Mount Kailash Full Moon Tour – 16 Days
The 16 Days Mount Kailash Full Moon Tour is one of the most spiritually rewarding pilgrimages in the Himalayas, combining the mystical beauty of Lake Mansarovar, the sacred circumambulation of […]
Highlights
- Witness the sacred Mount Kailash under the enchanting glow of the full moon.
- Spend a spiritually significant night beside the holy Lake Mansarovar.
- Complete the legendary 52-kilometer Kailash Kora (Parikrama).
- Cross the sacred Dolma La Pass (5,630m), the highest point of the pilgrimage.
- Experience traditional Tibetan culture, monasteries, and remote Himalayan settlements.
- Perform prayers, meditation, and holy rituals at Lake Mansarovar.
- Enjoy breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and vast Tibetan plains.
- Visit sacred sites associated with Lord Shiva and ancient Buddhist traditions.
- Travel through one of the world's most spectacular high-altitude landscapes.
- Benefit from multiple acclimatization days for safer altitude adaptation.
- Experience an unforgettable spiritual adventure on the Roof of the World.
Overview
The 16 Days Mount Kailash Full Moon Tour is one of the most spiritually rewarding pilgrimages in the Himalayas, combining the mystical beauty of Lake Mansarovar, the sacred circumambulation of Mount Kailash, and the rare opportunity to witness the holy mountain beneath the brilliance of a full moon. This extraordinary overland journey takes travelers from Kathmandu across the vast Tibetan Plateau to one of the world’s most revered spiritual destinations.
For centuries, Mount Kailash has been regarded as the earthly abode of Lord Shiva by Hindus, the cosmic axis by Buddhists, and a sacred center by Jains and Bon practitioners. During the full moon, pilgrims believe the spiritual energy surrounding Kailash and Mansarovar reaches its peak, creating an atmosphere of profound devotion, meditation, and inner transformation.
This carefully designed itinerary allows ample time for acclimatization, cultural exploration, and spiritual practices while ensuring a safer and more comfortable journey through the high-altitude landscapes of Tibet.
Trip Itinerary
Arrival in Kathmandu
Upon arrival in Kathmandu, our representative welcomes you and transfers you to your hotel. In the evening, attend a detailed briefing about the Kailash pilgrimage.
Kathmandu Sightseeing and Permit Preparation
Explore Kathmandu's sacred temples and UNESCO World Heritage Sites while our team processes your Tibet travel documents and permits.
Drive from Kathmandu to Kerung
Drive through beautiful Himalayan foothills to the Nepal-Tibet border and continue to Kerung, your first overnight stay in Tibet.
Acclimatization Day in Kerung
A full day dedicated to altitude adaptation. Short hikes around the valley help prepare for higher elevations ahead.
Drive from Kerung to Saga
Cross high mountain passes and vast Tibetan grasslands before arriving in Saga, an important stop on the pilgrimage route.
Drive from Saga to Lake Mansarovar
Journey across the spectacular Tibetan Plateau to the sacred shores of Lake Mansarovar. Enjoy your first close view of Mount Kailash.
Full Moon Celebration at Lake Mansarovar
Spend the day performing prayers, meditation, spiritual rituals, and holy bathing ceremonies. In the evening, witness the mesmerizing reflection of the full moon over the sacred lake.
Drive from Lake Mansarovar to Darchen
A short drive brings you to Darchen, the starting point of the Kailash Kora.
Trek from Darchen to Dirapuk
The pilgrimage trek begins through a beautiful valley leading to Dirapuk Monastery. Enjoy stunning views of Mount Kailash's magnificent north face.
Trek from Dirapuk to Zuthulpuk via Dolma La Pass
The most challenging and rewarding day of the journey. Cross the sacred Dolma La Pass, visit Gauri Kund, and descend to Zuthulpuk Monastery.
Complete Kailash Kora and Drive to Saga
Finish the final section of the Kora before returning by vehicle to Saga.
Drive from Saga to Kerung
Retrace the scenic route back toward the Nepal border.
Extra Day in Kerung
Relax and enjoy the beautiful mountain surroundings. This day also serves as a contingency for weather or road conditions.
Cross Border and Return to Kathmandu
Cross back into Nepal and return to Kathmandu.
Leisure Day in Kathmandu
Free day for shopping, sightseeing, or personal exploration. Enjoy a farewell dinner in the evening.
Final Departure
Transfer to Kathmandu International Airport for your onward flight
What's included
- Tibet permits and visa processing
- Private transportation in Tibet
- Experienced Tibetan guide
- Accommodation throughout the trip
- Meals during the Tibet section
- Yak and porter services during the Kora
- Emergency oxygen support
- Border transfers
Luxury private departures may exceed USD 4,000 per person depending on accommodation and transportation preferences.
What's not included
Best Time for Mount Kailash Full Moon Tour
The ideal season for the Mount Kailash Full Moon Tour is from May to early October, when road conditions are favorable and weather remains relatively stable.
Spring (May – June)
- Pleasant temperatures
- Crystal-clear mountain views
- Excellent pilgrimage conditions
Summer (July – August)
- Major pilgrimage season
- Vibrant cultural atmosphere
- Sacred Saga Dawa Festival celebrations
Autumn (September – October)
- Stable weather
- Spectacular photography opportunities
- Clear skies and excellent visibility
Permits Required
Travel to Mount Kailash requires special permits issued by Chinese and Tibetan authorities.
Required Documents
- Chinese Group Visa
- Tibet Travel Permit
- Alien Travel Permit
- Military Permit
- Foreign Affairs Permit
All permits are arranged through an authorized Kailash tour operator.
Mount Kailash Full Moon Tour Cost
The average cost ranges from USD 2,300 to USD 2,600 per person for standard group departures.
Important Trip Notes
- The highest elevation reached is Dolma La Pass (5,630m).
- Proper acclimatization is essential for a safe pilgrimage.
- Travel insurance covering high-altitude evacuation is highly recommended.
- Weather conditions in Tibet can change rapidly.
- Physical fitness and positive mental preparation significantly enhance the experience.
- Vegetarian meals are widely available throughout the pilgrimage.
- Pilgrims should respect local customs, monasteries, and sacred sites.
- Extra days are built into the itinerary to accommodate weather, road conditions, and altitude adaptation.
Choose Create Himalaya Adventure for Your Kailash Pilgrimage
Create Himalaya Adventure specializes in organizing safe, well-managed, and spiritually meaningful Mount Kailash tours. Our experienced team handles all permits, logistics, transportation, accommodation, and local arrangements, allowing pilgrims to focus entirely on their spiritual journey. With years of Himalayan expertise and personalized service, we ensure an unforgettable pilgrimage to one of the world's holiest destinations.
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