Saga Dawa festival / May 25th (from may 25th to June 8th, 2026)
Excellent choice. A trek around Mount Kailash (Kang Rinpoche in Tibetan) is more than a hike; it’s one of the world’s great spiritual pilgrimages and a formidable physical journey. Here’s a comprehensive guide.
Why Trek Mt. Kailash?
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Sacred Significance: Revered by Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bönpos. It’s considered the axis of the world, the abode of deities (Shiva for Hindus), and a place where one can attain enlightenment or liberation (moksha).
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The Kora: The pilgrimage circuit around the mountain is called the Kora. Completing it is believed to cleanse sins and bring good fortune. 1 circuit = lifetime benefit, 108 circuits = enlightenment.
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Stunning Landscape: Located in remote Ngari Prefecture, Tibet, the trek traverses high-altitude deserts, deep valleys, and passes the turquoise Lake Manasarovar and the dramatic Rakshas Tal.
The Trekking Route: The Kora (3 Days Standard)
The full Kora is approximately 52 km (32 miles) and is traditionally done in 3 days, though fit trekkers can do it in 2, and devotees may take longer with full prostrations.
Day 1: Darchen to Dira-puk Monastery (20km, 5-7 hrs)
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Start with a gentle walk to the Chöku Monastery at the valley entrance.
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Enter the Lha Chu Valley, with breathtaking views of Kailash’s sheer North Face.
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Camp or stay in a basic guesthouse near Dira-puk Monastery (4,910m). The view of the North Face at sunset is iconic.
Day 2: Dira-puk to Zutrul-puk Monastery (18km, 7-9 hrs) – The Challenge
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The toughest day. Ascend to the highest point of the Kora: Drolma La Pass (5,636m).
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The climb is steep and long, but the pass is adorned with prayer flags and offers a profound sense of achievement.
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A steep, long descent leads to the valley and the shelter of Zutrul-puk Monastery (4,790m). Guesthouses are very basic.
Day 3: Zutrul-puk to Darchen (14km, 3-4 hrs)
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An easy, gentle walk out of the valley back to Darchen, completing the circuit.
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The landscape is green with streams. You can visit the Mani Wall with carved stones before reaching the end.
Essential Logistics & Permits
1. You CANNOT Go Independently:
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All travel in Tibet requires an organized tour through a licensed travel agency.
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The agency will handle all critical permits:
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Tibet Travel Permit (for entering Tibet)
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Aliens’ Travel Permit (for travel to Ngari/Western Tibet)
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Military Permit (for the sensitive border region)
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2. Best Time to Go:
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May to mid-October. July-August is warmest but has more rain/snow. Late May/June and September/early October are ideal—stable weather, clear skies.
3. Physical Preparation:
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This is a high-altitude trek. You will be walking between 4,600m – 5,636m.
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Train for endurance: hiking with a pack, stair climbing, cardio.
What to Pack
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Clothing: Layer for all conditions—thermal base, fleece, quality down jacket, waterproof shell. Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots.
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Gear: Warm sleeping bag (-10°C comfort), headlamp, trekking poles, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen.
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Health: Diamox (for altitude), water purification, comprehensive first-aid kit, personal medications.
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Other: Chinese Yuan (cash), snacks (energy bars, nuts), wet wipes, portable charger.
Important Cultural & Practical Tips
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Respect the Direction: Always walk clockwise. Buddhists and Hindus do the Kora clockwise; Bönpos do it counter-clockwise.
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Yak & Porter Support: Highly recommended. Yaks carry gear (tents, food), allowing you to carry only a daypack. Your agency arranges this.
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Accommodation: Basic guesthouses (dorm-style, often no heating) or camping. Manage expectations—this is remote Tibet.
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Mindset: This is not a luxury trek. Embrace the challenge, the spirituality, and the raw beauty. Be prepared for variable weather and simple facilities.
How to Book
Research and contact reputable travel agencies specializing in Tibetan trekking. They will provide a full package (guides, 4WD transport from Lhasa, permits, accommodation, food, yaks). The classic trip is a 15-day tour from Lhasa, which includes sightseeing, overland travel across the Tibetan Plateau, and the Kora.
Final Thought: The Mt. Kailash Kora is a life-changing journey that tests your body and nourishes your spirit. It’s an expedition into the heart of the Himalayas’ most sacred geography. Prepare thoroughly, go with an open heart, and respect the profound beliefs that surround this majestic mountain.
