Travel to Tibet and trek around remote Mount Kailas, one of the world's most sacred peaks. North of the Himalayas, in a distant Tibetan province, the strikingly symmetrical Mount Kailas (6714m./22022ft) is revered as the centre of the universe by Buddhists and Hindus alike.
Our epic journey to this inspirational mountain begins with an exciting flight from Kathmandu to Lhasa, where we spend several days visiting the city's many famous landmarks, such as the atmospheric Jokhang Temple and the incomparable Potala Palace, traditional home of the Dalai Lamas. Using comfortable private transport, we begin the memorable drive westwards across the Tibetan Plateau, which includes the chance to visit several monastery towns and also affords tantalising views of the distant Nepal Himalaya, including Mount Everest.
After a rest day at holy Lake Manasarowar, we complete the quite challenging 5-day trekking circuit around Kailas, accompanied by hardy pilgrims of several faiths. Spring trips include the chance to witness the important Saga Dawa flagpole-raising ceremony at Darboche below Kailas.
This overland journey to Mount Kailas traverses some very remote country, on roads which are often only suitable for rugged vehicles. The type of vehicle(s) that we use will depend to some extent on the number of people in the group. We will either use fully enclosed Land-Cruiser jeeps or a larger bus.
Overland travel of this type can be a hot and dusty experience and in order to get the most out of this outstanding holiday, you need to be prepared to accept this fact. This trip includes several days when the group will be exploring in and around Lhasa on foot. During the 5-day circuit of Mount Kailas, we will be following excellent trails used by the thousands of pilgrims who complete the route each year. Although short, this trek does present a reasonably tough proposition on account of the altitude.
We will be averaging just 10 kilometres per day. The high point of the walk is at the Drolma La (5600 metres) and our highest camp will be at Jarok Donkhang - at 5250 metres. By this time, the group will be well acclimatised, having spent 10 days or so on the Tibetan Plateau.
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