Mount Kailash and Guge Kingdom

This private Mount Kailash and Guge Kingdom journey is designed for travelers who want a deeper, more carefully paced pilgrimage through western Tibet. Begin in Lhasa with the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Square, Drepung, and Sera, then travel across high Himalayan landscapes toward Lake Manasarovar, Darchen, Mount Kailash, and the ruins of the ancient Guge Kingdom.

SnowLion Tours supports this journey with experienced local Tibetan guides, Tibet permit arrangements, private transport, thoughtful acclimatization, and flexible pacing for sacred sites, photography, meditation, and rest. The route can be shaped as a luxury private journey for couples, families, spiritual travelers, photographers, or small groups seeking a rare Tibet experience.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Lhasa (3658 m)

Welcome to Lhasa! Transfer to your hotel and get settled.

Potala from Jokhang

Day 2: Lhasa sightseeing

Visit Drepung, one of the three most famous monasteries in Lhasa, located just outside the city on Gambo Utse Mountain. Once home to as many as 10,000 monks, this enormous monastic complex is the site of many prayer halls, dormitories, and temples. Just below the monastery is Nechung Temple, the former home of the state oracle. Afterwards, visit Sera Monastery, where you can watch monks debate in the courtyard. If you enjoy hiking, take the hour-long circumambulation path around the monastery complex.

Sera Monastery debate Courtyard

Day 3: Lhasa sightseeing

Begin your day with a visit to the magnificent Potala Palace, an iconic and monumental structure that stands as a symbol of Tibet. Marvel at its grandeur and explore the historic chambers within. Next, make your way to Barkhor Square in Lhasa, where you’ll find the revered Jokhang Temple. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Barkhor, a renowned shopping street teeming with Tibetan, Nepalese, and Indian goods and souvenirs. Witness the devotion of pilgrims from all corners of Tibet as they gather here to offer prayers before the sacred Jokhang Temple. Finally, conclude your day by visiting Ramoche, a charming small monastery nestled in the heart of the old city center.

Day 4: Lhasa – Yamdrok Lake (4442 m) – Samding Monastery – Karo La Glacier – Gyantse (3900m) 280km  6 hours

Beginning your adventure in the Himalayas, drive to Gyantse. Along the way, cross over the Kamba La (4794m) and the Karo La passes (5010m), which boast spectacular views. After Kamba La, arrive at Yamdrok Lake, a holy turquoise-colored lake with stunning scenery.

If time allows, stop by Samding Monastery located on the lake shore. Optionally, visit the picturesque Samding Monastery on the lake shore. As you continue west, marvel at the Semi-La Pass and Norjin Kangsang Glacier. Arriving in Gyantse, see the historic Gyantse Dzong Castle, discover Pelkor Chode, and the impressive Kumbum Stupa. Immerse yourself in the town’s rich heritage. Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay in Gyantse.

Gyantse Kumbum Stupa

Day 5: Gyantse – Shalu Monastery – Shigatse (3836 m) 100km 2 hours 

Start the day with an optional visit to a handmade carpet factory, where you can witness the craftsmanship behind Tibetan carpets. Afterwards, embark on a two-hour drive to Shigatse, making a detour to explore Shalu Monastery along the way. Shalu Monastery, located approximately 22 km south of Shigatse City and 78 km west of Gyantse, was established in 1003 by Jetsun Sherab Jungnay, a prominent Tibetan abbot and scholar. It played a pivotal role during Tibet’s Buddhist revival and was a significant center of the Sakya tradition.

Tashilhunpo Monastery

Continuing our journey, we reach Shigatse, where you’ll have the opportunity to behold the magnificent giant Buddha housed within the renowned Tashilhunpo Monastery. Tashilhunpo Monastery is one of Tibet’s six great monasteries and serves as the spiritual residence of the Panchen Lamas. Allow approximately 1.5-2 hours to explore the temple complex and its various sacred sites. Note: Your guide may take some time to do the paperwork for the group in Shigatse.

Note: your guide may take some time to do the paperwork for the group in Shigatse.

Day 6: Shigatse – Langtso Lake – Saga (4640 m) 440km 9 hours

Embark on a scenic drive through high mountain passes, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas. As you traverse the countryside and grasslands, you’ll encounter picturesque small lakes and nomads with their yaks and sheep. After covering approximately 180 km, arrive at the stunning alpine lake, Langtso, nestled at an elevation of 4300m. Take a break to enjoy the serene surroundings and observe the yaks and sheep grazing by the lakeside. In the late afternoon, cross the Brahmaputra River on your way to Saga. Rest for the night in Saga.

Day 7: Saga – Paryang (4700 m) – Darchen (4575m) 480km / 9 hours 

Travel through a wide valley, following a scenic river, while gazing at the grazing lands of yaks and sheep. To the south, witness the captivating sight of sand dunes, rocky mountains, and snow-capped peaks. Depending on the season, encounter nomads and mobile shopkeepers dressed in traditional attire. You may take a moment to join them for a cup of hot tea in their homes. Continue your westward journey and in the late afternoon, catch your first glimpse of the Holy Lake Manasarovar and the majestic Mt. Kailash. Spend the night in Darchen, where you can revel in an up-close view of Kailash in this charming one-street town.

Day 8: Darchen – Zhada – Guge Kingdom – Zhada (3630m) 255km 7 hours

Venture 250 km further west to the captivating Guge Kingdom. En route, witness the vibrant hues of the mountains before entering the captivating world of white clay land formations. Upon reaching the Guge Kingdom, spend the entire afternoon exploring the ruins of this ancient kingdom dating back to the 10th century. Discover the four main temples nestled in the lower reaches of the city, adorned with captivating wall paintings and statues, some of which are among the earliest examples of Tantric Buddhist art. Above these temples lies the citadel of the kings from where you have 360-degree views of the valley.

Afterwards, proceed 8 km to Tsaparang, once the capital city of Guge Kingdom and now resembling a village. Upon our arrival at the homestay for the night, we will receive a warm welcome from our host. Indulge in delicious home-cooked dishes and savor a variety of food options. Unwind on a comfortable couch or take a leisurely stroll along the village streets, soaking in the serene ambiance.

Day 9: Toling Monastery – Tirthapuri – Darchen (4575m) 245km / 6 hours

Drive 25km to Toling and explore the ancient Toling Monastery with its temples and riverside views. Then, head back to Darchen, making a detour to Tirthapuri. Once you reach Tirthapuri, a steamy hot spring water cascading down white rocks comes into sight. This is the renowned Tirthapuri Hot Spring. A few kilometers further into the valley on the bank of Langchen Kabab River (Sutlej River), the monastery complex comes into view.

Tirthapuri Monastery holds a special connection to Guru Rinpoche, evident in the first chapel of the main temple, featuring his footprint. Known as the gateway to Mt. Kailash, many locals visit this monastery before embarking on the Kailash Kora. The region is abundant in gold, minerals, hot springs, and a diverse array of wildlife. In the afternoon, drive to Darchen to prepare for the three-day trek around Mt. Kailash. Spend the night in Darchen.

Day 10: 1st Day of Mount Kailash Trekking – Dira Puk Monastery (5000m)

Start the first day of the Mount Kailash trek. Enjoy scenic views of rocky cliffs, the Tarpoche Flagpole, and the Lha Chu valley. Optional visit to Chugu Monastery. Reach Dira Puk Monastery, offering a breathtaking view of the North Face of Mt. Kailash. Overnight stay in the guest house tonight. Today’s trek is relatively easy as you are walking on a flat trail.

Day 11: 2nd Day of Mount Kailash Trekking – Dolma la pass (5650 m) – Zuthal Puk (4815m)

Today’s hike begins at dawn, with the first half-hour in darkness before the light breaks above the mountain peaks. Gradually, you will witness the sunrise illuminating the valley. Climbing to the challenging Dolma-la Pass, ascending to 5650m, this is the highest point of of whole trip. Enjoy the panoramic view and make an offering at the mountain pass. Descend to a turquoise lake amidst black rocky mountains. Walk along the river and reach to Zudrul Puk, known as the cave of miracles, where Milarepa once stayed.

Day 12: 3rd Day of Mount Kailash Trekking – Mt. Nemo Nani and Lake Manasarovar

Follow the crystal-clear river, passing through a greener valley. Marvel at the stunning view of Mt. Nemo Nani. Complete the circuit of Mt. Kailash and be picked up for a visit to Lake Manasarovar, surrounded by majestic mountains. Optional bus kora around the lake. Visit Rakshas Tal Lake and Chiu Monastery. Overnight stay near the lake.

Day 13: Lake Manasarovar – Paryang – Saga 420km 8 hours

Begin the return journey to Lhasa, enjoying scenic views of the Himalayas. Relax and take in the sights during the long drive. Encounter surprises like rainbows, wildlife, and beautiful landscapes along the way. Overnight in Saga.

Day 14: Saga – Shigatse

Continue the drive back to Shigatse, with occasional stops to stretch your legs and admire the scenery. Pass by Langtso Lake and other captivating landscapes of western Tibet. Arrive in Shigatse in the evening.

Note:On this day, you have the option to exit to Nepal by driving to Kyirong.

Day 15: Shigatse – Yundrongling Monastery (optional) – Lhasa 280km / 6 hours 

Drive along the Friendship Highway towards Lhasa. Make a detour to visit Yundrunling Monastery, the largest Bonpo monastery in Tibet. Admire the Assembly Hall and Protector Hall (note: women may not enter the Protector Hall). Finally, return to Lhasa to conclude the journey.

Day 16: Depart from Lhasa

Say goodbye to Tibet!

Itineraries are subject to change without prior notice.

Tour Map