Kailash Parikrama | Kailash Yatra | Mt. Kailash Tour

Trekking around Mount Kailash is considered one of the most spiritually significant and awe-inspiring journeys on Earth. It’s not just a trek—it's a pilgrimage for people of several religions including Buddhists, Bon religion, Jains, and followers of the Hindus.

 

Here’s a complete overview if you're considering the Mount Kailash Trek:

 

Mount Kailash at a Glance

Height: 6,638 meters (21,778 ft)

Location: Tibet Ali (also called Ngari Prefecture)  

 

Religious Significance: 

•      Buddhists: Home of Buddha Demchok

•      Bon: Axis mundi of the world

•      Hindus: Abode of Lord Shiva

•      Jains: Site where Rishabhadeva attained liberation

 

Trekking Route: Kailash Kora (Parikrama)

•      Total Distance: ~43 km 

•      Duration: 3 days of trekking (plus travel and acclimatization)

•      Highest Point: Drolma La Pass at 5,630 m (18,471 ft)

 

 

Typical Itinerary

Day 1: Drive from Darchen to Tarboche, trek to Dirapuk (north face of Kailash) – 13 km

Day 2: Trek over Drolma La Pass to Zutulpuk – 18 km

Day 3: Trek back to Darchen – 12 km

Altitude & Acclimatization

The trek is high-altitude and can be physically demanding. Proper acclimatization is crucial—many spend several days in Lhasa or Saga before reaching Darchen.

 

Spiritual Aspect

Pilgrims often walk clockwise (Buddhists, Hindus), or counter-clockwise (Bon followers).

Some devotees even perform full-body prostrations the entire way—this can take weeks.

 

Facilities & Accommodation

Basic guesthouses or tented camps are available on the trail.

No luxury options—very rugged conditions.

Food is simple, mostly Tibetan or packaged meals.

 

Best Time to Go

Late May to early October

June to September is warmer but may have monsoon influence.

Saga Dawa Festival (usually May/June) is an especially holy time to visit.

 

Packing Essentials

v High-altitude gear (warm layers, down jacket)

v Good trekking boots

v Sleeping bag (even if staying in guesthouses)

v Water purification system or tablets

v Snacks, dry food, electrolyte powders

 

Challenges & Warnings

Altitude sickness

Very remote—limited medical access

Basic infrastructure

Cold weather even in summer