Kailash Mansarovar Yatra By Road – Kerung

Introduction - 

The Kailash Mansarovar trip presents a challenging yet fulfilling adventure. It guides you through the breathtaking landscapes of the Himalayas to the revered Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar—two of the most sacred sites in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon. The journey typically commences in the quaint town of Darchen, situated in western Tibet. It follows a circular path around Mount Kailash that spans roughly 52 kilometers. This trek requires navigating high-altitude passes, rugged terrain, and icy streams, demanding good physical fitness, acclimatization to altitude, and appropriate gear and equipment. Throughout the trip, travelers are treated to some of the world's most spectacular natural scenery, including snow-capped mountain peaks, glacial valleys, and the shimmering turquoise waters of Lake Mansarovar. Additionally, trekkers have the opportunity to explore ancient monasteries, temples, and other sacred landmarks that are scattered throughout the region. The Kailash Mansarovar Trip transcends physical challenge; it also serves as a spiritual journey, offering moments for reflection, self-discovery, and a profound connection with nature and the divine. This once-in-a-lifetime experience necessitates meticulous planning, preparation, and the guidance of knowledgeable trekking operators and guides.

Trek Info - 

Elevation: 5,620 meters; 18,438feet (Dolma La) 

Location: Tibet 

Best Season: June - September 

Trek Grade: Challenging 

Associated mountain(s): Mount Kailash

Trip Facts -  

Duration: 13 days

Starts in/end: Kathmandu 

Activities: Circumambulation and Drive 

Meal Plan: Full Board (B/L/D) 

Accommodation: Hotel Manaslu or Hotel Tibet in Kathmandu and Standard teahouses in Tibet 

Transportation: Road Transportation as per itinerary

Brief itinerary - 

Day 01 Arrive Kathmandu (1,330 m / 4,364 ft) 

Day 02 Trip preparation 

Day 03 Drive to Kerung complete immigration, drive to Kyirong (2,700 m / 8,858 ft) 

Day 04 Drive to Saga (4,640 m / 15,230 ft) 

Day 05 Exploration, acclimatization in Saga 

Day 06 Drive to Lake Mansarovar (4,588 m / 15,052 ft) 

Day 07 Early Morning Puja - Lunch and Drive to Darchen (4,670 m / 15,321 ft) 

Day 08 Trek to Deraphuk (4,920 m / 16,138 ft) via Yam Dwar 

Day 09 Trek to Zuthul-phuk (4,835 m / 15,860 ft) via Gauri Kund - cross Dolma La 

Day 10 Trek to Darchen and Drive to Saga (4,640 m / 15,230 ft) 

Day 11 Drive to Kyirong (Nepal-China Border) - complete immigration, drive to Kerung 

Day 12 Drive to Kathmandu (1,330 m / 4,364 ft) or (Heli flight to Kathmandu - Additional Charges Apply) 

Day 13 International Departure

 Detailed Itinerary 

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu 

On arrival at the Kathmandu International Airport our representative will warmly welcome you outside the airport and arrange your transfer to the designated hotel in Kathmandu. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to relax or explore the vibrant surroundings. Enjoy a vegetarian dinner at the hotel, and your overnight stay. 

Day 02: Trip Preparation 

Documentation and permit day. 

Day 03: Kathmandu to Kyirong via Syabru Besi – Entering China 

Maximum Elevation: 2700m 

Total Distance Covered: 273 km

After an early breakfast in Kathmandu, the group will begin their overland journey toward Kyirong, Tibet, via Syabru Besi. The route winds through scenic hilly terrain, covering approximately 148 km from Kathmandu to Syabru Besi (2380m), a journey that typically takes around 7–8 hours due to road and traffic conditions. Upon arrival, the group will proceed directly toward Rasuwagadhi Border (1850m), around 15 km further, for NepalChina immigration formalities.

Border crossing can be time-consuming, so the group should be prepared for possible delays. After clearing Nepalese and Chinese immigration (crossing the border on foot), pilgrims will board a Chinese coach arranged for a 110 km drive to Kyirong (2700m), accompanied by Tibetan guides. Luggage and supplies will be managed by Nepalese Sherpas. 

Upon arrival in Kyirong, pilgrims will check into a guesthouse for a well-deserved rest. Enjoy hot beverages and light snacks followed by a vegetarian dinner prepared by the Nepalese chef. Overnight stay will be in dormitory-style rooms in a guesthouse or hotel. 

Day 4: Kyirong - Saga  

 Maximum Elevation: 4640m 

Distance Covered: 105 kms to Saga / 300 kms to Zongba

Today will be a scenic drive through mountainous terrain and Tibetan plains from Kyirong to Saga. Cross the Brahmaputra River and proceed to the beautiful town of Saga (4640m). Saga offers good accommodation, local restaurants, and markets for acclimatization. Meals and overnight stay will be in Saga.

Day 5: Acclimatization Day in Saga

Today is dedicated to acclimatization in Tibet's challenging climatic conditions. The tour manager will guide you through a short hike, helping your body adjust to the high altitude  of Tibet. Alternatively, you can spend the day participating in chanting Bhajan or Katha sessions in the guesthouse.

Day 6: Saga - Lake Mansarovar 

Maximum Elevation: 4590m 

Distance Covered: 461kms

This crucial day marks your journey to the holy Lake Mansarovar, offering the first glimpse of the sacred Mount Kailash. The early start is necessary for the long drive, and there are checkpoints along the way. Estimated departure time is around 7:00 am. After reaching Lake Mansarovar and witnessing Mount Kailash, check into a guesthouse for dinner and an overnight stay.

Suggestion: 

Night view of Lake Mansarovar: Travelers may visit Lake Mansarovar at night under the moonlight, ensuring to go in a group and, if possible, with a Nepalese Sherpa for assistance. Dress warmly and carry a torch and whistle.

Day 7: Lake Mansarovar – Darchen

 Maximum Elevation: 4575m 

Distance Covered: 114 km

Early morning, visit Mansarovar lake for a holy bath, puja, hawan, and other rituals as per your customs. Afterward, drive to Darchen, passing through Rakshasa Taal and Chiu Gompa, completing 70% of the parikrama of the holy lake. The remaining parikrama will be performed after the kora of Mt. Kailash. Upon reaching Darchen, check into the hotel, relax, and prepare for the next day's kora. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 8: 1st Day Parikrama of Mt. Kailash, 12 kms trek to Dirapuk

Maximum Elevation: 5210m 

Distance Covered: 06 km drive + 12 km hiking

Today involves an early start, a visit to Tarboche, and a 12 km trek to Dirapuk. Pilgrims have the chance to visit Yama Dwar before the trek starts. The trek is considered fairly easy but challenging due to high altitude. After reaching Dirapuk, rest at a guesthouse near Dirapuk Monastery.  

Day 9: 2nd Day Parikrama, 22kms trek to Zuthulpukh via Gauri Kund 

Maximum Elevation: 5630m 

Distance Covered: 22 kms challenging trekking

Wake up early, witness the first sunlight on Mt. Kailash, and start the challenging trek to Zuthulpukh via Dolma-La pass (5630 m) and Gauri Kund. The trek covers 22 kms and involves steep ascents and descents. Stay overnight at a lodge.

Day 10: 3rd Day Trek to Darchen, Drive to Saga 

Maximum Elevation: 4640m 

Distance Covered: 492km

The last day of the Mount Kailash trek involves trekking down to Darchen and then driving to Dongba, completing 30% of Lake Manasarovar parikrama by vehicle. Relax and stay at a guesthouse in Saga.

Day 11: Saga – Kyirong Maximum 

Elevation: 2700m 

Distance Covered: 105km

After breakfast, journey back to Kyirong, crossing the Brahmaputra River and enjoying stunning Himalayan views. Stay overnight at hotel in Kyirong.

Day 12: Kyirong - Kathmandu via Rasuwagadhi 

Maximum Elevation: 1400m 

Distance Covered: 262km

Drive towards the Keyrung border, walk to Nepalese immigration control in Rasuwagadi, complete Nepal entry formalities, and transfer to Kathmandu. The drive may take about 7-8 hours or more, with dinner and an overnight stay at a hotel in Kathmandu.

Day 13: Fly Back Home from Kathmandu

In time, you will be transferred to Kathmandu Tribhuvan International Airport to board your flight back to your home/next destination.

Cost Inclusions - 

GOVERNMENT & RELATED CHARGES

• All necessary travel permits and other necessary documents, including a visa and permit for Kailash Mansarovar from the Tibet Autonomous Government 

• Entry fees for the Kailash & Mansarovar region

SERVICE IN KATHMANDU

• Airport Pick-up and Drop-off service in a private tourist vehicle 

• 3 nights’ accommodation in Kathmandu in Hotel Manaslu or Hotel Tibet (Veg - Full Board Meal Plan) on twin sharing basis 

• Transfer by comfortable bus/car

• English/ Hindi speaking guide 

SERVICE DURING TRIP

• Purified water

• Transfer by comfortable shuttle including one emergency shuttle 

• English/ Hindi speaking guide 

• Yak and Yak man during the parikrama to bring food & logistics 

• 3 meals a day (Veg Meals), snacks, tea, and coffee 

• Accommodation in Hotel and guesthouses on sharing basis (as mentioned)

• Medical oxygen system with mask for emergencies & comprehensive medical kit for members and staff 

• 1 Duffle Bag, Cap and Buff Mask for each member 

Cost Exclusions  

• International airfare to and from Kathmandu and Nepal Visa Fee  

• Travel & medical insurance including insurance for emergency rescue & evacuation

• Extra meals in Kathmandu (meals indicated in the itinerary will be provided) 

• Personal expenses such as horse riding, telephone, laundry, bottled water, bar bills, trekking/climbing gears, etc. 

• Filming: Special filming, camera, and drone permit fee. 

• Tips for Sherpa & tips for local staffs 

• Cost for the daily weather forecast 

• Any extra cost arising out of natural calamities or cancellation of the program 

• All other items not mentioned in the list of ‘Inclusions’ 

Our Kailash Special!

1. Strive to complete the sacred circumambulation. 

2. Enjoy deluxe transportation with comprehensive meal service. 

3. Experience safe ascents and descents with the support of an expert trekking team. 

4. Participate in a puja ceremony, receive walking instructions, and create lasting memories while climbing the highest passes. 

5. Embark on an exhilarating journey during the holy pilgrimage. 

6. In case of a medical emergency, supplemental oxygen will be provided.

7. Experience a meticulously organized journey that guarantees a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Important Notice about Kailash Yatra 

Please carry at least INR 50,000 for extra expenses, such as an extra night’s stay at a hotel or guest house due to any reason. Any extra cost incurred thereby shall be borne by the clients on the spot. Please keep in mind that the Mt. Kailash Yatra is not like an enjoyable holiday tour; therefore, you need to be prepared to face hardship and unpredictable situations. Note: The above rates are valid for the 2025 Yatra, and any increase in USD will be applicable if the rates drastically go up. Also, if the visa has to be issued urgently, the cost would be extra, since all package costs are based on normal days of visa processing.  

It is to be noted that the twin/double/triple sharing rooms will be provided only in Kathmandu. At all other places, only small guest houses or hotels are available where rooms will be on a sharing basis with other pilgrims (dormitories) on a twin/triple or multi-sharing basis, depending on the availability.

The above rates are valid for the 2025 Yatra, and any increase in USD will be applicable if the rates drastically go up. Also, if the visa has to be issued urgently,  the cost would be extra since all package costs are based on normal days of visa processing.

Required Documents for Kailash Yatra Booking

• Passport valid for at least 6 months

• Age bar is 10-70 years old 

• Scanned passport xerox copy should be received by Godinga Holidays Travels 60 days prior to the yatra 

• Original passport should be received 15 days prior to the yatra Tips, personal 

Payment Terms and Conditions   

• We need 50% of the total invoice payment at the time of booking.

• The remaining 50% is due on 45 days prior to departure.

Terms and Conditions

These terms and conditions contain important information. It is essential that you read them carefully and understand them, as they apply to all services provided by Godinga Travels. 

Travel Insurance  

We advise you to purchase a comprehensive travel insurance package against medical expenses, natural calamities, helicopter evacuation, personal accidents, etc.

Changes by you

If you wish to change your tour, you must inform our staff at least 30 days before the tour. Any extra charge or loss incurred due to such a change will be borne by you. 

Cancellation by the company

We may be obliged to cancel your trip for reasons like a closed border, a permit not issued or canceled by the government, war, riots, civil disturbances, strikes, natural disasters, terrorist activities or the threat of such, the closure of an airport, etc. Under such circumstances, we will advise you as soon as possible if we can offer you an alternative trip of comparable standard or make a refund of the money paid to us after deducting the expenses that were incurred to make the bookings of the flights, visas, permits, hotels, and vehicles. A clear bill of the expenses will be provided to you so that you can claim the insurance. In such cases, we will have no other liability to you. Sometimes Chinese government personnel will refuse to give you entry even if you have a permit if they think you are not eligible based on their criteria. Please do not start your journey until you get confirmation of the permit. Cancellation Policy.

Cancellation Charges: Notice of cancellation must be made in writing in the name of Godinga Travels (India) Pvt Ltd.

For cancellation made 60 prior to the start of the tour, there will be a cancellation fee of 25% of the invoice. For cancellation made within 60-30 days of the start of the tour, there will be a cancellation charge of 50% of the invoice. For cancellation made within 30 days of the start of the tour, there will be a cancellation charge of 100% of the invoice. 

In certain cases, the cancellation policy (including conditions applicable on the advance deposit made/required for holding the reservation) may differ & would be applicable as per the cancellation policy of that hotel / Service provider. This will be charged over & in addition to the cancellation policy. 

Unused Services & Refund

No refund will be made for any unused services or other arrangements due to any changes in schedule made by a passenger while traveling. However, in certain cases, the refund will be considered as per the policy of the carrier/ hotel/ tour company / or other suppliers used for providing services. 

A refund request must be made within 2 weeks of the completion of the trip. 

If there are any additional expenses due to bad weather or any other reason beyond the control of the tour operator on account of a hotel stay, transportation, and meals, etc. extra bill will be raised. Neither India Travel Pvt. Ltd. nor the participating suppliers/hotels will be responsible for the additional expenses.

Privacy 

Godinga Travels is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of personal information.

Changes to the terms and conditions 

Godinga has the authority and the right to, at any time it sees fit, change or modify all or any part of these terms and conditions.

Age Factor 

Please note that a Kailash permit will not be issued to anyone who is over 70 years old.

Important Pre-departure Information 

Clothing

Casual wear and comfortable walking shoes are the rule in Tibet. Bring warm clothing because the nights and early mornings can be quite chilly. Indian pilgrims are advised strictly not to wear saris during this yatra. Bring all the items like medicine, cosmetics, personal toiletries, etc. that you will need from home, as these are difficult if not impossible to obtain on the way. A small first-aid kit is also a good idea. Also quite useful is a route map, to know where you are going and have been each day. 

What to take

Winter wear: Gore-Tex material, though expensive, is highly recommended. Down jacket, raincoat, or windbreaker; thermal underwear; jackets; warm trousers and woolen shirts (cotton will also do); warm sweaters; woolen gloves; a sun hat; comfortable shoes; light leather boots in case of snow; a woolen balaclava (a "monkey cap"); and a scarf or dust mask to protect your eyes and nose from dust.

Bring with you 

You may bring snacks along the way, such as chocolates, dry fruits, toffees, glucose, namkeen, etc. Strong water bottles and water purifying tablets, Diamox tablets, a personal medical kit (for high altitude), sunglasses (to protect your eyes from UV, which is especially strong at high altitudes), sun block or sun screen lotion, wet tissues (fresh ones are excellent for wiping off the dust), a clothesline or clips, needle and thread, body spray (handy for smelly boots or feet and a round of spray in the toilet tent), toilet paper, a torch, and spare batteries, daypack (small shoulder bag), camera and films, binocular.

Health 

This is one of the toughest high-altitude road journeys on earth. You must be physically fit— no two ways about that. Generally, patients with asthma and heart problems have a problem acclimatizing to high altitudes. In your interests, it is essential you be examined by your doctor to learn about your health condition and your ability to cope with the rigors of high altitude travel for days in "no road" conditions, extreme cold, dust, trekking to an altitude of 19500 feet during the Parikrama, etc.

Altitude Sickness 

As you are traveling over high terrain, you are likely to experience symptoms and discomfort of altitude sickness (headache, loss of appetite, nausea, exhaustion, sleeplessness, breathlessness, etc.) until your body adjusts to the elevation. This can take a couple of days or more, depending on the individual. For this reason alone, we have made it mandatory to stay two nights at Mansarovar before moving on to the higher altitudes. Drink plenty of water, be calm, and do not exercise. Do not drink alcohol or smoke prior to or during the tour.

Currency 

The unit of Chinese currency is the yuan. Money can be exchanged at the Bank of China in Kerung.