How to Travel from Nepal to Mount Kailash for Foreign Tourists

When planning your journey from Kathmandu to the sacred Mount Kailash, you essentially have two viable options, and their geographical logic might seem counterintuitive at first glance. The most direct path is the overland route north through the Gyirong border. This journey covers a road distance of approximately 800 kilometers directly into Tibet's Ngari Prefecture. The alternative is to take a flight. While there are no direct flights from Kathmandu to Ngari's Gunsa Airport near Kailash, there is a vital air link to Lhasa.

Flying the 600 kilometers to Lhasa is quick, but it places you on the opposite side of the Tibetan plateau. From there, you need to embark on a long overland trip westwards, retracing about 1,400 kilometers by road—a significant geographical backtrack. Therefore, the reason to choose the Lhasa route is for the speed and convenience of that single direct flight. If not for this unique air connection, reaching Lhasa from Nepal would involve an even longer detour through mainland China, making the Gyirong land crossing the unequivocally more straightforward path to the mountain.

The Overland Route from Kathmandu to Mount Kailash: An Epic Road Journey Through the Himalayas

The most direct path from Kathmandu to Mount Kailash is the overland route via the Gyirong  Port. This journey is a profound adventure that takes you from the lush hills of Nepal into the vast, high-altitude plains of Tibet.

Your expedition begins with a scenic drive from Kathmandu to the Nepal-China border. The distance is roughly 120 kilometers, but the mountainous roads mean the trip takes about seven to eight hours. You'll say goodbye to your Nepali transport at the border, walk across the bridge, and be greeted by your Tibetan guide and driver on the other side—a moment that truly marks the start of your Tibetan journey.

From the border town of Gyirong, the real overland expedition unfolds. The drive to Darchen, the gateway town at the foot of Mount Kailash, covers about 700 kilometers and is an experience you'll never forget. The road north on the famed G219 highway climbs steadily onto the Tibetan Plateau. A sensible itinerary includes overnight stops to acclimatize. You'll likely rest in Saga County (around 4,640 meters) and perhaps Paryang (around 4,600 meters), allowing your body to adjust to the thin air. The landscapes shift from dramatic valleys to wide-open plains, where you might spot grazing cattle and wild kiang against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks. The final approach brings the first, breathtaking view of the majestic north face of Mount Kailash and the serene blue waters of Lake Manasarovar. The total drive time, split over several days for safety and comfort, is a core part of this immersive route.

The Flight & Land Route: Acclimatizing with Culture in Lhasa

For those who prefer to acclimatize more gradually or wish to immerse themselves in Tibetan culture, the route via Lhasa is highly recommended. This option combines a spectacular flight with one of the world's greatest road trips.

You will start by catching a flight from Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport to Lhasa. This short, 90-minute flight is breathtaking, offering on clear days an unparalleled aerial view of the Himalayan giants, including Mount Everest. Landing in Lhasa at 3,650 meters gives your body a gentler introduction to altitude. Spending three days here is not just beneficial for acclimatization; it's a cultural gift. You can explore the majestic Potala Palace, feel the devotional energy at the Jokhang Temple, and witness the philosophical debates at Sera Monastery. This foundation enriches the entire pilgrimage.

The overland journey from Lhasa to Kailash is an incredible trip across the roof of the world. Covering approximately 1,400 kilometers, the route follows the Friendship Highway past turquoise Yamdrok Lake, visits the historic Gyantse Kumbum stupa, and stops in Shigatse at the grand Tashilhunpo Monastery. From there, it merges with the overland route from Gyirong at Saga, continuing past Lake Manasarovar to Darchen. This longer journey, typically taking around 15 days in total, offers a deep and comprehensive exploration of Tibet's soul-stirring landscapes and spiritual heritage.

Conclusion

Even if you wish to book a connecting flight from Lhasa to Ngari, our travel agency can seamlessly arrange this service for you with professional support. That said, I don't recommend this option for first-time visitors to Tibet—you'll miss out on the spectacular scenery and cultural gems along the overland.