Lhasa to North Everest Base Camp and Kailash Yatra: A Spiritual and Scenic Odyssey Through the Himalayas

Embark on an unforgettable spiritual journey across the majestic Himalayas—from the vibrant streets of Kathmandu to the sacred serenity of Mount Kailash. This transformative expedition takes you through some of the most revered and breathtaking destinations in Asia, including Lhasa, North Everest Base Camp, Lake Manasarovar, Tirthapuri, and the mystical Mount Kailash.

This route is not just a physical journey; it’s a profound spiritual pilgrimage that weaves together cultural richness, spiritual energy, and jaw-dropping natural beauty. Whether you are a pilgrim, adventurer, or seeker of inner peace, this Himalayan circuit offers an experience of a lifetime.

Destinations on the Kailash Yatra Route

Kathmandu, Nepal

Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital and spiritual center, is known as the City of Temples. Nestled in a lush valley surrounded by hills, the city is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including:

• Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) – Offering panoramic views and spiritual calm
• Pashupatinath Temple – One of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva
• Boudhanath Stupa – A key Buddhist pilgrimage site

Kathmandu is where ancient spirituality meets modern vibrance. The bustling Thamel area offers travelers great dining, shopping, and a warm welcome to Nepalese culture.

Lhasa, Tibet

Situated at 3,656 meters, Lhasa is the spiritual heart of Tibet. As the capital, it blends ancient Buddhist traditions with contemporary Tibetan life. Key highlights include:

• Potala Palace – The former residence of the Dalai Lama and an architectural marvel
• Jokhang Temple – Tibet’s holiest temple and spiritual epicenter
• Barkhor Street – A circular pilgrimage route and lively market filled with Tibetan art and crafts

Lhasa’s energy is deeply spiritual, offering rich insights into Tibetan Buddhism and heritage.

North Everest Base Camp, Tibet

Located at 5,150 meters, the North Everest Base Camp (EBC) provides unparalleled views of Mount Everest’s formidable north face. Unlike the busier South EBC in Nepal, the North EBC is more remote, peaceful, and awe-inspiring.

You’ll also visit Rongbuk Monastery, the highest monastery in the world, where spirituality meets the grandeur of Everest.

Lake Manasarovar

Lake Manasarovar (4,590m) is one of the highest freshwater lakes on Earth and holds immense significance across four religions: Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon. Bathing in the lake is believed to cleanse sins and bring spiritual liberation.

The lake’s turquoise waters reflect snow-capped peaks, creating a perfect place for meditation and soul-searching.

Tirthapuri – The Sacred Hot Springs

Located near Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar, Tirthapuri is associated with Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava). Its hot springs are believed to cleanse past karma and rejuvenate both body and spirit. The Tirthapuri Monastery, prayer wheels, and meditation caves enrich the experience, while pilgrims perform a parikrama (circumambulation) around the sacred site.

Mount Kailash – The Axis Mundi of the World

Mount Kailash (6,638m) is not just a mountain—it’s a spiritual beacon. Considered the abode of Lord Shiva, Demchok (Buddhism), Rishabhdev (Jainism), and Tonpa Shenrab (Bon religion), this sacred peak is the center of the universe in many cosmologies.

The 52-kilometer kora (circuit trek) around Mount Kailash is believed to erase sins and bring enlightenment. Thousands of pilgrims undertake this soul-stirring trek every year.

Connecting Spiritual and Scenic Wonders

These destinations are interconnected by geography and faith. Most journeys begin in Kathmandu, enter Tibet via Lhasa, and continue to the remote and sacred regions of EBC, Manasarovar, and Mount Kailash.

This route embodies cultural harmony between Nepal, Tibet, India, and China, reflecting a shared devotion and timeless connection to the Himalayas.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 01 Arrival in Kathmandu (1,300m) – Gateway to the Himalayas

Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our team will warmly welcome you with traditional hospitality. After airport formalities, you’ll be transferred to your 5-star hotel in Kathmandu. Enjoy a welcome dinner and receive a detailed briefing about your journey, Chinese visa procedures, and preparations for the Kailash Yatra.

• Meals: Dinner
• Accommodation: 5-star hotel

Day 02 Passport Collection & Chinese Visa Processing

We collect your passport and submit all necessary documents for the Chinese Group Visa. While the visa is being processed, enjoy a relaxing day in Kathmandu. You may stroll through Thamel, a vibrant tourist hub filled with cafés, shops, and local crafts.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: 5-star hotel

Day 03: VIP Darshan at Pashupatinath Temple & Rituals

Experience a spiritually enriching day with VIP darshan at Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Participate in sacred rituals such as Rudrabhishek and Havan to seek divine blessings for the journey ahead.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: 5-star hotel

Day 04 Optional Helicopter Tour to Muktinath or Damodar Kunda

Take an optional scenic helicopter tour to Muktinath (3,710m), a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists, or to Damodar Kunda, revered in Hindu scriptures and located near the Annapurna region. These flights offer majestic views of the Himalayas.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: 5-star hotel

Day 05 Optional Helicopter Tour to Gosainkunda (4,380m)

Another optional helicopter excursion awaits to Gosainkunda, an alpine lake believed to have been formed by Lord Shiva’s trident. The serene lake nestled in the Himalayas is a significant pilgrimage site and provides spellbinding views.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: 5-star hotel

Day 06 Full-Day Kathmandu Sightseeing – Temples, Stupas, and Durbar Squares

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in and around Kathmandu:

• Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) – A sacred Buddhist stupa with panoramic city views
• Boudhanath Stupa – One of the largest spherical stupas in the world
• Kathmandu Durbar Square – Royal palace complex and home of the Living Goddess
• Patan Durbar Square (Optional) – Known for its exquisite Newari architecture
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: 5-star hotel

Day 07 Fly from Kathmandu to Lhasa (3,650m) – Enter the Land of the Gods

Take a scenic flight over the Himalayas into Tibet. Upon arrival in Lhasa, complete immigration and transfer to your hotel. Rest and acclimatize to the high altitude.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: 4-star hotel

Day 08 Lhasa Sightseeing – Spiritual Heart of Tibet

Explore sacred sites that embody Tibetan Buddhism:

• Potala Palace – Former winter residence of the Dalai Lama, UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Jokhang Temple – Most sacred Buddhist temple in Tibet
• Barkhor Street – Pilgrimage route and bustling market with traditional crafts
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: 4-star hotel

Day 09 Drive to Shigatse (3,900m) – Land of the Panchen Lama

Enjoy a picturesque drive to Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city. Visit the Tashilhunpo Monastery, the seat of the Panchen Lama, known for its massive Maitreya Buddha statue and beautiful courtyards.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: 3-star hotel

Day 10 Drive to North Everest Base Camp (5,150m) via Rongbuk Monastery

Venture into the Tibetan wilderness toward North Everest Base Camp. En route, visit the Rongbuk Monastery, the highest monastery in the world, offering a magnificent view of Mount Everest’s North Face.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Guesthouse (No hot shower)

Day 11 Drive to Saga (4,600m) – Across the Tibetan Plateau

Drive through the stunning high-altitude landscapes of the Tibetan Plateau to Saga. Spot snow-capped peaks, grazing yaks, and nomadic settlements along the way. Enjoy a glimpse of the Brahmaputra River flowing through the valleys.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: 3-star hotel

Day 12 Acclimatization Day in Saga – Rest & Local Exploration

A day of rest to help acclimatize before heading deeper into the mountains. Explore the local monasteries, walk along the riverbanks, or interact with locals to learn about Tibetan culture. Sip warm Tibetan butter tea to ease altitude discomfort.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: 3-star hotel

Day 13 Drive to Darchen (4,575m) – Gateway to Mount Kailash

Drive to Darchen, the base for the sacred Mount Kailash Kora. As you near the holy mountain, the landscape becomes more dramatic and spiritually charged. Darchen is the starting point for your trek around Mount Kailash.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: 3-star hotel

Day 14 Manasarovar Puja & Lake Circumambulation via Tirthapuri (4,600m)

Experience a soul-cleansing ritual by the sacred Lake Manasarovar. Perform Puja, Havan, and meditation by its shores. Continue your spiritual journey to Tirthapuri, known for its hot springs and Guru Rinpoche’s legacy. Pilgrims circumambulate the lake to seek enlightenment.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Guesthouse

Day 15 Inner Kora Trek to Nandi Parvat & Mount Kailash South Face (5,944m)

Undertake the Inner Kora trek to Nandi Parvat and Astapatha, revered spots offering close views of Mount Kailash’s South Face. These inner sanctums are believed to be places of intense spiritual energy and divine connection.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Guesthouse / Camp

Day 16 Mount Kailash Kora Begins – Darchen to Dirapuk (4,950m)

The Kailash Kora (parikrama) officially begins. You’ll start your first day of trekking, heading towards Dirapuk Monastery, located at the base of Mount Kailash’s North Face.

• Trek Distance: ~12 km
• Trekking Duration: 5–6 hours
• Highlights: Stunning views of the north face of Mount Kailash, Chuku Monastery (optional stop), and interaction with Tibetan and Indian pilgrims.
• Altitude Gain: Moderate but noticeable
• Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Guesthouse (Basic)

Spiritual Tip: At Dirapuk, many pilgrims meditate or sit silently to absorb the powerful energy of the mountain.

Day 17 Trek from Dirapuk to Zuthulpuk (4,790m) via Dolma La Pass (5,630m)

This is the toughest and most rewarding day of the Kailash Parikrama. Begin early to climb Dolma La Pass, the highest point of the Kora. On the descent, you will pass by Gauri Kund, a sacred emerald lake tied to Goddess Parvati.

• Trek Distance: ~22 km
• Trekking Duration: 9–10 hours
• Highlights: Dolma La Pass (5,630m), Gauri Kund, rocky terrain, beautiful valleys
• Challenge: Steep ascent to the pass and steep descent afterward
• Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Guesthouse (Basic)

Spiritual Tip: Leave behind old negative thoughts and burdens at the top of Dolma La Pass, as pilgrims traditionally do with offerings.

Day 18 Trek from Zuthulpuk to Darchen – Completion of Kora

The trail from Zuthulpuk to Darchen is relatively easier and more scenic. As you exit the valley, you complete your three-day sacred circumambulation of Mount Kailash.

• Trek Distance: ~8 km
• Trekking Duration: 3–4 hours
• Highlights: Beautiful valleys, meditation caves, gentle riverside walk
• Kora Complete!
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Darchen

Celebrate your completion! Many pilgrims describe a deep sense of peace, joy, and transformation after completing the full Kailash Kora.

Day 19 Drive from Darchen to Saga – Retracing the Journey

Leave Darchen and drive back to Saga, reflecting on your powerful spiritual experience. Stop by Lake Manasarovar one final time for photos or a quiet moment of gratitude.

• Drive Duration: 7–8 hours
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: 3-star hotel

Day 20 Drive from Saga to Shigatse – Scenic Tibetan Plateau

Drive through vast grasslands and valleys to reach Shigatse, the second-largest city in Tibet. Time permitting, stroll around the local market or visit nearby cultural sites.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: 3-star hotel

Day 21 Drive back to Lhasa – Final Glimpses of Tibet

Enjoy the scenic drive back to Lhasa, tracing your footsteps across this mystical land. This is a great time to reflect, journal, and process the spiritual intensity of your journey.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: 4-star hotel

Day 22 Fly from Lhasa to Kathmandu – Rest and Recovery

Take a morning flight from Lhasa to Kathmandu. On arrival, check in to your luxury hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure — rest, explore Thamel, shop for souvenirs, or book a spa or massage.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: 5-star hotel

Day 23 Free Day in Kathmandu or Optional Tours

Enjoy a free day in Kathmandu for rest, shopping, or cultural exploration. Optional activities include:

• Massage & Spa Session
• Everest Mountain Flight
• Visit Bhaktapur or Patan Durbar Square
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: 5-star hotel

Day 24 Final Departure from Kathmandu

After breakfast, we will transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport for your onward journey, carrying unforgettable memories, spiritual blessings, and Himalayan energy with you.

• Meals: Breakfast

Inclusions

Exclusions