15 Days Mount Kailash Pilgrimage Tour with Lhasa Shigatse & EBC

Altitude: 3650m

Tashi Delek! Welcome to Lhasa! Your guide and driver will meet you at the airport for the 1.5-hour drive to your downtown hotel. At 3,650 meters, it is essential to rest and acclimate to the altitude. Relax for the remainder of the day to ensure you are refreshed and ready to begin your Lhasa exploration tomorrow.

Get to Lhasa (Air or Rail): Major Chinese cities like Chengdu, Beijing, and Shanghai offer frequent flights to Lhasa Gonggar Airport, alongside international connections to Kathmandu. Also, the iconic Qinghai-Tibet Railway links Lhasa to hubs like Xining (21 hrs), Lanzhou (24.5 hrs), Chongqing (35.5 hrs), Chengdu (36.5 hrs), Xian (31 hrs), Beijing (40.5 hrs), Shanghai (47 hrs), Guangzhou (52.5 hrs), Shigatse (2.5 hrs), Nyingzhi (4 hrs).

Altitude: 3650m

After breakfast, you will explore Lhasa for its brilliant architectures, culture, and history, and local street.

First, ascend 365 steps to the Potala Palace, the world’s highest palace, landmark of Tibet and historic winter residence of the Dalai Lama. Explore the Red Palace, home to sacred shrines and intricate Buddhist art. Marvel at panoramic views of Lhasa while witnessing pilgrims at this 7th-century landmark, originally built by King Songtsen Gampo for Princess Wencheng. Its mysterious treasures and vibrant carvings make it a bucket-list destination.

Next, visit the 1,300-year-old Jokhang Temple, the spiritual heart of Tibet. Built for King Songtsen Gampo’s brides, this UNESCO site houses the world’s most sacred life-sized statue of the 12-year-old Buddha. Experience a place where time stands still as you witness devoted pilgrims praying day and night. It remains the holiest destination in the Buddhist world.

Later, stroll through Barkhor Street, an ancient pilgrim circuit turned vibrant market. Sip yak butter tea, try on traditional Tibetan dress for photos, and browse unique Tibetan, Nepalese, and Indian handicrafts at the spiritual heart of Lhasa.

Altitude: 3650m

Today’s cultural tour features two of Tibet’s "great three" Gelug university monasteries: Drepung and Sera.

First, drive 35 minutes (12km) to Drepung Monastery, the former residence of the Dalai Lama and Lhasa’s largest Gelug monastery. Famous for August’s Shoton Festival and grand Thangka unveilings, it offers a look at unique architecture and lively monk debates. Afterward, enjoy a two-hour immersive Tibetan culture tour, featuring traditional incense making and the ancient art of block printing.

In the afternoon, drive 14km (40min) to explore the beautiful Sera Monastery compound. Stroll its bright, stone-paved paths before attending the famous afternoon debates from 15:00 to 17:00. These lively sessions (unavailable Sundays) feature monks using expressive claps and stomps to sharpen their philosophical insights.

After that, back to your hotel in Lhasa.

Altitude: 5012m | Distance: 380km, about 7 hours’ drive

Today’s 340km drive from Lhasa to Shigatse takes about 8 to 9 hours. Along the way, you’ll stop to admire two natural landmarks: Yamdrok Lake and Karola Glacier.

After a 3 to 4-hour drive (200km), reach Kampa-la Pass (4,797m) for breathtaking views of Yamdrok Lake and Mt. Nyenchen Khangsar. As one of Tibet’s four sacred lakes, it is spiritually significant for locating the Dalai Lama's reincarnation. Optionally, you can support local families by paying 5–10 yuan to photograph beautifully adorned Tibetan Mastiffs and yaks.

In the afternoon, drive 70km (1.5 hours) to the stunning Karola Glacier (5,012m), a famous filming location for "Red Valley." As one of Tibet's major continental glaciers, it sits below the 7,191-meter Naiqin Kangsang Peak. Visible from the highway, you can easily walk to the foot of this "frozen waterfall." Across the road, enjoy spectacular views of the snow-capped Mt. Kalurong.

Next, visit Gyantse Kumbum inside Pelkor Chode Monastery to admire its 32-meter structure and intricate Buddhist art. Afterward, drive 97km (2 hours) to your hotel in Shigatse.

Altitude: 5100m | Distance: 340km, about 7 hours’ drive

Following breakfast, depart for a 6.5-hour drive (330km) to Mount Everest, the world's highest peak. En route, visit the high-altitude Rongbuk Monastery before arriving at Everest Base Camp (EBC).

Departing Shigatse, a 4.5-hour drive (240km) leads to Gyawu La Pass (5,200m). From here, witness your first glimpse of Mt. Everest and the famous winding road below. Observe dedicated pilgrims and cyclists trekking to Everest Base Camp, a journey of profound spiritual significance and a bucket-list achievement at the world’s highest peak.

Then, drive 122km (3.5 hours) through stunning grasslands and snow-capped ranges to Rongbuk Monastery (5,154m), the world’s highest. Marvel at 400-year-old meditation caves, white chortens, and prayer flags against a spectacular Mt. Everest backdrop.

Altitude: 4600m | Distance: 320km, about 7 hours’ drive

Catch the golden glow of Everest at dawn. This stunning natural display of light and color is a breathtaking, once-in-a-lifetime experience for every traveler at the world's roof.

Leave Everest Base Camp behind as you drive the rugged Tingri Road toward Saga County. After one last look at the world’s highest summit, you’ll encounter the spectacular Mount Shishapangma (8,027m). Situated 120km away, this Himalayan giant is the only 8,000-meter peak located solely in Tibet. Take in the breathtaking scenery of its massive glaciers and the vibrant, high-altitude grasslands that stretch toward the Nepal border.

Drive through the desolate beauty of Digur Tang, framed by the soaring peaks of Shishapangma and Langtang. Descend to Pelkhu-tso (4,590m), Shigatse’s largest lake, known for its deep turquoise and cobalt hues. Resting quietly like a brilliant diamond at the foot of the holy Mount Shishapangma, the lake offers a spectacular contrast to the rugged desert plains and towering glaciers nearby.

Continue your journey with a 69km drive to Saga County for an overnight stay in the local town.

Road Condition: The road gets a bit rougher as you hit the old Tingri Road, which runs parallel to the Himalayas and offers views of the Annapurna Ranges on the Nepalese side.

Altitude: 4600m | Distance: 500km, about 8 hours’ drive

Travel from Saga to Drongpa County, the source of the Brahmaputra River. Stop at "Old Drongpa" to visit Dargyeling Monastery, located 1.5km off the main road. Known for its unusual chortens and yak heads carved with mantras, it offers excellent views. After passing New Drongpa (25km away), continue your journey through the high-altitude landscape to reach Baryang Township (4,750m) for the evening.

Before Darchen, stop at the stunning Lake Manasarovar, Tibet’s most sacred and "invincible" lake. Its sapphire waters and sandy shores, framed by snow-capped peaks, offer a beautiful contrast to Mount Kailash. Take in the peaceful reflections of the sky or watch pilgrims bathing in the crystal-clear water.

Opposite Lake Manasarovar, you will reach Lhanag-tso (4,575m). Often called "Ghost Lake," its saline, dark blue water supports no life, leaving the surrounding landscape desolate. The area lacks vegetation and livestock, creating a somber atmosphere. You can observe the powerful waves crashing against the coast.

Finish the day by driving to Darchen Town(4,574m), located at the base of Mount Kailash. Settle into this small mountain town for a restful night’s sleep before your next adventure.

Altitude: 4600m | Trekking Distance: 22km, about 6 hours

Rising to 6,638 meters, Mount Kailash is a sacred four-sided peak revered by Buddhists, Hindus, Bons, and Jains. Considered the world’s center, it is the spiritual home of Buddha Demchok. Pilgrims travel from across Asia for the 52-kilometer trek starting and ending in Darchen.

This high-altitude journey typically takes three days.

Recommended Day One Trekking Route: Darchen to Dira-puk Monastery

Begin your trek in Darchen, heading west across the Barkha Plain toward Tarboche. This site is famous for the Saga Dawa festival, where pilgrims gather for the annual flagpole raising. Don't miss the "two-legged" Chorten Kangnyi nearby; walking through its archway is considered a lucky and auspicious act for all travelers and pilgrims.

Later, hike up to Chuku Monastery, a Sakya sect site perched on the western hillside, to see its beautiful murals and statues. From Chuku bridge, you can choose between trails on the east or west riverbanks. Both take about three hours to reach Dira-puk Monastery, but we recommend the eastern pilgrim route for the best experience on your way up.

Finally, you’ll reach Dira-puk Monastery (4,920m), perfectly positioned on the hillside. This Nyingma sect site offers an astonishing view of Mount Kailash’s north face—a massive wall of black granite and white snow. You’ll stay overnight in the monastery’s guesthouse (It is the area's best available option, though facilities are rustic and basic.)

Altitude: 4600m | Trekking Distance: 20km, 7-8 Hours’ Trekking

Day two is the kora’s toughest leg. Start early as the sun rises, passing Jarok Donhang (5,210m) before a steep 762-meter climb to Dolma-la Pass (5,360m). This sacred ascent is believed to wash away a lifetime of sins. Despite the challenging altitude, reaching the summit is a major spiritual milestone. Once at the top, take a well-earned rest and soak in the incredible Himalayan views.

After that, descend for an hour into Lhachu Valley, then hike four more hours to Dzultripuk (4,810m), the famous "miracle cave of Milarepa." Explore the Sakya monastery’s beautiful statues and scriptures upon arrival. We aim to reach the guesthouse early to secure one of the limited rooms. This gives you plenty of time to relax and soak in the spiritual atmosphere before the trek’s final day.

Altitude: 4600m | Trekking Distance: 14km, about 3-4 hours’ Trekking

On your third day, complete the Mount Kailash kora with an easy three-hour trek back to Darchen. The route follows the river into the colorful Gold and Red Cliffs canyon, passing Milarepa’s Cave and its surrounding shrines. Upon reaching the Barkha plain (4,700m), you will enjoy distant views of Gurla Mandata. A final one-hour walk on a level dirt road concludes this spiritually significant 52km circumnavigation.

After finishing your trek, your driver will pick you up for the 4.5-hour drive to Zanda in Tibet’s Ngari Prefecture. It’s about 230 kilometers from Darchen and is famous for its incredible geography. This area is home to historic sites like the Guge Kingdom ruins and Tholing Monastery.

Spend the night in Zanda town.

Altitude: 4600m | Distance: 340km, about 5 hours’ driving

On this day, spend the day exploring the Guge Kingdom ruins, a powerful state from the 10th–17th centuries. Climb through the Red Palace religious center and the royal White Palace, admiring architecture that blends Tibetan, Indian, and Chinese styles. Though scarred by war, the site still preserves exquisite frescoes and sculptures. Reach the summit for a stunning panoramic view of this legendary desert empire and its intricate artwork.

After Guge, drive 20 kilometers to the Zanda Earth Forest, the world’s largest tertiary strata formation. Created by millennia of erosion, these unique rocks stretch over five kilometers along the Elephant Spring River. The shapes resemble everything from galloping horses to standing warriors.

The final stop is Tholing Monastery (10th century), meaning "hovering in the sky." As a historic Guge art center, it houses precious frescoes and statues. Explore the Main Hall’s Buddha Shakyamuni, the Assembly Hall’s Guru Rinpoche, and the Scripture Hall, where monks still study.

After the tour, drive to Darchen County for accommodation.

Altitude: 4600m | Distance: 500km, about 8 hours’ drive

Today, you’ll drive from Darchen to Saga, traveling through Tibet’s rugged and windswept rural landscape. While the road is mostly unpaved and can be quite bumpy or dusty, the scenery makes it all worthwhile. You'll pass through high mountain passes, vast grasslands, and scenic river valleys, all while enjoying spectacular, constant views of the Himalayas.

Along the drive, you'll pass through small villages and nomad camps, offering a genuine look at local life. You’ll see herders with their yaks and sheep, farmers in the fields, and monks traveling the roadside. There will be plenty of chances to stretch your legs at scenic viewpoints, perfect for capturing photos of the vibrant culture and stunning landscape.

Stay overnight in Saga County.

Altitude: 4000m | Distance: 500km, about 8 hours’ drive

Today, relax on a comfortable 8-hour drive from Saga to Shigatse, where smooth, paved roads allow you to fully soak in the stunning Tibetan scenery. Your destination is Shigatse, a vibrant city with roots in the 7th century and a treasure trove of traditional architecture. Don't miss the chance to explore the iconic Tashilhunpo Monastery, the historic seat of the Panchen Lama, which remains one of the most important cultural landmarks in the entire region.

Accommodate in Shigatse City.

Altitude: 3650m | Distance: 340km, about 7 hours’ drive

Visit Tashilhunpo Monastery, founded in 1447 and the largest in the Tsang region. As the historic seat of the Panchen Lamas, it houses sacred tombs and ornate chortens. Your guide will explain the lineage of the Dalai and Panchen Lamas while you enjoy vibrant murals and hypnotic chanting. Join locals on a kora or hike to the top for a spectacular bird’s-eye view of the monastery and Shigatse city.

Afterward, back to Lhasa. Upon arrival, head back to your hotel in downtown Lhasa for a good rest.

Altitude: 3650m | Distance: 100km, about 1.5 hours’ drive

It’s time to say goodbye after an incredible 15 Days Tibet Private tour. Your guide will ensure a smooth transfer to the airport or station for your next connection. Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel!