19 Nights / 20 Days
Description
Location: Beijing - Lhasa - Sigetse - Saga - Dongba - Diraphuk - Zuthulphuk Gompa - Darchen - Xigetse - Chengdu
Kailash Yatra via Beijing and Lhasa begins with a flight from Beijing to Lhasa, where you spend a few days acclimatizing to the high altitude. From Lhasa, you travel by road to Mount Kailash, a sacred site in Tibet, where you can undertake the spiritual Kora (circumambulation). The journey includes several days of sightseeing in Lhasa and a scenic drive through Tibet's remote regions. Pilgrims need to obtain necessary permits like the Tibet Travel Permit and Chinese visa. The trip typically lasts 12-16 days, with an emphasis on spiritual devotion and preparation for the high-altitude trek. This route offers a deeply transformative pilgrimage experience.
Day 01 : Departure Home either you coming from USA or UK
Proceed to the departure lounge to board your flight to Beijing.
Day 02 : Arrive Beijing. (D)
We will come to pick you up at the Airport and take you to the Hotel in Beijing.
Day 03 : Arrive Beijing. (B.D)
Morning after breakfast take a pleasant sightseeing trip to world’s largest Urban city square Tianmen Suqare and later take you the forbidden city, temple of Heaven and Kung Fu Show.
Overnight at hotel
Day 04 : Arrive Beijing. (B.D)
After breakfast we take you Badaling to visit Great Wall of China. One of the greatest man made projects in the world, build as a military defense system. Later on a way you will see the Bird’s Nest Olympic stadium where main venue for Beijing Olympic. We later take a tour of city’s oldest history and cultural.
Overnight stay in hotel.
Day 05 : Beijing- Lhasa Train. (B.D) of flight will take 4 hour
Free day on your own, evening we will drop you to the train station, Take a train from Beijing to Lhasa which will take 44 hours. One of the highest train trip in the world.
Beijing-Lhasa is 4,064 km
Day 06 : Beijing- Lhasa Train. B.L.D
Day 07 : Beijing- Lhasa Train. B.L.D
Arrive Lhasa at about evening after a 3 days train trip. We will come at the train station to pick you up and take you to the Hotel.
Overnight stay in Hotel.
Day 08-09: Lhasa (B)
Today free day with sightseeing in Lhasa at leisure and acclimatization. We will take a short hiking tour in Lhasa just to acclimatize basically, as the main tour could be done after we complete Kailash Trip.
Overnight in Hotel.
Day 10 : Sigetse(3950m) 350 kms- 9 hrs (B) Lhasa
After breakfast in your hotel drive to Shigatse which is the 2nd largest city of Tibet. Built in 1447 by the first Dalailama the Tashillunpo Monastery in Shigatse is a very important monastery in China as it is known as seat of the Panchan Lama. Night stay will be at Hotel.
Overnight Hotel.
Day 11 : Sigetse - Sage (4550m) 450 kms- 10 hrs (B,L,D)
We take an early morning drive to Saga, please note this will be a long drive but on the way we can make enough stop and lunch. Overnight in Hotel at Saga.
Day 12 : Saga - Dongba - Prayang - Mansarovar (4550 m) 670 Kms 9 / 10 hrs (B,L,D)
This morning depart from Saga to Manasaravor, it is 470 km. The road is good and the trip can be complete in 9 / 10 hrs. There will be several river crossings and we drive past Mayum La Pass (4600m). The scenery is stunningly beautiful with panoramic views of the Himalayas. This is an auspicious day for all of us having first glimpse of the Holy lake Manasarovar and view of Mt. Kailash from The Horr Chu pass. Stay in Chiu Gompa, a beautiful place to be.
Day 13 : Rest day in Manasarovar, Havan Puja and Hike around. B.L.D
Day 14 : Diraphuk (4720m 7hrs trek (B, L, D) Darchen 45 km drive Mansarovar
Morning puja and Havan and after breakfast Drive to Darchen(4600 metres high), Leave our Truck and extra luggage and Start of 1st day of Parikrama drive up to Tarboche and trek up to Diraphuk Gompa (north face of Kailash), and a close up view of Holy Kailash (North face). We head west in clockwise direction and after a few kilometres the trail climbs up to a cairn at 4730m from where the southern face of Mt. Kailash comes to view. Pony & Pony men will be waiting for passengers who have hired them. Porters hired by passengers will carry their bags etc. Yak will carry our goods and camping equipment. Start the Parikrama which is about 20kms.
Overnight in Camp /Tents.
Day 15 : Zuthulphuk Gompa (4790m) (B,L,D) Diraphuk
The 2nd day of Parikarma, which is very sensitive and every pilgrim talks about the most challenging journey throughout the Yatra. Parikarma continues and we trek (18 kms) up to Dolma la Pass, which is 5800m above the sea level. We will offer very short prayers at Dolma la. The weather is unpredictable in Dolma la Pass and at any time there is a possibility of a snowstorm. En-route, we can have darshan of Gauri Kunda (5630m) where Hindus worship and immerse themselves in the icy waters of the lake. Lunch as usual; we will camp in front of medicine Buddha Mountain near by Zuthulphuk Gompa. For those people who can't walk there will be option for Horse or Yak ride at extra cost.
Note: For those who are going for Inner Kora they will be heading to Darchen
Overnight in Camp/Tents.
Day 16 : (B, L, D) Manasarovar Darchen Zuthulphuk
The 3rd day of Parikarma. After Breakfast, we will trek around 10 kms to complete the 3 days circuit trek of Mt. Kailash. We will be reaching at the point, where our jeeps will be waiting to drive us to Darchen to collect the rest of the passengers who could not do the Kailash Parikarma. Then drive to Manasarovar for a holi bath.
For those who are going for Inner Kora they will go for Inner Kora and then return to Manasarovar later in the evening
Overnight in Manas.
Day 17 : Saga - B.L.D Manasarovar
Beautiful drive from Manasarovar to Saga about 450 KM
Day 18 : Xigetse (10 hrs) (B) 450 Km. B.L.D Saga
After breakfast we say good bye to our Nepali staff, they will head toward Nyalam/Kathmandu and you will drive to Xigetse via Lhatse, on the way if the weather is clear you will be able to see Mt Everest. This will be a long day drive, so make sure you have enough snacks. Overnight stay in Xigetse. B
Overnight in Hotel.
Day 19 : Lhasa (7 hrs) (B) 280 KM. B. Xigetse
Morning visit Tashilampoo Monastry, second largest city in Tibet and the home of the second highest lama in Tibet. The drive toward Lhasa, enroute cross high pass and beautiful lake Yamdruktso.
Day 20 : Lhasa to Chengdu or Beijing or to Kathmandu.
Lhasa to Chengdu or Beijing or to Kathmandu.
How do I start the Kailash Yatra via Beijing and Lhasa?
Step 1: Fly into Beijing, China. Most international flights land in Beijing, as it’s a major international hub.
Step 2: From Beijing, you will fly to Lhasa, Tibet, which is usually the first stop before proceeding to Mount Kailash.
Step 3: Once in Lhasa, you will spend a few days acclimatizing to the altitude, as Lhasa is located at over 3,600 meters (11,800 feet).
Step 4: After acclimatization, your tour group or guide will take you on the journey to Mount Kailash (typically by road, a 3-4 day journey) and the Kora (circumambulation) around Kailash.
What permits do I need for the Kailash Yatra via Beijing and Lhasa?
Tibet Travel Permit (TTP): This is essential for all foreign visitors to Tibet. You cannot travel to Tibet without it. The permit is typically arranged through a licensed travel agency in China.
Alien’s Travel Permit: In addition to the TTP, if you plan to travel to remote regions of Tibet (like Kailash), you may need this additional permit, which your tour operator will handle.
Chinese Visa: As Tibet is part of China, you will also need a Chinese visa to enter China and travel to Tibet. The visa can be obtained through the Chinese embassy or consulate in your country.
Mount Kailash Entry Permit: A specific permit is needed to enter the area around Mount Kailash, which is typically included in your overall Tibet travel arrangements.
How long does the Kailash Yatra via Beijing and Lhasa take?
The whole journey typically lasts around 14-16 days, depending on the tour package and how long you spend in each location.
Beijing to Lhasa: 2-3 days of travel (1-2 days in Beijing for acclimatization, plus the flight to Lhasa).
Lhasa Stay: 3-4 days in Lhasa for acclimatization and sightseeing.
Journey from Lhasa to Kailash: 4-5 days by road (with stops at various places of interest).
Mount Kailash Kora: The Kora typically takes 3 days.
What is the best time to travel to Kailash via Beijing and Lhasa?
The best time for the Kailash Yatra is from May to October. During these months, the weather is milder, and most roads are open.
Winter (November to April) is harsh and difficult due to snow and extreme cold, and some routes may be inaccessible.
How do I prepare for the altitude in Lhasa and Kailash?
Acclimatization: Lhasa is at an altitude of about 3,650 meters (12,000 feet), and Mount Kailash is even higher. Altitude sickness can be a concern, so acclimatization is important.
Spend a few days in Lhasa before heading to Kailash to adjust to the altitude.
Stay hydrated, avoid heavy meals, and take it easy during the first few days. You may also be given medications like Diamox (acetazolamide) to help with altitude sickness.
How do I travel from Beijing to Lhasa?
By Air: The most common and easiest way to travel from Beijing to Lhasa is by flight. The flight takes about 3-4 hours. Several airlines offer regular flights between Beijing Capital International Airport and Lhasa Gonggar Airport.
By Train: If you want to travel by train, you can take the Beijing to Lhasa train, which is an extraordinary 48-hour journey. The train offers a unique experience of traveling through the Tibetan Plateau, but it is much slower than flying.
Can I travel to Kailash independently, or do I need to be part of a group tour?
Independent travel to Tibet (and Kailash) is not allowed for foreign nationals. You must travel with an organized group tour or with a licensed guide. This is due to travel regulations in Tibet, which require all foreign visitors to be accompanied by a guide.
Most tour operators in China will arrange the permits, transportation, and guides for the Kailash Yatra, including the journey from Beijing to Lhasa and beyond.
Is it safe to travel to Kailash via Beijing and Lhasa?
Yes, the Kailash Yatra is generally safe, but there are a few things to consider:
Altitude: The main risk is altitude sickness, which can be avoided or mitigated with proper acclimatization and pacing.
Road conditions: Roads to Mount Kailash can be rough and challenging, so a comfortable and experienced guide and transport are essential.
Weather: Be prepared for cold weather at high altitudes, even during the summer months.
What is the route from Lhasa to Kailash?
The journey from Lhasa to Kailash typically takes 3-4 days by road. The route goes through beautiful Tibetan landscapes and includes stops at sacred sites like Yamdrok Lake, Gyantse, and Shigatse, and Tashilhunpo Monastery.
It’s important to travel with a licensed tour operator who is familiar with the terrain and the necessary permits.
What should I pack for the Kailash Yatra?
Clothing: Warm clothing is essential, even in summer, as temperatures can drop significantly at higher altitudes. A waterproof jacket, thermal layers, and sturdy trekking shoes are recommended.
Medical Supplies: Carry any personal medications, altitude sickness medication (Diamox), and a basic first aid kit.
Snacks: Energy bars, dry fruits, and other lightweight snacks are useful for the journey.
Other Items: Sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and gloves, as well as a camera and journal to document your spiritual journey.
What is the significance of Kailash Yatra?
Mount Kailash is considered the spiritual center of the universe in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon. The pilgrimage to Kailash is believed to cleanse one's sins and help in attaining moksha (liberation).
Performing the Kora (circumambulation) around Mount Kailash is considered a highly auspicious and spiritually rewarding act.
What is included:
• Airport transfers in Beijing, Lhasa and in return
• Twin sharing accommodation in 3 star hotels in, Beijing, Lhasa, Sigetse and Saga.
• Lodging in Tibet, Guest House,
• Full boarding good vegetarian meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner from and until Saga
• Special permits and entrance fees
• Limited staff from Nepal
• Transportation in Tibet by van/coach
• Train one way fare from Beijing to Lhasa.
• Supporting truck to carry the luggage and all camping gears
• All the staffs (guide, cook and other supporting staffs)
• Camping equipment (Limited Equipment)
• Yaks and Yak men to carry our supplies during the Parikrama not for riding
• Oxygen bag, Gambo bag (high altitude chamber),
• High altitude chamber is a kind of equipment that helps the person to relieve from high altitude sickness. By using this chamber, it is less likely that person will not face death due to high altitude sickness.
What is not included:
• Bar bills (soft drinks, mineral water, liquor etc)
• Flight from London –Beijing- and Lhasa and return onward to Kathmandu-Chengdu or Beijing.
• Personal Insurance & emergency rescue charges
• Extra porter & transport charges in the event of landslides
• Personal clothing & accessories, cost raised by any unforeseen things like landslide, political disturbance, re-routing, cancellation etc.
• Single Supplement of £380
• Personal Yak to ride during Parikarma
• Personal medical and evacuation insurance
• Laundry bills, other expenses of personal nature
• Tips is expected to the staff and any other expenses which are not mentioned above
• Note: You have to adjust the itinerary according to local conditions if any and also depend on the daily schedule of the flight to Lhasa. There could also be possibility those who do outer kora may not be able to do inner kora because of the limited time.
• Please note that facility in Tibet is very basic and the roads are rough, it is not for luxury, it is more for experience and pilgrimages.
Special Notes:
1. We strongly advise to allot 1-2 extra days to overcome any delays.
2. Due to the nature of travel, there is always the possibility of change in the schedule. The Tour Operator or its partners shall not be liable for any such delays.
3. NTP Tourism Affairs Ltd. Has the right to change the Itinerary in the event of adverse weather condition or any unforeseen reason.
4. The Group will be required to follow the itinerary strictly. The entire Group will enter & exit together as per schedule.
Delays though not perceived as rule but eventuality to safeguard your back home engagements such extensions are suggested, likewise the insurance cover to augment.
Compliments by Kailash Yatra Team of NTP
· Duffle Bag
· Cap
· Jacket
· Carry Bag, Passport Pouch
· Yatra Completion Certificate