Drive across the Himalaya to the sacred mountain and walk the kora
Overview
The shortest road route from Nepal to Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar, with no flights. It is the most popular way for pilgrims from Nepal and India to reach the mountain.
Three days in Kathmandu for the Chinese group visa, then drive to the Rasuwa border and Kerung, with an acclimatisation day there. Cross the plateau via Saga to Manasarovar and Darchen, walk the three-day kora over the Dolma La (5,630 m), and drive back the same way.
Fit travellers and pilgrims who prefer the road to flying, and can handle one hard walking day at 5,630 m.
Why book with us: Our Kathmandu team runs the visa, permits and border crossing, with a Spanish-speaking guide in Nepal and a Spanish-speaking tour leader in Tibet on request.
Long days and high passes. Some previous hiking experience recommended.
Day By Day
Highest point reached each day, taken from the itinerary. Gradual gains give your body time to acclimatize.
Airport pickup and transfer to your hotel. We collect your passport for the Chinese group visa.
Guided visit to Nepal’s holiest Hindu temple and the great Buddhist stupa of Boudhanath.
Free morning; we collect your visa and hold the trip briefing and gear check in the afternoon.
Drive north along the Trishuli river to Syabrubesi, near the border. 7–8 hours.
Short drive to Rasuwa Gadhi, cross into Tibet and meet your Tibetan guide, then on to Kerung. 3–4 hours plus border time.
Short walks around the valley and its old monastery before climbing onto the plateau.
Climb onto the plateau past Peiku Tso lake and Shishapangma to Saga. 5–6 hours.
Cross the Mayum La to the shore of Manasarovar and the first view of Kailash. 6–7 hours.
Sunrise by the lake, time for prayers or a ritual bath, then a short drive to Darchen. 1 hour.
Start at Tarboche and walk up the Lha Chu valley to Dirapuk, facing Kailash’s north face. 6–7 hours.
Steep climb to the Dolma La (5,630 m), past Gauri Kund, then a long descent to Zutulpuk. 8–10 hours.
A 3-hour walk to finish the kora, then drive back to Saga. 6–7 hours by road.
Drive back past Peiku Tso and down to the Kerung valley. 5–6 hours.
Cross the Rasuwa Gadhi border and drive back to Kathmandu. 7–8 hours.
Spare day for road or border delays. Farewell dinner in the evening.
Transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Good To Know
Included
Not included
Best Time To Go
Recommended: May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep. We run this trek on the dates you choose. Tell us when you would like to go and we will check conditions for you.
Make It Yours
This itinerary is a starting point. Tell us what matters to you and we will shape the trip around it.
Questions
Reviews
My trekking experience in Nepal was absolutely incredible. From arriving in Kathmandu to the mountains of the Himalaya, everything was perfectly organised. The guides were professional, attentive and very knowledgeable about the region. I felt safe at all times, even travelling alone. Without a doubt, I recommend this...
I went on a solo trekking adventure to the Everest region with Unique Nepal Treks and Expedition, and it was life-changing! The itinerary was perfectly planned, and the guides were knowledgeable and friendly. From arranging flights and hotels to transportation and trekking support, everything was seamless. I felt safe...
From the moment I landed in Nepal, everything was taken care of with professionalism and warmth. As a solo female traveler, I felt completely safe and supported throughout the trek. The landscapes were breathtaking, and the experience was life-changing. I highly recommend this agency — they are truly the best in Nepal...
Sophie Laurent
France
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