
2026Oct236 Days Lhasa to Shigatse Tour
2026Oct237 Days Tibet to Nepal Overland Tour from Lhasa
2026Oct235 Days Lhasa and Ganden Monastery Tour
2026Oct234 Days Holy City Tour
2026Oct235 Day Lhasa & Yamdrok Lake Tour
2026Oct238 Days Everest Base Camp Tour
2026Oct2310 Day Lhasa, Everest, Namtso Tour
2026Oct248 Days Nepal to Tibet Lhasa Tour
2026Oct256 Days Lhasa to Shigatse Tour
2026Oct277 Days Tibet to Nepal Overland Tour from Lhasa
2026Oct278 Days Everest Base Camp Tour
2026Oct294 Days Holy City Tour
2026Oct298 Days Everest Base Camp Tour
2026Oct298 Days Nepal to Tibet Lhasa Tour
2026Oct317 Days Tibet to Nepal Overland Tour from Lhasa

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