The best thing about the Kailash Mansarovar Tour is the various routes we can choose to get there. The most accessible and easy routes are from Nepal. Each route has its unique beauty; be it the thrill of crossing high-altitude terrains, the serenity of lush valleys, or the cultural richness of the regions along the way. Let’s get deeper into Kailash Mansarovar routes here.
Mount Kailash Tour via Simikot
Mount Kailash Tour via Simikot route is an off-the-beaten-path journey through the beauty of western Nepal. Starting from Simikot, the trail takes you through lush valleys, terraced fields, and lovely villages, gradually ascending to the Tibetan area. This route is less crowded than the other paths.
Unlike direct routes, the Simikot journey allows travelers to acclimatize progressively, reducing the risks of altitude sickness. The itinerary is designed to ease your body into higher altitudes with trekking stages, ensuring a safer and more comfortable experience. Passing through remote Nepalese villages like Dharapori, Kermi, and Yalbang, the trek offers glimpses of traditional lifestyles, local customs, and warm Himalayan hospitality. The visit to monasteries and interactions with the locals makes the journey even better.
Starting with a flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj, followed by a scenic flight to Simikot, this route provides incredible aerial views of the Himalayas. The journey also includes crossing the Nara La pass and entering Tibet at Hilsa which is quite an adventure!
By choosing the Simikot route, you embark on a path less traveled, a journey that allows you to experience the grandeur of the Himalayas and the sanctity of Mount Kailash in its most authentic form.
Mount Kailash Tour via Lhasa
Mount Kailash Tour via Lhasa route immerses you in the rich heritage of Tibetan Buddhism. It provides a rare opportunity to explore ancient monasteries, bustling markets, and must-visit landmarks like the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple. The route from Lhasa to Mount Kailash traverses some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth.
With a starting altitude of 3,650m in Lhasa, this route allows for steady acclimatization, reducing the risk of altitude sickness. The carefully paced itinerary ensures travelers are well-prepared for the trek around Mount Kailash. The journey begins with a scenic trans-Himalayan flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa which is an accessible and seamless entry point for international travelers. The Lhasa route includes the full Kora (circumambulation) of Mount Kailash, passing through significant spiritual landmarks such as Lake Manasarovar and the Dolma-La Pass.
Travelers taking this route get to enjoy a wonderful journey that allows for easy acclimatization, stunning cultural landmarks, and breathtaking landscapes.
Mount Kailash With Guge Kingdom Via Kyirong Border
Mount Kailash with Guge Kingdom via Kyirong Border is an extraordinary journey that combines the spiritual significance of Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar with the historical and architectural marvels of the ancient Guge Kingdom.
The adventure begins with a drive from Kathmandu through the amazing landscapes of Syabrubesi and Dhunche, climbing towards the Kyirong Border. This overland route offers breathtaking views of the Langtang region, alpine forests, and mountain vistas, immersing travelers in the serene beauty of the Himalayas.
The stop at Kyirong provides a chance to adapt to the higher altitudes while exploring a town rich in Tibetan culture. Being close to Nepal and Tibet makes it a lively mix of traditions, adding a lot of cultural flavor to the journey.
Driving through Saga and Paryang, the route brings you to Lake Manasarovar, one of the holiest lakes in the world. Here, travelers can rest, meditate, and absorb the tranquil surroundings before approaching Mount Kailash.
The pilgrimage walk around Mount Kailash, known as the Kora, includes crossing the Droma-La Pass (5,470 m), the journey's highest point. Beyond Mount Kailash, the route extends westward to the Guge Kingdom, a mystical site shrouded in history. The ruined city of Tsaparang and Toling Monastery showcases ancient Tibetan art, architecture, and the remnants of a once-flourishing Silk Road civilization. After immersing in the spiritual and historical wonders, the journey loops back through Barkha Valley, Dzongba, and Kyirong, offering continued glimpses of Tibet’s rugged beauty.
From the sacred aura of Mount Kailash to the mysterious ruins of the Guge Kingdom, this route promises an adventure like no other. It’s ideal for travelers seeking both spiritual fulfillment and a deep dive into Tibetan history.
Mt Kailash and Mansarovar Overland Tour via Everest Base Camp
Mt Kailash and Mansarovar Overland Tour via Everest Base Camp is a unique journey that combines spiritual exploration with stunning landscapes, taking you to the holy Lake Mansarovar, the sacred Mount Kailash, and the world-famous Everest Base Camp.
The adventure begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu through the Trisuli region to Rasuwagadi, reaching the Tibetan border at Kerong. A day is set aside for acclimatization, providing time to explore this beautiful border town surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
Travelers continue through the Tibetan plateau, passing through the bustling town of Saga. The journey to Lake Mansarovar offers views of pristine landscapes and brings a sense of spiritual calm as the holy lake comes into view. From Mansarovar, the journey progresses to Darchen, the gateway to Mount Kailash. The trek begins from Tarbouche to Dirapuk, offering breathtaking views of the north face of Mount Kailash.
The trek continues over the Dolma-La Pass, the highest point of the pilgrimage. The descent to Zutulpuk offers stunning views and a chance to visit monasteries where legends like Guru Milarepa meditated. After completing the Kailash Kora (circumambulation), the journey returns to Mansarovar and then proceeds to Old Tingri, a small Tibetan town with panoramic views of the Himalayas.
A drive from Old Tingri leads to the iconic Everest Base Camp. The breathtaking view of Mount Everest’s towering north face is a highlight of the journey, offering an unforgettable moment for adventurers and pilgrims alike. After an overnight stay at Ronbuk Monastery, the highest monastery in the world, the journey retraces its path to Kerong before descending into Nepal, ending with a comfortable drive back to Kathmandu.
By choosing this route, you can explore three of the most legendary destinations in the world; the sacred Lake Mansarovar, Mount Kailash, and Mount Everest. It’s truly once in a lifetime experience!
Mount Kailash from Simikot via Limi Valley
Simikot to Mount Kailash via the Limi Valley offers travelers an incredible adventure through some of the most remote and spiritually significant landscapes. This unique route takes you through some of the most pristine and secluded corners of the Himalayas, crossing into Tibet to culminate at the holiest mountain “Mount Kailash”.
On this trip, you traverse the unspoiled Limi Valley. Discover the ancient traditions of Tibetan Buddhist communities in Nepal's most secluded villages. Cross high-altitude passes like Nara Lagna (5,000m) and Nyalu La (4,949m) for breathtaking vistas of towering peaks and lovely valleys.
The journey to Mount Kailash via the Limi Valley begins in Kathmandu. From Kathmandu, a short flight takes you to Nepalgunj, a town near the Indian border. Here, you’ll rest and double-check your trekking supplies. It’s a chance to prepare for the adventure ahead while soaking in the last bit of warmth before heading into the high altitudes.
The next morning, you take another flight to Simikot. The flight treats you with incredible views of towering mountains and deep valleys. From Simikot, the trek officially starts. The path winds through terraced fields, crossing small streams and passing local villages. After a few hours of walking, you reach Kermi, a small town known for its hot springs. The natural pools are perfect for relaxing your muscles after a day of hiking. Along the way, you’ll see mani walls and colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind.
As you continue trekking, the scenery becomes even more stunning. The trail follows the Humla River, with cliffs and dense forests on either side. Waterfalls tumble down the rocks, and every so often, you catch a glimpse of snow-covered peaks in the distance. After days of trekking through the remote beauty of the Limi Valley, the journey culminates in the breathtaking sight of Mount Kailash, standing tall and serene.
If you’re looking for a trail that will challenge your body, inspire your mind, and rejuvenate your soul, the Limi Valley and Mount Kailash Trek is your path. It’s a chance to explore one of the most untouched regions of the Himalayas.
