15 Days Mt. Everest & Mt. Kailash Kora Pilgrimage Group Tour
Location: Southwestern China, China
Price: $2,674 per person
Duration: 15 days
Supplier: Great-Tibet-Tour
Imagine standing at the foot of Mount Everest, gazing up at Earth’s highest peak, then turning to circle the mystical Mt. Kailash in a traditional kora—an ancient Tibetan pilgrimage ritual. All this, plus visits to the Potala Palace, Yamdroktso Lake, and other Tibetan highlights packed into a 15-day journey. The price is quite reasonable considering the depth of culture, the landscapes you’ll see, and the logistics managed for you.
What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances spectacular sights with cultural experiences. The trip’s itinerary is well-structured, offering plenty of time to absorb Tibetan life and spiritual sites, and the inclusion of experienced guides makes a big difference. Also, the chance to trek around Mt. Kailash—a revered spiritual site—feels both adventurous and meaningful.
One thing to consider is the high-altitude nature of the trip—some parts involve elevations over 5,000 meters. If you have respiratory or heart issues, it’s worth consulting your doctor first. The tour’s logistical arrangements, like permits and transfers, are thorough, but travelers should be prepared for long driving days and variable weather conditions.
This tour is best suited for travelers who crave authentic Tibetan culture, are comfortable with mountain landscapes, and are eager to experience one of the most revered spiritual journeys. It’s not ideal for those with significant altitude or health concerns or who prefer a more leisurely pace.
Key Points
- Cultural immersion: Explore Tibetan monasteries, local markets, and the Potala Palace.
- Spectacular landscapes: Enjoy scenic drives past lakes, glaciers, and mountain vistas.
- Spiritual significance: Experience the Kailash Kora, a revered pilgrimage route.
- Practical logistics: All necessary permits, comfortable accommodations, and experienced guides included.
- Physical challenge: The trek around Kailash and high-altitude driving require good health and stamina.
- Value: The comprehensive 15-day itinerary offers deep cultural and scenic experiences at a reasonable price.
A Deep Dive into the 15-Day Journey
This tour packs a lot into just over two weeks, and it’s designed to give you a real taste of Tibetan culture, landscapes, and spiritual sites. Let’s walk through the experience step-by-step.
Arrival in Lhasa and Initial Explorations
Your adventure begins in Lhasa, where your guide will pick you up at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. The first couple of days are dedicated to acclimatization and gentle sightseeing. You’ll visit Drepung Monastery, the largest Tibetan monastery, where learning about monastic life is as fascinating as seeing the architecture. The Tibet Museum introduces you to Tibetan history and culture, and the gardens at Norbulingka provide a peaceful retreat.
On the third day, you’ll see Potala Palace, the iconic symbol of Tibet’s spiritual and political history. Walking through its grand halls, you’ll understand why it’s considered a spiritual home for Tibetans. The afternoon includes a visit to Jokhang Temple and the bustling Barkhor Street, where Tibetan pilgrims and locals blend in a vibrant market atmosphere.
From Lhasa to Everest Base Camp
Moving out of the city, the journey takes you through stunning scenery as you travel westward. The drive to Gyantse and Shigatse offers views of sacred lakes like Yamdroktso and glaciers such as Karola Glacier. You’ll see impressive monasteries like Pelkor Chöde and Tashilhunpo, the seat of the Panchen Lama, giving insight into Tibetan religious hierarchy.
The highlight of this segment is the drive to Everest Base Camp (EBC). The thrill of seeing Everest from a distance and witnessing the sunset glow on the peak is unforgettable. It’s a moment where words often fall short, but the sense of awe is universal.
The High-Altitude Challenge and Scenic Drive
Continuing your journey, you’ll ascend to Saga at 4600 meters, with opportunities to spot wildlife and lakes like Peikutso. Then, the long drive to Darchen introduces you to sweeping grasslands, sand dunes, and remote villages. You’ll get a real sense of the vast Tibetan plateau—vast, quiet, and majestic.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Mt. Kailash Kora — A Spiritual and Physical Test
The core of this tour is the Kailash Kora, a sacred route around Mount Kailash. Over three days, you’ll trek approximately 15 to 22 km each day (though the full itinerary includes optional yaks, horses, and porters, which aren’t included).
- Day 8: From Darchen, you trek about 15 km to Dirapuk Monastery. The path offers breathtaking mountain views, and the challenge lies in the high elevation—around 4,700 meters.
- Day 9: The toughest leg involves crossing the Dromala Pass, the highest point on the route at 5,600 meters. It’s physically demanding but spiritually rewarding.
- Day 10: The route descends to Zul-tulpuk and then returns to Darchen, completing the kora. Here, you’ll see the Lake Manasarovar, considered the most sacred lake in Tibet.
Many reviews highlight the spiritual significance of the kora, describing it as a profound experience rather than just a trek. Some say it’s physically challenging but well worth the effort.
Back to Civilization and Final Explorations
After the kora, you’ll continue to Zhongba and then Lhatse, passing through scenic landscapes and lakes. The drive back to Shigatse involves visiting Sakya Monastery, a less-visited but culturally rich site.
Returning to Lhasa, your last day offers leisure time for shopping or further sightseeing, such as the Tibetan Incense Workshop—perfect for picking up authentic souvenirs.
Practicalities and Value
All transportation, permits, and guides are included, making this a hassle-free trip through some of the most remote and spiritually significant Tibetan sites. The accommodations are described as comfortable, with breakfasts included, but lunch and dinner are on your own—usually around $10-15 per meal.
While the price of $2,674 is competitive given the scope and logistics, be aware that you’ll need to budget extra for yaks and porters during Kailash, as well as personal expenses and tips. The tour’s emphasis on local guides and logistics means you’ll be well cared for, but you’ll want to prepare yourself physically for the altitude and trekking parts.
Authentic Experiences and Authentic Encounters
Guests often remark on the knowledgeable guides, who enrich the experience with stories and cultural insights. The inclusion of local English-speaking guides ensures you’ll get context and background, making the sites come alive. Many travelers appreciated the delicious food and the opportunity to sample authentic Tibetan cuisine, which added to the overall value.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re a traveler with an adventurous spirit, a curiosity about Tibetan culture, and good health for high-altitude travel, this tour offers a comprehensive, well-organized way to experience Tibet’s spiritual and natural wonders. It’s suitable for those comfortable with long drives and trekking, but perhaps not for anyone with serious altitude or health issues.
Final Thoughts
This 15-day pilgrimage around Everest and Kailash offers a rare blend of spectacular mountain scenery, deep spiritual engagement, and authentic Tibetan culture. The logistics are thoughtfully managed, and the experiences are profound. It’s a trip for those who want more than just a sightseeing tour—they seek an immersion into the landscapes and beliefs that make Tibet such a unique destination.
Whether you’re gazing at Everest at dawn, walking the sacred kora, or wandering through ancient monasteries, this journey delivers a sense of connection to a place that is genuinely extraordinary.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is included in the price of $2,674?
All accommodations, breakfasts, transportation, permits, guides, entrance fees, and insurance are included. Meals outside breakfast and optional extras like yaks or porters during Kailash are not. - Are flights to and from Tibet included?
No, international flights and domestic flights or trains are not included. You will need to arrange your own travel to Lhasa and from Lhasa at the end of the trip. - What are the main highlights of this tour?
Highlights include visiting Potala Palace, Everest Base Camp, the Kailash Kora, Yamdroktso Lake, and exploring Tibetan monasteries and markets. - How physically demanding is the trek around Kailash?
The trek can be challenging due to high altitude and long walking distances (up to 22 km a day). It’s best suited for travelers in good health and accustomed to mountain terrain. - Is this tour suitable for travelers with health issues?
It’s not recommended for those with severe respiratory, cardiovascular, or altitude sickness concerns. Always consult your doctor before booking. - What should I pack?
Warm clothing for high altitudes, sturdy hiking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a good camera. The tour provides sleeping bags, but bring personal essentials. - Can I join if I have a limited time?
This tour is designed as a 15-day experience, so shorter trips may not cover everything. Check with the provider about alternative options. - Is tipping expected?
Tipping guides and drivers is appreciated but not mandatory. About $8-15 USD per day per person is customary if you feel the service was good.
Final word
If you’ve ever dreamed of standing at the top of the world, walking around a sacred mountain, or simply soaking in Tibetan culture and landscapes, this tour offers a meaningful, well-supported way to do so. It’s a journey that promises not just sights, but a chance to connect with a deeply spiritual part of the world—and yourself.
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