Nepal vision | 22/01/2024
Every person from a religious group, like Hindu or Buddhist, has a dream to visit the majestic Mount Kailash due to its religious significance. However, Mount Kailash's trek is more than just a spiritual trek.
Mount Kailash, set in the beautiful Tibetan Plateau, invites adventurous trekkers to start on a journey beyond the usual.
The trek goes around the mountain, giving pilgrims and trekkers a chance to connect with the deep spirituality of the area.
It's more than just a challenging walk; it's an experience that changes you, going beyond differences in culture, religion, and personal beliefs.
Cultural and Spiritual Highlights of Kailash Trek
The journey to Mount Kailash is not just about walking; it's filled with unique cultural and spiritual moments. People come here for different rituals, like pilgrimages and religious practices, a special and sacred experience.
The nearby Mansarovar Lake is also essential. It's not just a lake; it's a place full of meaning and significance in the local beliefs.
Apart from these rituals, there's a chance to learn and be a part of the local customs and traditions. You get to meet and talk with the people living there, sharing moments with them.
There are also special times for traditional festivities and celebrations, bringing everyone together in joy and unity.
So, the journey becomes not just a physical trek but a heartwarming adventure into the rich culture and spirituality of the region.
Itinerary of Kailash mountain trek
Short Itinerary Route: Cultural Exploration
Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatization
- Arrive at Kathmandu airport.
- Meet your tour leader.
- Transfer to a hotel in Kathmandu for acclimatization and exploration.
Day 2-3: Travel to Trek Starting Point
- Drive from Kathmandu to Nyalam (3650m).
- Continue the journey to Saga (4487m).
- Reach Darchen (4600m) and explore the surrounding area.
Day 4-10: Trekking through Scenic Landscapes
- Day 4: Trek from Darchen to Dirapuk Monastery (7-8 hours, 18km, 550m ascent, 600m descent).
- Day 5: Return trek from Dirapuk Monastery to Dzultripuk Monastery (7-8 hours, 18km, 550m ascent, 600m descent).
- Days 6-8: Trek from Dirapuk Monastery to Zuthulpuk Monastery (2.5 hours daily).
- Day 9: Return trek from Zuthulpuk Monastery to Darchen (2.5 hours).
- Day 10: Rest day in Darchen; explore the town and acclimatize.
Day 11: Return Journey
- Drive from Darchen to Saga.
- Continue the journey to Nyalam.
- Return to Kathmandu.
Itinerary Route: Nepal Vision Trek Special for Nature and Adventure
: Mount Kailash Trek - 15 Days / 14 Nights
- Day 01 - Kathmandu / Zhangmu Hotel:
Arrive in Kathmandu and head to the Zhangmu Hotel.
- Day 02 - Zhangmu / Lake Peigutso:
Start your trek from Zhangmu to the serene Lake Peigutso. Camp overnight.
- Day 03 - Lake Peigutso / Zhongba:
Continue your journey to Zhongba. Set up camp for the night.
- Day 04 - Zhongba / Mayomla:
Trek to Mayomla and enjoy the scenic beauty—camp for the night.
- Day 05 - Mayomla / Dharchen:
Reach Dharchen, the starting point for the Mount Kailash trek. Camp overnight.
- Day 06-08 - Trek around Mt. Kailash:
Embark on a three-day trek around the sacred Mount Kailash Camp during the trek.
- Day 09 - Dharchen / Lake Mansarovar:
Head to the enchanting Lake Manasarowar from Dharchen. Camp overnight.
- Day 10 - Lake Manasarowar:
Spend a day at the mesmerizing Lake Manasarowar. Camp by the lake.
- Day 11 - Lake Manasarowar / Mayomla:
Return to Mayomla and set up camp for the night.
- Day 12 - Mayomla / Zhongba:
Trek back to Zhongba and camp for the night.
- Day 13 - Zhongba / Lake Peigutso:
Continue your journey, returning to Lake Peigutso. Camp overnight.
- Day 14 - Lake Peigutso / Zhangmu:
Head back to Zhangmu, the endpoint of your trek. Camp for the night.
- Day 15 - Zhangmu / Kathmandu:
Conclude your trek by returning to Kathmandu.
Planning Your Trek
Getting ready for the Kailash Mountain trek is essential to have a safe and enjoyable journey. When you go, making sure you have the proper permits is a critical part of planning.
Best Time to Visit
The best time for your trek means thinking about the weather and knowing when it's the best time to go. The weather affects how your trek will be, and the months from May to September, which are summer months, are the best.
It's because the temperatures are not too cold, and the paths are more accessible to walk on. This time is excellent for both beginners and experienced trekkers.
It's better to avoid going in winter because there's a lot of snow, and it gets freezing. Additionally, it makes it tough for trekking with challenges like freezing temperatures.
Permits and Regulations
To go on a trek to Mount Kailash, you need different permits because it's in a particular area. If you're a foreign traveller, these are the permits you have to get:
- Tibet Travel Permit: This is the essential permit you need to enter Tibet.
- Alien's Travel Permit: This permit is necessary for going to restricted places in Tibet, like Mount Kailash.
- Foreign Affairs Permit: If you're an Indian pilgrim going on the Mount Kailash pilgrimage tour, you need this permit from the Foreign Affairs Office of Tibet Autonomous Region.
- Military Permit: Mount Kailash is in a military-controlled area; you also need this permit.
Remember, you can't travel to Tibet and Ngari Prefecture independently if you're a foreign tourist. You have to use a local authorized tour agency to help you get these permits.
It's a good idea to plan your trip at least a month ahead because getting all these permits takes time. You'll need a valid passport and the mentioned permits when you travel.
Make sure to check with local authorities and tour agencies for any extra permits you might need, like national park entry permits or special permits for restricted areas.
These permits are usually given by local travel agents in China/Tibet after you give them the necessary documents.
The whole group gets an entry permit and a sponsor. After this, everyone except Indian pilgrims needs to fill out a visa application form and get a group travel permit and a visa to visit Kailash.
Getting There
Access Points
- Nearest Airports and Transportation Hubs: When planning your journey to Mount Kailash, it's essential to know the nearest airports and transportation hubs. These serve as the starting points for your adventure.
- Road Journey Options: Once you arrive at the nearest transportation hub, you'll need to consider road journey options. This involves selecting the best routes and modes of transportation to reach your trek starting point. Whether by bus or private vehicle, understanding the road options is crucial for a comfortable and scenic journey.
Accommodation
- Teahouses and Lodges: Along the trekking routes, teahouses and lodges provide essential accommodation. These are welcoming places where you can rest, recharge, and interact with fellow trekkers. Teahouses often offer a cosy atmosphere, basic amenities, and a chance to experience local hospitality. Lodges, on the other hand, may provide slightly more comfortable accommodations.
- Camping Options: For those seeking a closer connection with nature, camping is a fantastic option. Carrying your camping gear allows you to set up in serene locations, offering a unique and immersive experience. Camping also provides flexibility for you to choose your overnight spots while enjoying the tranquillity of the Himalayan landscapes.
Is the Kailash Mountain trek challenging?
The Kailash trek is indeed a challenging adventure, known for its difficulty arising from several factors. The high altitude of Mount Kailash, reaching over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet), presents a significant challenge, with the risk of altitude-related issues like sickness.
The terrain is remote, rugged, and harsh, featuring rocky paths and unpredictable weather conditions. Trekkers must pass through long trails covering substantial distances each day during the multi-day kora of Mount Kailash.
The climatic variability adds to the difficulty, with weather ranging from sunny and clear to sudden snowfall and freezing temperatures.
Limited facilities along the trek, including basic accommodation in teahouses or campsites, pose additional challenges. Physical endurance is crucial, as the trek demands a high level of fitness for long hours of walking at high altitudes.
Despite its difficulty, the Kailash trek is known for its spiritual and cultural significance and challenges as an integral part of the transformative journey.
Trekkers are advised to be well-prepared and physically fit. Experienced professionals should guide your journey to ensure a safe and rewarding expedition.
To wrap up, the Kailash Mountain trek is a spiritually enriching journey. At the same time, the adventurers get to explore the breathtaking landscapes and cultural significance surrounding them.
Mount Kailash. Despite its challenges, including high altitudes, harsh terrain, and varying weather conditions, the trek offers a unique opportunity for self-discovery and connection with the spirituality of the region.
Nepal Vision Treks, with their expertise and local knowledge, add a layer of professionalism and support to the journey. Their guidance ensures that trekkers are well-prepared for the challenges presented by the high altitudes, rough terrains, and climatic variations.
FAQS
1) What is the best time to embark on the Kailash trek?
The best time is during the summer months, from May to September, when weather conditions are more favourable.
2) Are there specific permits required for the Kailash trek?
Yes, several permits are needed, including the Tibet Travel Permit and Alien's Travel Permit.
3) How physically demanding is the Kailash trek?
The trek is challenging, requiring good physical fitness due to high altitudes and long hours of walking.
4) Can I travel independently to Mount Kailash?
No, independent travel for foreign tourists is not allowed; a local authorized tour agency must be used.
5) What are the accommodation options during the trek?
Accommodations include teahouses, lodges, and camping options along the trekking routes.
6) Is altitude sickness a concern during the Kailash trek?
Yes, due to the high altitudes, trekkers need to acclimatize carefully to prevent altitude-related issues.
7) How long does the complete circumambulation (kora) of Mount Kailash take?
The kora typically takes several days, with each day involving significant distances.
8) Are there cultural restrictions or guidelines to follow during the trek?
Yes, respecting local customs and traditions, including ritual practices, is essential for cultural sensitivity.
9) Can I engage in photography during the trek?
Yes, photography is allowed, but trekkers should be culturally sensitive and seek permission when necessary.
