Itinerary

1. Day 1: Arrival in Lhasa, Get the First Impression of Tibet

   • Upon your arrival in Lhasa, the spiritual heart of Tibet, you'll be greeted by the breathtaking sight of the majestic Potala Palace perched high on the Red Hill. 
   • After being welcomed by your guide at the airport or train station, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. This day is about acclimatizing to Lhasa's high altitude (3,650 meters), so it's best to take it easy. 
   • Spend the day exploring the city at your own pace or simply resting at your hotel, soaking in the first impressions of the unique Tibetan culture surrounding you.

2. Day 2: Explore Drepung Monastery and Sera Monastery (B, D)

   • Begin your day with a visit to the Drepung Monastery, once the largest monastery in Tibet. It served as the residence of the Dalai Lama before the Potala Palace was constructed. Wander through its vast assembly halls and explore the numerous chapels adorned with intricate murals and ancient statues. 
   • After lunch, visit the Sera Monastery, famous for its lively monk debates in the courtyard. These debates are a fascinating insight into the intellectual life of Tibetan monks and are a highlight of any visit to Lhasa. 
   • End your day with a traditional Tibetan dinner.

3. Day 3: See Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple & Barkhor Street (B)

   • Today, you'll visit the iconic Potala Palace, the former winter residence of the Dalai Lama and a symbol of Tibetan Buddhism. Explore the grand halls, chapels, and living quarters adorned with priceless cultural relics, stunning murals, and intricate statues. 
   • In the afternoon, visit the sacred Jokhang Temple, Tibet's most important religious structure and a pilgrimage site for Tibetan Buddhists. 
   • Conclude your day with a stroll around Barkhor Street, where you can join pilgrims in their kora (circumambulation) and browse the vibrant market stalls.

4. Day 4: Leave from Lhasa to reach Shigatse (B, L)

   • Today, embark on a scenic drive from Lhasa to Shigatse, Tibet's second-largest city. En route, stop at Gyantse, a town steeped in history and culture. 
   • Visit the Gyantse Kumbum, a stunning stupa with nine tiers containing a maze of chapels filled with Buddhist murals and statues. 
   • You'll also pass by the tranquil Yamdrok Lake, one of Tibet's three sacred lakes, and the imposing Karola Glacier. 
   • Upon arrival in Shigatse, visit the Tashilhunpo Monastery, the traditional seat of the Panchen Lama. 
   • Enjoy lunch along the way as you soak in the breathtaking landscapes of the Tibetan plateau.

5. Day 5: Drive from Shigatse to Everest Base Camp (B)

   • Today’s journey takes you to the base of the world’s highest mountain, Mount Everest. As you leave Shigatse, you'll drive through some of Tibet's most remote and stunning landscapes. The route passes through high mountain passes, including the Gyatso La pass, which offers your first glimpse of Everest in the distance. 
   • Upon arrival at Everest Base Camp, you'll be surrounded by the towering peaks of the Himalayas. The day's highlight is witnessing the awe-inspiring sunset over Everest's north face, an experience that will stay with you forever.

6. Day 6: Visit Peiku Tso Lake while going to Saga (B)

   • Rise early to catch the sunrise over Mount Everest, a truly magical moment as the first light of day illuminates the snow-capped peak. 
   • After breakfast, depart from Everest Base Camp and head towards Saga. 
   • En route, you’ll pass Peiku Tso Lake, a stunning high-altitude lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The lake's serene beauty, reflecting the peaks on its surface, is a sight to behold. 
   • Continue your journey through the remote wilderness, arriving in Saga in the late afternoon, where you'll spend the night.

7. Day 7: Drive to Darchen and see Mount Kailash

   • Today’s journey furthers you into western Tibet's remote and rugged landscapes. Departing from Saga, you’ll travel through Zhongba, a small town that serves as a stopover for travellers heading to Mount Kailash. The road offers spectacular views of the Tibetan plateau, with vast stretches of open terrain, distant mountain ranges, and the occasional nomadic herder with their yaks. 
   • By late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Darchen, the starting point for Mount Kailash Kora, where you'll prepare for the trek ahead.

8. Day 8: Trek from Darchen to Dirapuk Monastery (13 km)

   • The first day of Mount Kailash Kora begins with a trek from Darchen to Dirapuk Monastery. The journey covers approximately 13 kilometres and takes you through the picturesque Lha Chu Valley. 
   • As you ascend, the views of Mount Kailash become increasingly dramatic. The trek is moderately challenging but rewarding, with breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. 
   • Upon reaching Dirapuk Monastery, you'll have the chance to rest and enjoy the stunning views of Mount Kailash’s north face, a truly sacred sight for pilgrims.

9. Day 9: Trek from Dirapuk Monastery to Zutulpuk Monastery (24 km)

   • Today is the most challenging day of the Kora as you trek from Dirapuk Monastery to Zutulpuk Monastery, covering 24 kilometres. The day begins with a steep ascent to the Drolma-la Pass, the highest point of the kora at 5,636 meters. The climb is tough, but the panoramic views from the pass are simply breathtaking. 
   • After a moment of reflection at the pass, you’ll begin the descent towards the Lham Chu Valley, where Zutulpuk Monastery is located. The monastery, nestled in a peaceful valley, offers a serene place to rest after a long day of trekking.

10. Day 10: Trek from Zutulpuk Monastery to Darchen (12 km)

    • On the final day of the Kora, you’ll trek from Zutulpuk Monastery back to Darchen, covering 12 kilometres. The trail follows the river through the valley, offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. The path is relatively flat and easy, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty leisurely. 
    • Upon reaching Darchen, you’ll complete the Kora, a significant achievement for any pilgrim. 
    • After celebrating your successful trek, you'll have the rest of the day to relax and reflect on the spiritual journey you’ve undertaken.

11. Day 11: Return to Saga

    • After the physically demanding days of trekking, today is a day of rest and recovery as you drive from Darchen back to Saga. The journey retraces your route through the stunning landscapes of western Tibet, offering one last opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking scenery. 
    • Along the way, you’ll pass by small Tibetan villages and nomadic camps, giving you a glimpse into the traditional way of life in this remote region. 
    • Upon arrival in Saga, you’ll have the evening to rest and relax in preparation for the journey ahead.

12. Day 12: Reach Gyirong

    • Today’s journey takes you from Saga to Gyirong, a small town near the border with Nepal. The drive offers spectacular views of the Himalayas, including some of the world’s highest peaks. 
    • As you descend from the Tibetan plateau, the landscape gradually changes, with arid plains giving way to lush green valleys. Gyirong is known for its mild climate and beautiful scenery, making it a pleasant place to spend the night. 
    • Upon arrival, you can explore the town or simply relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

13. Day 13: Visit Kathmandu

    • On the final day of your journey, you’ll cross the border from Tibet into Nepal, making your way to Kathmandu. The drive takes you through the stunning Gyirong Valley, with its dramatic landscapes and towering peaks. 
    • After completing the border formalities, you’ll continue your journey through the lush foothills of the Himalayas, descending into the Kathmandu Valley. 
    • Upon arrival in Kathmandu, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, where you can rest and reflect on your incredible journey through Tibet and the Himalayas.