Lhasa to Mount Kailash Pilgrimage: Must-Know Travel Info

Let me guide you through the classic journey from Lhasa to the sacred Mount Kailash. Below is an overview of the route and the key stops along the way, complete with their elevations.

Your adventure begins in Lhasa, standing at an elevation of 3,650 meters. Most itineraries wisely schedule two to three nights here, and this cannot be overstated in its importance. This period of gentle acclimatization is your foundation. Spend these days exploring the majestic Potala Palace and the spiritual heart of the Jokhang Temple at a leisurely pace. It is perfectly normal to experience mild symptoms like a slight headache, dizziness, or restless sleep as your body adjusts to the thinner air. The key is to hydrate relentlessly, eat light meals, and avoid any strenuous activity. Listening to your body here sets the tone for the rest of your trip.

As you leave Lhasa and head towards the stunning turquoise waters of Yamdrok Lake, you'll face your first major high-altitude pass: the Gangbala Pass at 5,030 meters. Reaching this height just a few hours after departure can be a surprise for your system. While you won't linger long, the brief exposure is an excellent initial test. Shortly after, the Yamdrok Lake observation deck at 4,998 meters offers breathtaking panoramic views. Remember, these viewpoints are high, but the journey afterwards typically descends toward towns like Gyantse (4,050m) and Shigatse (3,860m), giving your body a chance to recover at lower elevations—a pattern that aids acclimatization.

A true highlight, and one of the highest points on the journey before the trek, is a night near Everest Base Camp (EBC) at 5,150 meters. By this day, usually around the fifth or sixth day of the tour, most travelers have adapted considerably. However, fatigue from long scenic drives can compound with the altitude. Staying at a guesthouse in the Rongbuk area is a unique experience, but be prepared for basic amenities and potentially interrupted sleep. This is normal; the awe of witnessing the sunrise on Everest the next morning makes it all worthwhile. As you descend towards the town of Saga (4,600m), any discomfort usually fades quickly.

The gateway to the sacred mountain is Darchen (4,700m), the bustling little town at the foot of Mount Kailash. This is your final night in proper lodging before the three-day trek. Use this evening wisely: double-check your trekking gear, purchase any last-minute snacks like chocolate or nuts from the local shops, and most importantly, get as much rest as possible. A good night's sleep here is invaluable fuel for the pilgrimage ahead.

3-Day Mount Kailash Pilgrimage Journey

The Kailash kora, or circular trek, presents the ultimate physical challenge. The first day's hike concludes at Drirapuk Monastery Guesthouse (5,080m), a location higher than Everest Base Camp. By now, having spent over a week acclimatizing, your body is well-prepared. The day's hike of approximately 15-20 kilometers will likely leave you tired enough to sleep soundly despite the altitude. The second day is the most demanding, culminating in the ascent to the trek's highest point, the Drolma-La Pass at 5,630 meters. The 8-kilometer climb to the pass is steep and requires steady, slow pacing. Regardless of your fitness level, patience is your greatest asset. Celebrate this achievement before the long descent to your second night's stop at Dzultripuk (4,835m), where the lower elevation brings noticeable relief. During the trek to Dzultripuk Monastery Guesthouse, you will past by Lake Mercy (5,300m). On the third day, the final leg of your Kailash journey is as rewarding as it is scenic. As you hike (or take the optional sightseeing vehicle if you prefer) from Dzultripuk Monastery back to Darchen, the path snakes gently along the serene valley that cradles the southern face of the sacred mountain. With each step in the crisp mountain air, the valley gradually opens up. On the higher stretches of the trail, you are gifted with a breathtaking panoramic vista: the vast, turquoise expanse of Lake Manasarovar  (4,588m) shimmering on the distant plains, perfectly framed by the majestic, snow-clad ridges of Mount Naimona'nyi. This unforgettable view accompanies you until you reach Darchen. From there, a short drive will bring you to the very shores of the sacred lake itself, where you can finally stand in quiet reverence before its awe-inspiring beauty.

Conclusion

Have questions about permits, the kora trek, or what to pack for Kailash? Let's chat! Our friendly travel consultants specialize in this sacred journey and are happy to share insights and tips to help make your pilgrimage dream a reality.