15 Days Private Tour from Lhasa to Kailash and Manasarovar
(TPT010) Lhasa - Gyantse - Shigatse - Everest Base Camp - Saga - Lake Manasarovar - Darchen - Kailash Trek - Darchen - Saga - Gyirong - Tingri - Lhasa
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Tour Type:
Escorted by private guide and vehicle; leave 365 days a year!
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Trip Level:
Moderate - suitable for ones with average level fitness.
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Trip Level Guide:
- Easy - suitable for all level of fitness, family with kids and senior groups.
- Moderate - suitable for ones with average level fitness, family with kids bigger than 12 yrs.
- Moderate to Strenous - suitable for ones physically fit; have experiences of high altitude trek.
- Strenuous: suitable for adventures and individual with physically fit and healthy.
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Season:春
Spring夏
Summer秋
Autumn冬
Winter
Overview
This 15-day classic Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar tour takes you to delve into the remote Western Tibet, especially perfect for the cultural exploration and overland adventure. Accompanied by our private Tibetan tour guide, you'll start by visiting Tibet's landmarks in the initial days, such as the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street. Traveling along the Sino-Nepal Highway, you'll experience the marvelous attractions along the classic Lhasa to Everest Base Camp route, including Yamdrok Lake, Tashilhunpo Monastery, Mount Everest Base Camp, and Rongbuk Monastery. Continuing westwards to Darchen, the starting point of the Kailash trek, you'll encounter breathtaking views of Mt. Shishapangma (the world's 14th highest peak at 8012m), turquoise Lake Peiku Tso, the sacred Lake Manasarovar, and various wildlife species.
During the 3-day Kailash Kora, you'll be accompanied by our local tour guide as you trek from Darchen to Drirapuk Monastery, Zutulpuk Monastery, and back to Darchen. Along the 52-km-long trekking route, you'll immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of Sarshung Valley and Lachu Valley, while also engaging with pilgrims from around the globe. Your private guide will assist you in navigating the trek and finding the approach that best suits your physical abilities and preferences.
At a Glance
Day 1Arrival in Lhasa (3650m)
Day 2Lhasa Tour - Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery (B)
Day 3Lhasa Tour - Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street (B)
Day 4Lhasa to Shigatse via Gyantse 360 km (B,L)
Day 5Shigatse to Everset Base Camp (5200m) (B)
Day 6Everest Base Camp to Saga via Pelku Tso Lake
Day 7Saga to Darchen via Zhongba
Day 8Darchen to Dirapuk Monastery (Trek Day 1: 13km)
Day 9Dirapuk Monastery to Zutulpuk Monastery (Trek Day 2: 24km)
Day 10Zutulpuk Monastery to Darchen (Trek Day 3: 12km)
Day 11Darchen to Saga
Day 12Saga to Gyirong
Day 13Gyirong to Tingri
Day 14Tingri to Lhasa
Day 15Depart from Lhasa (B)
Day to Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa (3650m)
Upon your arrival in Lhasa, our Tibetan guide will welcome you at the airport or train station with a traditional white Hada.
You'll then be escorted to your hotel in Lhasa. Our guide will give you a brief overview of the itinerary and provide helpful tips for adjusting to the altitude.
Once you've checked in, take some time to rest and allow your body to acclimate to the high altitude.
Stay overnight in Lhasa.
Day 2: Lhasa Tour - Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery (B)
In the morning, you’ll explore the largest monastery in Tibet - Drepung Monastery, which was once the home to over 10,000 monks. As you walk through the Coqen Hall, your guide will provide detailed explanations of the worldview of Tibetan Buddhism and introduce notable figures in Tibetan Buddhist history.
Next, you’ll visit the renowned Loseling College (or an equivalent), offering a glimpse into the study and life of Tibetan monks. Explore their dormitories to gain insights into the Tibetan monks' daily routines and living conditions.
In the afternoon, you’ll head to Sera Monastery, another of the ‘great three’ Gelug monasteries of Tibet, to witness the famous Tibetan Monks Debate (15:00 - 17:00, from Monday to Saturday). Your guide will intricately explain how Tibetan monks engage in these debates to acquire knowledge and advance in their academic degrees.
Stay overnight in Lhasa.
Day 3: Lhasa Tour - Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Barkhor Street (B)
After breakfast, your first stop is the Potala Palace, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Lhasa Old Town. Discover the lives and stories of the Dalai Lamas through history within the palace, and the extraordinary treasures it holds. The most valuable collections of Potala Palace are the gilded burial stupas of former Dalai Lamas and the meditation cave of the 33rd great king of Tibet.
After touring the Potala Palace, you will visit Longwangtan Park at the foot of the Potala Palace. Here, you can appreciate the majestic Potala Palace from a different perspective and engage in local Tibetan folk activities.
In the afternoon, you will head to the heart of Tibetan religion - the Jokhang Temple. Inside you can see the statue of Buddha Sakyamuni at the age of twelve. Outside, you can see pilgrims making prostrating in front of Jokhang Temple. Around the temple is Barkhor Street, where you can do kora (a religious circle of a building or mountain) with pilgrims and locals, and explore the old market.
Next, follow your guide to one of the liveliest indoor Tibetan tea houses in Lhasa. Sip traditional Tibetan sweet tea alongside local Tibetans as your guide shares insights into Tibetan social dynamics and daily life.
Stay overnight in Lhasa.
Day 4: Lhasa to Shigatse via Gyantse 360 km (B,L)
In the morning, start the overland journey from Lhasa to Shigatse, which includes visits to Tibet's most beautiful lake, glacier, and charming Tibetan villages.
First, drive over the Gampala Pass (4790 m) to catch a glimpse of Yamdrok-tso (4400m). The Yamdrok Lake is surrounded by many snow-capped mountains and in the distance you can have spectacular views of Holy Mount Nyenchen Khangsar (7191m), the highest mountain near Lhasa. Continue to explore the lakeshore from various viewpoints, and at the end of the lake, you could visit a local family in the village and have lunch with the locals.
Next, you will pass and enjoy the Korola Glacier on the roadside. It is the largest glacier in Tibet. As you see the ice tongue of the glacier climb the entire hillside, you will feel the magical power of nature.
Then, continue your journey to Gyantse. On the way, you will stop at Simila Mountain Pass, where you can hang prayer flags to pray for world peace and the health of your family.
After arriving in Gyantse, you can spend some time taking photos of the ancient city of Gyantse. From Gyantse to Shigatse, you will pass by green (in summer) and golden (in autumn) Tibetan barley fields and countless farms.
Finally, we will arrive in Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet. After checking in to the hotel, you can take a good rest and prepare for the next day’s trip to Mount Everest.
Stay overnight in Shigatse.
Day 5: Shigatse to Everset Base Camp (5200m) (B)
After breakfast, you will head directly to Mount Everest.
First, you will pass Gyatsola Pass (5280m). At Gyatsola Pass viewpoint, you’ll catch your first glimpse of Mount Everest. Hidden behind the mountain range, the Everest resembles a budding lotus flower, a captivating sight along the roadside.
Shortly after we enter Mount Everest National Nature Reserve, you will enjoy the panoramic view of the Himalayas at Gawula Pass (5198m). At this viewpoint, you will marvel at the majestic lineup of the five highest peaks in the Himalayas, including Everest at the forefront. This is your second glimpse of Everest.
Then we drive along the new zigzag road to Everest Base Camp (5200m). As you get close to the base camp, the majestic Everest gradually unfolds before you, drawing nearer with each winding turn. This marks your third view of Everest.
Upon reaching Everest Base Camp, the colossal white pyramid peak of Mount Everest stands towering before you. As the day transitions to dusk, witness the golden hues of the sun casting a warm glow on Everest's northern face—your fourth view.
As night falls, the sparkling Milky Way and the snow-white peak of Mount Everest reveal your fifth and final encounter with Everest.
Stay overnight at Everest Base Camp or in the local village near EBC if the EBC tent hotels are closed during the winter season.
Insider Tips:
1. The visibility of Everest is subject to weather conditions and cannot be guaranteed.
2. During the winter season, typically from November to March, the tent hotels at Everest Base Camp close. Therefore, if you’re traveling in winter, your accommodation options are limited to the village near EBC.
Day 6: Everest Base Camp to Saga via Pelku Tso Lake
In the morning, you may have the chance to see the pink sunlight casting its glow upon the summit of Mount Everest.
After breakfast, visit the Rongbuk Monastery, the world’s highest-altitude monastery at 5154 meters above sea level.
Then, move on to Ngari, the most mysterious region in Tibet, to visit the sacred Mount Kailash and holy Lake Manasarovar. On the way, you’ll pass by Mt. Shishabangma (8027 meters), one of the world’s highest mountains over 8000 meters. You can enjoy a close view of the three main peaks of Shigabangma, as well as the golden glow of Pelku Tso Lake beneath the peaks.
After crossing the grassland around Peiku Tso Lake, you’ll reach Saga County, the transfer hub of western Tibet. This marks your entry into the gateway of the Mount Kailash region.
The rest of the journey to Mount Kailash is at an average elevation of 4500 meters on the Ngari Plateau. If you need some essentials for your Kailash trek, you can buy them in Saga County.
Stay overnight in Saga.
Day 7: Saga to Darchen via Zhongba
After breakfast, you’ll start today’s journey through the Saga Valley to Darchen at the foot of Mount Kailash.
En route, you may witness herds of yaks and sheep on the vast grasslands beneath the snow-capped mountains. Meanwhile, you’ll pass by the beautiful green lake - Gongzhucuo Lake.
After passing through the Mayum La Mountain at 5211 meters, you officially enter the Ngari Region. Crossing the mountain pass feels like entering a wilderness inhabited by wild animals, with the holy Lake Manasarovar coming into view. The view of Lake Manasarovar, with Mount Kailash in the distance, often makes people feel amazed and inspired.
Driving along the lake, you reach the sacred Mount Kailash, the ultimate destination of this journey.
Upon arrival in Darchen, the little town at the foot of Mount Kailash, settle into your hotel, recharge, and prepare for the upcoming 3-day Mount Kailash trek.
Stay overnight in Darchen.
Insider Tips:
If you need a porter, kindly inform your guide on this day, and your guide will arrange one for you the following day. Please note that the cost of the porter requires an additional payment.
Day 8: Darchen to Dirapuk Monastery (Trek Day 1: 13km)
Today is the first day of your Mount Kailash trek.
After breakfast, you are supposed to take an eco-bus from Darchen to Sarshung Valley, where to start today’s 13-kilometer trek around Mount Kailash.
The first 13 kilometers are relatively easy, guiding you through the valley at the foot of Mount Kailash. You can clearly see the southern and western slopes of the sacred Mount Kailash.
After reaching the foot of the western slope, you will check in at the guesthouse in Dirapuk Monastery.
For the remainder of the day, follow our guide to explore the ancient Dirapuk Monastery (also known as Zhire Temple). Capture unforgettable moments in front of the sacred stupas and the grandeur of the western slope of Mount Kailash.
Weather permitting, immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring spectacle of the sunset over Mount Kailash from Dirapuk Monastery. Witness the sun's afterglow delicately illuminating the steep cliffs of the western slope as night descends.
Stay overnight in Dirapuk Monastery Guesthouse.
Day 9: Dirapuk Monastery to Zutulpuk Monastery (Trek Day 2: 24km)
Start your second trekking day early with a 4-kilometer trek from Dirapuk Monastery to reach 5430 meters. This section offers a rapid climb with a breathtaking view of the sunrise over the northwest slope of Mount Kailash.
Afterward, you’ll continue another 2-kilometer trek to Dolma La Pass, the highest point at an altitude of 5630 meters. Along this path, you’ll see prayer flags hanging everywhere on the pass.
(Notice: The high altitude means even in summer, the path is icy and scattered with rocks, requiring caution to prevent slipping.)
After successfully crossing Dolma La Pass, you’ll be greeted by the emerald-green Lake of Compassion (also known as Guri Kund), believed to purify a lifetime of sins with a dip. You’ll also witness the thick glaciers on the northwest slope of Mount Kailash.
Following the Lake of Compassion, a gradual descent leads you to the valley beneath the southeast foot of Mount Kailash, where Zutulpuk Monastery (also known as Dzutripuk Monastery) is located. Here, you may encounter adorable wild animals and find a peaceful resting spot on the grasslands.
Stay overnight in Zutulpuk Monastery Guesthouse.
Insider Tips:
"If you desire to deepen your spiritual connection with Mount Kailash by touching its sacred rock face, we offer an optional extra day trek to the glacier on the west slope of the mountain. Let your travel consultant know if you're interested, and he/she will make the necessary inquiries regarding this tour extension.
Day 10: Zutulpuk Monastery to Darchen (Trek Day 3: 12km)
Today is the last day of your Mount Kailash kora.
In the morning, you’ll trek back from Zutulpuk Monastery to Darchen, the starting point of Kailash Trek.
After completing the Kailash trek in the morning, you are going to take a 30-kilometer drive to Lake Manasarovar. You’ll approach the shores of the sacred lake to touch its holy waters.
At the lakeside, you can engage in meditation, listen to the rhythmic waves of the sacred waters, or simply clean your body with the holy water, which holds significant spiritual meaning for Hindus and Buddhists.
There are also hot springs (optional) offering foot baths or soaking opportunities for visitors. If the Mount Kailash pilgrimage has left you feeling weary, consider spending a few dollars to enjoy the hot springs.
After today’s tour, get back to Darchen.
Stay overnight in Darchen.
Day 11: Darchen to Saga
After breakfast, you’ll travel back to Sage and relive the scenic wonders of the Ngari Plateau, the Himalayas, and the Gangdise Mountains. Along the journey, you can stop at grassy pastures and lakes to get close to the nature and wildlife of Ngari.
Later today, you will finally arrive in Saga.
Stay overnight in Saga.
Day 12: Saga to Gyirong
In the morning, start your journey to Gyirong Valley, the hidden gem on the Sino-Nepal border. As the altitude drops, the scenery along the roadside changes from snow-capped mountains and wastelands to dense forests and canyon landscapes.
Upon reaching Gyirong Town in the afternoon, you’ll explore Gyirong Valley described by British explorer Howard-Bury as the most beautiful valley in the world in his book 'Mount Everest: The Reconnaissance'.
Here, you can visit the Sherpa villages and admire dense forests, serene villages, and beautiful snow peaks above the woods. Additionally, you can experience the humid and mild oxygen, quite distinct from the dry and thin air of the Ngari Plateau.
Stay overnight in Gyirong.
Day 13: Gyirong to Tingri
This morning, you can enjoy ample rest. (Notice: If you plan to travel to Kathmandu after visiting Mount Kailash, you can depart this morning.)
After lunch, you'll begin your journey back to Tingri County in Shigatse. Once again, enjoy the breathtaking views of the Himalayas as you ascend the plateau of the Himalayan region.
Arrive in Tingri in the afternoon. After checking into the hotel, you can have a good rest.
Stay overnight in Tingri.
Day 14: Tingri to Lhasa
After breakfast, you will visit the home of Panchen Lama - Tashilhunpo Monastery. The grand and magnificent halls of the largest local monastery occupy the entire hillside. This is the spiritual home of the Tibetan people in Shigatse, housing the world's largest statue of Maitreya Buddha.
Then, we will return to Lhasa along the Yarlung Tsangpo River, the mother river of the Tibetan people.
Stay overnight in Lhasa.
Day 15: Depart from Lhasa (B)
Service Guide
Service Included:
- Tibet travel permit and all other necessary permits to Tibet;
- All entrance ticket fees for all tourist sites listed in the itinerary;
- Personal knowledgeable English-speaking Tibetan local tour guide;
- Personal comfortable, clean and safe vehicle with reliable Tibetan local driver; vehicle ranging from 4WD land cruiser to minibus depending on your group size;
- All lodging listed in the itinerary; it’s your decision about the accommodation class: luxury 5-star international hotel, comfortable 4-star hotel, economic 3-star hotel or budget hostel, guesthouse or tent. Please tell us your accommodation preference when submitting the enquiry; we will arrange the best-value hotels for you.
- Domestic flight/train tickets listed in the itinerary;
- All meals listed in the above itinerary;
- Tourist accident/casualty insurance;
- First aid kit;
Service Excluded:
- International flight to and out of China;
- Chinese visa (Note: we could help you with the Chinese visa application, like providing the invitation letter, presenting the hotel or domestic flight reservation copies, etc that you may need. )
- Domestic flight/train not listed in the itinerary. (We can provide you the domestic flight/train ticket booking service at the BEST discount price; please contact us our travel experts for the details.)
- Meals not specified in the itinerary; usually it costs about USD3-15 per person for one meal in TAR (Tibet Autonomous Region).
- Tips and gratitude to tour guide and driver;
- Personal expenses, like laundry, phone call, snacks, soft drinks (please do the best to avoid the alcoholic beverages during your Tibet trip), optional tour activities, etc.
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Most Frequently Asked Questions from our Clients
This itinerary is customized for tourists to tour all the best highlights of Tibet with the flexible visit to Mount Everest Base Camp and trekking to Mount Kailash.
Tibetan Travel Guru,Master Kungga Dundruk
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