Mount Kailash Manasarovar Tour from Nepal

Published On : 10th Feb, 2025 By Himalayan Dream Team

How to Get to Tibet: Transportation Options from China or Nepal

For international travelers, reaching Tibet typically involves two main routes: from Mainland China or from Nepal. Each route offers different experiences, regulations, and advantages. Understanding the available transportation options and permit requirements will help you plan a smooth journey to the Roof of the World.

Getting to Tibet from Mainland China

By Air: The Fastest and Most Convenient Option

Flying is the most efficient way to reach Tibet from major Chinese cities. Lhasa Gonggar International Airport (LXA) is the main gateway, offering direct flights from cities such as Beijing, Chengdu, Xi’an, Kunming, and Chongqing. Some flights have layovers in Xining, Shanghai, or Guangzhou.

Tips for Flight to Tibet:

• Book the flight in advance, especially if traveling in peak seasons.
• Prepare for delays in flights as sometimes flights are cancelled due to bad weather in Tibet.
• Essential documents to carry: passport, Chinese visa, and Tibet Travel Permit.
• Must reach the airport at least two hours prior to flight departure.
• Gradual acclimatization after arrival; otherwise, altitude sickness might happen.

By Train: A Scenic Fullest Journey

The Qinghai-Tibet Railway is the highest railway in the world and presents a breathtaking journey to Tibet. The railway connects Lhasa with cities like Beijing, Chengdu, Shanghai, Xining, and Guangzhou. One of the exciting things while traveling by train is that it provides a glimpse of the Tibetan Plateau and the snow-capped mountains.

Advantages of going by train:

• There is gradual ascent. This helps in altitude acclimatization.
• Scenic route
• The sleeper berths are available.

Disadvantages

• Longer travel time, for example, 40 hours from Beijing to Lhasa.
• High demand, booking the ticket in advance.

Reaching Tibet from Nepal

Nepal is the only country that provides direct access to Tibet either by air or overland. It is also considered a primary entry point for the travelers visiting Tibet.

By Air: Direct Flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa

The Kathmandu-Lhasa flight is the only international flight route to Tibet. Operated mainly by Air China and Sichuan Airlines, the flight takes about 90 minutes and offers stunning aerial views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest.

By Road: The Overland Adventure via Friendship Highway

The Friendship Highway connects Kathmandu to Lhasa via the Rasuwagadhi-Kerung border, a journey filled with stunning Himalayan scenery.

Key Travel Considerations:

• Overland travel takes 3-5 days with stops in Kerung, Tingri, and Shigatse.
• Altitude acclimatization is essential.
• Tibet permits must be arranged in advance.
• Border crossing regulations may change seasonally due to weather conditions.

Tibet Travel Permits and Visa Regulations

Whichever way one enters, for going to Tibet, one has to get some special permits, other than an ordinary Chinese visa.

Tibet Entry from Nepal:

• Special Permit for Traveling to Tibet - by Tibet Tourism Bureau.
• Group Tourist Visa - The Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu. It cannot be used along with an ordinary Chinese visa.
• Must be planned through a registered travel agency of the area.
• Passport and application should be submitted at least 15 days prior to commencement.

Entering Tibet from China:

• Tibet Travel Permit, or TTB permit
• Special permits for far-flung places such as Mt. Kailash or Everest Base Camp
• Chinese visa needs to be obtained in advance
• Students or expatriates in China may have to get some extra documentation done.

Mount Kailash and Mansarovar Pilgrimage

Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar in western Tibet are the holiest pilgrimage destinations for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers. These need extra permits and have special visa requirements, based on your nationality and entry route.

Nepal to Mount Kailash Travel Options:

Overland Route via Kerung:

• Most economic and popular option
• Takes approximately 14 days, including acclimatization stops
• Costs from $1,850 to $2,100 per person.

Kathmandu to Lhasa to Kailash by Flight:

• Suited for those seeking a cultural tour to Lhasa.
• It takes approximately 17 days.
• Costlier due to flights and hotels.

Helicopter Route via Simikot-Hilsa:

Shortest but costliest route.

• Takes around 9-11 days.
• Requires additional logistics in the form of flights from Nepalgunj to Simikot and a helicopter transfer to Hilsa.

Additional Permit Cost of Tibet from Nepal:

Wesak Valley in Tibet

Wesak Valley, near Mount Kailash, is a significant spiritual site for Buddhists worldwide. It hosts the Wesak Festival, a sacred ceremony held during the full moon of May, where Buddhists believe the Buddha brings spiritual energy to the world. Thousands of pilgrims gather to take part in prayers and rituals, making it a profound experience.

Advantages of Starting Your Kailash Tour from Nepal

Hassle-Free Visa Processing

One of the biggest advantages of beginning your Kailash tour from Nepal is the hassle-free visa arrangement. Travelers are not required to secure a Chinese visa on their own. The Himalayan Dream Team Treks & Tours will arrange all the necessary documentation, including Tibet travel permits and the special group visa issued in Nepal. Visitors need to arrive in Kathmandu at least three days prior to departure because the final visa requires passport verification at the Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu.

Opportunity to Explore Nepal

Kailash tour commencing in Nepal is an exciting way to tour this culturally rich country. One can visit most of the iconic sites like Pashupatinath Temple, Swayambhunath Stupa, and Durbar Squares of Kathmandu while you await your visa. This short sojourn in Nepal adds immensely to the travel experience, merging Himalayan adventure with cultural revelation.

Liaison Service and Local Support

Travel in such high-altitude areas requires experienced guides and good logistical support. Starting the Kailash journey from Nepal means you get a committed and well-trained team of guides, porters, and drivers. Our team will make all travel arrangements smooth, from visa processing to transportation, accommodation, and emergency assistance.

Overland Adventure via Kerung Border

The Kerung border route will be ideal for overland scenery. It's a 7-hour drive from Kathmandu to the Nepal-Tibet border, which has great landscapes and allows time for acclimatization. The Kerung route has been a primary entry point for overland Kailash tours since 2016.

How Much Does It Cost to Visit Kailash from Nepal?

Via the overland route, visiting Mount Kailash from Nepal is inexpensive. The entire tour takes 13 to 14 days in total, including Kathmandu stays, permits, and guided tours. Group tours cost less for budget travelers, while private or smaller group tours cost a little more.

Price of Tour:

Other Tour Variants:

11-Day Kailash Tour: For those short on time, this is a shorter version.

9-Day Helicopter Tour: A shorter, more premium option for convenience.

Simikot Trekking & Kailash Overland Tour: It is designed for the real sense of adventure, combined with trekking and driving.

Please contact Himalayan Dream Team Treks & Tours for professional assistance regarding customized private trip information, group booking discount, or customized itinerary.

Packing List for Kailash Tour from Nepal

Packing for a Mount Kailash tour requires preparation for diverse weather conditions, as the journey involves both high-altitude cold climates and milder temperatures in lower regions. Essential gear can be purchased in Kathmandu before departure.

Essential Packing List:

Bags & Storage:

• Main travel bag – A sturdy duffel bag (provided by Himalayan Dream Team Treks & Tours).

• Small backpack – For carrying daily essentials.

Clothing:

• Warm headgear – Woolen cap or beanie.

• Face protection – Muffler or face mask to block cold winds.

• Down jacket – One high-quality insulated jacket (available for rent in Kathmandu).

• Thermal inner layers – At least one pair of thermal wear.

• Sweater or fleece jacket – Lightweight yet warm.

• Windproof jacket – Essential for strong mountain winds.

• T-shirts/shirts – 2-3 pairs for layering.

• Trekking trousers – Warm and breathable.

• Casual trousers/shorts – For milder temperatures.

• Rain gear – Full-body raincoat or poncho.

• Comfortable trekking shoes – Two pairs (one for heavy trekking, one lightweight for camp use).

• Sandals – For camp or shorter walks.

• Socks – At least five pairs (light and warm cotton/wool blend).

Accessories & Essentials:

• Sunglasses – UV-protection for strong mountain sun.

• Lip balm – To prevent chapping in dry air.

• Toiletries – Toothpaste, toothbrush, face wipes, and sunscreen.

• Power bank – To keep electronic devices charged.

• Camera & batteries – Capture breathtaking landscapes.

• Altitude sickness medication – Consult your doctor for prescriptions.

• Personal first-aid kit – Basic medication and bandages.

This checklist ensures a comfortable and hassle-free experience while trekking in the remote and high-altitude regions of Tibet.

Lhasa Gonggar Airport (LXA)

Difficulty (Health and Fitness) on Mt. Kailash Manasarovar Tour

While much of the trip involves driving, you’ll trek for three days on rugged, rocky trails at high altitudes. The thin air, steep climbs, and unpredictable weather make this journey tough but with the right preparation, it’s achievable.

Internet and Network Availability in Kailash Mansarovar Tour

Internet and network connectivity during the Kailash Mansarovar Tour is quite limited, especially once you enter Tibet. Below is a detailed breakdown:

Food and Accommodations During Kailash Mansarovar Trip

The food and accommodations during the Kailash Mansarovar trip are basic but sufficient to sustain travelers throughout the journey.

Money & Currency During Kailash Mansarovar Trip

• Cash is Essential: Since digital payments (UPI, debit cards, and ATMs) are unreliable, carrying cash is a must for food, accommodation, and shopping.
• Three Recommended Currencies:
  • Nepalese Rupees (NPR): Used for expenses in Nepal, including Kathmandu and the Nepal-Tibet border.
  • Chinese Yuan (CNY): The primary currency in Tibet, exchangeable in Kathmandu or at the Nepal-Tibet border.
  • US Dollars (USD): Accepted by many tour operators and vendors along the route.
• Currency Exchange: Available in Kathmandu and the Nepal-Tibet border but scarce inside Tibet.
• Limited Banking Facilities: ATMs and banking services are rare, so withdraw enough cash before entering Tibet.
• Small Denominations: Helpful for easy transactions, especially in remote areas.
• No Card Payments: Hotels, restaurants, and shops do not generally accept international cards.

Tibet Group Visa Processing in Kathmandu

The process of obtaining a Tibet group visa in Kathmandu follows strict guidelines set by the Chinese embassy in Nepal.

Why You Shouldn't Miss Mt. Kailash on Your Tibet Tour in 2025 and 2026

Tibet is a land of mystery, spirituality, and stunning landscapes. Among its many wonders, Mount Kailash stands as the ultimate destination for both adventurers and spiritual seekers. Towering at over 6,600 meters, this sacred peak has never been climbed, preserving its aura of mystique and divinity. If you are planning a trip to Tibet, visiting Mount Kailash should be a top priority.

Here’s why this iconic mountain deserves a place on your itinerary:

1. A Spiritual Journey Like No Other

Mount Kailash holds profound significance in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon traditions. It is revered as the abode of Lord Shiva, a site of Nirvana in Jainism, and a sacred power center in Tibetan Buddhism. Every year, thousands of pilgrims undertake the Kailash Kora, a 52-km circuit around the mountain, believing it cleanses sins and brings enlightenment. Witnessing this deep-rooted spiritual devotion adds a meaningful dimension to your journey.

2. A High-Altitude Trekking Challenge

For adventure enthusiasts, trekking around Mount Kailash is both a physical and mental challenge. The trek takes two to four days, covering rugged terrain at elevations exceeding 5,000 meters. The highest point, Dolma-La Pass (5,630m), tests endurance while rewarding hikers with breathtaking panoramas. Acclimatization is key, and proper preparation ensures a rewarding trekking experience.

3. Connect with Devout Pilgrims

The journey to Mount Kailash is not just about scenic beauty—it’s also about meeting pilgrims from around the world. Devout Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers travel great distances to walk the sacred Kora. Interacting with these pilgrims offers a rare insight into ancient traditions, faith, and perseverance.

4. Breathtaking Views of Kailash and Lake Manasarovar

Mount Kailash is a mesmerizing sight, with its snow-capped pyramid shape standing tall amid Tibet’s vast plateaus. Nearby, Lake Manasarovar, the world’s highest freshwater lake, enhances the beauty of this sacred region. Camping along its shores allows travelers to witness stunning sunrises and moonlit reflections, creating an unforgettable experience.

5. The Mystery of an Unclimbed Peak

Despite being lower than Mount Everest, no one has ever summited Mount Kailash. Legends and religious beliefs dictate that climbing this peak is forbidden. Some travelers claim to feel a spiritual energy around the mountain, and its untouched summit remains a source of fascination and intrigue.

6. Explore Ancient Monasteries

The Mount Kailash region is home to historic Tibetan monasteries, including Dirapuk and Zutulpuk Monasteries along the trekking route. These ancient sites offer travelers a chance to experience Tibetan Buddhist culture, interact with monks, and even stay overnight for an immersive experience.