Heading from Nepal to Mount Kailash promises a remarkable journey into spirituality and stunning natural beauty. Mount Kailash, a majestic peak amidst the Himalayas, holds deep meaning for many religions like Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon. It's believed that circling the mountain purifies the soul and brings blessings. As travellers approach this sacred place, they're met with its peaceful beauty, offering not just a physical trip but also a deeply meaningful experience. Despite the remoteness of its location, modern transportation options and well-established tour services facilitate a seamless transition from the vibrant landscapes of Nepal to the tranquil heights of Mount Kailash, where the magnificence of the Himalayas unfolds before your eyes, evoking a sense of wonder and reverence.

Can I go to Kailash alone?

When it comes to travelling to Mount Kailash, there are specific rules you need to follow. One common rule is that you usually can't go there alone. Instead, making the trip to Mount Kailash is often seen as a sacred journey, so you have to join a planned tour or travel with a group. This is for a few reasons. Firstly, it's safer to travel in a group, especially since the area around Mount Kailash can be tough to navigate. Being with others means you have help if something goes wrong. Travelling in a group also helps make sure people treat the place with respect and follow the local rules and customs. Plus, being part of a tour or group means you're guided by people who know the area well, making the whole experience more enjoyable and meaningful. Although traveling alone to Kailash isn't allowed, Tibet Horizon offers you popular alternatives which are Kailash tour packages to make things easier for you.

Distance from Nepal to Mount Kailash

The distance from Nepal's capital, Kathmandu, to Mount Kailash encompasses approximately 820 kilometres. This journey includes traversing from Kathmandu to the Gyirong border, situated along the Nepal-China border, which spans approximately 120 kilometres. From there, the route continues through Gyirong town and onward to Mount Kailash, totaling around 700 kilometres. Located in Ngari Prefecture in northwest Tibet, Mount Kailash stands as the highest peak in the Gangdise Mountain Range, towering at an impressive 6,638 meters above sea level. Nestled to the south of this revered mountain is the breathtaking Lake Manasarovar, adding to the scenic allure of the region. While the direct distance from Nepal to Mount Kailash may seem relatively short, the journey involves traversing through rugged terrain and often requires crossing international borders, necessitating careful planning and consideration of travel logistics.

How can I reach Kailash from Nepal?

Nepal (specifically Kathmandu) has numerous direct flight options to Lhasa, the capital of Tibet, facilitating easier access to Mount Kailash. Airlines such as Tibet Airlines, Air China, and Sichuan Airlines operate regular flights connecting these two destinations. Upon arrival in Lhasa, travellers can embark on an overland journey to Mount Kailash, which is situated in Ngari Prefecture in northwest Tibet. This route is particularly popular due to its convenience and scenic beauty, allowing visitors to acclimatize gradually to the high altitude while enjoying the complete landscapes of Tibet.

Alternatively, travellers can opt for an overland route directly from Kathmandu to Mount Kailash via the Gyirong Port. This option offers a more immersive travel experience, providing opportunities to explore the diverse landscapes and cultural heritage along the way.

Traveling from Kathmandu to Mount Kailash via helicopter is also a good alternative if you prefer travelling by flight. Firstly, it significantly reduces travel time compared to overland routes, allowing travellers to reach their destination more quickly and efficiently. This is particularly beneficial for those with limited time or who prefer to minimize the duration of their journey. Additionally, helicopters provide a unique and exhilarating way to experience the breathtaking landscapes of the Himalayas, offering panoramic views that are unmatched by other modes of transport.

Most popular option: Take a flight to Lhasa then overland to Mount Kailash

Step1: Fly from Nepal to Lhasa

The primary route for travellers entering Tibet from Nepal is through a direct flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa. This flight typically lasts around 90 minutes and carries a price tag of approximately 300-400 US dollars per person. Following arrival in Lhasa, the journey proceeds overland to Mount Kailash. Although the flight expense may seem high, the overall cost is generally lower compared to connecting to Lhasa via a city in Chinese Mainland.

Step2: Travel overland from Lhasa to Mount Kailash

The journey starts in Lhasa, a famous ancient city located on a high plateau. Explorations begin with a captivating tour of this historic city before setting out to discover the stunning Yamdrok Lake en route to Gyantse, renowned for its iconic Pelkor Chode Monastery. The journey then progresses to Shigatse, Tibet's second-largest urban centre, followed by a visit to Everest Base Camp (EBC) and the lofty Rongbuk Monastery, the world's highest. Continuing north-westward, the route leads to Saga, the final sizable settlement before reaching Ngari Prefecture and the sacred Mount Kailash. From Saga, travellers proceed to the quaint village of Darchen, the starting point for the three-day trek around the revered mountain.

This trek offers an insightful experience as participants follow the traditional pilgrimage route, seeking spiritual enlightenment. Upon completing the trek, and perhaps taking a refreshing dip in the holy waters of Lake Manasarovar, the journey circles back to Lhasa via the Kyirong Valley. Situated at the lowest altitude in western Tibet, the Kyirong Valley is embraced by towering snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and winding canyons, offering a serene respite. Here, travellers can rejuvenate, explore the verdant countryside, and replenish their energy amidst the fresh oxygen-rich air of the forest, easing the weariness of the expedition.

Holy Mt. Kailash in Ngari Prefecture

Step3: Travel from Mt. Kailash to Lhasa or Nepal

After your trip to Kailash, you have the option to continue your journey by leaving Lhasa to explore other cities on the Chinese mainland or returning to Kathmandu.

Exploring cities on Chinese mainland offers the opportunity to delve into the rich history, vibrant culture, and modern amenities of destinations such as Chengdu, or Xi'an. In Chengdu, you can marvel at the adorable giant pandas at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding and savor the spicy flavors of Sichuan cuisine. Xi'an beckons with the ancient Terracotta Army (Bing Ma Yong), an army of life-sized clay soldiers guarding the tomb of China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. Check the detailed itinerary of the 15-day Lhasa Everest Kailash tour.

Alternatively, returning to Kathmandu allows you to reflect on your pilgrimage experience and explore more of Nepal's cultural and natural wonders. Check the detailed itinerary of the 13-day Lhasa Kailash Kathmandu tour.

Whether you choose to explore other cities in China or return to Kathmandu, Tibet Horizon's services ensure a seamless and memorable continuation of your journey beyond Kailash.

Time-saving options: Travel directly from Nepal overland/ via helicopter

Option 1: Travel overland from Nepal(Kathmandu) to Mount Kailash

The journey from Kathmandu to Mount Kailash via Gyirong offers pilgrims a unique opportunity to complete a kora around the sacred mountain, all while providing excellent value and minimizing travel time. Beginning in Kathmandu, travellers venture into Tibet through the Gyirong border crossing, proceeding directly to the revered sites of Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar. Following a brief trek at the sacred lake, travellers embark on a four-day trek around Mount Kailash, delving into the natural, religious, and cultural aspects of the Himalayan Mountain range. Along the way, you are treated to awe-inspiring vistas of deep valleys, expansive grasslands, tranquil lakes, majestic peaks, ancient monasteries, and quaint villages. Lastly, travellers will be sent off back to Kathmandu via Gyirong port as before. Tibet Horizon will ensure this journey combines nature's beauty with spiritual discovery, making it an unforgettable adventure for everyone involved.

Gyirong Port, the Gateway to Enter Tibet from Nepal

Option 2: Travel via helicopter from Nepal (Kathmandu) to Mount Kailash

The Kailash helicopter tour offered by Tibet Horizon has gained significant popularity among travellers embarking on the Mansarovar and Kailash Yatra pilgrimage over years. This tour offers a convenient and efficient way to reach Mount Kailash which is a flight from Nepalgunj to Simikot, followed by a helicopter ride to Hilsa, where travellers then drive to Taklakot, Purang. Purang serves as the primary border entry point for travellers coming from India. Throughout the tour and trek on the Tibetan side, our dedicated kitchen staff ensures your comfort and well-being by providing hygienic, freshly prepared vegetarian meals. This allows you to focus on your spiritual journey without worrying about meal preparation or food safety. With the convenience of helicopter transportation and the assurance of delicious, nutritious meals, the Kailash helicopter tour offers a memorable and worry-free pilgrimage experience for all participants.

Best time to Go Kailash Mansarovar from Kathmandu

The best time to visit Mount Kailash is usually from late spring to early autumn, which is from May to October. During this time, the weather is generally nice, with comfortable temperatures and less chance of rain. This makes it perfect for hiking and going around the mountain. Also, the trails are easier to walk on because most of the snow has melted, and there's less chance of bad weather. For an enriched cultural and spiritual experience, consider timing your visit with the Saga Dawa festival, which usually aligns with the full moon of the 4th month in the Tibetan calendar, typically falling in May or June. This festival, commemorating significant events in Lord Buddha's life, infuses the pilgrimage with religious ceremonies and rituals, amplifying its spiritual essence.

Celebrating Kailash Saga Dawa Festival with locals

However, due to Mount Kailash's high altitude and the unpredictability of weather conditions, it's prudent to check the forecast and plan your journey accordingly. Additionally, factor in considerations like crowd levels and accommodation availability, particularly during Chinese peak tourist seasons such as early May and early October. It's NOT ADVISED to visit Mount Kailash in winter because the weather can be very unpredictable, especially after snowfall at the Droma-la Pass, which is a challenging part of the trek.

Nepal Kailash Tour Budget

Planning a budget for a Nepal Kailash tour involves considering several factors. Longer trips may incur additional expenses for accommodations, meals, and transportation, so travel time is a crucial factor to consider.

The shortest trip from Kathmandu to Mount Kailash starts at around 1,460 USD, while a classic two-week Kailash Mansarovar Yatra can cost over 2,000 USD. These packages typically cover accommodations and attraction fees along the route, although local transfers can add to expenses.

Opting for luxury accommodations and dining can increase costs compared to more budget-friendly options.

Food prices vary, with meals in Lhasa and Shigatse ranging from 10 to 15 dollars per person, while in more remote areas near Mount Kailash, meals may cost around 5 dollars per person.

Trekking around Mount Kailash may require additional expenses for hiring porters or yak/horse support. Transportation to Kathmandu is not usually included in tour packages, with prices varying depending on the mode of transport chosen.&nbsp

Tibet Horizon provides a range of Kailash tour packages designed to cater to diverse preferences and budgets, ensuring that travellers can select an option that suits their financial and individual requirements.

Permits/Visas for Kailash Manasarovar from Nepal

For travellers embarking on a Kailash Manasarovar journey from Nepal, acquiring the necessary permits and visas is a crucial step in the planning process. While citizens of some countries may enter China without a visa for up to 15 days for tourism or other purposes, the length of typical Kailash itineraries often exceeds this timeframe. So, it's safer to get an extra Chinese visa to make sure you have enough time for your trip, especially if you plan to spend extra days in other cities or have a long train journey before the fifteen-days tour at Mount Kailash.

Chinese Group Visa is mandatory for those entering Tibet from Nepal. To streamline this process and alleviate the administrative burden on travellers, Tibet Horizon facilitates the application process for all required permits, ensuring a smoother and more convenient experience for those preparing for their journey to Kailash.

Additionally, as Kailash Manasarovar is situated in Tibet, travellers must secure additional permits, including the Tibet Travel Permit, Aliens' Travel Permit, and Military Permit. These permits typically require around 8-9 days for processing through the Tibet Tourism Bureau.

Packing List for Nepal Kailash Trekking Tour

Preparing for a trekking tour to Kailash from Nepal requires packing essential items for safety and comfort. Here's a concise list:

Clothing：
Lightweight, moisture-wicking shirts and pants
Insulating layers like a fleece or down jacket
Waterproof and windproof outerwear
Thermal underwear
Sturdy hiking boots
Woolen socks
Hat, gloves, and scarf

Gear:
Backpack with rain cover
Sleeping bag
Trekking stick
Headlamp or flashlight
Sunglasses
Personal toiletries
Quick-dry towel

Health and Safety:
Light first aid kit
Prescription medications
Sunscreen and lip balm
Water purification tablets
Personal identification and travel documents

Miscellaneous:
Camera or smartphone
Power bank
Notebook and pen
Snacks like energy bars

Pack light and focus on essentials, considering the weather forecast and tour operator's requirements for your trekking tour to Kailash.

Conclusion

In conclusion, planning for a tour to Kailash from Nepal promises an unforgettable journey filled with spiritual enrichment and awe-inspiring natural beauty. Whether trekking through the Himalayas or experiencing the cultural richness of the region, travellers are sure to create lasting memories. With careful planning, preparation, and adherence to safety guidelines, exploring the sacred landscapes of Kailash offers a transformative experience that touches the soul. As travellers return home, they carry with them not only cherished memories but also a deeper sense of connection to the spiritual and natural wonders of the world.