Pilgrimage
12 Days / 11 Nights
Known as the Roof of the World, Tibet has long captured the imagination of travellers with its immense landscapes, ancient traditions and powerful spiritual heritage.
High above the rest of Asia, the Tibetan Plateau stretches across a vast landscape of mountains, valleys, lakes and remote wilderness. Its high-altitude environment supports unique wildlife and feeds some of Asia's great rivers, making the region important far beyond its borders.
Tibet is also deeply connected to Buddhist culture and pilgrimage. Ancient monasteries, prayer flags and centuries-old traditions can be found throughout the region, while Mount Kailash remains one of the most revered pilgrimage sites for several religions.
Beyond its landscapes and spiritual significance, Tibet is shaped by the people who call this challenging environment home. Their traditions, resilience and way of life are an important part of what makes travelling through the region so memorable.
For travellers seeking something beyond the usual Himalayan routes, Tibet offers a remarkable combination of high-altitude wilderness, ancient culture, spirituality and extraordinary mountain scenery.
★ Trip Highlights
- ✓ Hotels in Tibet:-
- ✓ Lhasa – Himalaya or Thangka hotel (bed & breakfast)
- ✓ Shigatse – Gesar hotel (bed & breakfast)
- ✓ Saga – Western hotel (bed and all meals)
- ✓ Kyirong – Mustang hotel or similar (bed & all meals)
12 Days Detailed Plan
Arrival at Gonggar airport. After clearing immigration and customs it will be a One and half hour's drive to cover the 93 km. to Lhasa which is situated at an altitude of 3490 meters. Upon arrival, we check in at the hotel, right in the heart of the old city.
Stay: Hotel
Transit: Flight
Drepung monastery: It is 8km to the west of central Lhasa. Drepung was once the world’s largest monastery, with a population of around 10,000 monks. The word Drepung means, “rice heap”, a reference to the high number of white monastic buildings that once piled up on the hillside. It was founded in 1417 by a charismatic monk and disciple of Tsongkhapa called Jamyang Choje.
Sera Monastery: Around 5 km north of central Lhasa, it was founded in 1419 by Sakya Yeshe, a disciple of Tsongkhapa also known by the honorific title Jamchen Choje. Norbulinka: It is the first summer palace of the Dalai Lama, about 10 minutes’ walk south of Lhasa Hotel in the western part of town and was founded by the 7th Dalai Lama in 1755.
Stay: Hotel
Transit: Tour
Jokhang Temple: This is a huge building structure consisting of three floors and an open roof dotted with chapels and chambers. The Jokhang Temple has undergone massive additions and reconstructions since the 7th century, particularly during the reign of the 5th Dalai Lama in the 17th century.
Barkhor Street: The center of old Lhasa, Barkhor is a circular street, the oldest street in Lhasa, and remains very traditional. It is a place where Tibetan culture, economy, religion, and arts assemble and a place to which a visit must be paid. It was said that in the seventh century, Songtsen Gampo, the first Tibetan King (617 or 650) who unified Tibet, married Chinese Princess Wencheng and Nepal princess Tritsun.
Potala Palace: Potala was the winter palace of the Dalai lama, which was originally built in the 7th century by King Sotsen Gampo and rebuilt to the present size by the 5th Dalai lama in the 17th century. Built in the mid-18th century by the 7th Dalai lama, Norbulingka, the Jewel Park was the Dalai lama's summer palace, it covers 100 acres with palaces, pavilions, and a zoo.
Stay: Hotel
Transit: Tour
Here see the giant Buddha in the famous Tashilumpo monastery. The seat of the Panchen Lama.
Stay: Hotel
Transit: Tour
Saga: On the first long driving day over the sandy and rocky land of Tibet, other sites like lake, nomads chasing thousands of yaks and sheep, keep you busy. By the late afternoon you will cross Bhramhapurtra River on the way to typical Chinese and Tibetan town called Saga.
Stay: Hotel
Transit: Tour
After breakfast drive to Chui Gompa (Mansarovar). Mansarovar Parikrama. The number of days is free for spiritual activities.
Total Driving Time: Approx. 7 Hours
Stay: Local Guest House
Transit: Tour
Starting point of Parikarma. One can have spectacular view of Kailash Parbat. Those who go for Parikarma will start their trek to Diraphuk and rest will drive back to Darchen.
In the morning take a short drive of about 12 Kms. to reach Tarboche which is the starting point for the trekking on Holy Mount Kailash Parkrama. The first day of our Kora is a gradual walk with multitudes of other local pilgrims chanting and praying. The trek today leads us to few ups and downs till we reach our camp/guest house at Dirapuk (4860 m). Stay in a basic camp on the grassy meadows giving you the fascinating view of Mount Kailash, north-west face. An important point to note is that those who are not feeling fit to continue the mount Kailash parikarma will be driven back to Darchen where they will wait for the other group members to return.
Stay: Local Guest House
Transit: Tour
This day is difficult and full of climax on the holy yatra of Kailash Mansarovar. Today after early breakfast we trek to the higher side of the mountains just under the Holy Mount Kailash. The walk along Mount Kailash will bring you to Drolma La, 5,200 m. which is one of the highest points in the trek. From here we descend towards the gradual fields of Zuthulphuk where we have the overnight stay arranged. The descent is steep to the valley below. From the valley below, the walk becomes pleasant and a bit relaxing. The path takes you along some gentle slopes over the grassy field. Reach Zuthulphuk for overnight stay.
Total Walking Time: Approx. 8 Hours
Stay: Local Guest House
Transit: Short Trek
After short Trek (8kms 3-4hrs) and reach to the point where the coach will be waiting, and we will drive to Darchen.
Stay: Hotel
Transit: Short Trek
Drive back to Saga
Stay: Hotel
Transit: Travel
Drive to Kyirung
Stay: Hotel
Transit: Travel
Driving Time: Approx 6 hours
Stay: Hotel
Transit: Travel
What's Included
- Twin Sharing accommodation in guest houses and hotels (enroute Kailash) as per itinerary on full board basis & on bed and breakfast in Lhasa and Shigatse in 3 Star Hotel.
- Mineral water for drinking.
- Service charges with government taxes.
- All entrance fee of monasteries with Kailash and Manasarovar tickets.
- Transportation by AC deluxe vehicle.
- Airport transfer in Lhasa.
- All sightseeing as per itinerary with English speaking guide.
- Transfer from Kyirong to Kathmandu AC deluxe vehicle.
- Monastery entrance fees, portable oxygen cylinders in case of emergency.
- All necessary Kailash permits.
- Chinese (Tibet) group visa processing
What's Excluded
- Any services in Kathmandu.
- Airfares from Home - Kathmandu - Home.
- Kathmandu-Lhasa flight cost.
- Lunch and Dinner in Lhasa and Shigatse.
- All beverages, Photography charges and Telephone calls.
- Travel Insurance for clients.
- Tibet China Visa fees.
- Emergency evacuation expenses
- Extra cost in the event of landslide for hiring additional transportation.
- Expenses of personal urgent visa fee etc. & Services other than specified.
Important Notes & Trip Guidelines
- Clothing:-
- Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy walking shoes throughout your Tibet journey.
- Carry warm layers for cold mornings, evenings, and changing weather.
- Pack thermal clothing, warm trousers, sweaters, jackets, gloves, and scarves.
- Waterproof or windproof jackets provide extra protection during unpredictable weather.
- Choose comfortable footwear suitable for sightseeing, walking, and trekking.
- Lightweight waterproof boots are useful for snowy or wet conditions.
- Bring essential medicines, toiletries, and personal care products from home.
- Keep a small first-aid kit for common travel-related problems.
- Carry a route map to follow your daily travel itinerary.
- What to Pack:-
- A down jacket provides valuable warmth during cold mountain conditions.
- Gore-Tex clothing offers protection against wind, rain, and occasional snow.
- Thermal innerwear helps retain warmth during colder parts of your journey.
- Pack warm trousers, woollen shirts, sweaters, and insulated jackets.
- Carry woollen gloves, warm hats, and scarves for additional protection.
- A balaclava can protect your face from cold winds.
- Face coverings can also help protect against dust during travel.
- Useful Items to Carry:-
- Carry chocolates, dried fruits, sweets, glucose, and savoury snacks.
- Keep a strong reusable water bottle with you.
- Drink water regularly to stay hydrated at high altitudes.
- Keep personal medicines easily accessible throughout the journey.
- Carry prescribed altitude medication according to your doctor's instructions.
- Wear UV-protection sunglasses because sunlight is stronger at high elevations.
- Apply sunscreen regularly to protect exposed skin from strong sunlight.
- Wet wipes are useful during dusty journeys and remote travel.
- Carry clothesline clips and basic sewing supplies for unexpected needs.
- Pack toilet paper for journeys through remote areas.
- Carry a torch with spare batteries for low-light situations.
- A small daypack keeps essential items accessible during daily activities.
- Bring a camera to capture Tibet's spectacular mountain landscapes.
- Binoculars are useful for enjoying distant scenery and wildlife.
- Health and Fitness:-
- Tibet travel involves high elevations, long journeys, and challenging terrain.
- Good physical preparation can make the journey more comfortable.
- Consult your doctor before travelling if you have existing conditions.
- Medical advice can help determine suitable precautions before travelling.
- Allow your body enough time to adjust to higher elevations.
- Walk slowly and take regular breaks during high-altitude activities.
- The Kailash Parikrama involves physically demanding trekking at high elevations.
- Prepare for cold temperatures, uneven trails, and reduced oxygen levels.
- Altitude Sickness:-
- Altitude sickness can occur when travelling rapidly to higher elevations.
- Common symptoms include headaches, tiredness, nausea, and reduced appetite.
- Other symptoms may include dizziness, poor sleep, and breathlessness.
- Symptoms vary between individuals and may improve with acclimatisation.
- Rest properly and avoid strenuous activities while adjusting to altitude.
- Drink enough water throughout your journey to maintain hydration.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking while your body acclimatises.
- Consult your doctor before using Diamox for altitude-related concerns.
- Follow professional medical advice regarding dosage and possible side effects.
- Emergency oxygen and high-altitude equipment may be available during tours.
- Emergency equipment does not replace proper acclimatisation or medical care.
- Risks and Travel Conditions
- Every effort is made to keep your journey comfortable.
- Weather and road conditions can sometimes affect planned itineraries.
- Landslides, flooding, snowfall, and road closures may cause delays.
- Flights may occasionally experience cancellations or unexpected schedule changes.
- Illness or accidents can also require changes to travel arrangements.
- Travel restrictions may affect routes, schedules, or planned activities.
- Itineraries may change when conditions make planned routes unsuitable.
- Additional expenses may arise from unexpected travel arrangements.
- Review tour terms carefully before travelling to understand applicable conditions.