What is the Luxury Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?

A 13-day luxury yatra to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar via Kathmandu and the Kerung border, led by Himalayan Glacier, the #1-rated operator for this Yatra with a high success rate. The package features premium hotels, private vegetarian catering, dedicated support staff, and top-notch on-ground management throughout the sacred Parikrama circuit around Mount Kailash.

How many days is the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?

The Luxury Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is 13 days, starting and ending in Kathmandu, Nepal.

What is the price of the Luxury Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?

Starting from USD $3,999 per person on a twin-share basis, with discounted rates of $3,499 available depending on group size for select 2026 departures.

What route does this Yatra take from Nepal to Tibet?

The route travels overland from Kathmandu to the Nepal-Tibet border at Rasuwa Gadhi, crossing into Tibet via the Kerung (Kyirong) border.

What is the maximum altitude reached during the Yatra?

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra reaches its highest point of 5,650m (18,538ft) at Dolma-La Pass, the most challenging and sacred day of the Mount Kailash Parikrama. Much of the route also stays above 4,500m, so proper acclimatization is essential.

What is included in the Luxury Kailash Mansarovar Yatra package?

Airport transfers, hotels in Kathmandu and Tibet, all vegetarian meals, Tibet/China visa and permits, English-speaking guides, dedicated support staff, oxygen support, and gear rental are included.

What is not included in the package?

International flights, Nepal visa fees, travel insurance, personal porter/horse hire, and emergency evacuation costs are excluded.

Where do pilgrims stay during the Yatra?

Aloft Kathmandu (or similar) in Kathmandu, Western-standard hotels in Saga and Darchen, and shared guesthouses during the Kailash Parikrama.

Is the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra physically difficult?

Yes, it's a challenging high-altitude trip due to thin air with roughly 40% less oxygen than sea level, requiring good fitness; prior high-altitude experience helps.

What is the best time for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?

April to June and September offer the clearest mountain views and best weather; July–August bring monsoon rain and fog.

What meals are provided during the Yatra?

Fresh, hygienically prepared vegetarian meals from a private in-house kitchen, including Gujarati, South Indian, and North Indian dishes, three times daily except in Kathmandu.

Why is 2026 a significant year for the Kailash Yatra?

2026 is the Fire Horse Year, a once-every-60-years cycle regarded as the Mahakumbh of Kailash, believed to multiply the pilgrimage's spiritual benefits.

Do I need a visa to join the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra?

Yes, a Tibet/China Group Visa and all required permits are needed, both arranged and included by Himalayan Glacier.

Is a full moon significant during the Kailash Yatra?

Yes, a holy dip in Lake Mansarovar on a full moon night is believed to cleanse the sins of past lives and channel powerful cosmic energy, per Vedic tradition.

Luxury Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

Luxury Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Overview

The Luxury Kailash Mansarovar Yatra takes you from Kathmandu, Nepal, into the Tibetan highlands to complete the sacred Kora (circumambulation) of Mount Kailash and perform rituals at Lake Manasarovar. Over 13 days, the journey blends deep spiritual tradition with a genuinely comfortable travel style, 5-star hotels in Kathmandu, boutique and oxygen-enriched hotels across Tibet, and a private in-house vegetarian kitchen that travels with the group.

This itinerary is rated challenging due to sustained high altitude, with the Kora section reaching 5,650 m / 18,538 ft at Dolma La Pass. No technical climbing skill is required, but a good baseline of fitness and a properly paced acclimatization schedule matter more than trekking experience. Himalayan Glacier guides recommend at least two months of cardio preparation before departure.

Travelers can choose to cross the Nepal-Tibet border by helicopter for a faster, more comfortable start, or by road through the Langtang region. Those short on vacation time can also join the group partway through the route, at Saga or at Lake Manasarovar, after a short cultural stay in Lhasa. Full moon departures are available for pilgrims who want to combine the Yatra with the added spiritual significance of a full moon at Lake Manasarovar.

Trip Highlights

The Luxury Kailash Mansarovar Yatra combines the sacred Kailash Kora with 5-star hotels, private catering, and flexible route options. Key highlights:

Kailash Kora: Complete the sacred Parikrama, reaching Dolma La Pass at 5,650 m / 18,538 ft, the most spiritually significant day of the Yatra

Lake Manasarovar rituals: Perform Havan and Puja at one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world

Kathmandu darshan: Private blessings support at Pashupatinath Temple, Guheswari Shaktipeeth and Budhanilkantha

Luxury hotels: 5-star stays in Kathmandu (Aloft by Marriott or The Soaltee) and premium oxygen-enriched hotels in Tibet

Private catering: Fresh, hygienically prepared vegetarian meals from a dedicated in-house kitchen crew throughout the journey

Border flexibility: Optional helicopter crossing at the Nepal-Tibet border for an extra cost, instead of the standard overland drive

Flexible joining points: Join the main group at Saga or Lake Manasarovar via Lhasa if you have limited vacation time

Optional Kathmandu excursions: Muktinath by helicopter, Everest champagne breakfast flight, Lumbini pilgrimage and more, bookable during the 4-night Kathmandu stay

Day 01

Arrival in Kathmandu – Welcome Dinner

Today, we will have a detailed briefing meeting where you’ll meet your tour leader and fellow Yatris. In this session, we will discuss essential information about the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, including the itinerary, travel guidelines, required documents, and health and safety priorities. During the meeting, we will also hand over important travel gears such as the Down Jacket, Duffel Bag, and Kailash Hoodie to ensure you are well-prepared for the pilgrimage.

In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at an authentic Nepalese restaurant featuring a cultural performance — a perfect opportunity to relax, connect with your group, and experience the warmth of Nepal’s hospitality. Overnight stay in Kathmandu, gearing up for the spiritual journey ahead.

Maximum Altitude

1,350m/4,429ft

Accommodation

Hotel (Aloft by Marriott)

Meals

Dinner

Day 02

Pashupati Darshan, Shaktipeeth, and Sleeping Vishnu

We will start our day with a visit to the sacred Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most important Hindu shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. We will witness the spiritual ambience as devotees perform rituals and prayers on the banks of the Bagmati River.

Then, we will visit Guhyeshwari Temple, a sacred Shaktipeeth, which is a short distance from Pashupatinath. The temple is dedicated to the Goddess Parvati and is recognized as one of the major energy point of divine feminine power. Then, our visit move towards Budhanilkantha Temple, home to the statue of magnificent Sleeping Vishnu (Jal Narayan) lying on the serpents bed. Overnight at Kathmandu.

Highlights of the Day

Sacred visits to Pashupatinath, Shaktipeeth and Sleeping Vishnu.
Receive blessings before beginning the Kailash pilgrimage.
Comprehensive Yatra briefing by our experienced expedition team.

Maximum Altitude

1,350m/4,429ft

Accommodation

Hotel (Aloft by Marriott)

Meals

Breakfast

Day 03

Drive to Nepal-Tibet Border (Overnight at Rasuwa Ghadhi)

Start your day with an early breakfast at your hotel in Kathmandu. Then, we will officially start our Kailash journey on a scenic 6 -7 hours SUV ride to Rasuwa Gadhi, the Nepal-Tibet border. The drive takes you through the lush landscapes of the Langtang region, offering breathtaking views of green hills and terraced farmlands.

Once you reach Rasuwa Gadhi (1,800m/5,905ft), the terrain becomes more rugged and mountainous, offering spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and the Bhote Koshi River. After arriving, you need to complete all the immigration formalities. Enjoy your stay at a comfortable lodge and prepare for the next day.

Highlights of the Day:

Scenic drive through the Langtang region.
Stunning views of Himalayan landscapes, terraced fields, and local villages.
Arrival at Rasuwa Gadhi, the gateway to Tibet.

Travel Distance:
154 km (96 mi)
Driving:
6-7 hrs

Maximum Altitude

1,800m/5,906ft

Accommodation

Guest House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 04

Cross the Nepal-Tibet Border and Acclimatize in Kerung

After breakfast, take a short walk to the Nepalese immigration checkpoint to complete the check-out process, and after that enter the Chinese immigration. Then, we’ll officially cross the Nepal-Tibet border at Rasuwa Gadhi and enjoy a scenic 45 minute drive towards Kerung (Gyirong), located at an altitude of approximately 2,700m(8,858ft).

Around noon, take a short walk in Kerung to allow your body to adjust to the higher altitude. This gentle activity will help your body adjust and prepare for the next journey to Mount Kailash. The rest of the day is free for relaxation or easy exploration of the area. Spend the night at a comfortable hotel in Kerung, ensuring you are well-rested for the adventure ahead.

Highlights of the Day:

Complete Nepalese and Chinese immigration procedures.
Cross the Nepal-Tibet border at Rasuwa Gadhi.
Scenic drive to Kerung with stunning mountain views.
Leisurely walk in Kerung to aid acclimatization.

Travel Distance:
22 km (14 mi)
Driving:
45 min

Maximum Altitude

2,700m/8,859ft

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 05

Drive from Kerung to Saga

Start your day with breakfast in Kerung, then embark on a scenic drive to Saga, a major transit point for travellers on the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. The journey takes you through breathtaking landscapes, including rolling hills, picturesque valleys, and the vast Tibetan Plateau.

As you ascend, you’ll notice a significant change in altitude, reaching approximately 4,500m (14,764ft) in Saga. Along the way, you’ll cross several high-altitude passes that offer panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, pristine rivers, and wide-open plains. The dramatic scenery provides a glimpse into the untouched beauty of Tibet.

Upon arrival in Saga, settle into your accommodation and take time to rest and further acclimatize to the increasing altitude.

Highlights of the Day:

Scenic drive from Kerung to Saga through the Tibetan Plateau.
Panoramic views of the Himalayan landscape and high-altitude passes.
Acclimatization at Saga to prepare for higher elevations.

Travel Distance:
177 km (110 mi)
Driving:
4-5 hrs

Maximum Altitude

4,600m/15,093ft

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 06

Drive from Saga to Lake Manasarovar

After an early breakfast in Saga, embark on a mesmerizing drive to Lake Manasarovar, one of the holiest lakes in the world and a significant highlight of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. The journey takes you through the vast and awe-inspiring landscapes of the Tibetan Plateau, offering stunning views of rolling hills, barren plains, and snow-capped peaks.

En route, you’ll cross the Mayum La Pass (5,200m/17,060ft), a high-altitude mountain pass with breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges. As you approach Lake Manasarovar, you’ll catch your first glimpse of the majestic Mount Kailash in the distance, a spiritually uplifting moment for pilgrims.

Upon reaching Lake Manasarovar (4,590m/15,060ft), you’ll have time to immerse yourself in its serene beauty. Many pilgrims take this opportunity to perform a ritual bath in the holy lake or simply meditate on its tranquil shores. Spend the night at a guesthouse near Lake Manasarovar.

Highlights of the Day:

Scenic drive through the Tibetan Plateau, crossing the Mayum La Pass.
First views of Mount Kailash and the sacred Lake Manasarovar.
Opportunity to perform rituals or meditate by the holy lake.

Travel Distance:
480 km (298 mi)
Driving:
9-10 hrs

Maximum Altitude

4,590m/15,060ft

Accommodation

Guest House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 07

Havan at Lake Mansarovar, Drive to Darchen - Overnight in Darchen

Begin the day with a Havan Puja by the sacred Lake Manasarovar, an important spiritual ritual for pilgrims, believed to purify the soul and invoke blessings for the journey ahead. After the puja, embark on a scenic drive to Darchen (4,575m/15,010ft), the official gateway to Mount Kailash.

En route, make a brief stop at Raksas Tal (Lake Rakshastal), a strikingly beautiful yet mysterious lake that contrasts with the spiritual purity of Lake Manasarovar. According to Hindu mythology, it represents the negative forces or demonic energy in the cosmic balance.

Upon arriving in Darchen, check into your hotel and prepare your luggage for the upcoming Parikrama (circumambulation) around Mount Kailash. As part of the preparation, two travellers will share one duffle bag for easy transport during the trek.

Darchen serves as a vibrant hub for pilgrims and trekkers, where you’ll meet other travellers undertaking this profound spiritual journey. This is the starting point for the Kailash Yatra, offering facilities and guidance to ensure a safe and well-organized experience. Spend the night at your hotel in Darchen, ready to begin the Parikrama the following day.

Highlights of the Day:

Participate in a Havan Puja at Lake Manasarovar.
Visit the mystical Raksas Tal.
Prepare for the Mount Kailash Parikrama at Darchen.
Meet fellow pilgrims and trekkers, sharing the spiritual energy of the Yatra.

Travel Distance:
40 km (25 mi)
Driving:
1 hour

Maximum Altitude

4,700m/15,421ft

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 08

Parikrama to Dherapuk and Charan Sparsh (Optional)

Start your Mount Kailash Parikrama (Kora) from Darchen with a short drive to Yam Dwar, the “Gateway of the God of Death,” where pilgrims offer prayers before starting the trek. The 4-6 hour hike to Dherapuk (4,900m/16,076ft) is a relatively moderate, passing through rugged terrain, lush valleys, and streams with the breathtaking views of the Kailash north face.

Upon reaching Dherapuk, we will take a short 45-minute walk to Charan Sparsh, meaning ‘Touch of the Feet’ in Sanskrit. This sacred site lies at the base of the north face of Mount Kailash and is considered a deeply spiritual site by pilgrims. Overnight in Dherapuk.

Highlights of the Day:

Stunning up-close views of the sacred north face of Mount Kailash.
Trek through picturesque valleys and rugged terrain with views of Mount Kailash.
A spiritually enriching hike to Charan Sparsh, at the base of Mount Kailash.

Hiking:
5-6 hrs
Travel Distance:
12 km (7 mi)
Driving:
15 min

Maximum Altitude

5,100m/16,733ft

Accommodation

Guest House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 09

Parikrama to Dolma-La Pass – The Most Challenging and Sacred Day

Today marks the most challenging and spiritually significant day of the Mount Kailash Parikrama. The journey begins early in the morning from Derapuk, with a steep ascent to the sacred Dolma-La Pass (5,636m), the highest point of the pilgrimage. This part of the trek requires determination and physical stamina due to the high altitude and rugged terrain.

At the top of Dolma-La Pass, you will come across Shiva-sthal, where pilgrims traditionally leave personal items as offerings and pray for forgiveness and liberation. Shortly after, you’ll see Gauri Kund (Lake of Compassion), a sacred site associated with Goddess Parvati, where devotees often stop for prayers and reflection.

After the pass, the trail descends steeply into the Zutulphuk Valley, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and serene energy. The descent can be equally demanding, requiring careful footing. Arrive at Zutulphuk Monastery (4,835m/15,860ft), where you will spend the night in basic teahouse accommodations or camps.

This sacred day is not only a physical test but also a spiritual journey that connects pilgrims deeply to the divine energy of Mount Kailash.

Highlights of the Day:

Ascend to the highest point of the Yatra at Dolma-La Pass.
Experience the spiritual significance of Shiva-sthal and Gauri Kund.
Descend into the beautiful Zutulphuk Valley, completing the most challenging part of the Parikrama.

Hiking:
10-12 hrs
Travel Distance:
22 km (14 mi)

Maximum Altitude

5,650m/18,538ft

Accommodation

Guest House

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 10

Conclusion of Parikrama and Return to Saga

The final leg of the Mount Kailash Parikrama begins with a 3-hour walk from Zutulphuk Monastery to the designated pickup point, where our dedicated driving crew will be waiting to meet you. This trek marks the completion of the sacred circumambulation (Kora) of Mount Kailash, a spiritually fulfilling milestone for every pilgrim.

From the pickup point, you’ll begin the drive back to Saga. The journey offers opportunities to relax and reflect on the incredible experiences of the Yatra while enjoying the scenic landscapes of the Tibetan Plateau. By evening, arrive in Saga, where you’ll check into your hotel and spend the night.

Highlights of the Day:

Completion of the Kailash Parikrama with a trek to the pickup point.
Scenic drive through the Tibetan Plateau back to Saga.
Comfortable overnight stay at a hotel in Saga.

Distance: Approx. 490 km (combined trek and drive)

Hiking:
3 hrs
Travel Distance:
490 km (304 mi)
Driving:
9-10 hrs

Maximum Altitude

4,700m/15,421ft

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 11

Drive from Saga to Kathmandu

After breakfast, begin your journey back from Saga to Rashuwa Gadhi border, covering approximately 270 to 300km over 5-6 hours by bus. The drive retraces the route of the Tibetan Plateau, passing through Tibetan valleys and villages with the beautiful mountain views. Once we reach Rasuwa Gadhi border, we’ll complete the immigration and customs formalities to exit Tibet and re-enter Nepal.

As we enter Nepal, the scenic drive continues toward Kathmandu covering about 150 to 160km over 6-7 hours by jeep through the Langtang National Park, featuring breathtaking landscapes, lush valleys, and cascading waterfalls. You will arrive in Kathmandu by late evening, where you can rest and relax at your hotel after the adventurous and spiritually fulfilling journey.

Travel Distance:
420 km (261 mi)
Driving:
12-13 hrs

Maximum Altitude

2,700m/8,859ft

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 12

Farewell Dinner Celebration – Buffer Day

This day is reserved as a contingency day to account for any unexpected delays or disruptions during the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, such as weather-related issues, road conditions, or unforeseen circumstances at border crossings.

If everything proceeds as planned and the contingency day is not needed, you can use this day to relax in Kathmandu or engage in optional activities like:

Exploring additional UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as Bhaktapur Durbar Square or Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple).
Shopping for local handicrafts, pashminas, and souvenirs in Thamel.
Indulging in a relaxing spa session or traditional Ayurvedic therapy to rejuvenate after the trek.

Having a contingency day ensures that your Yatra remains flexible, accommodating any unexpected changes while providing additional time for rest and exploration if everything goes smoothly. The day will conclude with a delicious farewell dinner at an authentic Nepalese restaurant, celebrating the successful completion of our Kailash Yatra, where you can savor the rich flavors of traditional Nepalese cuisine.

Highlights of the Day:

Buffer day for unexpected delays during the Yatra.
Optional sightseeing and shopping in Kathmandu.
Relaxation and recovery with leisure activities.

Driving:
6-8 hrs

Maximum Altitude

1,350m/4,429ft

Accommodation

Hotel (Aloft by Marriott)

Meals

Breakfast and Dinner

Day 13

Fly Home – A Journey’s End

Your unforgettable Kailash Mansarovar Yatra comes to an end today. After breakfast, you will be transferred to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu for your return flight home. Reflect on the spiritual journey, cherished moments, and breathtaking landscapes that have left a lasting impact on your soul.

As you bid farewell to Nepal and the sacred Himalayas, carry with you the blessings of Mount Kailash, the serenity of Lake Mansarovar, and memories of the profound connections you made along the way with the people and nature. We wish you a safe flight and hope to welcome you again for another extraordinary adventure in the future.

Highlights of the Day:

Transfer to Tribhuvan International Airport for your flight home.
Reflect on the spiritual and transformative experiences of the Yatra.
Carry lifelong memories of Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar.

Meals

Breakfast

Season	Weather	Trail & Visibility	Crowd Level
Spring (April-June)	Cool mornings, mild days, low precipitation	Clear mountain views, stable road conditions	Peak season, book early
Summer/Monsoon (July-August)	Warmer, with periodic monsoon rain and cloud	Occasional fog can obscure Kailash views; roads can be affected by landslides on the Nepal side	Moderate
Autumn (September)	Cool, dry, generally clear skies	Excellent visibility, considered a top window alongside spring	High
Winter (October-March)	Very cold, sub-zero at altitude	Route largely closed to tourism due to snow and extreme cold	Not operated

Season

Weather

Trail & Visibility

Crowd Level

Spring (April-June)

Cool mornings, mild days, low precipitation

Clear mountain views, stable road conditions

Peak season, book early

Summer/Monsoon (July-August)

Warmer, with periodic monsoon rain and cloud

Occasional fog can obscure Kailash views; roads can be affected by landslides on the Nepal side

Moderate

Autumn (September)

Cool, dry, generally clear skies

Excellent visibility, considered a top window alongside spring

High

Winter (October-March)

Very cold, sub-zero at altitude

Route largely closed to tourism due to snow and extreme cold

Not operated

Kailash Yatra Video Tour

Why Choose Himalayan Glacier for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

Himalayan Glacier has operated Himalayan journeys since 1992 from its Kathmandu base, with a dedicated US office in Baltimore, Maryland handling international support and bookings. On the ground, that translates into a few things that matter on a high-altitude pilgrimage like this one:

Local operational control: No outsourcing or middlemen, since the Kathmandu team manages hotels, permits and staff directly

Experienced Yatra leadership: English-speaking Nepali tour leaders and Tibetan guides who have run this route repeatedly and know the border, weather and altitude patterns

Private kitchen and catering: A dedicated in-house kitchen crew travels with the group, which matters for both hygiene and dietary consistency at altitude

Oxygen support built in: Oxygen cylinders in vehicles and emergency oxygen during the Kora, not an optional add-on

Route flexibility: Helicopter or overland border crossing, and multiple joining points via Lhasa for travelers with limited time off

US-based support: A Baltimore office that helps international travelers plan, pay in installments, and get questions answered in their own time zone

33 Years of Guiding in the Himalayas

Luxury Kailash Mansarovar Yatra - 13 days

Overview