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The trek to Mount Kailash via Limi Valley is the trip of a lifetime that takes you to the Holy Mt. Kailash Parvat (6,638 m) and also to the Guge Kingdom. The Kailash Trek is a spiritual tour that allows trekkers to explore and understand the religious and cultural significance of Nepal and Tibet. The journey takes you to the far-eastern end of Nepal and into the hidden Limi Valley.
You will be amazed by the astonishing view of the Mansarovar Lake which lies at the height of 4,590 m. We reach Kailash Guge walking through Simikot and the valley of Limi starting from Kathmandu. The trek in Limi Valley will take about nine days after which we reach Guge, Kailash Parvat, and Dzangmu.
Kailash Parvat is a place of religious significance, especially for people following the Hindu religion. It is believed to be the abode for Lord Shiva. The followers Buddhism believe this place to be the hub of the entire Universe.
Our trek starts from the country's capital Kathmandu after which we travel to far-western end to enter Tibet via Nepal-China borders. We enter Tibet through Simikot and then Limi Valley where you'll come across the Bhutias, the natives of the valley.
"Limi" in Tibetan means people who survive the river's valley. Geographically, Limi is a trans-Himalayan valley with three major Tibetan cultural settlements like Til (4,100 m), Jhang (3,930 m), and Waltz (3,700 m).
While on the trek you'd have to pass across Himalayan passes from which you can enjoy the majestic views of Tibet's mountains and the Himalayas.
Trekkers have a great time experiencing the ancient culture and traditions of Tibet, while at places like Parang, Purang, Dongba, Nyalam, and Saga before reaching the holy Manasarovar lake. Visit the ancient settlement of the Guge Kingdom, which has the ruins of Tsaparang, Tholing, and other monasteries of the past.
Tsaparang is the former capital of Guge Kingdom and the region through which the river Sutlej flows into India.
The trek also includes exploring the Graduda Valley or the Zhangzhung Kingdom close to Sutlej where you can see the ruins of the early Bonpo Kingdom that previously dominated Ladakh, India and other parts of new Tibet.
The Limi Valley trekking experience takes you to Dzangmu via Thong La pass (5,150 m) from where you can enjoy the majestic view of Mt. Shishapangma (8,027 m). As we descend from Thong La, you walk past thick green jungles of Nepal which an imprint your brain for a very very long time.
Expand Details Collapse DetailsOn our arrival in the fine Nepalese city of Kathmandu, you will be welcomed with happy-go-lucky faces and taken to your assigned hotel for check-in. This great city, rich in culture and history, is the beginning point of your journey. After settling in, you will have some quality time to relax and explore your surroundings.
Later in the day, there will be a planning session. During this session, you will receive critical information about the trek, including the itinerary and any last-hour preparations. This is an excellent opportunity to ask questions and ensure you're fully prepared for the adventure days ahead.
In the beginning morning, you will take the secluded flight from Kathmandu all through Simikot, an incredible picture journey that lasts around 50 minutes to 1 hour. As you move on, you will get the best aerial views of the Himalayan trails. Upon arrival through the Simikot, you will have the best chance to explore this remarkable village, which is the door to the wonderful Limi Valley and the impressive Mount Kailash trek.
Take some time to rest and acclimate to the altitude while walking the narrow streets, visiting fine local shops, and learning about the area's culture. In the evening, you will go in for a happy night's stay at the local guesthouse, preparing for the adventures days ahead. This mixture of exploration and acclimatization will set the tone for your great trek.
Trek in the Limi Valley, passing breathtaking landscapes and fine traditional villages. As you move down the trail, you will be enthralled by the region's great green hills and intricately made fields. The calm beauty of the surroundings makes for an inspiring beginning to your adventure.
As you continue on the path, the vibrant culture of the local communities becomes increasingly evident, offering a glimpse at their daily activities. Finally, you will arrive at the impressive Limi Valley and settle at the comfortable local lodge for the night.
Explore the great Limi Valley, beginning with visits to the charming villages of Halji and Jang. As you go through the settlements, you will have the opportunity to experience the rare culture of the local people, witnessing their age-old way of life and the vibrant customs of the region.
While in the valley, explore the ancient monasteries, which dot the whole landscape and give a glimpse at the area's spiritual heritage. The sacred sites not only show great art and architecture but also provide insight into the practices and beliefs of the local people.
Go on the trek from Limi Valley through Kermi. The journey has stunning landscapes that will surprise you. As you go through the trails, you will see mountains and the cool flow of rivers, making the calm backdrop for your adventure ahead.
With every step, take a moment and appreciate the world's beauty through flora and fauna at the splendid vistas. Upon reaching Kermi, you will settle in for the night, going the warm for the local accommodations.
At the trek at the Yari, the path also has lovely terrain and gentle streams. Each step goes through the delicate natural beauty of the area as you travel through lush meadows and enjoy the sights and sounds of the forests around you.
Upon reaching the Yari, take a break to relax and acclimatize to the altitude. This calm village provides a peaceful environment, allowing you to recharge after the rewarding day of trekking. Settle into your accommodation for the whole night, where you can reflect on your journey thus far and prepare for the adventures.
Start your trek at Mount Kailash Base Camp, a destination known as one of the holiest sites in Tibetan Buddhism. As you traverse the delicate landscape, the imposing Mount Kailash gradually comes into view, inspiring a sense of awe and spirituality.
Take your time to explore the magnificent surroundings, where the lovely beauty of the mountains and valleys complements the area's spiritual atmosphere. Upon arrival at the Base Camp, you will settle in for the night, surrounded by the majesty of one of the world's greatest sacred peaks.
On this day, perform the kora, or circumambulation, around the sacred Mount Kailash. This revered ritual is a fine spiritual experience, allowing you to connect deeply with the mountain and its importance in many religious customs and traditions. Walking through the route, you will pass breathtaking landscapes and pilgrims, each contributing to the sacred atmosphere around this famed peak.
With each step, you will reflect on the spiritual step and the beliefs that draw countless individuals to this holy site. After going on the kora, return to the Base Camp for a well-deserved stay.
Start your descent through the Base Camp to the Darchen, where the journey gives stunning scenes of Mount Kailash at around turn. The sight of this glorious peak against the backdrop of the expansive sky creates a fantastic, inspiring scene that will stay in your memory forever. Each step down also offers new perspectives on the mountain's grandeur and the surrounding landscapes, enhancing the incredible beauty of your trek.
As you reach Darchen, you will feel welcomed at this great gateway to the region. After settling into your accommodation, take some time to relax and reflect on the incredible experiences you've had during your trekking.
Depart through the place of Darchen and go on a delicate journey to Saga by jeep or bus, taking in the fine scenery along the way. The drive gives a great chance to feel and get into the diverse landscape moments of the region, all through valleys at the towering peaks, making it a memorable change through the mountain trails.
Upon arriving at the Saga, settle into your accommodation all night. This charming town also allows you to relax and reflect on your adventures. Enjoy the local atmosphere and plan the next leg of your journey.
Continue on the journey at Zhangmu, passing through a series of fine landscapes that show the region's incredible beauty. You will witness acceptable mountain ranges, lush-filled valleys, and fine villages, each adding to your adventure's visual feel. The winding roads give a great view, making the trip as enjoyable as the destination.
Upon reaching Zhangmu, take a moment to rest after the long journey. This fine town in the hills offers a rare blend of cultures and stunning visuals. Settle at your accommodation at night, going yourself to relax and absorb the lively atmosphere of the entire area.
Today, you will cross the border back into Nepal and go to Kathmandu, where a world of refined culture and history awaits. As you journey back, take in the changing landscapes and reflect on the famed experiences of your trek.
Once in Kathmandu, you will also have free time to explore the city at your leisure. Wander the busy markets, discover all the hidden temples, or shop for rare souvenirs to take on your journey.
Today we enter Tibet, but first, we reach Hilsa after crossing Lamka La Pass. Check-in at the Chinese customs office in Hilsa. Our Tibetan guides will be there to receive you and then drive to Purang.
Stay at a guest house in Purang.
Drive from Purang to Manasarovar Lake, enjoying the beautiful view of Gurlamandata Mountains and other snow-capped mountains. You can also see the Rakshas Taal and Manasarovar lake during the drive. In the evening, you can visit the Chiu Gompa (monastery).
Stay overnight at a lodge near Chiu Gompa.
You can take a break and rest at Manasarovar. Explore the area and take a bath at the hot spring nearby.
Stay at the same hotel in Chiu Gompa area.
Drive to Tirthapuri Hot Spring from Manasarovar passing Tholing along the way.
Stay at a teahouse/hotel in Tirthapuri.
Enjoy the day at Tirthapuri, visiting its numerous hot springs and pilgrim sites. In the morning you can hike to Bon Monastery Gurudem.
During the afternoon, you can visit small Kora of Tirthapuri. Enjoy meditating at the Gompa with Buddhist monks and pilgrim-goers. Tirthapuri is best known for housing the meditating cave of Guru Rinpoche.
Stay at the same lodge in Tirthapuri.
Take a local vehicle back to Tholing from Tirthapuri Hot Spring. You can enjoy the spectacular view of the Tibetan Plateau and the Indian Himalayas.
Stay overnight at a lodge in Tholing.
Today we reach Darchen from Tholing, but before that, we visit the historical town and palaces in Tsaparang in the Guge Kingdom.
The Guge Kingdom is full of Buddhist monasteries and caves. We then move towards Drachen, which is a small town at the foothills of Mt. Kailash.
The Tibetan guide will arrange yaks and porters for your three days trip around Mount Kailash.
Stay and Hotel Sun Moon Guesthouse or Hotel Himalaya in Drachen.
After an early breakfast, we hike to Dairaphuk. Its the first day of your trip around Mount Kailash (Kora) after passing Lime valley.
Stay overnight at a lodge or monastery in Dairaphuk.
From Dairaphuk we reach Zuthulphuk. Today is the hardest and the holiest day of our trek. After passing Dolma La Pass at 5,630 m, we move towards Zuthulphuk which is nestled between two valleys.
The valley is filled with Buddhist flags left by pilgrim-goers. From Dolma La pass it a series staircases that lead you to Lhachu Valley.
Stay overnight at a teahouse/guest house in Zuthulphuk.
We start the third and final day of the Mount Kailash Kora with breakfast at Zuthulphuk.
Visit the Milarepa cave, where the temples date back to the 11th century. The temples were later renovated in 2016.
We head back to Darchen and exit the valley, which should take us about three hours. A driver will be there to receive you and escort you back to Darchen. After finishing the KLora or the circular trip drive to Hortsu.
Stay overnight at a lodge/guest house.
We drive along the Himalayan ranges and pass Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Mustang. Visit Lake Peigu Tsho and reach Saga. On the way, you can also catch a glimpse of Shisha Pangma (8,016 m) and Ganesh Himal (7,150 m).
Stay overnight at a lodge in Saga.
Take an early morning drive from Kyirong (Gyirong) via Rashuwa Gadhi Border (1,838 m) and reach Nuwakot Durbar. Fulfil all the necessary legal procedures after entering Nepal from Tibet and continue your drive to Nuwakot Durbar which will take about two and a half hours.
The Durbar is located on top of a hill and is an ancient historic site that offers a beautiful view of the valley below.
It takes about three hours to reach from Nuwakot to Kathmandu.
Today is a free day, and you can roam around the capital city for sightseeing.
At night you can enjoy a typical Nepali dinner at a restaurant.
Our staff will escort you back to the international airport from where you can head back home.
Trekkers should carry their daypack so they can easily access their necessary items like medical supplies, windcheaters, camera, phone, etc.. Our porters will carry 20-25 kg from your main bag.
Carry all legal and essential documents while coming to Nepal.