EXPERIENCE THE MYSTICAL POWER OF MOUNT KAILASH
To reach the heart of China’s breathtaking landscapes, the journey itself is part of the adventure. Most travellers fly into one of China’s major international airports, such as Beijing or Shanghai, before boarding an overnight train that winds through the country’s scenic regions. The train ride offers a glimpse into daily life and provides a unique way to transition from bustling cities to the serene countryside. Overnight travel allows visitors to arrive refreshed and ready to explore the destination by morning.
Photo by Eleanor Ye
Tibet, the Roof of the World, offers travellers a unique blend of spiritual, cultural, and natural wonders. Your journey begins in Lhasa, the vibrant capital, where the city’s sacred rivers, stunning architecture, and warm Tibetan hospitality set the tone for an unforgettable adventure. Upon arrival, travellers are welcomed with traditional Hada scarves and escorted to their hotel to acclimatise to the high altitude, preparing for the days ahead.
Photo by Xuyu Chi
The next days in Lhasa are dedicated to exploring the city’s rich Buddhist heritage. Visits to Drepung and Sera Monasteries reveal the daily life of monks, and the famous monk debates at Sera Monastery provide a fascinating glimpse into Tibetan education and philosophy. A tour of the Potala Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Jokhang Temple, the spiritual heart of Lhasa, immerses travellers in the city’s history, while a stroll along Barkhor Street allows them to experience the vibrant market life and local customs.
Photo by Raimond Klavins
From Lhasa, the journey moves overland to Shigatse via Gyantse, crossing high passes and stopping at serene Yamdrok Lake. Along the way, travellers witness the Korola Glacier, scenic villages, and traditional Tibetan life, arriving in Shigatse, Tibet’s second-largest city, in time to explore the local culture. The route continues toward the mighty Himalayas and Everest Base Camp, passing high mountain passes and breathtaking landscapes, culminating in a spectacular sunset view of the northern face of the world’s highest peak.
After Everest, the journey continues west along the Ngari Plateau, stopping at Pelku Tso Lake and Rongbuk Monastery, the world’s highest-altitude monastery. Saga becomes the gateway to Mount Kailash, the spiritual heart of Tibet. From Darchen, the trek around Mount Kailash takes travellers through the sacred landscapes of Dirapuk and Zutulpuk Monasteries, over the Dolma La Pass, and along the shores of Lake Manasarovar. Each step offers a deeper connection to Tibetan spirituality, culture, and natural beauty.
Completing the Kailash kora is a profound experience. Pilgrims and travellers alike can explore the historic caves, ancient monasteries, and serene lakes that define this sacred region. Optional visits to the Thirteen Gold Stupas or a full circumambulation of Lake Manasarovar allow for further spiritual reflection and interaction with local customs, providing a holistic and immersive Tibetan experience.
Photo by Paul Jones
The journey back from Mount Kailash retraces scenic routes across the Himalayas, with opportunities to spot wildlife such as Tibetan gazelle and take in the dramatic landscapes of the Ngari Plateau. Gyirong Valley, a hidden Himalayan gem near the Sino-Nepal border, offers a striking contrast with its lush forests, canyon landscapes, and Sherpa villages, before the ascent back to the Tibetan highlands.
Returning to Lhasa, travellers stop at Shigatse’s magnificent Tashilhunpo Monastery, the spiritual home of the Panchen Lama, to admire its grand halls and the world’s largest Maitreya Buddha statue. The final leg along the Yarlung Tsangpo River offers a reflective journey through Tibet’s heartland before arriving once more in Lhasa for the final overnight stay.
The adventure concludes with departures from Lhasa, leaving travellers with memories of soaring Himalayan peaks, sacred lakes, vibrant Tibetan culture, and the spiritual resonance of Mount Kailash. This 16-day journey through Tibet blends breathtaking scenery, cultural immersion, and spiritual exploration into an unforgettable high-altitude adventure.