Sacred Treks Nepal
Mount Kailash and a Tibetan stupa on the high plateau

Sacred Treks Nepal

Kailash

Yatra 2026 | Overland with Sacred Treks Nepal · 13 Days

Starting from

From $2,699 per person.

Indian passport holders

From ₹2,35,000 INR.

Awaken yourself in the presence of kailash.

Overview

Key details for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra — at a glance.

Quick information

  • Group size

    Up to 20 people

  • Duration

    12 nights · 13 days

  • Travel type

    Kailash Mansarovar Yatra (KMY) by overland with parikarma

  • Starting point

    Kathmandu, Nepal

  • Finishing point

    Kathmandu, Nepal

  • Mt. Kailash elevation

    6,638 m above sea level

  • Highest point on trek

    Dolmala Pass · 5,600 m

  • Best months

    April, May, August & September

Itinerary

Day-by-day journey — tap a day to expand or collapse details.

  1. Arrival & orientation

    Hotel in Kathmandu

    Varies — see narrative

    Breakfast, lunch & dinner (vegetarian)

    Arrive in Kathmandu, where our team will receive you and assist with hotel check-in. After some rest, the group will gather for a Kailash Orientation, providing an overview of the pilgrimage, spiritual guidelines, and practical briefings for the journey ahead.

    In the evening, we visit the Linga Bhairavi Temple for darshan and meditation. Dinner will be served afterward, and overnight stay will be in Kathmandu.

  2. Travel & activities

    Hotel in Kathmandu

    Varies — see narrative

    Breakfast, lunch & dinner (vegetarian)

    Heritage Early morning visit to Pashupatinath Temple for Rudra Abhishekam Puja, performed at one of the most sacred Shiva temples in the world

    Later, proceed to Kathmandu Durbar Square for Living Goddess (Kumari) Darshan and Kalabhairav Darshan. Return to the hotel for rest and reflection.

  3. Scenic drive

    Hotel in Kathmandu

    Dhunche - 2000m / Syabrubesi - 1600m / Timure - 1983m.

    Breakfast, lunch & dinner (vegetarian)

    After breakfast in Kathmandu, we will drive to Dhunche (127 km/6 hrs), Syabrubesi (141 km/7 hrs), or Timure (152 km/8 hrs). At Trishuli Bazaar, we will stop for a lunch break in a highway restaurant. You can walk around and enjoy the incredible landscapes of villages and mountains. After lunch, we will continue our journey. The whole trip is with a beautiful scenic view along the Trishuli River.

    Altitude: Dhunche - 2000m / Syabrubesi - 1600m / Timure - 1983m.

  4. Scenic drive

    Kyirong / border area guesthouse

    Varies — see narrative

    Breakfast, lunch & dinner (vegetarian)

    Distance: 60 Km. Altitude: 2850M

    After breakfast, we will drive to Rasuwagadhi or walk 10 to 15 minutes to the border from Timure. We will complete the immigration process on the Nepal Side at Rasuwagadhi. Then, our Tibetan guide in China immigration will receive us to complete immigration formalities, and then we will continue the drive to Kyirong (1 hr drive/40 km). We will stay overnight at a guesthouse in Kyirong.

    Distance covered: 60 Km. Altitude: 2850M

  5. Acclimatization & light activity

    Kyirong / border area guesthouse

    2850M

    Breakfast, lunch & dinner (vegetarian)

    Relaxing morning in Kerung, start with a calm morning keeping activity light to allow your body to begin adjusting to the altitude. The town's scenic Kerung Valley offers lovely views of surrounding hills and rivers, providing the perfect backdrop for a relaxed exploration. Visit the local market to experience Tibetan culture firsthand, with options to try traditional snacks or tea. In the afternoon a short hike on nearby gentle trails can further aid in acclimatization.A light, early dinner with plenty of fluids will help with adjusting to the elevation. Evening: As evening falls, unwind and enjoy a quiet night, going to bed early for a refreshing night's sleep.

    Altitude: 2850M

  6. Scenic drive

    Saga

    4550 m

    Breakfast, lunch & dinner (vegetarian)

    Distance: 220 km. Altitude: 4025M

    After breakfast, we will drive towards Saga (220 km/6hr) the next day. En route, we will visit Ganesh Parbat and Lake Peiku Tso and eventually cross the bridge built over the River Brahmaputra (also called Yarlung Tsangpo in Chinese) in Saga. On the way, we will have a packed Lunch and Stay Overnight at Saga (4550m)

    Distance covered: 220 km. Altitude: 4025M

  7. Scenic drive

    Saga

    4550 m

    Breakfast, lunch & dinner (vegetarian)

    Distance: 450 kms Altitude: 4590M

    After breakfast, we will drive towards the holy and beautiful Lake Mansarovar (4550m) which takes approximately 6 to 7 hours. RAKSHAS TAL is another lake on the way to Mansarovar. We will stop there for a few minutes to see the fantastic beauty of the lake. Then, we will continue our drive to Mansarovar.

    When we arrive at Mansarovar, we will rest, have lunch at the guest house, and then get ready for Mansarovar Kora in a vehicle. It will be a special day for us because this is where we will also have the first glimpse of the great Kailash. We will take a holy bath on the banks of Lake Mansarovar and stay overnight at a Guest house in Mansarovar.

    Distance covered: 450 kms Altitude: 4590M

  8. Scenic drive

    Darchen area

    Varies — see narrative

    Breakfast, lunch & dinner (vegetarian)

    After completing the sacred experiences at Lake Manasarovar, the journey continues with a short drive to Darchen (4,575 m), the small settlement at the base of Mount Kailash.

    Visit to Astapath (5,600 m) regarded as one of the holiest vantage points of Mount Kailash. Tarboche, located at this site, is also known as the Outer Asthapath, holding deep spiritual significance for pilgrims and offering a sacred perspective of the revered peak.

    Gentle walks, meditation, or quiet reflection can be done, but the main focus is conserving energy and preparing both physically and spiritually for the trekahead. The night is spent in Darchen, with an early rest to be fully ready for then start of the Kailash Kora the following morning.

  9. Drive & trek

    Guesthouse / hotel (as arranged)

    Varies — see narrative

    Breakfast, lunch & dinner (vegetarian)

    Distance: 61 kms Altitude: 4910M

    After breakfast in Deachen, we will drive towards Yama Dwara. Yamadwar (Tarboche) is the starting point of Kailash Parikrama. Tarboche is also known as an outer "Astha Path ''. Ashtapath refers to the Eight Steps, where the first Jain Tirthankara Shri Rishabhadev Bhagwan, known as Shri Adinath Bhagwan, attained Nirvana (salvation). We will also see the spectacular Ganesh Parwat.

    We will walk along the beautiful rocky cliffs and waterfalls with clouds scattered in a clear blue sky, experiencing the immensity and grace of Lord Shiva. Here, we will perform Guru Pooja.

    Distance covered: 61 kms Altitude: 4910M

  10. Drive & trek

    Zuthulphuk (parikrama)

    4760 m

    Breakfast, lunch & dinner (vegetarian)

    Distance: 22 kms Altitude: 5600M

    After breakfast, we will trek to the east face of Kuberknuda Pass (5,700 m) and descend gradually to Zuthulphuk (4760m). Yamasthal will be crossed to reach the Shiva-sthal, and after that, we will go towards the Kuberkunda pass.

    Once we reach the top, we will have a spectacular view of the east face of Mt. Kailash and the Uma River's origin, which is impossible to see from other spots. We can also see Nandi Hill, Astha Path, and many more peaks from the top. Then, we will descend towards Zuthulphuk.

    By late afternoon, we will arrive in Zuthulphuk, the cave of Miracles, where the powerful master Milerappa is supposed to have performed miracles. We will stay overnight at a local guest house.

    Distance covered: 22 kms Altitude: 5600M

  11. Drive & trek

    Zuthulphuk (parikrama)

    Varies — see narrative

    Breakfast, lunch & dinner (vegetarian)

    Distance: 690 kms Altitude: 4550M

    After an early breakfast, we will be picked up at the ending point near Darchen by our vehicle and driven to Darchen, where we will reunite with the group that didn't go for the parikrama. We will drive together to Kerung and stay overnight there.

    Distance covered: 690 kms Altitude: 4550M

  12. Scenic drive

    Hotel in Kathmandu

    1400M

    Breakfast, lunch & dinner (vegetarian)

    Distance: 192 km

    The next day, we will drive from Kyirung to the border (40 km—1 hr). After completing immigration formalities, we will drive back to Kathmandu around 7-8 hr/152 km.

    Distance covered: 192 km Altitude: 1400M

  13. Closing & departure

    Guesthouse / hotel (as arranged)

    Varies — see narrative

    Breakfast, lunch & dinner (vegetarian)

    At Kathmandu, we will present you with a certificate of completion and hold a small celebration to mark the completion of this memorable trip.

    Please note that the itinerary provided is subject to flexibility and may not proceed exactly as planned due to potential weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances. We will do our best to ensure a smooth and fulfilling experience while prioritizing safety and comfort. Thank you for your understanding and adaptability.

Inclusions & exclusions

What's included

  • Transportation.
  • All vegetarian meals during the trip (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
  • Transportation in Tibet by luxury A/C coach.
  • Support trucks to carry kitchen equipment.
  • An English-speaking Tibetan guide.
  • All necessary travel and trekking permits.
  • Nepalese crew members (cooks, helpers, and Sherpas).
  • Health care professional.
  • Oxygen cylinders for emergency use and well-equipped medical kit bags.
  • Authentic down feather jacket.
  • Kailash Yatra completion certificate.
  • All applicable taxes and service charges for the trip.
  • Kirtan (musical performance).
  • Special Ancient Vedic Pooja (Rudra Abhishekam) in the abode of Pashupatinath before starting the journey.
  • Shodashopachara process in Kailash (ancient ritual to invoke the deity).

What's not included

  • Personal expenses.
  • Cost of extra or additional accommodation in Kathmandu.
  • Pony/horse hire or porter hire cost (approximately $495) during parikarma at Mt. Kailash.
  • Emergency evacuation cost (if needed).
  • Travel insurance.
  • Food and transport in case of any delay due to weather or other unforeseen reasons.
  • Flight cost.
  • Services that are not mentioned above.

Booking

How do I book this tour?

Step 1: Check availability

Please check the availability of travel dates and seats with our team. You can also contact our travel consultant directly so we can share everything you need to know about the yatra.

Step 2: Send your passport

Once your dates are set, email a scanned copy of your passport to sacredtreksnepal@gmail.com.

(Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of the yatra.)

Step 3: Confirm with payment

Pay 25% of the total amount to confirm your booking. We will then place you in a group, reserve accommodation, and start visa paperwork. The balance is due 30–35 days before departure — if it is not received in time, we cannot complete arrangements.

What are the booking cancellation policies?

  • 45 days before departure, 25% of the total Yatra cost will be deducted. 30 days before departure, 50% of the total Yatra cost will be deducted. There will be no refund if you cancel the Yatra less than 15 days before the departure date. All cancellation notices must be sent to our office in written form (email us at sacredtreksnepal@gmail.com). We will not accept verbal cancellations.

Essential information

  • Nepalese passport holders

    China/Tibet portion — Nepalese nationals undertaking the yatra must have a valid passport, visa, and special permit to visit the Kailash region.

    Passport guidelines

    • Passport must be valid at least 180 days from the last date of the sojourn.
    • Handwritten passports are not valid.

    Visa for foreign passport holders

    Non-Indian passport holders need a 30-day multiple-entry Nepal visa, available on arrival at Kathmandu Airport.

    A payment of $50 and a passport-size photo are required. Payment may be by credit card or US Dollars.

    Group permits and administrative approvals for Kailash Darshan are organized by Sacred Treks Nepal.

  • Carrying valid travel insurance for the trip is mandatory. The price of travel insurance is not included in the package.

    It is your responsibility to insure yourself for the entire duration of the journey. Please consult us or your insurer, purchase appropriate cover, and send us a digital copy of the policy you purchased.

  • Age

    • Participants must be above 18 years.
    • Participants below 18 may travel with a parent/guardian or submit a letter of parental consent.

    Medical fitness

    • This sojourn requires you to be physically and mentally fit.
    • Not advised for pregnant women and those with chronic health problems.

    During the program

    Cigarettes, e-cigarettes, alcohol, and recreational drugs are discouraged for the entire duration of the program.

  • It is mandatory to have suitable insurance for the sojourn, including considerations for high altitude and emergency evacuation.

    Most participants have used insurers such as:

    • World Nomads
    • AIG
    • TATA AIG

    Please confirm details with your provider and share a digital copy of your policy with us.

  • It is essential to acclimatize well at high altitude. Above 2,500 m, lower oxygen affects most people. Your body needs time to adapt — this is acclimatization.

    Medication

    Diamox (acetazolamide) is widely used to reduce symptoms of altitude illness. Start under your doctor’s guidance, typically 5 days before arriving in Kathmandu. If you have a sulfa allergy, tell your coordinator to discuss alternatives.

    A qualified doctor travels with the group for medical support.

    Fitness

    Start an exercise routine and walking habit at least one month before departure. We recommend daily brisk walking or jogging (about 5 km / 3 miles).

  • Wi‑Fi is available in Kathmandu. As you travel into remote areas of Tibet, connectivity becomes limited.

    Plan ahead so you can be on this journey with a focus on turning inward and staying present.

  • The itinerary for each group may vary slightly depending on several factors. Your Kathmandu hotel will be confirmed later.

    Last-minute changes can occur due to government rules, airline schedules, or natural events (floods, landslides, etc.). We ask for your cooperation and patience when adjustments are needed.

  • Money on the route

    • Nepal: Nepalese Rupees (NPR) and Indian Rupees (only ₹100 and smaller notes; higher denominations are not legal to use).
    • Tibet: Chinese Yuan (CNY).

    US Dollars and major currencies can be converted to Yuan or NPR at airports; we can also assist in Kathmandu.

    Rough reference: about USD 1 ≈ 6 CNY and 1 CNY ≈ NPR 17 (rates change — verify locally). Exchange at the Nepal–Tibet border; re-exchange remaining Yuan before re-entering Nepal.

    Extra costs to plan

    • Gratuity for drivers, cooks, and Sherpas on the last day.
    • Emergency costs if evacuation or delays occur (medical, transport, lodging, rule changes).
    • Other personal expenses.
  • From May to September, daytime temperatures in Tibet are often roughly 13–21 °C, and in Nepal about 10–22 °C. High-altitude sun can feel much hotter.

    Night temperatures can fall to about 0 to −5 °C. Layer clothing and protect skin from strong UV.

  • You will stay in urban, rural, and remote settings. Standards range from star hotels in cities to guesthouses cared for by our Sherpas and guides in Tibet.

    We always aim to provide the best facilities possible in each location.

Packing list

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Duffel bag & repacking

A complimentary duffel bag is provided in Kathmandu. Repack what you need for the sojourn; leave the rest at your Kathmandu hotel until you return. Use ziplock bags to protect items from rain and moisture.

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Personal medical kit

Carry medicines for common illnesses and your regular prescriptions. A detailed list will be sent before departure.

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Essential clothing & gear

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Daypack — carry at all times

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