Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Via Simikot: Embark on an extraordinary journey to Mt. Kailash, starting with a trek through one of Nepal’s most secluded western regions before crossing into Tibet. Begin by arriving in Kathmandu, where you’ll spend a day resting and preparing for the adventure ahead. The next day, fly to Nepalgunj, located in the western Terai plains of Nepal. Your journey from Simikot to Kailash follows ancient pilgrimage paths and trade routes, leading you across the border into Tibet. The Tibet segment starts with a visit to the Garuda Valley, believed to be the cradle of Tibetan civilization during the era of the Bon religion, predating Buddhism. You will then circumambulate Mt. Kailash and tour Mansarovar Lake, both revered for their natural beauty and cultural significance. The tour concludes in Lhasa, known as the ‘cradle of Tibetan civilization.
Tour Plan of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Via Simikot
DAY 01: WELCOME TO KATHMANDU
We bugun our Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Via Simikot tour starts with your arrival at Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, where a representative from Kailash Yatra Co will greet you and escort you to your hotel. After checking in, relax in Hotel. Enjoy a welcome dinner in the evening, featuring exquisite Nepalese cuisine.
Nepal Tourist Visa:
For Indian passport holders, the process of obtaining a Nepal Tourist Visa is relatively straightforward, as they do not require a visa for entry. However, when traveling to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu from any international airport in India, Indian citizens must present a valid Indian passport or Voter Identity Card (Indian Electoral Card). It’s essential to note that Aadhaar Card and Driving Licence are not accepted as valid documents for boarding flights to Kathmandu from Indian airports. Conversely, non-Indian passport holders can conveniently obtain a Nepal visa on arrival at Kathmandu International Airport. Alternatively, they also have the option to apply for the Nepal entry visa online, providing a time-saving alternative for a seamless entry process at the Kathmandu airport.
Chinese Group Travel Visa:
Obtaining a Chinese Group Travel Visa is a meticulous process, particularly for Indian passport holders. Regardless of their current residence or geographical location, Indians must submit their original passports to the China Embassy in New Delhi through the tour company that secured the necessary Tibet entry permit and invitations. The visa decision by the China Embassy in Delhi takes approximately 4-5 working days.
On the other hand, non-Indian passport holders, including NRIs with non-Indian passports, OCI card holders, and Green Card holders, need to undergo biometrics at the China Visa Center in Kathmandu. They are required to submit their China entry visa application along with the original passport, visa application documents, and recent colored photographs in a specified size and format. The China Embassy in Kathmandu takes about 3-4 working days to process and decide on such visas. This meticulous procedure ensures that travelers comply with the necessary requirements for a smooth and legal entry into Tibet.
Tibet Travel Permit
Tibet Travel Permit is yet another important document in getting you into Tibet. This document is issued by Tibet Tourism Development Commitee of Tibet’s Culture and tourism Department. Hence it can be applied by local Travel agency and China Indian Philgrim service centre on your behalf. It usually take from 15 – 20 days to get all the Tibet travel permits for Kailash Mansarovar Yatra. Hence please have it applied atleast 25 days in advance for the smooth travel to Kailash Mansarovar
DAY 02 : KATHMANDU SIGHTSEEING
Start you day in early morning, as we are exploring some the Kathmandu’s renowned temples. After fueling up with a delicious breakfast. Begun our sightseeing with a visit to the Pashupatinath Temple, where you can immerse yourself in the serene morning aarti, scheduled for around 09.00 AM. After this, We’ll then make our way to the Jal Narayan Temple, also known as the Sleeping Vishnu Temple or Neelkanth Buddha Temple. follow by Guhyeshwari Mata Temple, a powerful Shaktipeetha.
After visiting the temples, you can either return to hotel or explore visit vibrant Thamel market of Kathmandu. It is hotspot for picking up essential trekking and adventure gear. Here you might find some unpack essential for your kailash mansarovar yatra.
In the evening, we will regroup in hotel for a quick session to go over the tour plans and to get to know group members. follow by delightful dinner and pleasant night in the same hotel.
DAY 03 : KATHMANDU SIGHTSEEING
A journey after your morning breakfast to explore the wonders of Kailashnath Mahadev and Doleshwar Mahadev Temple. The renowned Kailashnath Mahadev temple proudly boasts the world’s tallest Shiva statue, located majestically on a top of a mountain, approximately 20 kilometers away from the heart of Kathmandu. Meanwhile, nestled in the enchanting city of Bhaktapur, the revered Doleshwar Mahadev Temple holds significance as the revered head of the esteemed Shri Kedarnath temple. These sacred sites promise a blend of awe-inspiring heights and historical reverence, making your visit a truly unforgettable experience.
DAY 04 : FLY FROM KATHMANDU TO NEPALGUNJ
After a brief tour of Kathmandu, take an hour-long flight to Nepalgunj in Western Nepal. Nepalgunj, near the Nepal-India border, serves as the gateway to Simikot, Humla. Explore the town, visit the local market, mini-zoo, and nearby villages. Overnight in Nepalgunj.
DAY 05 : FLY TO SIMIKOT TO SIMIKOT AND TREK TO DHARAPORI
Fly for 40 minutes from Nepalgunj to Simikot, admiring the mountainous landscape. Simikot, the headquarters of Humla District, is known for its remote and culturally rich environment. Register for permits at the local police office, then trek through jungles and villages along the Karnali River to Dharapori. Overnight in Dharapori.
Day 05 : Trek from Dharapori to Kermi
Hike along relatively flat trails beside the Karnali River, passing fields of barley, buckwheat, rice, and potatoes. Relax at nearby hot springs or visit ancient Buddhist monasteries like Laikyo Gompa and Lhundrup Choeling Gompa. Overnight in Kermi.
DAY 06 : Trek from Kermi to Yalbang
The trail today includes a flat walk and a steep ascent, crossing a suspension bridge over the Salli River. Enjoy views of pine forests and the Karnali River. Visit Namkha Khyung Dzong Monastery. Overnight in Yalbang.
DAY 08: Trek from Yalbang to Tumkot
Walk along a trail above the Karnali River, ascending as the landscape changes from greenery to pine forests and rocky hills. Visit Dhungkar Choezom Monastery in Tumkot, a significant Sakya monastery. Overnight in Tumkot.
DAY 09 : Trek from Tumkot to Yari
Follow an easy trail above the Karnali River. Notice the changing climate and landscape, with rocky terrain and juniper trees. Overnight in Yari.
Day 10 : Trek from Yari to Hilsa via Nara La Pass
Cross the Nara La Pass (4,620m), enjoying views of the Tibetan plateau and Yari Village. Descend to Hilsa, a border town and a helicopter drop-off point for Mt. Kailash pilgrims. Overnight in Hilsa.
Day 11 : Trek from Hilsa to Purang
Cross the Friendship Bridge at Hilsa and undergo permit checks by Chinese officials. Meet your Tibetan guide and trek to Purang, passing Rinzin Zangpo Gompa and Kangje Village. Visit the ancient Purang Gompa and its 12th-century frescoes. Overnight in Purang.
Day 12 : Travel to Montser and Visit Tirtapuri
Journey through the landscapes of Rakshas and Mansarovar lakes to Montser. Visit the Tirthapuri Hot Springs, associated with Guru Rinpoche. Pilgrims bathe in the springs and visit the monastery before returning to Montser. Overnight in Montser.
DAY 12 : Explore Garuda Valley and Transfer to Darchen
Travel to the Garuda Valley, southwest of Mt. Kailash, known for its mysterious caves and historical significance as the cradle of Tibetan civilization. After exploring, transfer to Darchen, situated at the base of Mount Kailash. Overnight in Darchen.
DAY 13 : First Day of Kora: Hike to Dirapuk Monastery
Start the Kora (circumambulation) of Mt. Kailash with a six-hour hike through a deep valley flanked by red rock walls. Pass through Shershong and cross a bridge leading to Chhuku Gompa, perched on a hill visible from the valley. Continue to Dirapuk, where you’ll have a stunning view of Mt. Kailash’s north face. Overnight in Dirapuk.
DAY 14 : Second Day of Kora: Hike to Dzutul-puk
Tackle the most challenging part of the journey by climbing to Drolma-la Pass (5,750m/19,910ft), adorned with colorful prayer flags. Descend to Dzutul-puk, passing Thugje Zinbu (Lake of Compassion) and ancient meditation caves. Overnight in Dzutul-puk.
DAY 14 : Second Day of Kora: Hike to Dzutul-puk
Tackle the most challenging part of the journey by climbing to Drolma-la Pass (5,750m/19,910ft), adorned with colorful prayer flags. Descend to Dzutul-puk, passing Thugje Zinbu (Lake of Compassion) and ancient meditation caves. Overnight in Dzutul-puk.
DAY 15: Third Day of Kora: Hike to Darchen, then Transfer to Mansarovar
Exit the valley towards Barka Plain, completing the holy Kora of Mount Kailash at Darchen. Drive for two hours to Mansarovar Lake, revered by Hindus and Buddhists. The lake is considered a symbol of purity, and drinking its water is believed to cleanse one’s sins. Overnight in Mansarovar.
Day 16: Tour of Mansarovar Lake
Circumambulate Mansarovar Lake, one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world, with a circumference of 90 km. A dip in the lake is believed to absolve sins accumulated over a hundred lifetimes. Drive around the lake by Jeep, and if time permits, visit Chui Gompa. Overnight in Mansarovar.
Day 17: Drive from Mansarovar to Saga
Embark on a long drive from Mansarovar to Saga, passing through Chiu Monastery, Hor Quo, and crossing the Mayum La Pass (5,200m). Observe small towns like Zhongba and Paryang along the way. The route covers 270 km from Mansarovar to Paryang and another 255 km to Saga. Overnight in Saga.
Day 18: Drive from Saga to Shigatse
Travel from Saga to Shigatse via Latse, following the Tsangpo River through a region intersected by the upper Brahmaputra and its tributaries. Upon arrival in Shigatse, freshen up and visit the Tashilhunpo Monastery, founded by the Panchen Lama in 1447. Overnight in Shigatse.
Day 19: Drive from Shigatse to Lhasa
After breakfast, drive towards Lhasa, stopping at Shalu Monastery, renowned for its ancient murals. Continue the journey, crossing the Karo La Pass (5,045m) and Khamba La Pass (4,794m), with a brief stop to admire the Yamdrok Tso (Turquoise Lake) and the Nazin Kang Sang glacier (7,252m). Overnight in Lhasa.
Day 20: Departure from Lhasa
Your incredible Kailash adventure concludes today. Spend your final hours in Lhasa trading contact information with travel companions and organizing your photos. A representative from Kailash Yatra Co will transfer you to the airport approximately three hours before your scheduled flight.
Yatra Cost Includes and excludes
INCLUDES
Nepal portion of the trip
Airport to hotel return transfers in Kathmandu
3 night stay in a 3 star equivalent hotel in Kathmandu on sharing basis,
3 breakfast, 03 lunches, 03 dinners in Kathmandu hotel (pure vegetarian buffet meal)
Temple visits in Kathmandu,
Kathmandu to Kyirong (Kerung) border return transfers by Nepalese non a/c bus,
1 night stay in a guest house at Timure /SyabruBesi with local veg meals,
3 nights stay in a guesthouse at Kyirong on sharing basis with all veg meals
2 nights at Saga/Dongba in a hotel with all veg meals
2 nights at Saga/Dongba in a hotel with all veg meal
1 night stay in a guesthouse near Lake Mansarovar on sharing basis with veg meals,
1 night stay in a hotel at Darchen with all veg meals.
1 night stay in a guesthouse at Dirapuk on sharing basis
1 night stay in a guesthouse at Zuthulpukh on sharing basis.
Light breakfast, packed lunches, light dinners during parikrama day
Transport in Tibet side by Luxury air conditioned Tibetan bus.
Support truck to carry kitchen equipment and other material in Tibet.
English speaking Tibetan Tour guide cum Oficer in Tibet side.
Nepali tour leader supported by cook, helper and sherpa.
Basic first aid kit with tour guide.
Oxygen cylinders during trekking in Tibet for emergency use.
Necessary group travel permits for visiting restricted areas in Tibet.
Normal Tibet single entry group visa to visit Kailash Manasarovar.
Nepal-China border tax, all Nepalese and Chinese Govt taxes,
Other Inclusions
1 duffle bag, 1 backpack bag and 1 wind cheater or cap on complimentary basis,
Down Jacket on returnable basis (subject to availability)
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra completion certificate
All Nepal and Tibet Govt taxes,
All Nepal and Tibet Govt taxes,
Important Remark: All meals on Kailash Mansarovar Yatra will be pure vegetarian. All above services and facilities are subject to availability.
EXCLUDES
Please check the list of extra expense that may have to be paid by the traveller for this trip:
Travel expense for traveling from home to Kathmandu and back
Travel and medical insurance (kindly buy an insurance which is valid for high altitude travel and emergency evacuation expense).
Mule (Pony) and porter charges for Mount Kailash parikrama.
List of other cost exclusions that may have to be taken care by travellers in extreme cases:
Additional hotel accommodation and meals for extra stay in the event of delay of the trip due to any unforeseen reason or changes.
Transport services for any additional sightseeing service which is not mentioned in the itinerary.
Emergency evacuation expenses.
Emergency medical expenses in the event of hospitalisation.
Extra expense for additional necessary permissions or visa splitting charges and all additional services in the event of change in tour plan by the traveller before or during the yatra.
Urgent visa fee if required.
All additional expense for returning early from the trip due to any personal reason.
Any and all additional expense or increase in cost of any trip item or service due to sudden hike in permit fee, visa charges, flight fares, hotel prices or price for other trip services by concerned authorities or flight companies or hotel owners or vendors etc. or due to any other reason or situation which is beyond our control.
Our services also does not include any other additional expense incurred before or during the trip due to any unforeseen circumstances including, but not limited to, weather conditions, natural disaster, act of God, technical failure, flight delay or cancelation, delay by authorities in issuing permits or entry visa, strikes, riots, political closures, not opening of the borders due to lockdown situation or any other reason, war situation, and/or any other situation or circumstances which are beyond our control.
Any service/s which is not mentioned in our above ‘list of package cost inclusions’ does not fall under the liability of the Company and the same will be paid by the traveller only in advance or at the time of consuming the service, as may be the requirement of the case.
Any expenses of personal nature.
