Arrival in Lhasa (3,656 m)
We arrive in Lhasa and transfer from the airport or railway station to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure for acclimatization to the high altitude.
Overnight in Lhasa.
Trip Length: 17 Days
Enquiry NowThis classic overland pilgrimage and cultural journey combines the sacred Mount Kailash Kora with a visit to Everest Base Camp and Tibet’s most important monasteries. The itinerary is designed for gradual acclimatization, spiritual focus, and comfortable pacing.
This carefully curated overland expedition by Sherpa Adventure begins in Lhasa and traverses the vast Tibetan plateau toward the sacred landscapes of Mount Kailash. Designed as a seamless blend of pilgrimage, cultural exploration, and high-altitude travel, the journey emphasizes structured acclimatization, refined pacing, and a consistently elevated level of comfort. From Lhasa, the route continues through Tibet’s most significant cultural and natural landmarks, including sacred lakes, historic monasteries, and high-altitude valleys, before reaching the remote western region of Mount Kailash. Each stage is thoughtfully arranged to ensure gradual elevation gain and a balanced travel rhythm in this extraordinary Himalayan environment.
At its spiritual core lies the Mount Kailash Kora, one of the most revered pilgrimage circuits in the Himalayas, undertaken in a deeply sacred and remote setting. Sherpa Adventure Tours ensures expert logistical coordination, experienced high-altitude guidance, and carefully managed services throughout the journey. The return journey is designed for comfort and exclusivity, crossing into Nepal via the Kyirong border, followed by a scenic helicopter flight to Kathmandu, offering a swift and privileged aerial passage over the Himalayan landscape. The journey concludes in Kathmandu, allowing time for rest and cultural reflection before international departure.
| Max Altitude | Dolma La Pass (5,636 m) |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Best Season | All Year |
| Accommodation | Hotels |
We arrive in Lhasa and transfer from the airport or railway station to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure for acclimatization to the high altitude.
Overnight in Lhasa.
Explore the highlights of Lhasa with visits to the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street. The sightseeing tour involves approximately 5–6 hours of easy walking.
Overnight in Lhasa.
Continue exploring Lhasa with visits to Norbulingka, the former summer residence of the Dalai Lamas, and Sera Monastery, renowned for its traditional monastic debates. An optional Tibetan cultural performance is available in the evening.
Overnight in Lhasa.
Depart Lhasa and journey across the Tibetan plateau toward Shigatse. En route, enjoy curated stops at Yamdrok Lake, the Karola Glacier, and the historic town of Gyantse. The drive covers approximately 360 km and takes around 8 hours.
Upon arrival in Shigatse, visit Tashilhunpo Monastery, the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama, renowned for its grand architecture, towering Maitreya Buddha statue, and its significance as one of the most important monastic institutions in Tibet.
Overnight in Shigatse.
We travel from Shigatse to Rongbuk and then to Everest Base Camp at 5,050 meters. The distance is 340 km and the drive takes about 9 hours. We will visit Rongbuk Monastery and view Everest Base Camp North.
Overnight in Tashizong Village.
Travel from Tashizong to Saga at 4,500 meters. The distance is 295 km and the drive is 6 to 7 hours. It is a scenic drive along the Brahmaputra River valley.
Overnight in Saga.
Travel from Saga to Lake Manasarovar. The distance is about 400 km and the drive is 8 hours. The sacred Lake Manasarovar is visited. Ritual bathing and prayers take place if the weather allows.
Overnight near Manasarovar.
Travel from Lake Manasarovar to Darchen at 4,575 meters. The drive is about 2 to 3 hours. In the morning the lake is explored. After that drive to Darchen and preparation for the Kora take place.
Overnight in Darchen.
The Kailash Kora begins. Trek is from Darchen to Dirapuk at 4,950 meters. The trek is about 20 km and takes 6 to 7 hours. Sacred circumambulation starts and views of the Kailash North Face are seen.
Overnight at Dirapuk Guesthouse (shared dormitory).
Trek from Dirapuk to Dolma La and then to Zuthulpuk at 4,800 meters. The trek is about 22 km and takes 8 to 9 hours. Dolma La Pass at 5,636 meters is crossed which is the spiritual high point of the pilgrimage.
Overnight at Zuthulpuk Guesthouse.
After completing the sacred Mount Kailash Kora, trek from Zuthulpuk back to Darchen. The trek route covers approximately 8 km and takes around 3–4 hours. Upon arrival in Darchen, rest and recover after the pilgrimage circuit.
Overnight in Darchen.
Travel from Darchen to Saga at 4,500 meters. The distance is about 450 km and the drive is 8 to 9 hours. It is a scenic drive across the Tibetan plateau with mountain and river valley landscapes. En route photo stops take place.
Overnight in Saga.
Travel from Saga to Kyirong Border. The distance is about 300 km and the drive is 6 to 7 hours. Drive towards the Nepal–Tibet border takes place and views of the Himalayan ranges are seen. Preparation for crossing the border.
Overnight in Kyirong.
Complete border formalities at Kyirong and transfer to the Nepal side. From here, board a scenic helicopter flight to Kathmandu, flying over the Himalayan landscape with views of Gosaikunda Lakes en route (approximately 1 hour).
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Explore the spiritual heritage of Kathmandu with visits to Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites dedicated to Lord Shiva, and Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world and a major center of Tibetan Buddhism.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
A full day at leisure in Kathmandu. Time is free for personal activities such as shopping, spa treatments, or optional sightseeing. A farewell dinner can be arranged upon request.
Overnight in Kathmandu.
Private transfer to Airport for your scheduled international departure, concluding your journey through Nepal and Tibet.
Private Transfer to the Tribhuwan International Airport.
SEASON All Year 
DURATION 13 DAYS 
DIFFICULTY Easy 
SEASON All Year DURATION 10 DAYS DIFFICULTY Easy 
SEASON All Year DURATION 7 DAYS DIFFICULTY Easy 
