Kathmandu – Simikot – Kailash – Kathmandu

Embark on a sacred journey to Mount Kailash, the spiritual heart of Asia. Revered by Buddhists, Hindus, Jains, and followers of the Bön tradition, Mount Kailash is one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in the world. This 13-day adventure begins in Kathmandu, Nepal, and takes you through the remote and awe-inspiring landscapes of western Tibet. You will visit sacred Lake Manasarovar, explore ancient monasteries, and undertake the legendary three-day kora—a spiritual circumambulation around the base of Mount Kailash.

This journey offers not only stunning views and cultural encounters but also a deep inner experience. Whether you’re seeking spiritual growth or simply drawn by the mystique of the Himalayas, this pilgrimage is truly transformative.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Kathmandu

Welcome to Nepal! Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Take some time to rest after your journey or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the lively Thamel neighborhood, known for its colorful shops, cafes, and temples.

Day 2: Explore the Kathmandu Valley

Spend the day exploring the spiritual and cultural highlights of Kathmandu. Visit Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest Buddhist stupas in the world, followed by Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) with its panoramic view of the city. In the afternoon, witness the sacred cremation rituals at Pashupatinath Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and major Hindu pilgrimage center.

The three large statues at the foot of Swayambhunath.

Day 3: Scenic Flights to Simikot (2,910m)

Take a morning flight to Nepalgunj, a bustling town in the lowlands of western Nepal. After a short break, board a dramatic mountain flight to Simikot, nestled in the remote hills of Humla. The high altitude and scenery signal the beginning of your journey into the spiritual wilderness. Overnight in a local guesthouse.

Day 4: Fly to Hilsa, Enter Tibet, Drive to Purang (3,770m)

Board a helicopter from Simikot to Hilsa, near the Nepal–Tibet border. After crossing into Tibet, meet your Tibetan guide and driver. Then enjoy a scenic drive through rolling hills and barren landscapes to the town of Purang (Taklakot), where you will rest and begin acclimatizing to the higher altitude.

Tibetan Pilgrims walking around Holy mountains.

Day 5: Acclimatization in Purang

Spend a full day acclimatizing to the altitude. Visit Purang’s ancient monasteries, such as Khojarnath Temple, which is over 1,000 years old and holds strong connections with Nepal and the ancient kingdom of Guge. Take a short walk around town to aid your acclimatization and enjoy views of the surrounding Himalayan plateau.

Day 6: Drive to Lake Manasarovar (4,590m)

Today, drive to the sacred Lake Manasarovar, located beneath the gaze of Mount Kailash. Considered a source of purity and spiritual power, pilgrims from many faiths travel here to perform ritual baths and prayers. Walk along the lake shore, enjoy the serene beauty, and take in views of the snowcapped Gurla Mandhata range across the water. Overnight near the lake.

The sunrise at the Lake Manasarovar

Day 7: Visit Chiu Monastery, Drive to Darchen (4,670m)

In the morning, visit Chiu Monastery, perched on a rocky hill beside Lake Manasarovar. The monastery is associated with Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) and contains a meditation cave believed to have been used by him. After exploration, drive across the wide-open plateau to Darchen, the starting point for the Mount Kailash kora. Prepare for the upcoming trek.

Day 8: Trek to Dirapuk Monastery (5,080m)

Begin your spiritual trek around Mount Kailash. Follow the trail along the Lha Chu Valley, gradually ascending while Mount Kailash’s majestic north face comes into view. Pass by prayer flags, small shrines, and herds of yaks before reaching Dirapuk Monastery, offering stunning close-up views of the mountain. Overnight in a basic guesthouse.

Stupas at Dirapuk monastery on Mt. Kailash kora

Day 9: Cross Drolma La Pass (5,630m), Trek to Zuthulpuk Monastery (4,800m)

Today is the most challenging and rewarding day of the pilgrimage. Start early and ascend steadily to the Drolma La Pass, the highest point of the kora, adorned with colorful prayer flags. After offering prayers at the pass, descend steeply past Gauri Kund, a turquoise glacial lake, and continue through a beautiful valley to Zuthulpuk Monastery, known for its Guru Rinpoche meditation cave. Overnight in a simple guesthouse.

Day 10: Complete the Kora, Drive to Purang

Walk the final leg of the kora along the Brahmaputra River valley, completing the sacred circuit. Return to Darchen where your vehicle awaits. Then drive back to Purang for a well-deserved rest. Reflect on your journey and the blessings received during this powerful pilgrimage.

Day 11: Return to Simikot

Retrace your route to the Nepal–Tibet border. Cross back into Nepal and take a helicopter ride to Simikot. Enjoy your final evening in the peaceful highlands of western Nepal.

Day 12: Fly to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj

Take a morning flight from Simikot to Nepalgunj, then connect to your flight back to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. Enjoy a farewell dinner or take a relaxing walk through the vibrant streets of the city.

The view of Kathmandu from Kopan Monastery.

Day 13: Departure from Kathmandu

Transfer to the airport for your international flight, or continue your journey in Nepal with an optional extension to Pokhara, Lumbini, or Chitwan.