Kailash Tour Overland via Kerung

01 / THE EXPERIENCE

Discover the journey

Mt. Kailash & Lake Manasorovar driving and trekking plans to Mt. Kailash and Lake manasarovar. Mt. Kailash, at 6714 m, also known as Tise, Kailasa & Kang Rinpoche (Jewel of the Snows), has since time immemorial been celebrated in many Eastern cosmologies as Mt. Meru, the axis mundi. And as the center of the physical & metaphysical universe, Mt. Meru is sacred to the Buddhist, Jains, the Hindus & the Bonpos. For the Hindus, the mountain represents the seat of Lord Shiva; for the Buddhists, a terrestrial projection of the cosmic mandala of Dhyani-Buddhas & Boddhisatvas. The Wheel of Life; for the Bonpos, Kailash was the sacred nine storeys Swastika Mountain, upon which the Bonpo founder Sherab alighted from heaven. Four of the great rivers of the Indian subcontinent originate from here: the Karnali (longest river in Nepal), which feeds into the Ganges (south), the Indus (north), the Sutlez (west) & the Brahmaputra (Yarlung Tsangpo, east). Apart from the religious value of this place, Mt. Kailash is also very famous for its natural beauty. It’s a challenging place to go so many adventure seekers might find this place great. This trek includes lots of driving and hiking. 14 days Pilgrimage Tour to Mt. Kailash & Lake Manasorovar will be a very memorable trip f cvor you if you are an adventure seeker and a fit person. Kailash Mansarovar Yatra by Overland via Kerung

03 / YOUR ROUTE

Journey at a glance

Day Day 01:: Arrivel in kathamandu Transfer to hotel — Arrivel in kathamandu Transfer to hotel Day Day 02:: Free Rest Day and Chinese Visa Application in Kathmandu — Wake up and have breakfast at your accommodation in Kathmandu. Take some time to relax and rest after your arrival, especially if you've experienced jet lag or fatigue from traveling. Prepare your documents for the Chinese visa application. Ensure you have all the necessary paperwork, including your passport, visa application form, passport-sized photos, and any supporting documents required. Head to the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in Kathmandu to submit your visa application. Be sure to check the embassy's operating hours and any specific requirements beforehand. Depending on the processing time for the visa, you may need to wait for a few hours or days for the visa to be processed. Use this time to explore Kathmandu if you're feeling up to it, or continue resting at your accommodation. Day Day 03:: Full day city Tour in Kathmandu4 place 5-6 hrs. — Duration: Approximately 5-6 hours 1. Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel or a local café to fuel up for the day ahead. 2. Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple): Begin your tour by visiting Swayambhunath Stupa, one of the most iconic and ancient religious sites in Kathmandu. Explore the stupa's complex, which includes shrines, temples, and a large stupa adorned with prayer flags and colorful decorations. Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the hilltop location. 3. Patan Durbar Square: Head to Patan Durbar Square, located in the city of Lalitpur (Patan), which is known for its well-preserved Newar architecture. Explore the various temples, palaces, courtyards, and intricate stone carvings that reflect the artistic and architectural heritage of the area. 4. Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Nepali lunch at a local restaurant. This is a great opportunity to savor some local cuisine. 5. Pashupatinath Temple: After lunch, visit Pashupatinath Temple, one of the most sacred Hindu temples in Nepal and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Observe the temple's stunning architecture, and if you're respectful, you can witness Hindu cremation rituals along the Bagmati River. 6. Boudhanath Stupa: Proceed to Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest stupas in Nepal and a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists. Take a leisurely walk around the stupa, spinning prayer wheels and observing the serene atmosphere. 7. Thamel Shopping and Rest Break: Thamel is a vibrant neighborhood known for its shopping and dining options. Take a break to relax, do some shopping for souvenirs, or enjoy a cup of Nepali tea or coffee. 8. Kathmandu Durbar Square: End your day at Kathmandu Durbar Square, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the historic square, admire the intricately carved wooden architecture of the old palace, temples, and statues. Overniht : At HotelMeals: Breakfast Day Day 04:: Bhaktapur and Changu Narayan Temple Tour + Visa Collection — Morning: Half-Day Tour to Bhaktapur Start your day with breakfast at your accommodation in Kathmandu. Depart for Bhaktapur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, temples, and vibrant culture. Explore Bhaktapur Durbar Square, which features the Palace of 55 Windows, Nyatapola Temple, Bhairava Nath Temple, and other historical landmarks. Take time to wander through the narrow alleys and soak in the atmosphere of this ancient city. Visit local craft shops and observe artisans at work, producing pottery, woodcarvings, and traditional handicrafts. Afternoon: Visit Changu Narayan Temple After your tour of Bhaktapur, proceed to Changu Narayan Temple, one of the oldest Hindu temples in the Kathmandu Valley, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Explore the temple complex, which features exquisite stone carvings, sculptures, and shrines depicting various incarnations of Lord Vishnu. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from the temple's hilltop location. Take your time to admire the intricate craftsmanship and architectural beauty of Changu Narayan. Late Afternoon/Early Evening: Visa Collection Return to Kathmandu from Changu Narayan Temple. Freshen up and prepare for your visit to the Chinese Embassy to collect your visa. Head to the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in Kathmandu to collect your processed visa. Allow sufficient time for visa collection and any additional paperwork or procedures required. Once you've collected your visa, you can either return to your accommodation or explore Kathmandu's dining options for dinner. Day Day 05:: Kathmandu to Syabrubesi (1,550 meters 5,085 feet)117 kilometers (73 miles). 8 hrs — Depart from Kathmandu in the morning, usually via private vehicle or bus, depending on your tour arrangement. The journey from Kathmandu to Syabrubesi takes approximately 6-8 hours by road, covering a distance of around 117 kilometers (73 miles). Enjoy scenic views of the countryside as you travel towards the Langtang region. Along the way, you'll pass through picturesque towns and villages, providing insight into rural life in Nepal. The road journey involves traversing winding mountain roads, so be prepared for some twists and turns. Make a stop for lunch at a local restaurant or teahouse en route to Syabrubesi. Arrival in Syabrubesi: Reach Syabrubesi by late afternoon or early evening, depending on the road conditions and traffic. Syabrubesi is a small village located at an altitude of approximately 1,550 meters (5,085 feet) above sea level, serving as the starting point for treks in the Langtang region. Check into your accommodation in Syabrubesi and settle in for the night. Rest and relax after the long journey, and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the Himalayan foothills. Altitude: Kathmandu: Approximately 1,400 meters (4,600 feet) above sea level. Syabrubesi: Approximately 1,550 meters (5,085 feet) above sea level. Day Day 06:: Syabrubesi - Kyirung (2,700 meters 8,858 feet)20-40 kilometers — Morning: Departure from Syabrubesi Begin your day early in Syabrubesi. Have breakfast and ensure all necessary preparations are made for the journey ahead. Check out from your accommodation and gather your belongings, including any trekking gear or personal items. Crossing the Nepal-China Border: Depart from Syabrubesi, and travel towards the Rasuwagadhi border crossing, which serves as the main border checkpoint between Nepal and China (Tibet). The drive from Syabrubesi to Rasuwagadhi takes approximately 1-2 hours, covering a distance of around 15-30 kilometers, depending on road conditions. Upon reaching Rasuwagadhi, complete immigration and customs formalities on the Nepali side of the border. Be prepared for potential delays at the border checkpoint, as processing times can vary depending on the volume of travelers and other factors. Entry into Tibet (China): After completing immigration procedures on the Nepali side, cross the Friendship Bridge over the Bhote Koshi River, marking the border between Nepal and China. Once across the bridge, you'll enter the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. Proceed to the Chinese immigration and customs checkpoint for entry formalities into Tibet. Ensure you have all required travel documents, including your Chinese visa and any permits necessary for travel in Tibet. Travel from Rasuwagadhi to Kyirong: After clearing immigration on the Chinese side, continue your journey by road towards Kyirong (also spelled Kyirong or Kerung). The drive from the border to Kyirong typically takes several hours, covering a distance of approximately 20-40 kilometers, depending on road conditions and weather. Enjoy scenic views of the Himalayas as you travel through the rugged terrain of the Tibet-Nepal border region. Kyirong is situated at an altitude of around 2,700 meters (8,858 feet) above sea level, offering a picturesque setting surrounded by mountains and valleys. Upon arrival in Kyirong, check into your accommodation and rest after the long journey. Take time to acclimatize to the higher altitude and enjoy the serene beauty of the Tibetan countryside. Note: The specific details of the journey from Syabrubesi to Kyirong may va Day Day 07:: Rest and acclimatization day at Kerung — Morning: Wake up at your accommodation in Kyirong and have a leisurely breakfast. Take some time to rest and relax in your room or explore the immediate surroundings of Kyirong town at a gentle pace. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, as proper hydration is crucial for acclimatization at higher altitudes. Midday: Consider taking a short walk around Kyirong town to get accustomed to the altitude gradually. Keep the walk gentle and avoid exerting yourself. If you're feeling up to it, visit local markets or shops to browse and interact with the local community. Kyirong offers a glimpse into Tibetan culture and daily life. Afternoon: Return to your accommodation for lunch or dine at a local restaurant, sampling Tibetan cuisine or other regional dishes. Take advantage of the afternoon to catch up on rest, read a book, or simply enjoy the tranquility of Kyirong. Avoid strenuous activities or high-altitude trekking on your rest day to allow your body to adjust to the altitude more effectively. Evening: Enjoy a quiet evening in Kyirong, perhaps with a warm cup of Tibetan tea or a hearty meal. Take time to reflect on your journey so far and prepare mentally for the adventures ahead in Tibet. Get an early night's sleep to ensure you're well-rested for the next leg of your journey. Day Day 08:: Drive to Saga-(4,450 meters 14,600 feet) around 200-250 km. (125-155 miles), — Begin your day early with breakfast at your accommodation in Kyirong. Check out from your hotel and ensure all your belongings are packed and ready for the journey. Meet your guide and driver, and embark on the road trip to Saga. Drive to Saga: Depart from Kyirong and start your drive towards Saga, which is situated at an altitude of approximately 4,450 meters (14,600 feet) above sea level. The road journey from Kyirong to Saga covers a distance of around 200-250 kilometers (125-155 miles), depending on the route taken and road conditions. The drive takes you through breathtaking landscapes, including mountain passes, valleys, and picturesque Tibetan villages. Along the way, you may encounter yaks grazing on the high-altitude pastures and nomadic Tibetan herders tending to their livestock. Be prepared for rough and sometimes unpaved roads, as well as occasional changes in weather conditions. Take breaks as needed to stretch your legs, hydrate, and admire the scenery. Arrival in Saga: Arrive in Saga by late afternoon or early evening, depending on road conditions and travel pace. Check into your accommodation in Saga and settle in for the night. Take time to rest and acclimatize to the higher altitude, as Saga is significantly higher than Kyirong. Enjoy dinner at your hotel or venture out to explore local dining options, which may include Tibetan and Chinese cuisine. Day Day 09:: Drive to Manasarover 4,590 meters (15,060 feet) 350-400 km.(220-250 miles) 8-9 hrs — Morning: Begin early in the morning after breakfast. Ensure you've packed all necessary items for the journey, including water, snacks, warm clothing, and any personal essentials. Meet your guide and driver, and prepare to depart from Saga towards Lake Manasarovar. Drive to Lake Manasarovar: The drive from Saga to Lake Manasarovar covers a distance of approximately 450 kilometers (280 miles) and can take around 7-9 hours, depending on road conditions and weather. You'll traverse through the vast Tibetan plateau, passing through rugged terrain, expansive grasslands, and occasional nomadic settlements. The road journey offers stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan mountains, including glimpses of Mount Kailash in the distance, which adds to the anticipation of reaching your destination. Along the way, you may stop at designated viewpoints to stretch your legs, take photographs, and appreciate the natural beauty of the Tibetan landscape. Be prepared for long stretches of driving, as well as varying road conditions, including paved sections and unpaved tracks. Arrival at Lake Manasarovar: Reach Lake Manasarovar by late afternoon or early evening, depending on the pace of your journey. Lake Manasarovar is one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world, located at an altitude of approximately 4,590 meters (15,060 feet) above sea level. Upon arrival, take a moment to soak in the awe-inspiring beauty of the lake and its surroundings. The crystal-clear waters of Lake Manasarovar are considered sacred by Hindus and Buddhists alike. Day Day 10:: Puja and Drive to Darchen (Tarchen) — Begin your day with an early morning puja (religious ceremony) at Lake Manasarovar. Participate in rituals and prayers offered by pilgrims, guided by local priests or spiritual leaders. Take time for personal reflection and spiritual contemplation in the serene atmosphere of Lake Manasarovar. After the puja, depart from Lake Manasarovar and start your journey towards Darchen (also known as Tarchen). The drive from Lake Manasarovar to Darchen covers a relatively short distance, typically taking around 1-2 hours. Enjoy scenic views of the surrounding landscape as you travel towards the base of Mount Kailash. Afternoon: Check-in and Lunch Check into your accommodation in Darchen and settle in for your stay. Accommodation options in Darchen include guesthouses, lodges, or campsites catering to pilgrims and trekkers. Enjoy a hearty lunch at your accommodation or a local restaurant in Darchen, replenishing your energy for the days ahead. Late Afternoon: Explore Darchen Spend the late afternoon exploring Darchen, a small town situated at the base of Mount Kailash and the starting point for the Kailash Kora (circumambulation). Visit local shops and markets to purchase any last-minute supplies or trekking essentials you may need for the Kora. Take a leisurely walk around Darchen to acclimatize to the altitude and familiarize yourself with the surroundings. Observe the vibrant atmosphere of Darchen, with pilgrims and travelers from around the world gathering for their spiritual journey to Mount Kailash. Evening: Dinner and Preparation Enjoy dinner at your accommodation or a nearby restaurant, sampling local Tibetan cuisine or international dishes. Take time to prepare for the Kailash Kora, ensuring you have all necessary equipment, clothing, and provisions for the trek. Rest and relax in anticipation of the challenging but spiritually rewarding journey that awaits you the following day. Arrive in Darchen by midday or early afternoon, depending on the pace of your journey. Day Day 11:: Darchen to Dira Puk (5,210 meters 17,090 feet) 12 km.(7.5 miles) around 5-6 hours — Start your trek from Darchen towards Dirapuk Monastery, which is the first leg of the Kailash Kora (circumambulation). The trekking distance from Darchen to Dirapuk Monastery is approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) and typically takes around 5-6 hours to complete, depending on individual pace and trail conditions. The trail initially follows a gradual ascent along the Barkha Plain, offering panoramic views of Mount Kailash and its surrounding peaks. As you continue along the trail, you'll gradually gain altitude, passing through rocky terrain and occasional streams. After a few hours of trekking, you'll reach the north face of Mount Kailash, where Dirapuk Monastery is located. Dirapuk Monastery, also known as the North Face Monastery, is situated at an altitude of approximately 5,210 meters (17,090 feet) above sea level, nestled against the foothills of Mount Kailash. Upon reaching Dirapuk Monastery, take some time to rest and soak in the awe-inspiring scenery of Mount Kailash towering above you. Afternoon: Lunch and Rest Enjoy a packed lunch at Dirapuk Monastery or at a scenic spot nearby, replenishing your energy for the rest of the day. Take the opportunity to explore Dirapuk Monastery and its surroundings, admiring the architectural beauty and spiritual significance of this sacred site. Rest and relax in the afternoon, allowing your body to acclimatize to the higher altitude and the physical exertion of the trek. Evening: Dinner and Overnight Stay Have dinner at Dirapuk Monastery or at your accommodation nearby, enjoying a warm meal and conversation with fellow pilgrims and travelers. Prepare for a restful night Day Day 12:: DIRAPUK – ZUTULPUK – (4790m) 08.00 hrs — Morning Trek (08:00 hrs - 12:00 hrs) Dirapuk to Dolma La Pass: Altitude: Ascending to 5,636 meters (Dolma La Pass is the highest point of the kora). Terrain: Steep and challenging, rocky path. The air is thin, so take it slow to avoid altitude sickness. Scenery: Glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and the sacred Gauri Kund (Lake of Compassion). Rest at Dolma La Pass: Short Break: Spend some time here to catch your breath and take in the incredible views. Altitude Consideration: Don’t stay too long due to the high altitude. Midday Trek (12:00 hrs - 14:00 hrs) Descent to Gauri Kund: Altitude: Descending from 5,636 meters to around 4,900 meters. Terrain: Steep and can be slippery, requiring careful footing. Gauri Kund to Intermediate Stop: Scenery: The descent offers views of pristine lakes and the diverse landscape of the region. Break for Lunch: Find a suitable spot to rest and have lunch. This will help replenish your energy. Afternoon Trek (14:00 hrs - 18:00 hrs) Intermediate Stop to Zutulpuk: Altitude: Trekking along more moderate terrain with gradual descents. Terrain: Rocky paths, river crossings, and valleys. Scenery: The landscape gradually becomes greener and less rugged. Arrival at Zutulpuk: Altitude: 4,790 meters. Accommodation: Simple guesthouses or camping sites. Activities: Visit the Zutulpuk Monastery, known for its caves where Milarepa is said to have meditated. Day Day 13:: ZUTULPUK – DARCHEN – SAGA 4,640 meters — Morning Trek: Zutulpuk to Darchen Start Time: Early morning, around 07:00 hrs Total Trekking Distance: Approximately 11 kilometers Duration: 3-4 hours Zutulpuk to Trail End: Terrain: Relatively easier compared to previous days, mostly descending and flat terrain. Scenery: Verdant landscapes, river valleys, and a more hospitable environment. Pacing: A steady, relaxed pace as you head back towards civilization. Arrival at Trail End: Rest Stop: Brief rest to regroup and perhaps enjoy some refreshments. Final Leg to Darchen: Transport: Depending on your arrangement, you might be picked up by a vehicle at the trail end for a short drive to Darchen, or continue walking. Midday: Arrival in Darchen Altitude: 4,575 meters Activities: Rest and refresh after the trek. Option to explore Darchen or visit local shops for souvenirs. Afternoon: Drive from Darchen to Saga Start Time: Around 12:00 hrs Total Driving Distance: Approximately 450 kilometers Duration: 8-10 hours, depending on road conditions Darchen to Lake Manasarovar: Stopover: Brief stop to enjoy the serene beauty of Lake Manasarovar if it wasn't covered earlier. Drive through Mayum La Pass: Altitude: 5,216 meters Terrain: Scenic high-altitude pass offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Considerations: Possible stops for photos and short breaks to acclimatize. Descent towards Saga: Terrain: Gradual descent with varied landscapes from high plateau to river valleys. Villages: Pass through small Tibetan villages, offering a glimpse of local life. Evening: Arrival in Saga Altitude: 4,640 meters Accommodation: Check into your hotel or guesthouse in Saga. Activities: Relax and recuperate from the long drive. Enjoy a hearty meal and rest. Day Day 14: : SAGA – KYIRONG : 2,700 meters — Morning: Departure from Saga Start Time: Early morning, around 07:00 hrs Total Driving Distance: Approximately 170 kilometers Duration: 5-6 hours, depending on road conditions Saga to Pelku Tso Lake: Terrain: The route initially takes you through high-altitude plains and then alongside the beautiful Pelku Tso Lake. Scenery: Enjoy views of the turquoise waters of the lake with the backdrop of mountains. Drive through G219 Highway: Terrain: Well-maintained roads, though some sections may be rough. Scenery: Diverse landscapes including mountains, valleys, and rivers. Midday: Arrival at Kyirong Town Altitude: 2,700 meters Activities: Check into your hotel or guesthouse. Take a break to rest and have lunch. Explore Kyirong Town, known for its lush greenery and relatively lower altitude compared to other parts of Tibet. Day Day 15:: KYIRONG – KATHMANDU — Morning: Departure from Kyirong Start Time: Early morning, around 06:00 hrs Total Driving Distance: Approximately 170 kilometers from Kyirong to Kathmandu Duration: 8-10 hours, including border crossing time Kyirong to Kyirong Border (Rasuwa Gadhi): Distance: Approximately 24 kilometers Terrain: Descending terrain through the lush green Kyirong Valley. Scenery: Beautiful landscapes with rivers, forests, and hills. Border Crossing at Rasuwa Gadhi: Documentation: Complete immigration and customs formalities on both the Chinese and Nepalese sides. Time: This process can take a few hours, depending on the number of travelers and border protocols. Midday: Entering Nepal and Drive to Kathmandu Rasuwa Gadhi to Syabrubesi: Distance: Approximately 15 kilometers Terrain: The road can be rough and narrow, winding through hills and valleys. Scenery: Experience the transition from Tibetan plateau landscapes to the lush greenery of Nepal. Syabrubesi to Kathmandu: Distance: Approximately 132 kilometers Terrain: Mountain roads, some sections can be challenging especially during the monsoon season. Scenery: Pass through small villages, terraced fields, and forested areas. Lunch: Stop at a roadside restaurant for a meal. Afternoon to Evening: Arrival in Kathmandu Arrival in Kathmandu: Altitude: 1,400 meters Accommodation: Check into your hotel in Kathmandu. Rest: Take some time to rest and freshen up after the long journey. Exploring Kathmandu (Optional, depending on arrival time and energy levels): Thamel: Visit this vibrant neighborhood known for its shops, cafes, and restaurants. Local Markets: Explore local markets for souvenirs and traditional crafts. Day Day 16: Final Depatur from kathamandu — After breakfast we will transfer to international Airport for depature

YOUR DAY-BY-DAY ROUTE

Day-by-day itinerary

Day 10: Puja and Drive to Darchen (Tarchen) — Begin your day with an early morning puja (religious ceremony) at Lake Manasarovar.+