Kailash Inner Kora Trek
Kailash Inner Kora Trek
Kailash Inner Kora Trek

Kailash Inner Kora Trek

Highlights of Kailash Inner Kora Trek

  • Explore Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath Stupa, and Durbar Squares, which showcase unique architecture and history.
  • Experience breathtaking aerial views of Nepal’s diverse landscapes during flights from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj and Nepalgunj to Simikot, followed by a thrilling helicopter ride to Hilsa near the Tibet border.
  • Immerse in the tranquility of Lake Mansarovar and its serene surroundings. Bath in the holy water and visit the Chiu Monastery near the lake.
  • Get a close-up of views of Mount Kailash, especially the North Face of Mount Kailash during the trek to Derapuk.
  • Cross the challenging Dolma-La Pass(5,600 m), the highest point of the trek, and pay homage to Gauri Kund, a sacred lake with immense spiritual significance.
  • Trek to Charan Sparsa, located near Mount Kailash, known for its profound energy. Collecting holy water from here is considered auspicious.
  • Trek to Inner Kora’s sacred sites: Asthapath, Saptarishi Cave, and Atmalingam during the Inner Kora route. These sites hold deep spiritual value and are believed to offer purification, self-discovery, and connection with the divine.
  • Throughout the trek, get to experience the Tibetan culture and traditions as well as the region’s spiritual heritage.

Overview

The Kailash Inner Kora trek is a more challenging and intimate alternative to the 52 km Outer Kora. It’s a transformative pilgrimage, bringing you closer to the divine energy of Mount Kailash.

This Inner Kora is not for the faint-hearted. This shorter yet tougher 30 km trek takes you closer to the mountain’s spiritual core. It is said to offer purification, self-discovery, and a profound connection to Mount Kailash’s divine energy.

While the Outer Kora cleanses sins, the Inner Kora is believed to awaken higher consciousness and bring you near to liberation. If you’re ready to embrace the challenge, this journey will reward you with unparalleled spiritual and physical fulfillment.

Our 15-day journey takes you through mesmerizing Himalayan landscapes and beautiful heritage sites, and closer than ever to Mount Kailash. The major highlight of this journey is that you walk alongside the North Face of Mount Kailash, where its majesty will leave you breathless in the best way possible.

Similarly, you experience the peacefulness of Lake Mansarovar and get the chance to bathe in its holy water. Crossing the legendary Dolma-La Pass, the trek’s highest point is an experience to remember forever.

Moreover, exploring the sacred Inner Kora with the visit to Charan Saprsa, Asthapath, Saptarishi Cave and Atmalingam makes your trek experience even better.

Trekking to Mount Kailash’s Inner Kora is no joke, but our expert guides and team know every twist and turn. You explore Inner Kora with these experienced guides with ease, comfort, and safety. Also, our safe and affordable Kailash Inner Kora package means you can just focus on the adventure and we got you covered!

Itinerary

Kailash Inner Kora Trek Itinerary

Trip PlanExpand all
Max Altitude: 1300 Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Hotel

Upon your arrival at the Tribhuvan International Airport, you’ll meet our representatives. They will help you transfer to the hotel. Then, you can stroll around the city or rest. Overnight at the hotel.

Max Altitude: 1300 Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Hotel

On these days, you’ll explore must-visit landmarks in Kathmandu such as Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Swayambhunath Stupa, and Durbar Squares where you’ll be amazed by their intricate architecture and historical significance. Overnight at the hotel.

Max Altitude: 1300 Meals: BreakfastAccommodation: Hotel

On these days, you’ll explore must-visit landmarks in Kathmandu such as Patan and Kathmandu Durbar Squares where you’ll be amazed by their intricate architecture and historical significance. Overnight at the Hotel.

Max Altitude: 150 Meals: Full BoardAccommodation: Hotel

Enjoy a half-day tour of the Kathmandu Valley. In the afternoon, take a scenic and short one-hour flight to Nepalgunj. Overnight at Hotel.

Max Altitude: 4250 Meals: Full BoardAccommodation: Guest House

Today begins with an early morning scenic flight from Nepalgunj to Simikot where you’ll get breathtaking views of the Himalayas. From Simikot, you’ll board a helicopter to Hilsa, located near the Nepal-Tibet border. After completing immigration formalities, you’ll drive to Taklakot in Tibet. Here you rest and acclimatize. Overnight at Hotel.

Max Altitude: 4250 Meals: Full BoardAccommodation: Guest House

This day is for rest and relaxation to prepare for higher altitudes. This ensures your body adjusts well before heading further into Tibet. You can explore the nearby places or engage in light activities. Overnight at Hotel.

Max Altitude: 4500 Meals: Full BoardAccommodation: Guest House

Start your day with a scenic drive through Tibet’s beautiful landscapes to reach the sacred Lake Mansarovar. You’ll spend the day exploring the tranquil surroundings, meditating, or any other activities. Overnight at Guest House.

Max Altitude: 4600 Meals: Full boardAccommodation: Hotel

Begin your day by taking a holy bath in Lake Mansarovar. This is a sacred activity in the Kailash Mansarovar which is believed to wash away sins. While direct bathing is prohibited, you can collect the water in a bucket for a sacred bath.

Then, you can further explore this area by visiting the Chiu Monastery which overlooks the lake, and experience the spiritual atmosphere of Dirapuk Monastery. After this, we have a short drive to Darchen, the base camp for Mount Kailash. Upon reaching Darchen, take the rest of the day to relax and prepare for the upcoming trek. Overnight at Guest House.

Max Altitude: 4800 Meals: Full boardAccommodation: Guest House

Start the trek with a 13 km drive to Tarboche, the starting point of the Outer Kora. From Tarboche, trek 7 km to reach Dirapuk, where you get to see the breathtaking views of the North face of Mount Kailash. The trail passes through rugged terrain and a serene atmosphere. Overnight at Guest House.

Max Altitude: 4800 Meals: Full BoardAccommodation: Guest House

Today is a challenging yet rewarding day. You’ll trek to Charan Sparsa, a spiritually significant site close to Mount Kailash. Also, don’t forget to bring the holy water from Charan Sparsa, it is considered auspicious. The trek gives you unparalleled views of the sacred mountain. Return to Derapuk for the night. Overnight at Guest House.

Max Altitude: 4750 Meals: Full BoardAccommodation: Guest House

This is the most physically demanding day of the trek. Ascend to the Dolma La Pass(5,634 m), the highest point of the trek. Pay your respects at Gauri Kund, a sacred lake at the base of the pass. Descend to Zuthulpuk and complete the outer Kora before driving back to Darchen. Overnight at Guest House.

Max Altitude: 4600 Meals: Full BoardAccommodation: Hotel

Begin the Inner Kora trek, exploring the holiest sites around Mount Kailash. Trek to Asthapath, visit Saptarishi Cave, and witness the Atmalingam, believed to hold profound spiritual energy. Overnight at the Hotel in Darchen

Meals: Full BoardAccommodation: Hotel

Explore the Morning view of Kailash and Trek back to Darchen; Drive to Hilsa Start the day with a breathtaking morning view of Mount Kailash. Trek back to Darchen and drive to Hilsa, retracing your steps through Tibet’s rugged landscapes. Overnight at Hotel.

Max Altitude: 1350 Meals: Full BoardAccommodation: Hotel

It’s time to say goodbye to Tibet. Board a helicopter to Simikot, followed by flights to Nepalgunj and Kathmandu. Overnight at Hotel.

Meals: Breakfast

This day marks the end of your Kailash Inner Kora. Our team will help you transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your journey ahead.

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Essential Information

What is the difference between Kailash Outer and Inner Kora?

The Outer Kora is the better-known route which involves a 56-kilometer circumambulation of the sacred Mount Kailash, typically completed over three days. For instance, our Mount Kailash Mansarovar Tour is an outer Kora.

The Outer Kora is a moderate trek, doable for most people with a basic level of fitness. While altitude and weather can bring challenges, it doesn’t need extensive preparation compared to the Inner Kora. You can walk around Mount Kailash, experiencing its majestic views and the serene landscapes surrounding it without a high physical or technical challenge. This route is believed to cleanse sins and grant spiritual merit.

On the other hand, Inner Kora is a less traveled, shorter but more demanding route covering about 30 kilometers. Unlike the Outer Kora, the path leads directly to the south face of Mount Kailash which takes pilgrims closer to the mountain's spiritual core. With its steep paths and remote terrain, the Inner Kora is only for those prepared for physical and spiritual challenges.

The Inner Kora trek begins with a visit to Asthapath, one of the holiest sites near Mount Kailash. Here, the spiritual energy is palpable and the mountain stands magnificently close. Continuing your journey, you reach the Saptarishi Cave. It is believed that seven great sages meditated here, leaving behind a legacy of the spiritual power of devotion and meditation. The trek also includes a visit to the Atmalingam, a sacred object said to hold profound spiritual energy. This site is believed to purify the soul and strengthen the connection to the divine.

Undertaking the Inner Kora lets you experience a higher state of consciousness, and break the cycle of rebirth, soul purification, and spiritual awakening.

While the Outer Kora focuses on devotion and merit, the Inner Kora provides an opportunity for self-discovery and connection to the divine.

Best time for Mount Kailash Inner Kora Trek

The best time for Mount Kailash Inner Kora Trek is from May to September. During these months, the weather and temperatures are stable as well as comfortable for trekking.

May is when the weather starts warming up and the trails are less crowded. Days are cool with temperatures between 11℃ to 16℃, but nights are still very cold, dropping to -5℃ to -1℃. It is advised to pack warm clothes for the cold nights.

In June, the days are much warmer with temperatures ranging from 16℃ to 21℃, and nights are more bearable at around 0℃ to 5℃. This is certainly one of the best months to trek as the weather is pleasant and it is not very crowded. Don’t forget to pack light but warm clothes.

July and August are the warmest months of the year. Daytime temperatures stay between 16℃ and 21℃, and the nighttime temperatures range from 6℃ to 7℃. Although it’s monsoon season, this region only gets about 22mm of rain each month, so rain won’t be a big issue. The trails are beautifully at their greenest during this time and the weather is idle for trekking. It is a popular season, so you may see more pilgrims along the route. Pack a lightweight rain jacket in case of light rain and choose breathable clothing to stay comfortable on warmer days.

September is the end of the monsoon season and the weather is stable and you’ll have great views of Mount Kailash. Daytime temperatures range from 12℃ to 17℃, while nighttime temperatures are cooler, between 1℃ and 3℃. The trails are less crowded than in July and August. It is advised to carry warm layers for the cooler nights and mornings, as temperatures start dropping.

Kailash Inner Kora Spiritual Significance and Trek route

Kailash Inner Kora helps purify the soul, free one from the cycle of rebirth, and bring them closer to spiritual awakening. Mount Kailash is believed to be the home of Lord Shiva in Hinduism and Demchog in Tibetan Buddhism. Walking the Inner Kora, which is a closer path around the mountain is considered a more sacred and intimate act of devotion.

In Hindu belief, this trek shows deep dedication to Lord Shiva. It’s thought to bring great blessings, even more than the Outer Kora, because it is closer to the mountain. Completing the Inner Kora is believed to cleanse sins, remove negative energy, and lead to spiritual growth. Many people also see it as a way to connect with Shiva’s role in the cosmic cycle of creation and destruction.

Talking about the trek route, the Inner Kora trek is about 32 kilometers long and much tougher than the 52-kilometer Outer Kora. It has steep trails, rocky cliffs, and high mountain passes, making it a challenge. Only the most devoted pilgrims take on this path. For those who complete it, it’s a life-changing experience that brings peace, blessings, and spiritual fulfillment.

How to complete the Kailash Inner Kora pilgrimage?

We offer a highly skilled and efficient team dedicated to ensuring your Kailash Inner Kora pilgrimage is safe and successful. Our team will guide you throughout the Inner Kora trek. Here are some tips for completing the Kailash Inner Kora:

Prepare Physically and Mentally

Build your stamina with regular cardio, yoga, and strength training at least 2-3 months before the trek. Also, engage in hiking, walking with a backpack, and stair climbing. Prepare your mind, by thinking positively and encouraging yourself.

Pack Light and Smart

Do not overpack. Include layered clothing for temperature variations, waterproof gear, trekking boots, a good quality backpack, trekking poles, and a sleeping bag. Also carry a first aid kit, energy bars, water bottles, sunscreen, sunglasses, and personal hygiene items.

Take Altitude Sickness Seriously

Utilize rest days to adjust to high altitudes. Hydrate often and avoid alcohol, smoking, or heavy meals. Carry medications for altitude sickness like Diamox. If the symptoms of altitude sickness occur, immediately descend and consult with your guide.

Respect Local Customs and Spiritual Beliefs

Do not swim directly in Lake Mansarovar. Collect water in a bucket and take a holy bath in a designated place. Honor local traditions and respect the surroundings.

Stay Hydrated and Nourished

Drink plenty of water to combat dehydration at high altitudes. Herbal teas also help with hydration and warmth. Eat light, high-calorie meals such as soups, noodles, and dry fruits. Avoid heavy, oily, or spicy foods that can upset your stomach.

Pace Yourself During the Trek

Days 9 to 12 involve challenging treks, including crossing Dolma-La Pass and reaching sacred sites like Charan Sparsa and Saptarishi Cave. Move steadily and take breaks to avoid overexertion. Avoid sudden speed hikes to prevent altitude-related fatigue.