12-Day Mount Kailash Tour Daily Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Lhasa: Airport / Train Station Pick-up & Hotel Check-in
Distance: 70 km (1 hr driving) from the airport; 20 km (30 min driving) from the train station | Meals: / | Accommodation: Hotel in Lhasa
Tashi Delek! Welcome to Lhasa (3,650 m), the holy city of Tibet. Upon arrival at Lhasa Gonggar Airport or Lhasa Train Station, our Tibetan guide and driver will greet you in the arrival hall with your name sign and a Hada (the traditional Tibetan ceremonial scarf). Transfer to your hotel in Lhasa, enjoying your first views of the vast Yarlung Tsangpo River. The rest of the day is reserved for acclimatization. Light walking and plenty of rest are recommended. Your guide will brief you on altitude adaptation and the journey ahead.
Overnight in Lhasa.
TibetTrip Advice:
1. Free pick-up: Airport 8:00–22:00; Train Station 24 hours.
2. Mild altitude sickness (fatigue, headache, nausea) may occur; usually eases in 2 days.
3. Rest, avoid strenuous activity, alcohol, smoking, or hot showers for 2–3 days.
4. Stay hydrated and eat light meals.
5. Contact your guide or hotel staff if you feel unwell.
Day 2: Free Day in Lhasa: Optional Tibetan Cultural Exploration
Distance: 0 km | Meals: Breakfast | Hotel: Hotel in Lhasa
After your first night in the holy city of Lhasa, take today to rest and adapt to the high altitude before diving deeper into Tibetan culture. Enjoy a leisurely morning exploring at your own pace or choose from meaningful optional activities that reveal the soul of this ancient land.
Morning Options (Choose One):
A. Lhasa Traditional Handicraft Art Center – Discover exquisite Tibetan handicrafts like thangka and handwoven textiles, try simple craft workshops, and learn basic greetings in Tibetan.
B. Drepung Monastery – Visit the grand Coqen Hall, view sacred scriptures and artworks, and enjoy panoramic views over Lhasa from the monastery grounds.
Afternoon Options (Choose One)
C. Tibetan Village – Experience authentic rural life, interact with villagers, and sample traditional homemade Tibetan cuisine.
D. Sera Monastery – Explore the main assembly hall and, if timing allows (typically 3:00–5:30 pm, except Sundays), witness the monks’ lively debate tradition.
Overnight in Lhasa.
TibetTrip Notice:
You can combine morning and afternoon activities to create your own Lhasa experience. Optional activities incur additional guide service fees.
Day 3: Lhasa City Tour: Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street
Distance: 4 km (0.5 hr driving) | Meals: Breakfast | Hotel: Hotel in Lhasa
After a restful night in Lhasa and your first day of acclimatization, today you’ll delve into the city’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage. Explore the landmarks that have shaped Tibetan life for centuries and experience the vibrant energy of Lhasa’s streets and temples.
Morning: Potala Palace
After breakfast at your hotel, you’ll visit the iconic Potala Palace, an architectural masterpiece rising above the city. From here, enjoy sweeping panoramic views of Lhasa. Inside, explore the Treasure Hall, which houses ancient manuscripts and exquisite artworks. Wander through the White Palace, once the winter residence and administrative center of the Dalai Lamas, and then into the Red Palace, the spiritual core of the complex, filled with chapels, stupas and countless Buddha statues.
Afternoon: Jokhang Temple & Barkhor Street
Continue to Jokhang Temple, the most sacred temple in Tibetan Buddhism. Inside its ancient halls you’ll find precious relics, most notably the revered Jowo Shakyamuni Buddha statue, believed to have been brought to Tibet in the 7th century. The temple’s traditional Tibetan wooden architecture and multi-layered pagodas create a powerful sense of history and devotion.
Afterward, stroll along Barkhor Street, the lively circumambulation circuit surrounding Jokhang Temple. Follow pilgrims as they walk clockwise around the temple, spin prayer wheels, and take in the vibrant atmosphere. This bustling street is also filled with shops offering local Tibetan handicrafts, perfect for souvenirs and cultural keepsakes.
Overnight in Lhasa.
TibetTrip Notice:
Potala Palace visits are subject to daily entry limits and timed admission.
Day 4: Lhasa to Shigatse: Yamdrok Lake, Karola Glacier, Pelkor Chode Monastery
Distance: 360 km (8 hr driving) | Meals: Breakfast | Hotel: Hotel in Shigatse
Today, you’ll leave Lhasa and journey westward, crossing the breathtaking Tibetan plateau. Along the way, you’ll witness some of Tibet’s most sacred lakes, glaciers, and historic monasteries, experiencing both natural beauty and spiritual heritage.
Morning: Yamdrok Lake & Gampala Pass
Depart early from Lhasa and head towards Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet’s holiest and most scenic lakes. From Gampala Pass (4,900 m), admire the striking turquoise waters nestled among snow-capped peaks. Take your time to enjoy the serene landscape and capture memorable photos.
Midday: Karola Glacier
Next, stop at the Karola Glacier, a magnificent ice formation that highlights the untouched natural beauty of Tibet. Walk along its base and marvel at the vast glaciers glistening in the sunlight.
Afternoon: Pelkor Chode Monastery
Continue your journey to Pelkor Chode Monastery (Gyantse Kumbum Monastery or Báijū Sì), celebrated for its unique architecture, intricate murals, and rich Buddhist heritage. Explore the monastery’s chapels and stupas, and soak in the spiritual atmosphere that has drawn pilgrims for centuries.
Afterward, drive onward to Shigatse, the second largest city in Tibet, and check in at your hotel for an overnight stay.
Overnight in Shigatse.
TibetTrip Advice:
1. Long driving day; be prepared for high-altitude travel.
2. Drink plenty of water, move slowly when outside, and follow your guide’s instructions for acclimatization.
Day 5: Shigatse to Everest Base Camp: Gyatso La, Gyawu La, Sunset at Everest
Distance: 340 km (8 hr driving) | Meals: Breakfast | Hotel: EBC Tent Guestroom (multi-bed sharing)
Today, you’ll leave Shigatse and journey closer to the roof of the world, taking in the majestic Himalayan ranges and approaching the legendary Mount Everest. Every turn offers breathtaking views, culminating in an unforgettable night at Everest Base Camp.
Morning: Gyatso La & Gyawu La Pass
After breakfast, depart Shigatse and drive toward Gyatso La Pass (5,280 m). Pause at the viewpoint for your first glimpse of Mount Everest, partially hidden behind the surrounding peaks, its summit resembling a delicate budding lotus flower—a truly captivating sight.
Shortly after entering the Mount Everest National Nature Reserve, continue to Gawula Pass (5,198 m). Here, enjoy a panoramic view of the Himalayas, including the five highest peaks, with Everest standing proudly at the forefront. This marks your second close encounter with the majestic peak.
Afternoon: Approaching Everest Base Camp
Drive along the new zigzag road to Everest Base Camp (5,200 m). As the base camp draws nearer, Everest gradually unfolds, revealing more of its colossal, snow-covered form—your third view of Everest.
Evening: Sunset & Night at Everest Base Camp
Upon arrival, behold the towering white pyramid of Everest. As dusk falls, watch the golden hues illuminate the northern face—a fourth unforgettable view. When night descends, the sparkling Milky Way above the snowy peak offers your fifth and final encounter with Everest, an awe-inspiring spectacle of mountain and sky.
Overnight at Everest Base Camp Tent Guestroom.
TibetTrip Notice:
Tibet Everest Base Camp experience depends on weather; views may vary.
Day 6: Everest Base Camp to Saga: Sunrise at Everest, Rongbuk Monastery, Shishapangma, Pelkhu Tso Lake
Distance: 370 km (8 hr driving) | Meals: Breakfast | Hotel: Hotel in Saga
Today, you’ll leave Everest Base Camp and journey to Saga across some of Tibet’s most dramatic landscapes, witnessing towering peaks, sacred monasteries, and pristine alpine lakes along the way.
Morning: Everest Sunrise & Rongbuk Monastery
Start your day early with a breathtaking sunrise at Everest Base Camp, as the first light paints the northern face of the world’s highest peak. Then, visit Rongbuk Monastery (5,009 m), the highest monastery in the region. Its tranquil courtyards provide a perfect vantage point to admire Everest and the surrounding snow-capped mountains while soaking in the serene spiritual atmosphere.
Afternoon: Mt. Shishapangma & Pelkhu Tso Lake
Continue your journey toward Saga, driving through some of Tibet’s most spectacular scenery. Along the way, gaze at Mount Shishapangma (8,027 m), the only 8,000-meter peak entirely within Tibet, with its vast glaciers exemplifying nature’s grandeur.
Stop at Pelkhu Tso Lake (4,591 m), whose shimmering golden waters, framed by the snowy Shishapangma, create an unforgettable alpine panorama—perfect for photographs and quiet reflection.
Arrive in Saga in the evening and settle into your hotel for the night, resting and rejuvenating for the next stage of your journey.
Overnight in Saga.
TibetTrip Advice:
Early morning start for Everest sunrise; dress warmly.
Day 7: Saga to Darchen: Scenic Drive to Lake Mansarovar and Mount Kailash
Distance: 490 km (8 hr driving) | Meals: Breakfast | Hotel: Hotel in Darchen
Today, you will travel from Saga to Darchen, crossing some of western Tibet’s most dramatic landscapes. From snow-capped peaks to sweeping grasslands and pristine lakes, this journey sets the stage for your spiritual adventure at Mount Kailash.
Morning – Saga Valley & Gongzhucuo Lake
After breakfast, depart Saga and drive through the Saga Valley, nestled between the Himalayan Range and the Gangdise Range. Along the way, enjoy continuous vistas of towering mountains, vast pastures, and grazing yaks and sheep. Pause briefly at Gongzhucuo Lake, a beautiful green highland lake, perfect for photos and soaking in the serene Tibetan scenery.
Afternoon – Mayum La Pass & Lake Mansarovar
Cross the Mayum La Pass (5,211 m) and officially enter the Ngari Region. Descending from the pass, you’ll be greeted by the sacred Lake Mansarovar, with Mount Kailash rising majestically in the distance. The view of this holy landscape is truly inspiring and gives a glimpse of the pilgrimage ahead.
Drive along the lakeshore to reach Darchen, the small town at the foot of Mount Kailash. Check in at your hotel, rest, and prepare for the upcoming 3-day Mount Kailash trek.
Overnight in Darchen.
TibetTrip Notice:
If you wish to hire a porter for the trek, inform your guide today so arrangements can be made for tomorrow. Porter services incur an additional fee.
Day 8: Mount Kailash Trek Day 1: Darchen to Dirapuk Monastery
Distance: 6 km driving; 13 km trekking | Meals: Breakfast | Hotel: Dirapuk Monastery Guesthouse (Multi-bed Sharing)
Today marks the start of your sacred Mount Kailash trek. You’ll begin your journey along the valley at the foot of this holy mountain, enjoying its southern, southwestern, and western slopes. The trek is a gentle introduction to the pilgrimage, offering plenty of time to soak in the spiritual atmosphere and dramatic scenery.
Morning – Darchen to Sarshung Valley & Kailash Trek Start
After breakfast, board an eco-bus from Darchen to Sarshung Valley, the starting point of today’s trek. From here, embark on a 13-kilometer walk through the valley, following the path that skirts the base of Mount Kailash. Along the way, admire the majestic southern and western slopes of the sacred peak.
Sacred Stops Along the Way
Tarboche (Prayer Flag Square): A revered site of the Saga Dawa Festival, where pilgrims gather to raise prayer flagpoles in celebration of Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and passing into nirvana.
Yam Dwar (Chorten Kangnyi or Two-Legged Stupa): A significant sacred site marking the entrance to the sacred path around Mount Kailash. Pilgrims pass through here to begin their spiritual journey around the mountain.
Choku Monastery (Qūgǔ Sì): The first monastery encountered on the Mount Kailash kora, known for its sacred silver conch shell and traditional teapots used by generations of pilgrims.
Afternoon – Dirapuk Monastery & Sunset Views
Arrive at the Dirapuk Monastery (Zhire Monastery or Zhǐrè Sì) and check in at the local guesthouse. Spend the afternoon exploring the monastery with your guide. Capture memorable photos of the ancient stupas and the grandeur of the western slope. Weather permitting, enjoy a breathtaking sunset over Mount Kailash, as the golden light illuminates the cliffs and casts a serene glow across the monastery.
Overnight at Dirapuk Monastery Guesthouse.
TibetTrip Advice:
1. Trek at a slow, steady pace to adjust to the altitude.
2. Weather in the mountains can change quickly; warm layers are recommended.
Day 9: Mount Kailash Trek Day 2: Dirapuk Monastery to Zutulpuk Monastery
Distance: 22 km trekking | Meals: / | Hotel: Zutulpuk Monastery Guesthouse (Multi-bed Sharing)
Today is the most challenging yet spiritually rewarding day of your Mount Kailash trek. You will cross Dolma La Pass, the highest point along the kora, and follow in the footsteps of devout pilgrims performing prostrations around the sacred mountain.
Morning – Ascent to Dolma La Pass (5630 m)
Start early with a 4-kilometer climb from Dirapuk Monastery, ascending to 5430 m. Enjoy the breathtaking sunrise over the northwest slope of Mount Kailash. Continue for another 2 km to Dolma La Pass (5630 m), where countless colorful prayer flags flutter in the wind. Pause to admire the majestic glaciers and vast Himalayan panorama.
Afternoon: Descent to Gauri Kund & Zutulpuk Monastery
Descend gradually to the emerald-green Gauri Kund (Tuoji Cuo, Lake of Compassion, or Cibei Lake), believed to purify sins and bring spiritual blessings.
Continue toward the valley beneath Mount Kailash’s southeast foot, where Zutulpuk Monastery (Dzutripuk Monastery, Zūnzhū Sì, or Zǔchǔ Sì) awaits. This tranquil site is associated with Milarepa’s meditation cave, offering a gentle and reflective end to a demanding day. Along the way, observe wildlife and thick glaciers on Mount Kailash’s northwestern slope.
Spend the evening resting at the guesthouse, reflecting on your pilgrimage and the spiritual energy of this sacred landscape.
Overnight at Zutulpuk Monastery Guesthouse.
Optional Extension: Kaillash Charan Sparsh-Touch the Sacred Mountain
For a deeper spiritual experience, you can take an extra day trek to the west slope glacier, allowing you to touch the sacred rock face of Mount Kailash. This extension is included in our 16-day Kailash Charan Sparsh Tour.
TibetTrip Advice:
Even in summer, icy and rocky sections may appear near Dolma La Pass—trek carefully and wear proper footwear.
Day 10: Mount Kailash Trek Day 3: Zutulpuk Monastery to Darchen, then to Zhongba
Distance: 6.5 km trekking; 4.5 km driving to Darchen; 344 km (5.5 hr driving) to Zhongba | Meals: / | Hotel: Hotel in Zhongba
Today marks the completion of the sacred Mount Kailash kora, bringing your three-day pilgrimage walk to a meaningful close before continuing deeper into western Tibet.
Morning: Complete the Kailash Kora
After breakfast, depart from Zutulpuk Monastery and begin a gentle 6-kilometer downhill trek to Zongto (Zongdui). This final section is relatively easy, allowing time to reflect on the spiritual journey you’ve just completed. Upon reaching Zongto, take an eco-bus back to Darchen, officially concluding the Mount Kailash trek.
Afternoon: Lake Mansarovar & Drive to Zhongba
From Darchen, continue driving toward Zhongba, with another opportunity to admire the serene beauty of Lake Mansarovar along the way. Enjoy sweeping views of the pristine lake, open grasslands, and distant Himalayan peaks.
Arrive in Zhongba in the evening and settle into your hotel for a well-earned rest.
Overnight in Zhongba.
Day 11: Zhongba to Gyirong or Nyalam: Gyirong Valley / Lalongla Pass
Distance: 344 km (7 hr driving) | Meals: Breakfast | Hotel: Hotel in Gyirong or Nyalam
After breakfast, depart from Zhongba and travel toward Gyirong, heading to the southern border region of Tibet. Today’s journey showcases dramatic geographical transitions from the high Tibetan plateau to deep Himalayan valleys.
Primary Route: Zhongba → Gyirong (Gyirong Border Open)
Driving southward, the landscape gradually changes from vast alpine plateaus to fertile valleys. Upon entering Gyirong Valley, you’ll be surrounded by rolling grasslands, dense forests, deep gorges, and dramatic canyon scenery. Known as one of the most beautiful valleys in Tibet, Gyirong features a mild climate and rich vegetation, offering a striking contrast to the arid landscapes of western Tibet.
Overnight in Gyirong.
Alternative Route: Zhongba → Nyalam → Zhangmu (Gyirong Border Closed)
If the Gyirong border is closed, you will travel instead toward Nyalam, crossing the high-altitude Lalong La Pass (over 5,000 meters). This route features a spectacular canyon road descending from approximately 3,800 meters to 2,300 meters, winding through steep valleys.
Along the way, enjoy breathtaking scenery as the environment transitions from snow-covered mountains to humid subtropical forests. In summer, streams and waterfalls cascade down the slopes, creating one of the most scenic road journeys in Tibet.
Overnight in Nyalam.
Day 12: Gyirong to Gyirong Border / Nyalam to Zhangmu Border: Departure from Tibet
Distance: 40 km (1 hr driving) | Meals: Breakfast | Hotel: /
After breakfast, your guide and driver will escort you to the border exit point, marking the conclusion of your unforgettable Tibet journey.
Primary Route: Gyirong → Gyirong Border (Gyirong Border Open)
Travel to the Gyirong Border, where your Tibet tour officially ends. Your guide will assist with exit procedures before bidding you farewell.
Alternative Route: Nyalam → Zhangmu Border (Gyirong Border Closed)
If the Gyirong Border is closed, you will instead be transferred to the Zhangmu Border via Nyalam. Upon arrival, your guide will assist you with border formalities before the end of the tour.
Thank you for traveling with TibetTrip. It has been our pleasure to accompany you across the sacred lands of Tibet, and we sincerely look forward to welcoming you back again.
TibetTrip Notice:
Transfer vehicles from Gyirong Border or Zhangmu Border to Kathmandu are available. We are happy to assist with reservations upon request; however, transportation fees are not included in the tour price.
12-Day Mount Kailash Tour Date and Package Price
Mount Kailash Tour Cost (Based on Travel Time and Group Size)
Mount Kailash tour costs vary depending on group size. Bigger groups offer better value — the more travelers join, the lower the price for everyone.
All prices are quoted in US dollars per person and are based on 3-star hotel accommodation.
A single room supplement applies to solo travelers who request a private room.
| Travel Time / Group Size (pax) |
Apr.1-May.31 Oct.10-Oct.31 |
May 24 (Saga Dawa Festival) |
Jun.1-Jul.4 Sept.1-Sept.20 |
Jul.5-Aug.31 Sept.21-Oct.9 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 pax | $1742 | $2042 | $1894 | $1898 |
| 11 pax | $1774 | $2074 | $1929 | $1933 |
| 10 pax | $1794 | $2094 | $1953 | $1957 |
| 9 pax | $1839 | $2139 | $2002 | $2007 |
| 8 pax | $1895 | $2195 | $2065 | $2069 |
| 7 pax | $1931 | $2231 | $2096 | $2100 |
| 6 pax | $2021 | $2321 | $2194 | $2199 |
| 5 pax | $2076 | $2376 | $2260 | $2264 |
| 4 pax | $2126 | $2426 | $2327 | $2375 |
| 3 pax | $2395 | $2695 | $2625 | $2687 |
| 2 pax | $2934 | $3234 | $3222 | $3312 |
| Single room supplement | $300 | $500 | $380 | $420 |
2026 Mount Kailash Tour Departures and Bookings
The final price will be determined based on the number of passengers on Day 4 of the trip. Your travel advisor will provide the confirmed price 10 days in advance.
| Arrival Date | Booked | Book Now |
|---|---|---|
| Apr. 2026 | ||
| 2026-04-25 | 10 pax:$1794, 2 more:$1742 | Book |
| 2026-04-25 | 10 pax:$1794, 2 more:$1742 | Book |
| 2026-04-25 | 5 pax:$2076, 7 more:$1742 | Book |
| May. 2026 | ||
| 2026-05-04 | 3 pax:$2395, 9 more:$1742 | Book |
| 2026-05-18 | 3 pax:$2395, 9 more:$1742 | Book |
| 2026-05-24 | 10 pax:$1794, 2 more:$1742 | Book |
| 2026-05-24 | 10 pax:$1794, 2 more:$1742 | Book |
| 2026-05-24 | 4 pax:$2426, 8 more:$2042 | Book |
| June. 2026 | ||
| 2026-06-08 | 3 pax:$2625, 9 more:$1894 | Book |
| 2026-06-23 | 2 pax:$3222, 10 more:$1894 | Book |
| July. 2026 | ||
| 2026-07-06 | 3 pax:$2687, 9 more:$1898 | Book |
| 2026-07-13 | 2 pax:$3312, 10 more:$1898 | Book |
| 2026-07-22 | 2 pax:$3312, 10 more:$1898 | Book |
| Aug. 2026 | ||
| 2026-08-04 | 5 pax:$2264, 7 more:$1898 | Book |
| 2026-08-08 | 2 pax:$3312, 10 more:$1898 | Book |
| 2026-08-21 | 4 pax:$2375, 8 more:$1898 | Book |
| Sept. 2026 | ||
| 2026-09-07 | 2 pax:$3222, 10 more:$1894 | Book |
| 2026-09-19 | 3 pax:$2625, 9 more:$1894 | Book |
| Oct. 2026 | ||
| 2026-10-18 | 0 pax:$0, 12 more:$1742 | Book |
Mount Kailash Tour Inclusions:
- 1. Tibet Permits: Tibet Travel Permit, Aliens’ Travel Permit, Military Area Entry Permit, etc.
- 2. Transportation: 7-29 seat tourist vehicle.
- 3. Accommodation: 8 nights in twin-sharing rooms (3-star standard); 1 night in EBC tent guestroom (multi-bed sharing); 1 night in Dirapuk Monastery guestroom (multi-bed sharing); 1 night in Zutulpuk Monastery guestroom (multi-bed sharing)
- 4. Meals: 6 breakfasts in hotel; 3 breakfasts in restaurants
- 5. Guide: Professional English-speaking local Tibetan guide
- 6. Entrance Tickets: Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Yamdrok Lake, Karola Glacier, Pelkor Chode Monastery, Everest Base Camp + Eco-bus, Rongbuk Monastery, Lake Mansarovar, Mount Kailash + Eco-bus
- 7. Oxygen and Water: 1 bottle of portable oxygen for emergencies; 4L medical oxygen cylinder in the car; 2 bottles of 300ml drinking water per person per day
- 8. Travel Insurance: Travel Accident Insurance; Vehicle Seat Insurance; Travel Agency Liability Insurance
- 9. Service Fees: All taxes, fees, and handling charges; reservation fee for visiting Potala Palace; lodging and dining subsidies for guide and driver
- 10. Pick-Up and Drop-Off: Free pick-up at Lhasa Gonggar Airport (8:00 am to 10:00 pm); Free drop-off at Lhasa Gonggar Airport (8:30 am to 10:30 pm); Free pick-up and drop-off at Lhasa Train Station (24 hours)
Mount Kailash Tour Exclusions:
- 1. Personal Expenses: Laundry, drinks, phone calls, optional activities (Lhasa Traditional Handicraft Center, Drepung Monastery, Sera Monastery, Tibetan Village, etc.)
- 2. Single Room Supplement (if requested)
- 3. Meals: Lunch and dinner
- 4. Tickets: International and domestic flight/train tickets
- 5. Tipping: Tips for guides and drivers
- 6. China Visa: Chinese Tourist Visa (L Visa) application fees
- 7. Exceptional Events: Extra charges due to irresistible reasons (e.g., weather, road closures).
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