Three Convenient Ways to Get to Mount Kailash: Road, Air, and Train Travel Options

Choosing between road, air, or train routes depends on your budget, time, and travel preferences—each option offers a unique blend of scenery and experience.

By Road: Immersive Overland Journey

Traveling by road to Mount Kailash is the most popular and cost-effective choice, ideal for those who want to soak in the changing landscapes step by step.

Your overland adventure can begin from two major hubs: Lhasa, Tibet, or Kathmandu, Nepal. Starting from Lhasa, the journey to Darchen covers approximately 1,400 kilometers and is typically split over 4 to 5 days. The route along the famous Friendship Highway takes you past stunning landmarks like the turquoise waters of Yamdrok Lake, the historic Pelkor Monastery and Kumbum Stupa in Gyantse, and the monastic seat of Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse. From there, you'll venture onto the vast, open plains, passing through Saga and Lake Manasarovar before finally arriving at Darchen. This route offers a profound cultural and scenic build-up to the main event.

Alternatively, the journey from Kathmandu provides a direct international approach. You'll take a ride to the Gyirong Port, the vital land border crossing between Nepal and Tibet. After completing border formalities, you'll join the Tibetan road network. The drive from the border to Darchen takes about 2 to 3 days, traversing dramatic landscapes as you climb onto the plateau. This option is fantastic for those already in Nepal or looking to combine the cultures of both Himalayan kingdoms in one trip. While independent travel in Tibet is not permitted for foreigners, partnering with a reputable tour operator like us simplifies everything.

By Air: Time-Saving with Bird's Eye Views

For travelers short on time or who wish to avoid the longest drives, flying is the most efficient option to get closer to Mount Kailash. It's important to know that there are no direct international flights into the Kailash region; the strategy involves flying to a major hub in Tibet and continuing from there by road.

The primary gateway is Lhasa Gonggar Airport. Flying into Lhasa from cities like Kathmandu (a stunning 90-minute flight over the Himalayas) or from various Chinese cities is the first step. Spending at least two to three days in Lhasa is highly recommended and often required for proper acclimatization to the high altitude. This also gives you the incredible opportunity to visit iconic sites like the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple.

To significantly cut down on subsequent drive time, you can take a domestic flight from Lhasa to Ngari Gunsa Airport, located near the town of Shiquanhe. This airport is about a 4 to 5-hour drive from Darchen. While this flight saves days of overland travel, be prepared for a higher cost and a more abrupt ascent to Ngari's altitude of over 4,200 meters. This option is best suited for those who have already acclimatized well in Lhasa and are ready for the final leg of their high-altitude journey. It's the perfect compromise for those who want to experience the cultural heart of Tibet in Lhasa without committing to the entire week-long road trip from the capital.

By Train: Comfortable and Scenic Connection

While there's no direct train to Mount Kailash, taking a train to Shigatse (the closest rail hub) is a comfortable middle ground for travelers who enjoy relaxed journeys. Trains run daily from Lhasa to Shigatse Railway Station, covering the 250-kilometer distance in about 3 hours. The train ride offers stunning views of Tibetan plateaus, barley fields, and distant snow-capped mountains, with spacious seats and onboard facilities to keep you comfortable. After arriving in Shigatse, you'll switch to a road vehicle for a 3-day overland trip to Darchen. This route passes through Everest Base Camp, where you can get up close to the world's highest peak, and Saga, a key stop for altitude acclimatization. The train-and-road combo balances comfort and scenery, letting you avoid long continuous drives while still experiencing Tibet's natural beauty.

Conclusion

To sum up, each route caters to different traveler types: Road travel is best for budget-conscious adventurers and spiritual seekers who want to immerse themselves in the journey, as the slow pace allows for deep altitude acclimatization and connection with local landscapes. Air travel suits time-strapped travelers willing to spend more for efficiency, especially those who've already acclimatized to high altitudes or plan to adjust in Lhasa. Train travel is ideal for those who prioritize comfort, wanting to enjoy scenic views without the fatigue of long drives.