1
Arrival in Kathmandu
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport, where you’ll be greeted by our team and transferred to your hotel in Thamel, Kathmandu’s vibrant tourist hub. Spend the evening relaxing or exploring the bustling markets and local eateries.
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu
2
Kathmandu Sightseeing & Visa Preparation
Enjoy a guided city tour of UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple). Afternoon free to rest or shop for gear while we finalize your Tibet travel permits and Chinese group visa.
Overnight: Hotel in Kathmandu
3
Fly Kathmandu to Lhasa
Take a scenic trans-Himalayan flight into Lhasa, Tibet’s spiritual capital. You’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Rest and hydrate to adjust to the altitude.
Overnight: Hotel in Lhasa
4
Explore Lhasa – Potala Palace & Jokhang Temple
Visit the iconic Potala Palace, once the residence of the Dalai Lama. Then walk through the spiritual core of Lhasa—Jokhang Temple—and observe pilgrims on the sacred Barkhor circuit.
Overnight: Hotel in Lhasa
5
Lhasa – Drepung & Sera Monasteries
Discover two of Tibet’s most important monasteries—Drepung, a former monastic university, and Sera, known for its lively monk debates. This is a cultural immersion into Tibetan Buddhism.
Overnight: Hotel in Lhasa
6
Lhasa to Shigatse via Gyantse (3,900 m)
A full-day scenic drive across high passes and turquoise lakes, including Yamdrok Tso Lake. Visit Gyantse’s Pelkor Chode Monastery and the Kumbum Stupa before continuing to Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city.
Overnight: Hotel in Shigatse
7
Shigatse to Saga (4,640 m)
Drive across the vast Tibetan plateau toward the small town of Saga, passing high-altitude plains, nomadic settlements, and stunning Himalayan vistas.
Overnight: Guesthouse or local lodge in Saga
8
Saga to Lake Manasarovar (4,590 m)
Journey to the holy Lake Manasarovar, one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world, revered by Hindus and Buddhists. Enjoy a tranquil walk along its shores with views of Mount Kailash in the distance.
Overnight: Guesthouse near Lake Manasarovar
9
Lake Manasarovar to Darchen (4,575 m)
After a sacred dip or walk at Manasarovar, drive to Darchen, the gateway to Mount Kailash. Final gear check and briefing for your kora trek.
Overnight: Guesthouse in Darchen
10
Trek to Dirapuk Monastery (4,920 m)
Begin the 3-day Mount Kailash Kora (circuit). Trek along the Lha Chu Valley with views of the north face of Kailash. Reach Dirapuk Monastery, nestled at the foot of the mountain.
Overnight: Simple lodge in Dirapuk
11
Cross Drolma La Pass (5,630 m) – Trek to Zuthulphuk (4,790 m)
This is the toughest but most sacred day. Cross the Drolma La Pass, marked by fluttering prayer flags. Descend past spiritual sites like Gauri Kund and arrive at Zuthulphuk Monastery.
Overnight: Lodge or camp in Zuthulphuk
12
Finish Kora & Drive to Saga
Complete the last leg of the Kailash Kora and return to Darchen, where your vehicle awaits. Drive back to Saga for a hot meal and well-earned rest.
Overnight: Guesthouse or lodge in Saga
13
Drive to Shigatse
Retrace your route across the Tibetan plateau with beautiful scenery and photo stops.
Overnight: Hotel in Shigatse
14
Shigatse to Lhasa
Drive back to Lhasa, stopping along the way to visit local monasteries or villages. Free time in Lhasa to shop or relax.
Overnight: Hotel in Lhasa
15
Fly Lhasa to Kathmandu – Departure
Transfer to Gonggar Airport for your flight back to Kathmandu, where your trip ends—or extend your stay in Nepal.
Optional: Add-on tours in Bhaktapur, Patan, or Pokhara.
