Asia's most sacred mountain stands in a remote corner of western Tibet, isolated by rugged terrain from all but a handful of outsiders. Its name is Mount Kailas, its reputation near - legendary. To pilgrims of four religions, this 22,028 - foot rock pyramid is the throne of the gods and the 'Navel of the Earth', a place where the divine takes earthly ofrm. For well over a thousand years, pilgrims have journeyed here to pay homage to the mountains's mystery, circumambulating it in an ancient ritual of devotion that continues to this day.To each pilgrims Kailash speaks differently. Hindus cross the frozen mountain passes of India and Nepal to circle the peak that is Shiva's throne and bath in the lake created from the Mind-Manas of Brahma. Buddhists journey from ladakh, Bhutan, Nepal, Mongolia and every corner of Tibet to this holiest Mountain which they call 'Kall Rinpoche', the 'Precious Snow Mountain'. The Jain religion knows Kailas as Mount Ashtapada and to the Bonpo, followers of Tibet's old pre-Buddhist beliefs, it is the 'Nine-Storey Swastika Mountain', the mystic soul of the entire region.
There is more than enough reasons to call Mt. Kailash the holiest of all the holy peaks. Not only it is believed to be the abode of Hindu God Shiva, but also it is the Center of Spiritual Cosmos. To the Jains the Mt. Kailash is the site where their first prophet achieved enlightenment. An ancient religion Bon has a legend that its founder Shanrap was descent from heaven to the top of Mt. Kailash. For Buddhist it is the Precious Jewel Peak where pilgrims take the journey to attain enlightenment. Substantial historical significances, legends and myths are connected to this most sacred and sublime destination in Asia.
Over the centuries pilgrims have constantly been braving their way to Mt. Kailash in order to attain spiritual enlightenment despite the harsh weather and frequent bandits attack in the gone days. The journey/yatra itself burns out the sins collected in one’s lifetime. You won’t be surprised to find yourself renewed person after your lifetime journey. A drop of water from beautiful and serene Lake Manasarovar, which lies 30 km further from Mt. Kailash and the source of four great rivers in Asia: the Indus, the Yarlung Tsangpo (Brahmaputra), Karnali and the Sutlej, sets you free from our poisonous world.
The Hindu scriptures reiterate that who take the holy dip at Manasarovar and carry out the Parikrama around Kailash are absolved of their sins through generations and is absorbed into the Supreme Finality. To him, there is no rebirth, sorrows or joys: he is one with the ultimate - He is one with Shiva: He becomes the Shiva. SHIVOHAM. SHIVOHAM.
The awesome view of Lake Manasarovar, Gulra Mandhata and Ravana Lake bewilders the onlooker into subliminal aura. Ravana, the great actor in Hindu Ramayan epic, is claimed to have prayed at this lake (Ravana Tal / Rakshas Tal) and had the audience with Shiva. Manasarovar was created by Brahma at the request; of the great Rishis. This mind born lake contains the essence of all the Vedas. This is the place for holy ceremonial bath: oblations to the ancestors are offered here. Both the lakes are full of swans.
The entire area echoes with spiritual vibrations. Even the agnostics shall discover new Balance amidst that fathomless serenity. One has to experience it. It is widely believed that those who are ordained only could be there.
Organized Trek:
As this sacred place happens to be located in absolute remoteness a visit for mankind was something of a dream in the past. Now the dream has turned into reality by making it possible to reach there due to the net work of motorable roads and major highways. Adventure begins with a sweeping panoramic flight over the magnificent Himalayas to Lhasa – the capital city of Tibet or drive straight from Kathmandu to Zangmu, the borderland of Tibet. From here a drive in a 4 wheel power Land Cruiser will take us to the holy Lake Mansorover and Mt. Kailash for the pilgrimage circumambulation and to achieve our ultimate spiritual goal before returning back to Kathmandu.The experienced team of Trekker’s Society has developed several optional tours to Mt. Kailash that fit with all age group ranging from 14-70 year old. Here are the some of sample itineraries:
Program # 1 : Kailash & Mansarovar - 16 days, bothway by surface.
Program # 2 : Lhasa, Kailash & Mansarovar - 19 days, bothway by surface.
Program # 3 : Kailash & Mansarovar 11 days both way by Helicoptor.
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Program : # 1
14 days : Mount Kailash both ways by surface
Day 01:
Drive Kathmandu to Kodari 116 km. crosses into Tibet (Zhangmu) and drive for another 2 hours to Nyalam (3750) 53 km. Check into the lodge.
Overnight at the Guesthouse.
Day 02
Rest day at Nyalam for acclimatization. Overnight at the Guesthouse
Day 03:
Drive from Nyalam to Saga (4300m) 291 km via Lalunala Pass, lake Paigu Tso and Brahmaputra River. Because of the scarcity of camping sites in and around the village, we continue further driving another 45 minutes to arrive at a beautiful campsite located close to the Saga River. Overnight at the Guesthouse.
Day 04
Drive from Saga via New Zongba to Paryang (4360m). Overnight at the Guesthouse.
Day 05
Drive from Paryang to Lake Manasarovar (5410m) via Mayum La (5151m)
Driving past Kongyu Tso through the village of Thongchen to camp near the Chiu monastery. Overnight at the Guesthouse.
Day 06
Rest and explore Manasarovar Lake. Overnight at the Guesthouse
Day 07
Drive from Manasarovar to Darchen (4560m) and Trek from Darchen to
Chhuku Bridge – 4 Hrs. and side visit to Chhuku Monastery – 30 minutes. Overnight at the Guesthouse.
Day 08
Trek from Chhuku Gompa to Drira Phuk – 4 Hrs. As one reaches the Gompa and a frugal guesthouse at Drira Phuk, you are rewarded with a fine view of the North face of Mt. Kailash. The three lower hills in front of Mt. Kailash from this vantage point are the manjushree, Avalokitesvara and Vajrapani representing wisdom, kindness and power.
Overnight at the Guesthouse.
Day 09
Start trek from Drira Phuk and immediately cross the Lha Chu on a wooden bridge. Many more switchbacks and steep descents leads to the valley and then further descend for about an hour to arrive alongside the Lham Chhukhir at 5150 meters. Overnight at the Guesthouse.
Day 10
Trek from Shabje Drathok to 4610m, the last prostration point (Chaksal Gang). Upon arrival at Darchen, board the waiting vehicles for about two hours drive to the campsite past the settlement of Hor Qu to the northeast corner of the Lake Mansarovar. Overnight at the Guesthouse.
Day 11
Drive from Hor Qu to Paryang. Overnight at the Guesthouse.
Day 12
Drive from Paryang to Saga. Overnight at the Guesthouse.
Day 13
Drive from Saga to Zhangmu. Overnight at the Guesthouse.
Day 14
Drive from Zhangmu to Kathmandu. Drive up to Friendship Bridge and start drive back to Kathmandu through the Araniko Highway
Price wil includes:
Ø Tibetan English speaking guide with all sightseeing tour in Tibet as per the itinerary.
Ø Accommodation at hotels/guest houses en-route as per itinerary including all meals.
Ø All necessary permits and all entrance fees in Tibet.
Ø Transportation from within Tibet using Toyota 4500 Land cruiser, (4 pax in a Jeep).
Ø Oxygen cylinder, mask and regulator + Gammow bag incase of AMS + a comprehensive medical first aid kit.
Ø Transfers Kathmandu/Kodari/Kathmandu with necessary vehicle retention.
Price excludes:
Ø International airfare and airport taxes.
Ø Nepal entry and re-entry visas.
Ø Accommodation and sightseeing tour in Kathmandu.
Ø Items of personal nature such as bar bills, alcoholic beverages, laundry, and telephone calls, personal gratuities as tips to guide, porters, drivers etc.
Ø Personal insurance policy – suggested a comprehensive travel insurance covering tour and flight cancellations, loss of valuables, thefts, illness, accidents and hospitalization and most of all emergency Helicopter evacuation.
Program # 2
19 Days KTM-LHASA-KAILASH-ZHANGMU-KTM TOUR
Day 01: Fly KATHMANDU-LHASA
Transfer to airport and fly CA 408 to Lhasa (1hr)= Upon arrival in Lhasa (Gonggar airport) transfer from Airport at Lhasa city. Check in at Hotel in Lhasa. Full rest for accilimatization.
Day 02/03: IN LHASA (3650M)
Two full day sightseeing tour to Lhasa including Drepung Monastery, Sera Monastery, Potala Palace, Jokhnag Temple, Barkhor Bazaar & Norbulinka. Overnight at Hotel.
Day 04: LHASA –GYANTSE (3950M)
Scenic drive to Gyantse (7-8 hrs). It is a full day drive crossing over Yamadroke Tso, Khamba La & Karo La- Overnight at Hotel.
Day 05: GYANTSE – SHIGATSE (3900M) (90 km - 1 ½ hrs drive)
AM: Visit Phalkhor and Kumbum monasteries. PM: Continue drive to Shigatse. Check in into Hotel. Then sightseeing tour to Tashilumpo Monastery. O/N in Hotel.
Day 06: SHIGATSE – XEGAR (4,100 M) (6-7 hrs)
Continue scenic drive to XEGAR (4,150 M) crossing over Gyatchu La (5220 M). The drive is quite scenic and offers opportunities to encounter Tibetan nomads (packed lunch on the way) – Overnight Hotel Everest (Hotel Qomolongma) (dinner at Hotel)
Day 07: XEGAR – SAGA ( 4100M) ( 6-7 hrs)
Continue drive to Saga through the road leading to Paiku Tso . ( Today , we will meet our Sherpa crew at Saga and camping will starts from Saga)
Day 08: SAGA – PARYANG (4,300 M) ( 5-6 hrs)
Continue our drive to Paryang through the Tibetan countryside. – Overnight at Camp.
Day 09: PARYANG – MAYUM LA ( 5,150 M)- MANASAROVAR LAKE (4,450 M) ( 5-6 hrs) Scenic drive to Manasarovar lake and explore Manasarovar lake. – Overnight at Camp.
Day 10: MANASAROVAR – DARCHEN ( 4560 M) ( 1 hrs)
After whole morning exploration of Manasarovar Lake, in the afternoon a short drive to Darchen. – Overnight either in camp or in a local guest house.
Day 11: TREK DACHEN – DHIRPHUK ( 4,890 M) ( 4-5 hrs)
Start trek from Darchen – Heading west you will climb up to a series of prayer flags at 4730 M., from where you should have great views of Mt. Kailash. Then, head north through Darboche, Shersong, the rebuilt Chukku Gompa and Damding Donkhang ( 4890M). to Dhirphuk and camp.
Day 12: TREK DHIRPHUK – ZUTULPHUK ( 4790 M) ( 4-5 hrs)
Climb through the moraine to a meadow at 5210 M. and then past rock cairns to emerge at Dolma La at 5630 M. From the pass descend via Gaurikunda (lake) to the La Chukkir valley at 5,150 M. Where you should look out for the foot prints which, pilgrims believe belonged to the Buddha. Descend further along a long, gentle path to Zutul-Puk Gompa (4790 M), where there is the cave in which the saint Milarepa is said to have meditated.
Day 13: ZUTULPHUK – DARCHEN ( 3 hrs) – TIRTHAPURI ( 4,300 M) ( 1 ½ hrs)
Trek along the Zhong Chu ( river) to a Bridge, cross it and climb a little before descending to 4610 M., from where you will have good views of Manasarovar Lake, a short trek through Mani walls will lead you back to Darchen. Then, drive to Tirthapuri where there is a hot water geyser. One can enjoy hot water bath. Overnight in Camp.
Day 14: TIRTHPURI – TOLLING ( 3,680 M) ( 6-7 hrs)
Scenic drive to Tolling through the Tibetan country side – Overnight Camp. In fact, a visitor to Mt. Kailash must never miss the opportunity to visit Tolling and Tsaparang. The places are special because after the assassination of the last Tsanpo, Lang Darma, in 842, Tibet fell into a state of decentralization. Separate localities became independent petty principalities. It was during this time Tsaparang & Tolling rose into importance as the Kingdom of Guge. Though a little is known of the origin of Guge, Osung, one of Lang Darma's Sons, was said to have retreated from Lhasa into the Ngari regions and established the Kingdom of Guge and Tsaparang. The ruins of a wall and castle lay on a hillside which were the most important remains of the Guge Kingdom. Built against the hill side, the castle penetrated the skyline at its highest point, while on the north-eastern side of the hill there were seven earthen forts and three temples each about ten meters high. The hillside was honeycombed with many caves whose tunnels ran in all directions. The entire complex was surrounded by a fortification wall built of yellow earth on which many carvings of the Buddha could still be discerned.
Day 15: TOLLING – TSANPARANG ( 3,680 M)
Full day sightseeing and exploration of Tolling & Tsaparang- Overnight in Camp.
Day 16: TSAPARANG – BARGA ( 4,300 M) (6-7 hrs)
Manasarovar Camp Scenic drive back to Barga – Overnight at Camp.
Day 17: BARGA – MAYUM LA ( 5150 M) ( 7-8 hrs) Manasarova – Saga
You will drive back along the bank of Matseng Tsangpo through the villages of Shue, Paryang and Samsang to Mayum La. – Camp at the base of the Pass.
Day 18 : MAYUM LA VIA DZONGBA ( 4400 M) TO ZHANGMU ( 2300 M) ( 10 – 11 hrs)
You will drive to Dzongba through the sandy road of the Tibetan plateau and later on the drive is behind the Himalaya offering lifetime opportunity to view the magnificence of Mt. Xishapangma & Mt. Cho Oyu from the close proximity ( weather permitting) from Lalung La ( 5050 M).ON THE WAY TO NYALAM – visit Milerepa cave. The end part of our drive is downhill drive to reach to Zhangmu. Check in into Hotel
Day 19: ZHANGMU – KATHMANDU ( 5-6 hrs)
After necessary border formalities at Nepal/Chinese immigrations- take a scenic drive to Dhulikhel through the lush green landscape of Nepal. Overnight and rest at Dhulikhel.
EXTRA COST:
TIBET VISA FEE:
NATIONALS :------ NORMAL (in 1 week) -------: URGENT (in 3 days) : ---TOP URGENT (same day)
US Nationals : ----US$ 142/- PP ------------US$ 164/- PP - -------- US$ 198/- PP
Other Nationals : -US$ 58/- PP ------------- US$ 80/- -------------- US$ 114
COST WILL INCLUDES:
· TWIN SHARING ROOM IN STANDARD HOTEL IN LHASA & BEST AVAILABLE HTLS EN-ROUTE ON B/B BASIS & ALL CAMPS AS MENTIONED IN THE ITINERARY ON FULL BOARD BASIS
· ALL TRANSPORT IN LHASA WILL BE BY GOOD COACH AND OUTSIDE LHASA WILL BE BY GOOD 4500 4 WD TOYOTA LANDCRUISERS
· A SEPARATE TRUCK FOR CARRYING LUGGAGE & EQUIPMENT & SHERPA CREW IN TIBET.
HIGHLY EXPERIENCED CAMPING CREW WITH A GOOD COOK, ALL MEALS DURING CAMPING ARE COOKED BY GAS, TREKKING EQUIPMENT SUCH AS TENTS, MATRESSES, TOILET TENT, DINNING TENT ( Sleeping bags of your own are recommended)
· TIBET TRAVEL PERMIT FEE, PERMIT FOR MT. KAILSAH AND , YAKS FOR CARRYING EQUPMENT, LUGGAGE, AND FOOD STUFF AROUND MT. KAILASH
· MEDICAL OXYGEN CYLINDER
· ALL ENTRANCE FEES TO MONASTERIES AND NECESSARY AIRPORT HOTEL TRANSFER
COST DOES NOT INCLUDES:
· ALL INSURANCE & RESCUE CHARGES IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
· PHOTOGRAPHY FEES IN MONASTERIES IN TIBET
· EXPENSES DUE TO NATURAL & POLITICAL PROBLEMS SUCH AS LANDSLIDES, SNOW, STRIKES ETC
· ALL EXPENSES OF PERSONAL NATURE SUCH AS DRINKS, LAUNDRY & TIPS IN NEPAL AND TIBET
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Program : # 3
11 Days : Kailash Manasarovar bothway by Helicopter
Day 01 ARRIVAL IN KATHMANDU.
Upon arrival in Kathmandu. Our representative will meet you at the airport & transfer to hotel. Evening, tour briefing. Overnight at 4 star hotel in Kathmandu.
Day 02 Fly KATHMANDU TO NEPALGUNJ.
Morning, Pashupati Darshan & Pooja, afternoon visit Budhanilkanth (sleeping Vishnu), monkey temple. In the afternoon transfer to domestic airport for your 1 hr flight from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj. Upon arrival at Nepalgunj airport transfer to Hotel. Veg dinner and overnight at hotel. Overnight Hotel Sneha.
Day 03 FLY, NEPALGUNJ - HILSA via Simikot by Helicoptor. THEN DRIVE TO PURANG (Taklakot – 3400 m.). Early morning transfer to airport (10 minutes from Hotel) for flight to Hilsa (the boarder between Nepal and China). But before reaching Hilsa, your Helicopter must land at SIMIKOT (the administrative head quarter of Northern frontier of Nepal) because the boarder immigration office is situated here only and according to the regulation of Nepal government, you must go through the immigration check before you get entered into the China side. The entire formalities take about 30 to 45 minutes. After the formalities in Simikot, continue the journey to Hilsa. Upon arrival at Hilsa, cross the River Karnali through a suspension bridge and get entered to the China side then continue TREKKING up to the “Sher village”. The Chinese immigration Office and Border Check Post situated in Sher village. Our vehicles (Land Cruisers & truck) will be waiting there as well. The actual trek takes approx 45 min to an hour to reach Sher from the suspension bridge. Due to the different pace of walking, it may take two hours to gather all group members & luggage in immigration office up in Sher. However, the formalities don’t take long time but sometune it depends on the mood of Chinese Police at the border. From Sher, it is an hour drive to reach Taklakot (Purang -3700 m.). - Nepalgunj to Simikot flight: 1 hour. - Simikot to Hilsa flight: 20 min. - Hilsa to Sher trek: 1 hour. - Sher to Taklakot drive: 1 hour. Veg dinner and overnight at guest house -Purang Guesthouse
Day 04 REST DAY IN TAKLAKOT (PURANG) FOR ACCLIMATIZATION Today, rest in 
Taklakot for acclimatization. In fact, we will have gained an enormous height within a day while coming in Taklakot, so before making any further journey to the higher elevation, your body should be acclimatized properly with the atmosphere in high altitude. So, it is significant to spend a day here to acclimatize. Free to stroll around the city on your own and visit the ruins of ancient Taklakot. Khojarnath temple: Khojarnath temple is the ancient temple of Ram, Sita and Laxman. The temple (Monastery) is believed 1100 years old. - Takalakot to Khojarnath temple: 45 min (one way) by Jeep. Veg dinner and overnight at guest house - Purang Guesthouse
Day 05 Drive : PURANG TO MANSAROVAR (Chiu Gompa – 4550 m.) Early morning (after breakfast) you will depart for Lake Manasarovar (4560 m- Chui Gompa). The drive takes about 2 to 2 1/2 hours. On the way, a short break in Rakshas Taal (Lake Ravana) to take pictures & observe the sceneries. After a short break in Rakshas Taal, continue your journey to Lake Manasarover. After having holy dip and lunch at Lake Mansarovar, start for circumambulation around the lake by jeep takes approx 3 hours. - The distance of Mansarovar circumambulation: 72 km - Taklakot to Lake Manasarovar: 3 hours. - Jeep tour around Lake Manasarovar: 3 hours. Veg dinner and overnight at guest house - Paramartha Guesthouse
Day 06 DRIVE, LAKE MANSAROVAR TO DARCHEN (4664 m.). In the morning, perform Pooja (worship) & Snan (holy dip) after that we head out to Darchen (Mount Kailash base camp, 4662m). - Lake Mansarovar to Darchen – 40 km - Lake Mansarovar to Darchen drive – 1 hour & 30 min. Veg dinner and overnight at guest house - Hotel Kailash
Day 07 Drive : DARCHEN TO YAM DWAR then TREK TO DERAPHUK (4920 m) Early morning, drive to Yam Dwar (OR Serson/10 kms / 4750m), the auspicious gateway to the Parikrama (circuit) around Mt. Kailash. This is the sky burial sites of local Tibetan people as well. From here, see the closest view of Mt. Kailash. This is the particular place from where the group normally splits in two parts. Those, who are willing to perform the holy circumambulation around the Mt. Kailash will start trekking from this place and the rest of the people who don’t want to do trekking will return Darchen by Jeep rest at guest house.The trail to Deraphuk is easy & flat but because of the high altitude, you will find this trek a tough one. The total journey to Deraphuk Gompa (4890m/18 km). takes 5 to 6 hours. However, it depends on your pace. - Darchen to Yam Dwar drive: 45 min. - Yam Dwar to Deraphuk trek: 5 to 6 hours Veg dinner and overnight at guest house - Local Guesthouse
Day 08 TREK TO ZUTULPHUK (4780 m). VIA DOLMA PASS (5600 m.) Early morning start up hill trekking to Dolma-La (5600 m). This is the toughest day of this journey. The entire trail up to Dolma-La is gradually up and from here the trail rapidly drops down to the next valley (Zutulphuk). The holiest water pool (glacial lake – Gaurikund) is situated just beyond this pass. This lake is believed where Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva used to take bath. After down hill trek to the valley (the next side of the high pass), the trek up to Zutulphuk Gomba requires another two hours. From here, the trail is easy and flat. - Deraphuk to Zutulphuk Gomba: 9 hours Veg dinner and overnight at guest house - Local Guesthouse
Day 09 FINISH TREK NEAR DARCHEN THEN DRIVE BACK TO TAKLAKOT Today, you will complete the circumambulation around Mt. Kailash. The trek will be finished near Darchen where our vehicles will be waiting to fetch you and transfer to Taklakot. Evening in Taklakot. - Zutulphuk to trek ending point: 3 hours - Darchen to Purang drive: 3 hours Veg dinner and overnight at guest house - Purang Guesthouse
Day 10 DRIVE TO HILSA – FLY KATHMANDU VIA NEPALGUNJ Early morning (after breakfast), you will drive to Sher village then trek down to Hilsa (45 minutes) and take Helicopter flight to Kathmandu via Nepalgunj. - Purang to Sher: 1 hour. - Sher to Hilsa trek: 30 minutes. - Hilsa to Simikot: 20 minutes flight. - Simikot to Nepalgunj: 1 hour. - Nepalgunj to Kathmandu: 1 hours Veg dinner and overnight at guest house. Hotel in Kathmandu
PRICE WILL INCLUDES:
1. Two nights accommodation in Kathmandu on twin sharing with all meals at 5/4 stars.2. One night accommodation in Nepalgunj on full board basis (twin sharing) 3. All transfers in Kathmandu (arrival, departures and sightseeing tour)
4. Hotel Sneha to Airport transfer in Nepalgunj
5. Nepalgunj to Hilsa & back to Nepalgunj by Helicopter (MI 17 – capacity with 24 seats)
6. Kathmandu to Nepalgunj & return flight (Buddha Air / Yeti Air)
7. Domestic airport taxes
8. Tibet group visa and travel/trekking permits
9. Guesthouse accommodation in Tibet
10. All meals in Tibet (Indian dishes)
11. Transportation in Tibet in 4WD Land Cruiser (4 passengers in one Land Cruiser + 1 Nepali staff as a care taker)
12. English speaking Tibetan guide
13. Necessary supporting crew (Cook, Sherpas, tour Manager from Nepal)
14. All necessary camping equipments for circumambulation
15. Yaks & Yak men during the Parikrama (circumambulation) around Mt. Kailash
16. Gamow bag (artificial pressure chamber) and oxygen for emergency use
17. Medical kit bag
18. Humla region restricted area permit & royalties (US $ 90 per person)
19. Porter cost for Hilsa to Sher & return (while going up and coming down)
20. All applicable taxes & service charges
SERVICE EXCLUDES:
1. Riding Horse or Yak during the circumambulation
2. A visit to Khojarnath temple (optional program for rest day)
3. Your travel / medical insurance
4. Insurance for any loss and damaged goods
5. Helicopter rescue and evacuation service (if needed)
6. Personal expenses
7. Bottled drinks / alcoholic drinks
8. Tip for guide & driver
9. Any additional cost due to natural calamity and unforeseen circumstances
Important Notes:
Ø Accommodation in Tibet will be provided in dormitory room OR in a double bedded room (possibility only in Taklakot) depending on places & availability. We provide attached bath room only in Taklakot but bathroom has no hot shower.
Ø During the Parikrama (Kora), we bring Yaks & Yak men to carry your luggage, foods & equipment. The IPSC (Indian Pilgrimage Service Center) will provide Yaks for us. The ratio of Yak is, two pilgrims = one Yak.
Ø If you require extra Yak to carry your luggage, you have to inform us at least 2 days in advance. The price depends on the flow of tourists. The more demand, the higher cost.
Ø 1 Yak handler will be provided for every 3 yaks.
Ø Depending on weather condition and group size, we may provide fixed wing aircraft in between Nepalgunj and Simikot but in between Simikot and Hilsa there is no alternative other than Helicopter.
Ø We must land at Simikot for going through the immigration formalities of Nepal government while going and coming back, both times.
Ø During the Parikrama (circumambulation) we prefer to provide the accommodation in Guesthouse. But the number of Guesthouses is limited. If the guesthouses are fully occupied, we provide camping accommodation. There is alternative way other than sleeping in the Tent.
Ø On your request, we can arrange Horse for riding on Prikrama (circumambulation), but you should book & confirm this at least 2 days in advance. The price of Horse depends on the time and the flow of tourists in the region. The higher demand, the bigger price. You can’t ride the Horse for the entire journey because the trail on second day is quite rough and Horse needs break as well.
Ø The weather condition in the mountain (Simikot and Hilsa area) plays the vital role on this journey. So, due to the weather fact the trip might be delayed to depart by one or two days in the beginning.
Ø Simultaneously, if the weather in between Simikot and Hilsa is bad, the Helicopter can’t come to pick you up at Hilsa. In this case, you have to stay in Hilsa and our company provides accommodation and foods. Only basic foods and accommodation is available in Hilsa.
Ø So, every passenger on this journey is advised to keep some spare days in the Yatra. There are hundreds of tour operators who operate Kailash Manasarovar Yatra but only few of them operate it with special care and we are one of them.
KAILASH PACKAGE INCLUDES:
Nepal side:-Arrival & Departure transportation, Sight- seeing tour of Kathmandu City, 3 night Deluxe hotel in Kathmandu on full board basis.
Tibet side:-Kathmandu – Kodari – Kathmandu Transfer by Coach, 4500 Model Japanese Landcruiser ( 4 person in 1 Jeep Basis) on Tibet side, Support Truck, English Speaking Guide, Sharing accommodation at Guest Houses & Camping as per Itinerary, Trekking Staff Nepali Team Leader, Cooks and Sherpas, Full board vegetarian meals, Camping equipment comprising of Two-men tents / mattresses / Dining & Kitchen Tents, Sleeping bags, Toilet Tents, Gamow Bag, Oxygen, Satellite Phone, Yaks & Yak-men for luggage during Kailash Parikrama, All permits and Tibet/China Visa fee.
COST EXCLUDES: Travel Insurance, Evacuation cost, Yak and Porter for personal using, Nepal re-entry visa fee (expect Indian Passport Holders), Water bottle, Tipping to drivers / Sherpas / Guides, No cost is including for those who separate from the main group, Expenses of personal nature and any other costs, whatsoever, that is not mentioned in the cost include.
BOOKING TERMS, CONDITIONS & VISA ARRANGEMENTS: Confirmed reservation should reach us 1 month prior to tour departure date along with 25% of the total cost non–refundable deposit per person. Kundalini Travel Nepal Pvt. Ltd. will process visa for you. A clear photocopy of your passport and the following details are required:
2. SEX
3. NATIONALITY
4. PASSPORT NUMBER
5. DATE OF BIRTH
6. PROFESSION
7. CONTACT ADDRESS
TOUR CANCELLATION:
There will be a cancellation fee of 25% for any cancellation three weeks prior to Tour departure date, 50% two weeks prior to Tour departure date and no refund thereafter. No refund for no shows & delay arrivals whatsoever reason.
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Asthapad
Asthapad Maha Tirth (place of worship) is one of the major Jain Tirths and it is situated nearly 5 km up in the mountain from Darchen. Thousands of years ago Shri Adinath Bhagwan, first of 24 tirthankars, attained salvation at this place. After his salvation his son king Bharat made a palace (known as “Sinh-Nishadha”) of real gemstones with 24 idols of Jain tirthankars on Ashtapad mountain in his memory. Ashtapad derived its name from the fact that it has eight steps to go up the mountain (Ashta means eight and pad means steps in Sanskrit). Other names for the tirth are Ratnamay (made of gemstones) Rajatadri and Sfatikachal (the crystal palace).
Gauri Kunda (Yokmo Tso)
Gauri Kunda, which is 50 to 60 m. down from the Dolma-La pass (5608 m.) is the highest lake in the World. Tibetan people called it Yokmo Tso, that means ‘Maid Servant’. Once upon a time, the maid of a rich family had an illicit affair and bore a baby boy. She took him to Mt. Kailash and by the lake she took a drink. Through carelessness, the baby slipped into the water and sank without a trace. The maid stayed here for days, heartbroken, and spent all her waking hours watching the lake’s surface. Finally, a message appeared on a rock next to her. The baby was in fact a deity and he asked his mother not to worry but to perform the 13 circuits around the mountain and then go home a new women. This small rock smudged with butter, is still here. Pilgrims circumambulate the lake, but unlike Indian pilgrims Tibetan do not immerse themselves. In general, they consider immersion a defilement of the sacred water. Instead, they perform ablutions – rituals called trusol – to purify and consecrate. Pills that are previously sanctified are thrown into the water and purification mantra repeated. After this, pilgrims take some lake water and splash it over their heads. In order to make it easier to take some of the water home, they might mix it with earth and then shape the mixture into small balls.
Siwastal is located on the way to Dolma-La, which is approximately 2 hours walk from Deraphuk Gomba. Siwastal is considered as a replica of the fabled burial ground at Bodh Gaya, India. Here pilgrims undergo ritual death and enter into the horrific presence of Yama, before being reborn on top of the Drolma La. On the ground is an incredible assortment of clothing, bones, saddle bags, hair, shoes and endless other objects. All who pass leave something even offerings of blood (cut a finger or scrape the gums). Many lie on the ground and visualize their journey after-death. A few brave ones stay overnight. Above the cemetery is a red foot print of Milareppa (Tibetan yogi & poet) on the surface of a rock.
Tarboche
Saga Dawa is the most important annual festival of Mt. Kailash, during this time, the giant flagpole is ritually taken down and the prayer flags along its length replaced. Tibetans from all over Tibet pour into the area, most of them two or three weeks before the actual date, the full moon of the forth lunar month. Many bring products to sell and the result is a remarkable carnival. During the flagpole ceremony, as the pole’s tip is raised and pointed east towards Gyangdrak Monastery, monks of that monastery perform a special ritual. A Cacophony of music from long trumpets, conch shells and other instruments welcomes the rising flagpole. After the Tarboche is fully upright, Tibetans scrutinize its position for omens. If the column is ramrod straight, all will go well: disease will abate, livestock will be healthy and everyone will prosper.
If the pole leans toward Kailash, local inhabitants will suffer famine, disease and perhaps untimely death. If the flagpole tilts away from the mountain, great alarm is generated.
Tarboche’s importance is linked to the sanctity of the nearby cemetery of Drachom Ngagye Durtro, situated on a ridge east of the flagpole. Gotshangpa, first explorer of Kailash, and Guru Rinpoche are known to have blessed the site. The latter predicted that the trunk of an exceptionally tall, ‘self-originating’ (rangjung) tree would serve as the flagpole. The present one is a replacement and lacks the original’s vital power (neupa), but pilgrims still chip off pieces of wood to take home as sacred relics.
Tirthapuri
The only other point of pilgrimage considered essential to the traveler in the Kailash region is Tirthapuri, located on the Sutlej River. The traditional order of the pilgrimage is first to circumambulate Manasarovar, then Kailash, and then to go to Tirthapuri. This is almost always the final stop. Perhaps this has something to do with the soothing waters of the shallow hot springs, where weary travelers can relax, soak their feet and contemplate the adventures they have undergone.
Tirthapuri is best known for being a sacred place of Padmasambhava and his consort Yeshe Tsogyel. The monastery which was formerly connected with Hemis monastery in Ladakh was completely destroyed during the Cultural Revolution and rebuilt in 1980s.
Behind the Hemis Monastery in Ladakh is a cave where 
Padmasambhava and Yeshe Tsogye both meditated and a granite rock with their embedded footprints. The hot springs are surrounded by pink and white limestone terraces, which make a favorite picnic spot for Tibetans. Small pure opaque calcium balls are found among the terraces; search carefully for these small beads are considered to be powerful medicine. Ravens and rainbows abound in this magical spot. Tirthapuri can also be visited as part of a journey to or from the kingdom of Guge, or as part of a return journey to Shiqunhe. To reach it turn southwest off the main road at Menjir (also called as Mensi) and continue for 13km (8miles). From Tirthapuri to Toling is approximately one long day of driving, so consider spending an extra night here and enjoy.
Yam Dwar
Yam Dwar (entrance) is located in Tarboche which is approximately 30 minutes drive from Darchen. The literal meaning of the Yam Dwar in Hindi language is the gateway of the God of Death. It is the starting point of circumambulation of mount Kailash. In Tibet, it is known as Chorten Kang Ngyi i.e. two legged Stupa.
Zutrul Phuk (Cave of Miracles) Monastery
The Zutrul Phuk Monastery is on the right Bank of the Zhong Chu. Around the monastery is a large collection of Mani stones and piles of stones and rocks carved with mantras. Also in the vicinity are destroyed Chortens and along the slope many meditation caves. On the valley floor are number of long, finely crafted mani walls. During the summer time, Pilgrims & travelers pitch the tent along the grassy meadows.
The Zutrul Phuk Cave was the site of the celebrated magical contest between Milareppa and Naro Bonchung, a competition to determine who had the greater power to build a shelter. It was agreed that Milarepa would build the ceiling and Naro Bonchung the walls. Milarepa proceeded to a huge rock and with his bare hands sliced it in two. One part, designated as the roof, he suspended in mid-air to allow the walls to fit underneath. Naro Bonchung, overwhelmed by his performance, was unable to produce the site walls and Milarepa finished the cave-shelter alone. A final test was held to see who could fly to the top of Mt. Kailash first. Bonchung started before sunrise, mounted his drum. Milarepa was relaxed at the base of the mountain, totally unconcern with the Bonpo’s progress; he was waiting for the morning’s first light. By catching a ride on a ray of sunlight he reached the top instantaneously, thus beating Bonchung handily. Subsequently, the Bonpos relinquished their hold on Kailash and were given the small mountain of Ponri to the east compensation.
The cave’s most important object is a statue made of precious metal li. According to tradition, it was created by the sage himself before his death. Milarepa claimed it had great powers to bless and protect. The black ceiling has the hand-prints and head prints of Milarepa; pilgrims imitate him by putting their head into the depression. These impressions were created when Milarepa used his head and hands to push the roof up. He Maculated and the ceiling was raised too high. He then climbed on top of the stone to stamp it back down with his foot and left behind his foot print.
Hilsa Helipad --- Lodges in Kailash & Manasorovar - - - - - - - ---------Mt. Kailash
Map of Mt. Kailash and Mansarovar-click on image for enlarge view.
