Lhasa to Kailash and Nepal Group Tour: Embark on an extraordinary adventure with the Lhasa to Kailash and Nepal Group Tour, spanning 14 captivating days. Delve into the sacred realm, commencing in the revered Holy City and ascending towards the pinnacle of spirituality, Mount Kailash. The expedition commences in Lhasa, where the first three days are dedicated to acclimatization and exploring the enchanting marvels that grace the city.
Embark on an awe-inspiring journey across the expanse of Central Tibet’s plains, venturing deep into the untamed wilderness of western Tibet. En route, embrace the opportunity to discover the eminent gems of Tibetan tourism, including the remarkable destinations of Gyantse and the Tashi Lhunpo Monastery in Shigatse.
Upon reaching the sacred grounds of Mount Kailash, partake in a profound three-day trek around the hallowed peak, accompanied by devout followers of both Buddhism and Hinduism. Following the transcendent Kailash Kora, we will continue our odyssey to the renowned Mount Everest Basecamp. From there, our path leads us to the Kyirong border town, nestled along the Sino-Nepalese Border.
Our group tours present an exceptional and economical way to traverse the mystical lands of Tibet, uniting like-minded individuals seeking to share the wonders of this extraordinary journey. Whether you are a solo traveler in search of camaraderie or a small group yearning to explore alongside fellow adventurers, our meticulously crafted group tours offer unparalleled quality. Guided by our knowledgeable local Tibetan experts, prepare to be captivated by the essence of this remarkable expedition.
Lhasa to Kailash and Nepal Group Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa
Upon your arrival in Lhasa, our knowledgeable tour guide will warmly welcome you at the train station or airport. You will be escorted to your hotel, where you can settle in. If time permits, take the opportunity to explore the vibrant Barkhor Street surrounding the Jokhang Temple.
Day 2: Lhasa Guided Tour
Begin your day by visiting the Jokhang Temple, a revered Buddhist temple and monastery that holds immense significance in the Inner Himalayan region. Founded in the 7th century by Tibetan Buddhist King Songtsen Gampo, the temple houses the sacred statue of Lord Buddha, brought as a dowry upon his marriage to Chinese Princess Wencheng. Witness the spiritual devotion of thousands of pilgrims as they circumambulate and pay homage to the temple.
In the afternoon, delve into the serene ambiance of the Sera Monastery. Established around 600 years ago by the main disciple of Je Tsongkhapa, this monastery is one of the largest in Lhasa and central Tibet. Marvel at the mesmerizing debates on Tibetan Buddhist philosophy that take place in the monastery’s courtyard every weekday from 3 pm onwards. Feel free to capture the experience through mobile phone photography.
Day 3: Lhasa Guided Tour
Embark on a captivating journey to the iconic Potala Palace in the morning. This magnificent architectural marvel, with its thousand rooms, dominates the Lhasa cityscape. Originally constructed in the 7th century by King Songtsen Gampo, the palace was later rebuilt by the fifth Dalai Lama. It has since served as the winter residence for successive Dalai Lamas and the administrative center of the local Government.
In the afternoon, explore the spiritual haven of Drepung Monastery. This monastery, one of the three most significant in Lhasa and central Tibet, was once the largest monastic complex in the world during the early 20th century. Take a leisurely stroll around the monastery, relishing the panoramic views it offers.
Day 4: Lhasa - Yamdrok Lake - Karo La Glacier - Gyantse - Shigatse
Distance: 360 km, Elevation: 3,840 m
Embark on an early morning journey from Lhasa to witness the breathtaking beauty of Yamdrok Lake and maximize your time at the day’s attractions. Admire the tranquil and sacred waters of Yamdrok Lake, considered one of Tibet’s most revered and picturesque lakes. As you travel along the lakeshore, catch a glimpse of the majestic Mt. Nojin Kangtsang (7,191 m) in the distance.
Continuing on, marvel at the mesmerizing Karo La Glacier before reaching the charming town of Gyantse. In Gyantse, pay a visit to the renowned Palcho Monastery and the remarkable Kumbum Stupa, the most prominent Tibetan Buddhist stupa in Tibet. From Gyantse, venture through the captivating Tibetan countryside to Shigatse, the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama and the second-largest city in traditional Tibet. Explore the monastic complex of Tashi Lhunpo, steeped in rich history and spirituality.
Day 5: Shigatse to Latse
Distance: 150 km, Elevation: 4,200m
Depart from Shigatse and embark on a scenic drive through the rugged and awe-inspiring landscapesof Central Tibet. The journey takes you through the wild and beautiful terrain, offering captivating views along the way. After a three-hour drive covering 150 kilometers, make a detour of 25 kilometers to visit the Sakya Monastery. This remarkable monastery represents the principal Sakyapa sect of Tibetan Buddhism and showcases unique Mongolian-style structures distinct from those found in the Lhasa region.
Day 6: Latse - Saga
Distance: 340 km, Elevation: 4,500m
Today’s adventure takes you deeper into the untamed wilderness of the northern Tibetan highlands. Traveling a distance of 340 kilometers, immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring landscapes and the rugged beauty of the region. Keep an eye out for wildlife encounters as you make your way through the heavenly formations of light. By the end of the day, you will have gained approximately 300 meters in elevation.
Day 7: Saga to Darchen
Distance: 493 km, Elevation: 5,000m
Embark on an authentic experience of the western wilderness of Tibet as you embark on a spectacular journey from Saga to Darchen. The route offers breathtaking views of the Tibetan Plateau landscape as you traverse alongside the mighty Yarlung Tsangpo River. Marvel at the vistas of the Himalayas and immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Tibetan plateau. The day’s travel spans a distance of 520 kilometers through incredible terrain.
En route, make a stopover at Manasarovar Lake, one of the holiest lakes in Tibet. According to Hindu beliefs, bathing in this sacred lake cleanses one of sins accumulated over many lifetimes. Take a moment to meditate and contemplate by the tranquil lakeshore. Afterward, continue your journey to Darchen, the base camp for the Mount Kailash trek. Rest and prepare for the upcoming adventure.
Day 8-10: Trekking around Mount Kailash
Distance: 54 km, Maximum Elevation: 5,630m
Embark on the highlight of the tour as you undertake a three-day trek around Mount Kailash. This transformative experience will see you trek alongside the sacred mountain, surrounded by its awe-inspiring presence. The trek covers a distance of 54 kilometers, with varying terrain and elevations. Please note that facilities along the trekking route are minimal, and the trek at high elevations can be challenging. It is essential for all group members to support one another throughout the journey.
On the first day, trek 20 kilometers from Darchen to Dira Puk Monastery, following the ancient pilgrimage route alongside Tibetan Buddhist and Indian Hindu pilgrims. Overnight accommodations will be arranged in a small guesthouse near the monastery at an elevation of 5,080 meters.
The second day of the trek will take you over the Dolma La Pass, the highest point of the circuit at 5,630 meters. Prepare to be captivated by the stunning mountain and glacier views that accompany you throughout the day. Descend from the pass to Zutul Puk Monastery, situated at an elevation of 4,820 meters. The total distance covered on this day is 18 kilometers.
On the third and final day of the trek, hike 14 kilometers from Zutul Puk Monastery back to the town of Darchen. Conclude the trek and return for one last night along the shores of the serene Lake Manasarovar. Take the opportunity to relax and rejuvenate by soaking in the mineral-rich hot springs, offering a perfect respite.
Day 11: Manasarovar Lake to Saga
Distance: 450 km, Maximum Elevation: 4,500m
Begin your journey back along the same route to SagaDay 12: Saga – Mount Everest Base Camp
Distance: 472 km, Elevation: 5,200 m
Prepare for another highlight of the tour as you depart from Saga and make your way to the legendary Mount Everest Base Camp at Rongbuk Monastery. Along the way, relish panoramic views of some of the highest peaks in the Himalayas, including Makalu, Lhotse, Cho Oyu, and, of course, Mount Everest. The zig-zag route will lead you to the base camp, where you will spend the night in a tent guesthouse near Rongbuk Monastery, nestled at the foot of Everest.
Day 13: Mount Everest Base Camp - Kyirong
Distance: 350 km, Elevation: 2,797m
Witness the awe-inspiring sunrise over Mount Everest in the morning, as the first sunbeams illuminate the majestic peaks. After savoring this magical sight, embark on your return journey to Kyirong. Traverse the magnificent Himalayan Mountains, reveling in their beauty and grandeur. By day’s end, you will arrive at the enchanting town of Kyirong.
Day 14: Departure from Tibet
On your final day, bid farewell to Tibet as your tour guide accompanies you to the border customs. Once you cross into Nepal, you will arrange your transportation to Kathmandu.
Conclusion: Lhasa to Kailash and Nepal Group Tour
The Lhasa to Kailash and Nepal Group Tour is specially crafted for budget-conscious travelers seeking an affordable option to share the expenses with fellow adventurers. However, it’s important to note that joining a group tour is not mandatory for all international visitors traveling to Tibet. According to Tibet’s travel regulations, you have the flexibility to organize your own tour.
If you choose to organize a private tour, you can hire a local Tibetan tour guide, arrange for a private vehicle, and obtain the necessary Tibet travel permits through a local travel agency in Tibet. This allows you to tailor your journey according to your preferences and travel at your own pace.
Whether you opt for a group tour or organize a private one, the Lhasa to Kailash and Nepal Group Tour promises an unforgettable adventure through the mystical lands of Tibet. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage, awe-inspiring landscapes, and spiritual wonders that await you on this remarkable journey. Our expert local Tibetan guides are committed to providing you with a high-quality experience, ensuring that your exploration of Tibet becomes a cherished memory.
Choose the Lhasa to Kailash and Nepal Group Tour for an economical and captivating adventure, where you can forge lifelong connections with fellow travelers and immerse yourself in the enchanting realms of Tibet.
Responsible Tourism of Lhasa to Kailash and Nepal Group Tour
At our core, we are a Tibetan-owned and Tibetan-staffed company, dedicated to promoting responsible tourism practices throughout our operations. We believe in supporting the local community and preserving the unique cultural heritage and natural environment of Tibet. Here’s how we prioritize responsible tourism on this tour:
- Local Tibetan Guides and Drivers: We take pride in employing local Tibetans as guides and drivers. Our team members have extensive knowledge of the region, its history, and its traditions. By engaging local professionals, we ensure authentic experiences while supporting the local economy and providing employment opportunities to Tibetans.
- Support for Tibetan-Owned Businesses: As part of our commitment to responsible tourism, we prioritize collaborating with Tibetan-owned businesses. During this tour, all the hotels we have selected for your stay in Tibet are locally-owned establishments. By choosing these accommodations, we contribute to the economic growth and sustainability of the local community.
- Culture Preservation: Preserving the rich cultural heritage of Tibet is of utmost importance to us. We strive to create meaningful interactions with local communities, fostering respect for their traditions and ways of life. Through immersive experiences at monasteries, temples, and cultural sites, we promote cultural understanding while encouraging responsible visitor behavior that respects local customs and sensitivities.
- Environmental Protection: We recognize the significance of protecting Tibet’s pristine environment. When we are not organizing journeys, we actively engage in eco-tourism and conservation projects in collaboration with local Tibetans. We encourage responsible practices such as minimizing waste generation, conserving water and energy, and respecting the fragile ecosystems we encounter during the tour.
By choosing to travel with us, you are actively contributing to responsible tourism initiatives that empower the local Tibetan community, preserve their cultural heritage, and safeguard the natural wonders of Tibet. Together, we can make a positive impact on the region while creating unforgettable experiences for you as a responsible traveler.
