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Mount Kailash, Tibet - Mount Kailash: Saga Dawa Festival, China
Mount Kailash, Tibet
Dzong at Gyantse - Mount Kailash: Saga Dawa Festival, China
Dzong at Gyantse  | Richard I'Anson
Mount Kailash, Tibet - Mount Kailash: Saga Dawa Festival, China
Mount Kailash, Tibet
Trekkers on the Kailash trek, Tibet - Mount Kailash: Saga Dawa Festival, China
Trekkers on the Kailash trek, Tibet
Locals celebrating the life of Buddha at the Saga Dawa festival - Mount Kailash: Saga Dawa Festival, China
Locals celebrating the life of Buddha at the Saga Dawa festival  | Hugh Jenkinson
Trek around Mt Kailash, the holiest mountain in the Himalaya - Mount Kailash: Saga Dawa Festival, China
Trek around Mt Kailash, the holiest mountain in the Himalaya
Elderly Tibetan women - Mount Kailash: Saga Dawa Festival, China
Elderly Tibetan women  | Richard I'Anson

Mount Kailash: Saga Dawa Festival

Undertake a pilgrimage to the heart of the world

China, Nepal
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 6 reviews

18 Days from

$6250 USD

Trip Code: JTK
View dates to Book
Essential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

Single Supplement - Nepal, Lhasa, Gyantse & Shigatse Only
$480 USD
Duration
  • 18 Days
Activities
  • 3 day trek
Style
  • Classic Adventures  
Accommodation
  • 1 night hotel in Chengdu
  • 2 nights hotel Lhasa
  • 12 nights basic hotel / lodge
  • 2 nights hotel in Kathmandu
Meals

Valued at USD$545

  • 11 Dinners
  • 11 Lunches
  • 17 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
5 / 10

Moderate

Carbon Footprint  

87kg of CO2-e PP per day

Journey to Mount Kailash Trip highlights

  • Join Tibetan pilgrims on the sacred three-day kora around Mount Kailash, a powerful spiritual journey steeped in centuries of tradition
  • Witness the vibrant Saga Dawa Festival at Tarboche, where thousands gather to honour the life of the Buddha in one of Tibet’s most sacred annual events
  • Traverse stark Himalayan landscapes on an epic overland route from Lhasa to Kathmandu via the wild reaches of the Tibetan Plateau
  • Explore the cultural icons of Lhasa, including the towering Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple - heart of Tibetan Buddhism

Overview

Mount Kailash has drawn pilgrims for centuries. Sacred to Buddhists, Hindus, Jains and Bonpo, and associated with the mythical Mount Meru, it remains one of Tibet’s most important pilgrimage destinations. This journey visits Kailash during the Saga Dawa Festival, when pilgrims gather to commemorate the birth, enlightenment and death of Buddha. Beginning in Chengdu, we travel to Lhasa before continuing overland through Gyantse and Shigatse towards Mount Kailash. The route crosses the broad plains and high passes of the Tibetan Plateau, with visits to monasteries, historic towns and sacred sites along the way. As we approach Kailash, the presence of pilgrims travelling for Saga Dawa becomes an important part of the experience. At Mount Kailash, we join Tibetan pilgrims on the sacred kora, a three-day walk around the base of the mountain. For pilgrims, completing the circuit is an act of devotion, with prayer, ritual and ceremony forming part of the journey around Kailash. After completing the kora, we continue to Kathmandu, bringing to a close an overland journey across Tibet shaped by its landscapes, pilgrimage traditions and the significance of Saga Dawa.

Itinerary

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On arrival at Chengdu International Airport, you are met by a World Expeditions representative and transferred to your hotel. As the capital of Sichuan Province, Chengdu is known for its teahouse culture, distinctive cuisine and relaxed pace of life. The remainder of the day is free for you to rest after your journey or begin exploring the local streets and neighbourhoods at your own pace. This is a gentle introduction before your journey towards Tibet begins. Accommodation: Buddha Zen Hotel in Chengdu

Meals: Nil

This morning you are transferred to Chengdu International Airport for your flight to Lhasa, which typically takes around 2 to 2.5 hours. You will be advised which flight to book, as all group members must arrive together due to Tibet travel permit requirements. On arrival in Lhasa, you are met and transferred to the city, a journey of approximately two hours. Due to the altitude, it is important to rest and take things slowly for the remainder of the day, with a briefing held in the late afternoon to outline the journey ahead and distribute equipment. Accommodation: Hotel in Lhasa

Meals: B

Over the next two days you explore Lhasa’s most significant cultural and spiritual sites. A highlight is a visit to Jokhang Temple, the spiritual heart of Tibet, along with time to walk Barkhor Square where pilgrims gather in continuous devotion. You also visit the impressive Potala Palace, former residence of the Dalai Lama, and explore Norbulingka, the traditional summer palace set among landscaped gardens. Visits to Drepung and Sera Monasteries provide insight into Tibetan Buddhism, with the opportunity to observe monks engaged in their traditional debating practices. Accommodation: Hotel in Lhasa (2 nights)

Meals: B

Today you begin your journey across the Tibetan Plateau, travelling from Lhasa through the Kyichu Valley and alongside the Yarlung Tsangpo (Brahmaputra River). The route climbs to Khamba La Pass (4,900m / 16,076ft), where you gain expansive views over Yamdrok Tso, a striking turquoise lake set among snow-capped peaks. Continuing around the lake, you cross Karo La Pass (5,200m / 17,060ft), where glaciers descend close to the roadside. On arrival in Gyantse, you visit the Kumbum Chorten, a multi-level Buddhist structure known for its chapels and detailed murals. Accommodation: Hotel in Gyantse

Meals: B,L,D

This morning you travel by road from Gyantse to Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city. On arrival, you visit Tashilhunpo Monastery, founded in 1447 and the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama. The monastery’s golden rooftops and expansive prayer halls offer insight into Tibetan Buddhist traditions and daily monastic life. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore the city or rest. Accommodation: Hotel in Shigatse

Meals: B,L,D

Today you travel west across the Tibetan Plateau towards Saga, covering a long but rewarding section of the journey. The route passes through expansive high-altitude plains with distant snow-capped peaks and scattered remote settlements. The scale and remoteness of the landscape become increasingly apparent as you continue deeper into western Tibet. Road conditions can vary, and travel times may be affected, reflecting the rugged nature of this region. Accommodation: Guesthouse in Saga

Meals: B,L,D

This morning you continue your journey across the Tibetan Plateau towards Darchen. En route, you visit Lake Manasarovar, a sacred freshwater lake set beneath Mount Kailash and revered across multiple spiritual traditions. Surrounded by expansive Himalayan views, the lake offers a powerful sense of place and significance. After time at the lake, you complete the short drive to Darchen, the starting point for the Mount Kailash kora. Accommodation: Guesthouse in Darchen

Meals: B,L,D

Today you explore the region surrounding Lake Manasarovar, visiting sites of deep cultural and spiritual significance. You begin at Rakshas Tal, a stark saltwater lake contrasting with nearby Manasarovar and associated with Hindu mythology. The journey continues to Chiu Gompa, a monastery set on a rocky outcrop overlooking the lake, offering expansive views across the plateau. After time to explore the monastery and its surroundings, you return to Darchen for the night. Accommodation: Guesthouse in Darchen

Meals: B,L,D

This morning you take a short drive to Shorsiun, the starting point of the Mount Kailash kora, where you meet your yak porters who will carry your main luggage during the trek. The walk begins with a gradual ascent through the Lha Chu Valley, following a glacial river beneath towering cliffs and snow-capped peaks. As you progress, views of Mount Kailash’s north face gradually come into view, becoming more prominent along the trail. You continue to Dera Puk, where your accommodation is set opposite the mountain, offering one of the most striking perspectives of the journey. Accommodation: Guesthouse near Dera Puk (basic)

Meals: B,L,D

Today is the most physically demanding day of the Mount Kailash kora as you cross Dolma La Pass, the highest point of the journey. The day begins with a steady ascent on a challenging trail, where the effects of altitude are noticeable and a slow, consistent pace is essential. At the pass, prayer flags mark this significant spiritual point before you begin a steep descent into the valley below over rocky terrain. The trail then eases as you continue to Zutrul Phuk, where a monastery associated with Milarepa marks your overnight stop. Accommodation: Guesthouse in Zutrul Phuk (shared dormitory style)

Meals: B,L,D

This morning you complete the final stage of the Mount Kailash kora, following a relatively gentle trail back to Darchen. The route is mostly flat with a gradual descent through open valleys, offering time to reflect on the journey. Along the way, you pass mani walls, prayer flags and pilgrims continuing their own pilgrimage. On arrival in Darchen around midday, the remainder of the day is free to rest and recover after completing the kora. Accommodation: Guesthouse in Darchen

Meals: B,L,D

Today you experience the Saga Dawa Festival, one of the most important events in the Tibetan Buddhist calendar. After breakfast, you travel to Shorsiun, where pilgrims gather to witness the ceremonial raising of the Tarboche flagpole. The valley comes alive with prayer ceremonies, chanting and traditional offerings, creating a powerful cultural and spiritual atmosphere. After time to observe and participate in the celebrations, you return to Darchen by vehicle or on foot alongside local pilgrims. Accommodation: Guesthouse in Darchen

Meals: B,L,D

Today you begin the return journey across the Tibetan Plateau, travelling from Darchen to Saga. The route crosses vast high-altitude terrain with views of distant snow-capped peaks, grazing yak and scattered settlements. This remote section of western Tibet highlights the scale and isolation of the region as you retrace your path eastward. On arrival in Saga, you settle into your accommodation and rest after a long day on the road. Accommodation: Guesthouse in Saga

Meals: B,L,D

Today you continue south from Saga towards the border town of Kyirong. As you descend from the Tibetan Plateau, the landscape changes from open high-altitude plains to steep valleys, river gorges and increasingly green hillsides. The route passes through remote settlements with views of forested slopes, waterfalls and rugged terrain. On arrival in Kyirong, you settle into your accommodation and prepare for the following day’s border crossing into Nepal. Accommodation: Guesthouse in Kyirong

Meals: B,L,D

This morning you cross the border from Tibet into Nepal via the Kyirong–Rasuwa crossing. After completing immigration formalities, you begin the drive through Nepal’s foothills towards Kathmandu. The landscape changes noticeably, with terraced fields, forested hills and river valleys replacing the high-altitude plateau. On arrival in Kathmandu, the remainder of the day is free to rest or explore the city. Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu

Meals: B

Today you have the opportunity to explore Kathmandu at your own pace. You may choose to wander through the lively streets of Thamel or visit key cultural sites such as Swayambhunath, Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple or Durbar Square. The city offers a strong contrast to the remote landscapes of Tibet, with vibrant markets, temples and everyday local life. Optional guided sightseeing can be arranged, or you may simply take time to relax and reflect on your journey. Accommodation: Hotel in Kathmandu

Meals: B

Your journey concludes in Kathmandu after breakfast. Airport transfers are provided according to your flight arrangements. There are no further activities planned today. This marks the end of your journey through Tibet and Nepal.

Meals: B

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.

Ready to start your adventure?

1 scheduled departure between 6 Jun 2027 and 6 Jun 2027.

  • Departs 6 Jun 2027 – ends 23 Jun 2027 (18 days)
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • 17 breakfasts, 11 lunches and 11 dinners
  • Use of a World Expeditions trek pack including a quality sleeping bag, sleeping bag liner, and down or fibre-fill jacket (valued at US$500)
  • All park entrance fees and trekking permits
  • Sightseeing and site entry fees as listed
  • Good quality accommodation in Chengdu, Lhasa, Shigatse and Gyantse
  • Accommodation in fully serviced wilderness campsites during the trek
  • Private transportation
  • Airport transfers if arriving on Day 1 and Day 18
  • Expert bilingual guide
  • Use of comprehensive group medical kit
  • Portable Altitude Chamber and bottled oxygen for emergency use
  • Yaks to carry group equipment during the trek
  • Daily supply of safe treated drinking water on trek to reduce single-use plastic waste
  • Souvenir World Expeditions kit bag

Not included

  • International flights
  • Chengdu-Lhasa flight. Please contact your local World Expeditions office to arrange your flights.
  • Travel insurance
  • Visas
  • Meals not included in the daily itinerary
  • Alcoholic and bottled drinks
  • Items of a personal nature such as laundry etc
  • Tips
Journey to Mount Kailash: Trek Leader Highlights | World Expeditions

Reviews (6)

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I had a fantastic time on this trip. It was exactly what I was looking for - a completely different landscape, culture, religion and language. Our guides Pemba and Bir Singh were fabulous and so generous in sharing their knowledge and experience.

Jennifer|Victoria, Australia
6 Jul 2026
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Amazing trip - tough at times but incredibly enjoyable. Great crew expertly guided by tour leader Bir Singh. Highly recommend.

Jules|Victoria, Australia
17 Jun 2026
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This is a very rugged trip! Be prepared for challenging accomodation, poor food and lack of basic amenities the further west you go! WE guides are the magic that held it all together though- Bir Singh was awesome!

Jane|QLD Australia
24 Jun 2025
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Emma|New South Wales, Australia
28 Jun 2026
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Beryl|NSW Australia
24 Jun 2025
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N. Bishop & F. Boyle|Australia
25 Jul 2019

Responsible Travel

Breathtaking views as we trek down towards Thame | Monika Molenda
Restoring Learning in Thame Project
 
Restoring access to digital education through the installation of a computer lab and smart classroom technology, helping rebuild learning opportunities for students affected by climate-related disasters.
 
In Nepal's Solukhumbu region, the remote mountain village of Thame is recovering from a devastating Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) that destroyed homes, infrastructure, and critical community services — including the local school and its computer lab. With students displaced and relocated to temporary learning facilities, access to quality education has been severely disrupted, particularly in digital learning.
 
The Rebuilding Digital Education in Thame project aims to address this gap by equipping the newly relocated Thame Basic School with a computer lab, smart boards, and essential digital infrastructure. This will enable students and teachers to access modern, technology-enabled education in one of the most remote regions in the world.
 
With support from the World Expeditions Foundation, this project will fund the installation of computers, smart boards, printers, and classroom infrastructure to support both students and teachers. The outcome? Improved digital literacy, more engaging and interactive teaching, and equitable access to education for a community rebuilding after disaster.
 
The project is led by Himalayan Trust Nepal, a long-standing organisation working closely with local communities, schools, and government partners to deliver sustainable education and development outcomes across the Khumbu region.
 
Support our work
Our Commitment to Porters in Nepal
 
Porters are central to every trek we run in Nepal, and we are committed to their safety, wellbeing, and fair treatment.
 
We ensure fair pay, enforce strict load limits (max 30kg), and provide proper clothing, equipment, meals, and safe accommodation.
 
Porters have equal access to medical care, insurance, and emergency support as our travellers.
 
You can trek knowing your journey supports responsible and ethical practices.
Help us keep the places that inspire us clean by taking part in our 10 Pieces litter initiative | Lachlan Gardiner
Cleaning Up Wilderness Trails
 
Our 10 Pieces initiative is a simple, voluntary way to give back while you trek.
 
Travellers are encouraged to collect 10 pieces of litter each day along the trail, helping protect these fragile environments.
 
You'll find more details in your client portal once you book, and your tour leader will introduce the initiative at your first group meeting in Kathmandu.

Extra trip info

Buddha Zen Hotel, Chengdu: A traditional Chinese building with carved wooden balconies and a peaceful courtyard, offering a serene retreat in the city.

Buddha Zen Hotel or similar - Chengdu

In Chengdu, we stay at the Buddha Zen Hotel, conveniently located near Wenshu Temple. The hotel features traditional Chinese architecture and offers a quiet, serene atmosphere. Its central location makes it easy to explore the surrounding area, which is rich in cultural attractions and local markets. The Buddha Zen Hotel provides a comfortable and peaceful base for our stay in Chengdu.

Interior of Buddha Zen Hotel, Chengdu: A serene space featuring traditional Chinese architecture, centred around a beautiful Buddha statue.

Buddha Zen Hotel or similar - Chengdu

The interior of Buddha Zen Hotel in Chengdu is a peaceful space featuring traditional Chinese architecture. A central Buddha statue, along with simple wood carvings and lanterns, adds to the calm and culturally rich atmosphere.

  • World Expeditions has a long history of pioneering travel in Tibet. We were among the first to offer treks here after it reopened to foreigners in the 1980s. Our extensive local knowledge, strong relationships on the ground and commitment to responsible travel ensure a more thoughtful and rewarding experience.
  • Travelling to Mount Kailash involves journeying into one of the most remote regions on earth, and our comprehensive inclusions are designed to ensure your experience is as safe, comfortable and hassle-free.
  • Our dedicated support crew includes experienced guides trained in wilderness first aid. To further support your safety, we carry a group medical kit, bottled oxygen and a Portable Altitude Chamber (PAC) for emergency use.
  • Your trekking permits and park fees are all pre-arranged, and our well-paced itinerary prioritises acclimatisation.

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