20-Day Kailash & Everest Base Camp Tour/Trek
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Book this trip as a private departure -for any group, big or small
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Embark on a transformative journey across Tibet, blending cultural exploration with the serene beauty of the Himalayas. This 20-day tour and trek offer a rare opportunity to visit the majestic palaces, monasteries, and temples of Tibet, journey to the North Everest Base Camp, and embark on a sacred pilgrimage around Mount Kailash.
Travel overland by 4WD jeep through the Tibetan highlands to the renowned Rongphu Monastery and North Everest Base Camp, where the views of the North Face of Mount Everest will leave you in awe. From there, journey along the Yarlung Tsangpo river valley to the sacred Lake Manasarovar, nestled beneath Mount Kailash. Finally, complete a life-changing pilgrimage (Kora or Parikrama) around Mount Kailash before returning to Lhasa or Kathmandu via the Friendship Highway.
Tour Highlights:
- Visit the grand palaces, monasteries, and temples of Tibet, including the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Sera Monastery.
- Overland journey by 4WD jeep to North Everest Base Camp and the holy Mount Kailash in western Tibet.
- Embark on a three-day trek around Mount Kailash, a spiritual pilgrimage revered by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bonpos.
- Scenic drive back to Lhasa or Kathmandu, retracing the legendary Friendship Highway.
Max. Altitude: 5,200 meters (17,060 feet)
Route Nature: Lodge + Camping
Difficulty: Medium
Season: April-October
This meticulously crafted 20-day tour combines the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayas with profound spiritual experiences. Whether you seek to trek to the North Everest Base Camp, complete the sacred Kora around Mount Kailash, or explore the cultural treasures of Tibet, this tour offers a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Arrive in Lhasa, Tibet’s cultural and spiritual heart, from Kathmandu, Chengdu, or Beijing. After arrival, transfer to your hotel for rest and acclimatization to the high altitude.
Spend the next two days exploring Lhasa’s ancient landmarks, starting with the iconic Potala Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the serene Norbulinka, the summer palace of the Dalai Lama, and explore the rich history at Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery. Continue with a visit to the revered Jokhang Temple and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Barkhor Bazaar. Enjoy the blend of Tibetan culture and history during your stay at a local hotel.
Depart Lhasa for Gyantse, driving through the picturesque Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet’s three holy lakes. Continue to Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city, before heading to Lhatse. Stay overnight in Gyantse and camp at Lhatse.
Drive via the Pangla Pass to Rongphu Monastery, located at an altitude of 5,200 meters, making it the highest monastery in the world. From here, take an optional hike to the North Everest Base Camp, where the incredible views of the North Face of Mount Everest are simply unparalleled. Return to the monastery for an overnight stay in tents.
Continue your overland journey across the Tibetan plateau, following the Yarlung Tsangpo river valley to the sacred shores of Lake Manasarovar, one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world, revered by Hindus and Buddhists alike. This serene lake lies at the base of Mount Kailash. Set up camp and enjoy the tranquility of the area.
Take a day to rest and explore the sacred Lake Manasarovar. This is a spiritual haven for pilgrims, offering magnificent views of Mount Kailash in the distance. Spend the day soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and preparing for the pilgrimage trek around Mount Kailash.
Drive to Darchen, the starting point of the Kailash Kora (pilgrimage circuit). Begin your three-day trek around the sacred Mount Kailash, a journey that holds profound spiritual significance. Cross the Droma La Pass and visit the sacred Drira Puk and Zuthulpuk caves, where ancient temples and meditation sites offer insight into Tibet’s spiritual heritage. Camp along the way as you complete this extraordinary trek.
Complete your final day of trekking and return to Lake Manasarovar for an overnight stay in tents. Reflect on your sacred journey and relax by the lake.
After completing the Kora, begin your drive back to Lhasa, retracing your journey through the Tibetan highlands. Alternatively, you can choose to travel via the Friendship Highway to Kathmandu in Nepal. Either route offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and a fitting conclusion to your pilgrimage.
Continue your overland journey to Lhasa or drive to Kathmandu, concluding the tour with either a flight from Lhasa or an overland journey to Kathmandu. The tour ends with your flight back home, bringing back memories of an extraordinary journey through Tibet.
